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Which Certification is Right for You?
Compare CISA, CISM, CRISC, and CIA side by side. Find the perfect certification for your career goals.
| Feature | CISA | CISM |
|---|---|---|
| Full Name | Certified Information Systems Auditor | Certified Information Security Manager |
| Issuing Org | ISACA | ISACA |
| Focus Area | IT Audit & Assurance | Security Management & Strategy |
| Exam Questions | 150 | 150 |
| Exam Duration | 4 hours | 4 hours |
| Exam Fee | $575 (members) / $760 (non-members) | $575 (members) / $760 (non-members) |
| Pass Rate | ~50% | ~50% |
| Experience Req. | 5 years of IS audit, control, assurance, or security work experience | 5 years in information security management (3 in management role) |
| Avg. Salary (US) | $110,000 - $150,000 USD | $120,000 - $165,000 USD |
| CPE Renewal | 20 hours/year, 120 over 3 years | 20 hours/year, 120 over 3 years |
| Best For | IT auditors, compliance professionals, and those who want to evaluate and assess IT systems and controls | Security managers, CISOs, and professionals who manage security programs and teams |
| Key Skills | IS Audit ProcessIT GovernanceSDLC & Change ManagementBCP/DRInformation SecurityRisk Management | Security GovernanceRisk ManagementSecurity Program DevelopmentIncident ManagementSecurity StrategyCompliance |
| Career Paths | IT AuditorIS Audit ManagerCompliance OfficerIT Risk AnalystInternal Auditor | CISOSecurity ManagerSecurity DirectorIT Risk ManagerSecurity Consultant |
Quick Decision Guide
Choose CISA if...
- You want to audit IT systems and controls
- You work in IT audit or compliance
- You want to evaluate IS governance and operations
Choose CISM if...
- You manage or lead security programs
- You aspire to be a CISO or security director
- You focus on security strategy and governance
Choose CRISC if...
- You identify and manage IT risk
- You work in GRC (Governance, Risk, Compliance)
- You design and implement IT controls
Choose CIA if...
- You are an internal auditor
- You want the gold standard in internal audit
- You need broad business knowledge + audit skills