CISA — Certified Information Systems Auditor (ISACA)
The leading credential for auditing information systems and IT controls.
Comparing options? Read ACCA vs CPA vs CMA vs CFA →Who it's for
Auditors and IT/risk professionals moving into information-systems audit.
Structure
One exam across five domains (IS audit process, governance, acquisition & development, operations, and protection of information assets), plus relevant work experience.
Time & cost
Often around a year; self-study is common.
Careers
IS/IT auditor, IT risk, and security and controls assurance.
The skills you'll build
Many of these serve more than one path.
Best free resources for this path
Curated and vetted, with how to start.
Official CISA exam information, a free 'question of the week', and ISACA's resource library for IS audit.
How to start: Browse isaca.org; some resources need a free account or membership.
Free, CPE-eligible webcasts on tax, audit, accounting and regulation from the Big 4.
How to start: Search '<firm> webcasts / Dbriefs' and register free per session.
Free, self-paced Excel and Power BI training — essential analyst skills for any finance path.
How to start: Free with a Microsoft account; the optional PL-300 exam is paid.
Thousands of university finance/accounting courses you can audit free; financial aid for certificates.
How to start: Free account; click 'Audit', or apply for financial aid for a certificate.
Continuing professional development (CPD)
ISACA requires 20 CPE hours a year and 120 over three years.
Get these hours for free →Information is a guide and may change; always confirm details and requirements on the body's official site. Resources are independent third parties not affiliated with Fileminder.