CISM vs CISA
Compare ISACA's CISM and CISA certifications. Information security management vs IT auditing - which ISACA cert is right?
CISM
ISACA
CISA
ISACA
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Compare all aspects of these certifications side by side
| Feature | CISM | CISA |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | ISACA | ISACA |
| Difficulty Level | Expert | Expert |
| Exam Duration | 4 hours | 4 hours |
| Exam Cost | $575-$760 USD | $575-$760 USD |
| Exam Format | 150 questions | 150 questions |
| Prerequisites | 5 years security management | 5 years IT audit/control/security |
| Validity Period | 3 years | 3 years |
| Ideal For | Security managers, CISOs, IT directors | IT auditors, compliance managers, risk analysts |
| Salary Range | $125,000 - $175,000 | $100,000 - $150,000 |
What Each Certification Covers
Key topics and domains covered in each exam
CISM Focus Areas
- Security Governance
- Risk Management
- Program Development
- Incident Management
CISA Focus Areas
- IT Audit
- Governance
- Systems Acquisition
- Operations
- Asset Protection
Our Recommendation
CISM focuses on security management, CISA on IT auditing and compliance.
Choose CISM
Choose CISM for security leadership and program management roles.
Choose CISA
Choose CISA for IT audit, compliance, and risk assessment careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: CISM or CISA?
CISM focuses on security management, CISA on IT auditing and compliance.
What are the salary differences between CISM?
CISM typically offers salaries around $125,000 - $175,000, while CISA offers $100,000 - $150,000.
Which certification should I get first?
Choose CISM for security leadership and program management roles. Choose CISA for IT audit, compliance, and risk assessment careers.
How long does it take to prepare for these certifications?
Preparation time varies based on experience. Most candidates spend 4-12 weeks studying, depending on their background and the certification difficulty level.
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