Best CISA Review Courses Comparisons 2024 Guide

In the world of IT auditing and security, the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification is highly regarded. For professionals looking to boost their credentials and improve their career prospects, passing the CISA exam is a major step. The best CISA review courses can make all the difference between success and failure.

With several review options available, it can be tough to choose the right one for your learning style, budget, and timeline. In this guide, we will compare the top CISA review courses of 2024 to help you find the best one for your needs.

Key Takeaways

• Several CISA review courses offer various features, including self-paced and instructor-led options.
• Prices vary widely, so it’s essential to balance cost with the value of features.
• Some courses include guarantees, while others emphasize extensive practice exams and personalized study plans.

What to Look for in a CISA Review Course

When choosing a CISA review course, it’s crucial to consider your personal learning style and the specific features each course offers. Below are some key factors to look out for:

• Study Materials: A comprehensive CISA course should provide you with well-structured study guides, extensive practice questions, detailed answer explanations, and flashcards. Additional resources, such as video lectures or interactive lessons, can further enhance your understanding of complex topics.
• Delivery Format: Do you prefer learning at your own pace, or would you benefit from structured, live online classes? Self-paced courses offer flexibility, while instructor-led courses provide real-time support and engagement.
• Pass Guarantee: Some courses offer a pass guarantee, meaning if you don’t pass the exam, you either get a refund or extended course access at no extra cost. This can offer peace of mind if you’re worried about passing on your first attempt.
• Practice Exams: Full-length practice exams simulate the real CISA exam environment, helping you get accustomed to the test format and time constraints. The more practice exams a course offers, the better prepared you’ll be.
• Price: The best CISA review courses can range from affordable to premium-priced. It’s important to weigh the cost against the features you’re getting to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.

Best CISA Review Courses 2024

1. ExamMatrix CISA Review Course

ExamMatrix is renowned for its adaptive learning platform, which tailors the learning experience to your strengths and weaknesses. This course offers a data-driven approach to exam preparation by identifying areas where you need improvement and focusing your studies accordingly. With thousands of practice questions, detailed explanations, and unlimited access, ExamMatrix ensures you stay on track to pass the CISA exam. It’s particularly useful for self-directed learners who want personalized study plans and a course that evolves with their progress.

Features:

• Adaptive learning technology that focuses on your weaknesses.
• Access to over 2,000 practice questions, each with thorough explanations.
• Personalized study plan based on your performance.
• Unlimited course access until you pass the exam.

Pricing:

• Standard Package: $499

Pros:

• Personalized Learning Experience: The adaptive learning system tailors your study plan to address your weaknesses, ensuring you spend more time on the areas where you need the most improvement. This level of customization is ideal for students who want to optimize their study time.
• Unlimited Access Until You Pass: Unlike other courses that limit access to a set timeframe, ExamMatrix gives you unlimited access to its content until you pass the exam. This removes the pressure of rushing through the material, making it a great option for busy professionals who need flexibility.
• Detailed Explanations for Every Question: Each practice question comes with a detailed explanation, helping you understand the reasoning behind the correct answers. This feature is crucial for retaining knowledge and avoiding similar mistakes during the actual exam.
• Progress Tracking: The platform provides in-depth analytics on your performance, allowing you to see exactly where you need to focus your efforts. This helps you measure your progress and adjust your study plan accordingly.

Cons:

• Higher Price Point: At $499, ExamMatrix is on the higher end of CISA review courses, which may be out of reach for students on a tight budget. However, the personalized learning tools and unlimited access can justify the price for many.
• No Live Instruction: While ExamMatrix excels in adaptive learning, it lacks the option for live classes or one-on-one instructor support, which some learners might prefer, especially if they struggle with certain concepts or prefer real-time engagement.
• Limited Extra Resources: While the core study materials are robust, ExamMatrix doesn’t offer supplementary tools like flashcards, case studies, or video content, which are included in some other premium courses.
• Not Ideal for Group Learning: If you prefer a collaborative learning environment or benefit from classroom-style teaching, the self-paced, solo nature of ExamMatrix might not be the best fit for you.

2. CISA Course ExamPractice Review

CISA Course ExamPractice Review is designed for candidates seeking a straightforward and affordable preparation experience. It offers a solid foundation for exam preparation with comprehensive study guides, practice exams, and progress-tracking tools. While it doesn’t include advanced features like adaptive learning or live instruction, it delivers essential resources for students who prefer a simpler, no-frills approach to studying.

Features:

• Complete online access with practice exams and study questions.
• Study guide structured around the CISA exam domains.
• Progress tracking with exam simulations for real-time readiness assessment.

Pricing:

• Standard Package: $399

Pros:

• Realistic Exam Simulations: The practice exams are designed to closely mirror the actual CISA exam in terms of format and difficulty. This helps candidates familiarize themselves with the types of questions they’ll face and reduces exam-day anxiety by providing a realistic testing experience.
• Budget-Friendly: At $399, CISA Course ExamPractice is an affordable option that still offers comprehensive preparation. It’s an excellent choice for those who don’t need all the bells and whistles but want a solid foundation for exam success.
• Progress Tracking: The platform provides a visual representation of your progress, showing which sections of the exam you’re strongest in and which areas need more attention. This is crucial for organizing your study plan and ensuring you’re exam-ready.
• User-Friendly Interface: The course is straightforward and easy to navigate, making it accessible to students of all technical abilities. This reduces the time spent figuring out the platform, so you can focus on studying.

Cons:

• Limited Study Materials: While the course offers essential resources, it doesn’t have as many practice questions or detailed study guides as some of the more premium options. If you prefer having a wealth of resources at your disposal, you might find this course lacking.
• No Pass Guarantee: Unlike some competitors, ExamPractice does not offer a pass guarantee or refund policy if you don’t pass the exam. This can be a drawback if you’re looking for added security with your investment.
• Lacks Advanced Features: Without adaptive learning technology or live instruction, this course is less personalized than others. It’s a basic, one-size-fits-all approach that may not suit those who need targeted help in specific areas.
• Limited Access Time: The course provides only 12 months of access, which may not be sufficient for those with busy schedules who need more time to prepare for the exam.

3. Gryfin CISA Review

Gryfin CISA Review focuses on delivering an adaptive learning experience at a competitive price. It’s built for efficiency, allowing students to create customizable quizzes and practice questions to target their weak areas. While it doesn’t include live instruction or supplementary resources like video lectures, Gryfin excels in helping students maximize their study time through adaptive learning technology.

Features:

• An adaptive learning platform that adjusts based on your progress.
• Customizable quizzes for focused study sessions.
• Unlimited practice questions and progress tracking.
• A mobile-friendly platform for studying on the go.

Pricing:

• Standard Package: $397

Pros:

• Adaptive Learning Technology: Gryfin’s adaptive learning system tailors your study experience to focus on areas where you need the most improvement. This saves time by streamlining your study sessions and ensures you don’t waste time on material you’ve already mastered.
• Customizable Quizzes: The ability to create your own quizzes based on specific topics or domains allows for targeted practice. This feature is particularly useful when you’re trying to reinforce weaker areas or revisit troublesome concepts.
• Unlimited Practice Questions: You get access to an extensive bank of practice questions, allowing for repeated testing and refinement of your understanding. The more practice you have, the more prepared you’ll feel for the actual exam.
• Mobile-Friendly Interface: The Gryfin platform is optimized for mobile devices, making it easy to study on the go. Whether you’re commuting or have a few minutes of downtime, you can fit study sessions into your schedule.

Cons:

• No Video Lectures or Live Instruction: Gryfin lacks the multimedia resources that some other courses offer, such as video lectures or live online classes. If you’re a visual or auditory learner, you may find this course lacking in engagement.
• No Pass Guarantee: While Gryfin is priced competitively, it doesn’t offer a pass guarantee, which can be a drawback for students who are concerned about their chances of passing the exam on the first try.
• Limited Support Options: Unlike some other review courses, Gryfin doesn’t provide extensive customer support or instructor access. If you run into issues or need clarification on complex topics, you’re largely left to figure it out on your own.
• Basic User Interface: While the platform is mobile-friendly, its interface is somewhat basic compared to other review courses. Some users may find it lacks the sleekness and sophistication of other more polished platforms.

4. Certified Information Security CISA SuperReview

The CISA SuperReview by Certified Information Security is a highly comprehensive and detailed review course designed for individuals aiming to pass the CISA exam. With a wealth of resources, including video lectures, quizzes, and instructor support, this course is ideal for candidates who want a deep dive into each domain of the CISA exam. The course is led by Allen Keele, a well-known instructor with expertise in information security.

Features:

• Detailed study guides and course materials.
• Over 1,500 practice questions with explanations.
• Video lectures covering all exam domains.
• Exam strategy sessions and tips.

Pricing:

• Standard Package: $429

Pros:

• Extensive Course Content: The CISA SuperReview offers a broad and detailed curriculum, covering every domain of the CISA exam in depth. This is perfect for students who want an in-depth understanding of each topic and more than just a surface-level review.
• Instructor Support: Unlike many self-study courses, the SuperReview provides direct access to the instructor, Allen Keele, who has decades of experience in information security. Having personalized support can be invaluable when you hit difficult concepts.
• Structured Learning Path: The course is organized in a linear fashion, ensuring that you cover all necessary topics without missing key areas. The structured path helps you build knowledge progressively, starting from the basics and moving into more advanced topics.
• High Success Rate: Many students who take the CISA SuperReview report high pass rates, which is a testament to the quality and thoroughness of the material provided.

Cons:

• Higher Cost: The SuperReview is priced at the higher end of CISA review courses. While it offers excellent content and support, the price might be prohibitive for those on a budget.
• Limited Practice Exams: Compared to other courses that offer multiple full-length practice exams, the SuperReview provides fewer mock exams. This could be a drawback for students who rely on exam simulation to build confidence.
• No Mobile App: Unlike some competitors, the SuperReview does not have a dedicated mobile app. While you can access the course via mobile browsers, the experience isn’t as smooth as with an app.
• Outdated Interface: The user interface of the platform feels a bit outdated, which can make navigation less intuitive. Students accustomed to modern, sleek platforms may find this to be a minor inconvenience.

5. Ed2Go CISA Certification Prep

Ed2Go’s CISA Certification Prep course offers a flexible and affordable option for those looking to prepare for the CISA exam. Known for providing online education across various fields, Ed2Go’s CISA prep course is a solid introduction for candidates new to the CISA domains. It’s particularly suitable for those who prefer a more general overview before delving deeper into CISA-specific topics.

Features:

• Comprehensive online course with interactive lessons.
• Access to practice exams and quizzes.
• Study guides and supplementary materials.
• Flexibility to study at your own pace.

Pricing:

• Standard Package: $299

Pros:

• Affordability: Ed2Go is one of the more affordable options on the market, making it an attractive option for students who want to prepare for the CISA exam without breaking the bank. It’s a great option for those on a budget or seeking a cost-effective review course.
• Flexible Learning: The course is entirely online and self-paced, allowing students to study whenever and wherever they want. This flexibility is ideal for working professionals or those who need to fit study sessions around a busy schedule.
• Instructor-Led Sessions: While the course is self-paced, Ed2Go offers instructor-led options, which can provide additional guidance and structure for students who prefer a bit more direction during their prep.
• Well-Rounded Curriculum: Ed2Go offers a well-rounded overview of the CISA exam domains, ensuring that you cover all the key areas required to pass the exam. It’s a solid option for beginners or those who are just starting their CISA prep journey.

Cons:

• Lacks Depth for Advanced Candidates: While the course provides a comprehensive overview, it may not go into enough depth for advanced candidates or those with prior experience in information systems auditing. Students looking for detailed domain-specific content may need supplemental resources.
• No Practice Exams: Ed2Go does not include full-length practice exams as part of the course. This may be a significant drawback for candidates who rely on exam simulations to build their confidence and assess their readiness.
• Limited Interaction: While the course includes instructor-led sessions, it doesn’t offer the same level of personalized support or interactivity that some other courses provide. If you prefer direct access to an instructor or more interaction with peers, this might be a limitation.
• Basic Course Materials: The course materials are fairly basic, lacking the bells and whistles that some other review courses provide, such as adaptive learning technology or advanced analytics to track your progress.

6. Simplilearn CISA Certification Training

Simplilearn’s CISA Certification Training is a well-structured course that combines instructor-led sessions with self-paced learning. Simplilearn is known for its comprehensive approach to professional certification training, and its CISA prep course follows suit by providing both theoretical and practical knowledge in information systems auditing. Simplilearn offers a blend of live classes, e-learning content, and practice exams.

Features:

• Video lectures and recorded webinars.
• Extensive practice questions and mock exams.
• Real-world case studies and practical scenarios.
• Access to a community forum for peer support.

Pricing:

• Standard Package: $349

Pros:

• Live Instructor-Led Classes: Simplilearn provides live, instructor-led classes, which offer a classroom-like experience from the comfort of your home. These live sessions allow for real-time interaction with the instructor, which can enhance your understanding of complex topics.
• Comprehensive Course Content: Simplilearn’s course includes detailed video lectures, reading materials, and practice questions that cover all five CISA domains. The depth of content ensures you’re well-prepared for every section of the exam.
• Flexible Learning Options: The course is available both in a self-paced format and with live classes, allowing students to choose a learning style that best suits their schedule and preferences. You can also revisit recorded live sessions if you miss a class or need a refresher.
• Hands-On Labs: One unique feature of Simplilearn’s course is the inclusion of hands-on labs. These labs allow students to apply theoretical concepts in a simulated environment, which is great for reinforcing learning and gaining practical experience.

Cons:

• High Cost: Simplilearn’s CISA course is on the pricier side, particularly if you opt for the live instructor-led version. This might not be ideal for candidates who are looking for more affordable options.
• Time Commitment: The live instructor-led sessions require you to commit to a set schedule, which may be challenging for students with unpredictable work or personal commitments. The time-bound nature of these classes may not work for everyone.
• Limited Customization: While Simplilearn offers excellent content, its platform doesn’t provide the same level of customization or adaptive learning features that some other courses do. Students who prefer personalized study plans based on their strengths and weaknesses may find this lacking.
• Not Mobile-Friendly: Simplilearn’s platform is not as mobile-friendly as some competitors, making it less convenient for students who want to study on the go using smartphones or tablets.

Comparison Table: Key Features of the Best CISA Review Courses

Course Provider	Format	Access Period	Practice Questions	Pass Guarantee	Price
ExamMatrix	Self-Paced	Unlimited	2,000+	Yes	$499
CISA Course ExamPractice	Self-Paced	12 months	1,500+	No	$399
Gryfin	Self-Paced	Unlimited	Unlimited	No	$397
CISA SuperReview	Self-Paced, Instructor Support	6 months	1,000+	No	$497
Ed2Go	Self-Paced	Unlimited	800+	No	$349
SimpliLearn	Self-Paced/Instructor-Led	12 months	1,000+	Yes	$499

CISA Exam Overview

The CISA exam is a rigorous test that assesses your knowledge and skills in IT auditing. The exam covers five primary domains:

1. Information System Auditing Process: This domain focuses on the auditing process, including the planning, execution, and reporting of IT audits. It emphasizes understanding the audit lifecycle and methodologies.
2. Governance and Management of IT: This section deals with IT governance frameworks, management practices, and the strategic alignment of IT with business goals. Key topics include risk management, compliance, and IT governance structures.
3. Information Systems Acquisition, Development, and Implementation: This domain covers the lifecycle of information systems, from acquisition and development to implementation and maintenance. It includes understanding the development methodologies and risk management in projects.
4. Information Systems Operations, Maintenance, and Service Management: This part addresses the operational aspects of IT systems, including service management, maintenance procedures, and performance monitoring. It focuses on ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of IT services.
5. Protection of Information Assets: This domain emphasizes the security of information assets, including confidentiality, integrity, and availability. It includes topics on security management, access controls, and data protection.

Each domain is assessed with a variety of questions designed to test your understanding of core concepts and your ability to apply this knowledge in real-world scenarios.

CISA Exam Pass Rates

The CISA exam is challenging, with pass rates typically ranging between 50-60%. This reflects the difficulty of the exam and the need for thorough preparation. Success often hinges on how well you utilize review courses and practice materials. Choosing a high-quality review course can significantly enhance your preparation and increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.

Tips for Choosing the Best CISA Review Courses

Evaluate Your Learning Style

Consider whether you prefer self-paced study or interactive live classes. Self-paced courses offer flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace and schedule. Live courses, on the other hand, provide real-time interaction with instructors, which can be beneficial for understanding complex topics and getting immediate feedback.

Check for Practice Exams

Effective preparation involves not only studying the material but also familiarizing yourself with the exam format. Courses that include numerous practice exams and questions are invaluable as they help you gauge your readiness and improve your test-taking skills.

Budget Considerations

CISA review courses vary in cost, so it’s essential to find a course that fits your budget while offering the features you need. Consider the overall value, including the quality of study materials, access duration, and additional support like live instruction or pass guarantees.

Study Tips for Passing the CISA Exam

Start Early

Allocate at least 3-6 months for preparation. Starting early gives you ample time to cover all exam domains thoroughly, review difficult concepts, and take practice exams.

Use Practice Exams

Regular practice exams simulate the real test environment and help you become familiar with the question format. They also help identify areas where you need further review and build confidence.

Create a Study Schedule

Develop a detailed study plan that covers all five domains of the CISA exam. Consistent study sessions and regular review of previously covered material will help reinforce your knowledge.

Common Pitfalls When Preparing for the CISA Exam

Cramming

Avoid cramming all your study efforts into the final weeks before the exam. Instead, adopt a steady and consistent study approach. This will help retain information better and reduce exam anxiety.

Not Taking Practice Exams

Neglecting practice exams can leave you unprepared for the actual test format and timing. Regular practice is crucial for understanding question types and managing your time effectively during the exam.

Skipping Difficult Topics

It’s easy to focus on topics you find comfortable, but don’t ignore areas where you feel less confident. Spend extra time on challenging topics to ensure a well-rounded understanding.

CISA Certification Benefits and Career Impact

Higher Salary

CISA certification can significantly enhance your earning potential. Certified professionals often see salaries ranging from $80,000 to $130,000 annually, depending on their experience, location, and job role.

Job Opportunities

With CISA certification, you open doors to various roles such as IT auditor, security consultant, and information security analyst. The certification is highly regarded by employers and can set you apart in a competitive job market.

Career Growth

The demand for CISA-certified professionals is on the rise as organizations increasingly focus on IT security and compliance. Certification can provide long-term career advancement opportunities and a pathway to higher-level positions in IT and audit.

FAQs About the Best CISA Review Courses

1. What is the CISA certification and why is it important?

CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) certification is a globally recognized credential for IT auditors. It validates your ability to assess and manage an organization’s information systems. It’s important because it enhances your credibility, career prospects, and earning potential in the field of IT auditing and security.

2. How long should I study for the CISA exam?

It is recommended to allocate 3-6 months for preparation. This allows sufficient time to cover all exam domains, take practice exams, and review challenging topics. The exact time required may vary based on your prior knowledge and study habits.

3. What are the key domains covered in the CISA exam?

The CISA exam covers five domains:

1. Information System Auditing Process
2. Governance and Management of IT
3. Information Systems Acquisition, Development, and Implementation
4. Information Systems Operations, Maintenance, and Service Management
5. Protection of Information Assets

4. How can I determine which CISA review course is right for me?

Evaluate your learning style, whether you prefer self-paced study or live instruction. Check the course content, access period, number of practice questions, and whether it offers a pass guarantee. Consider your budget and the overall value of the course features.

5. What should I look for in a good CISA review course?

Look for a course that offers comprehensive study materials, practice exams, and additional support like instructor feedback. Ensure it fits your learning style and schedule, and offers a duration of access that suits your preparation needs.

6. Are practice exams important for CISA preparation?

Yes, practice exams are crucial as they simulate the actual exam environment. They help you get familiar with the question format, improve your test-taking skills, and identify areas where you need more review.

7. What are some common mistakes to avoid when preparing for the CISA exam?

Common mistakes include cramming, neglecting practice exams, and skipping difficult topics. Avoid these by creating a consistent study plan, taking regular practice exams, and addressing all areas of the exam syllabus.

8. What are the career benefits of obtaining the CISA certification?

CISA certification can lead to higher salaries, increased job opportunities, and career growth. It’s highly regarded in the industry and can open doors to roles such as IT auditor, security consultant, and information security analyst.

9. How often does the CISA exam content change?

The CISA exam content is updated periodically to reflect changes in technology and industry standards. It’s important to use current study materials that align with the latest exam domains and content outlines.

10. Where can I find more information about CISA certification and review courses?

For more information, you can visit the official ISACA website, which offers detailed information on certification requirements and exam content.

Conclusion

Choosing the right CISA review course is crucial for your exam success. Whether you prefer a comprehensive package with live instruction or a flexible self-paced option, there is a course tailored to meet your needs. Consider your learning style, budget, and preparation timeline to make an informed decision.

Ready to ace the CISA exam? Select the Best CISA Review Courses that align with your goals and start your preparation today!