How did I pass my CISA exam on the first attempt?

The CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) exam is an internationally acknowledged certification for IT audit professionals.

It showcases competence in auditing, control, and assurance of information systems.

This certification holds high regard for showcasing skills in vulnerability assessment, compliance reporting, and control implementation within a company.

Stay tuned as I recount my experience of passing the CISA exam, detailing my study approach and offering success tips.

Exam Overview

The CISA exam is administered by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) and consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers five domains:

1. The Process of Auditing Information Systems ( 21% ) 
2. Governance and Management of IT ( 17% ) 
3. Information Systems Acquisition, Development, and Implementation ( 12% ) 
4. Information Systems Operations, Maintenance, and Support ( 23% ) 
5. Protection of Information Assets ( 27% ) 

You will have to face 150 questions, and the total time allowed is 4 hours (240 Minutes). On average, you will have 1.6 minutes for each question. The overall exam is based on multiple-choice questions (MCQs), with four options given for each question.

The questions tested were very tricky and logical.

Study Strategy

I usually start by collecting data on the experiences of CISA exam takers on Reddit, which is quite useful. Once I have an idea of the materials that I should use, I adopt a multi-tiered approach. I like to prime my brain with a video series, then move into an iterative process of understanding the exam objectives, reading related materials, and completing assessment questions. I usually make a note of my weak areas and work on resolving these through more reading and practice questions. It took me three months of on-and-off studying to prepare for the exam.

Key Areas to Note

• IS Audit Standards, Guidelines, and Codes of Ethics: Understanding the foundational principles of IS audit and control is essential for success in the CISA exam.
• Business Processes: Having a solid understanding of business processes and their impact on information systems is a key area to focus on.
• Types of Controls: You should understand control implementation and effectiveness and also be able to differentiate between preventative, detective and corrective controls.
• Risk-Based Audit Planning: Understanding the process of risk-based audit planning and why it is important.
• Types of Audits and Assessments: Knowing the different types of audits and assessments allowed me to identify the most appropriate approach for various audit scenarios.
• Sampling and Data Collection Techniques: This was a bit tricky for me, but eventually, it clicked. You need to know how to identify the best methodology and techniques for data collection. Accuracy is essential.
• Adapting the Mindset of an Auditor: This was the most important aspect to note. The key role of the auditor is to observe, document, and report. You are not responsible for implementing solutions. Independence is also a key consideration. You have to answer the questions with the mindset of an auditor.
• The ISACA Exam methodology: This is key, you need to have a technique for comprehending the questions/scenarios and selecting the best response.

Tips to Crack CISA in just 90 days.

1.    Effective Time Management

Efficient time management plays a crucial role in successfully passing the CISA exam on your first try. In my opinion, individuals aiming for the CISA certification should allocate a minimum of 250 hours to thoroughly study the CISA material twice, which includes practising around 3000 questions from the Qbank. However, the exact study hours may vary depending on each person's background and prior knowledge. I dedicated two hours daily after work and eight hours on weekends (Saturday and Sunday), totalling 216 hours over 90 days. This approach worked well for me as I managed to pass the CISA exam in just 90 days by following this method and revisiting the ISACA study material twice.

Prepare flashcards for reading a novel during leisure time, anywhere.

To excel in your exams, utilize flashcards effectively. Jot down the definitions of technical terms in bullet points, especially those unrelated to your field of study that might lead to procrastination, like private cloud, public cloud, war chalking, bastion host, false acceptance, rejection rate, and more. Carry these cards with you and review them during breaks at work or any free moment during the day. Remember, prioritizing knowledge over idle chatter is key. This method will undoubtedly benefit your exam preparation.

3.    Reach Out for the Best CISA Study Material.

Avoid wasting your valuable time and money on outdated or locally available resources. I suggest obtaining the CISA material from a certified professional or authorized CISA preparation provider. Remember, time and resources are limited, so selecting the right material should be your primary focus.

4.    Always control your Emotions until you succeed.

When reuniting with your family or friends after work, you might experience a surge of emotions. This could lead to postponing your CISA study time day after day, fueled by a sense of lethargy that sets in shortly after starting the material. This pattern is commonly known as procrastination, often triggered by the intricate and technical nature of the content, as mentioned before. When these feelings arise, pause and ask yourself: Why did you embark on this CISA journey? Why invest in the study material only to abandon it? It is advisable to maintain focus, consistency, and reduce emotional impulses. Remind yourself of the benefits of passing this qualification, which will significantly enhance your professional profile. Challenge yourself regularly until you conquer the exam. I found solace in self-dialogue, constantly reaffirming the significance of this qualification during moments of boredom. The value of the CISA certification resonated with me, motivating me with the mantra, "Amidst auditors, stand out as a CISA!"

5.    Fearlessness During the Exam

Approach your exam like a lion, whether it's online or at a testing centre. Stay confident and eliminate any doubts. Remember the mantra: "Do your best and let God do the rest!" Many test-takers feel anxious during exams, even if they have prepared thoroughly, leading to poor performance due to stress. So, my advice is to conquer your fear, stay calm, and relax!

6.    Exam Results

It's time to assess your performance. The exam results will be revealed right after you complete it, indicating whether you passed or failed. For the official results, expect to receive them from ISACA within 10 business days then apply for an application for verification work experience purposes.

Conclusion

Achieving success in the CISA exam demands dedication, hard work, and a well-rounded study plan. The effort invested is truly rewarding. I trust that sharing my experience and study techniques will support you on your path to becoming a Certified Information Systems Auditor.

Resources

CISA Certified Information Systems Auditor All-in-One Exam Guide, Fourth Edition 4th Edition by Peter H. Gregory.

CISA - Certified Information Systems Auditor Study Guide by Hemang Doshi

CISA Review Manual, 27th Edition

CISA Questions, Answers & Explanations Database

CISA Prep series by Prabh Nair

Prepare for the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) Exam

Try Hack Me - Referal Link [Useful rooms: Introduction to Cryptography, OSI Model, Introduction to Networking, Threats and Risks, and SSDLC ]

Pocket Prep for practice questions - Link for 20% off

Step Up Your Study Game: Optimize Your Certification Prep with ChatGPT

Crafting Your Custom Exam Strategy: A Guide to Learning Success

Kind Regards,

| Mamdouh ElSamary

Wishing you all success...