CISM Certification: Everything You Need to Know

The CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) certification is a highly prestigious credential for information security managers. Over 27,000 professionals globally have earned this certification, making it a recognized standard in the field of information security. The CISM is consistently ranked among the highest-paying certifications by Certification Magazine and is one of the most sought-after certifications in regions such as the UK, Australia, and the U.S. Obtaining this certification can significantly enhance your career in information security management, opening doors to higher-level positions and better compensation. If you’re planning to take the CISM exam, this guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to succeed.

Key Takeaways

• Focus on Management: CISM is tailored for those in managerial roles, emphasizing governance, risk management, program development, and incident management.
• Global Recognition: This certification is recognized worldwide, opening doors to opportunities in various industries, including finance, healthcare, government, and technology.
• High Earning Potential: CISM-certified professionals can expect competitive salaries, with averages ranging from $100,000 to $150,000 globally.
• Comparative Advantage: Understanding the differences between CISM and other certifications like CISSP can help you choose the right path for your career.

What is CISM Certification?

The CISM certification is offered by ISACA, an international professional association focused on IT governance. The certification is specifically designed for individuals who manage, design, oversee, and assess an enterprise’s information security. It is ideal for IT professionals who are looking to advance into managerial roles or for those who are already in such positions and wish to formalize their experience with a recognized credential. The CISM certification not only validates your expertise in information security management but also demonstrates your commitment to adhering to the highest standards in the field.

CISM Certification Requirements

To earn the CISM certification, candidates must meet specific requirements:

1. Work Experience:
   • Five Years in Information Security: A minimum of five years of professional experience in information security is required. This experience should cover at least three of the four CISM domains (Information Security Governance, Information Risk Management, Information Security Program Development and Management, and Information Security Incident Management).
   • Two Years as an Information Security Manager: Of these five years, at least two years must be spent in a management role, focusing on information security.
2. Substitutions for Work Experience:
   • You can substitute up to two years of the five-year requirement with certain qualifications:
     • CISA or CISSP Certification: Holding a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification can substitute one or two years of experience.
     • Postgraduate Degree: A postgraduate degree in information security or a related field can also substitute for one or two years of experience.
3. Ethics and Continuing Education:
   • ISACA’s Code of Professional Ethics: All CISM candidates must agree to and comply with ISACA’s Code of Professional Ethics, which emphasizes integrity, objectivity, and professionalism.
   • Continuing Education Policy: Certification holders must engage in continuous professional education to maintain their CISM status. This ensures that certified professionals stay up-to-date with the evolving landscape of information security.
4. Passing the CISM Examination:
   • The CISM exam is rigorous and requires extensive preparation. Although you can take the exam before completing the work experience requirements, certification will only be granted once all requirements are met.

CISM Certification Cost

The cost of obtaining CISM certification can vary based on a few factors:

1. Exam Registration Fees:
   • ISACA Members: $625
   • Non-Members: $750
   • Registration Options: The exam registration can be completed online, via fax, or by post. Each method might incur different fees.
2. Certification Application Fee:
   • A non-refundable application fee of $50 is required when you apply for the certification after passing the exam.
3. Other Fees:
   • Exam Changes: A $50 fee applies if you need to change your registered exam date or location.
   • Refund Processing: If you require a refund, a $100 processing fee will be applied.
4. ISACA Membership:
   • Joining ISACA can significantly reduce your exam fees and provide access to a wealth of resources, including discounts on study materials and events. Annual membership fees vary depending on your region, typically ranging from $130 to $200.

Table: CISM Certification Costs Breakdown

Fee Type	Member Cost	Non-Member Cost	Additional Information
Exam Registration	$625	$750	Online, fax or postal registration is available
Certification Application	$50	$50	Non-refundable
Exam Change Fee	$50	$50	Applies to changes in exam date/location
Refund Processing Fee	$100	$100	Non-refundable
ISACA Membership	$130 – $200	N/A	Optional, but offers significant discounts

Information Security Courses

Preparing for the CISM exam requires a solid understanding of information security management. While you can self-study, enrolling in information security courses can be beneficial. These courses not only prepare you for the exam but can also count towards the work experience requirement.

1. Substitutable Certifications:
   • CISA and CISSP: If you hold a CISA or CISSP certification, you can substitute up to two years of the five-year work experience requirement.
2. Academic Programs:
   • Information Security Management Programs: Completing a program that uses the ISACA Model Curriculum can replace one year of the required experience.
   • University Degrees: Pursuing a degree in information security or a related field at an accredited university can also enhance your knowledge and preparation.
3. Courses Offered by ISACA:
   • Official CISM Review Courses: ISACA offers specialized courses designed to help candidates prepare for the CISM exam. These courses are aligned with the exam content and provide an in-depth review of the material.

Table: Information Security Courses and Their Benefits

Course Type	Work Experience Substitution	Benefit
CISA/CISSP Certification	Up to 2 years	Substitutes part of the work experience requirement
Information Security Management Program	1 year	Replaces one year of required experience
University Degree (Postgraduate)	Up to 2 years	Enhances knowledge and preparation
ISACA Official CISM Review Courses	N/A	Provides in-depth review aligned with exam content

CISM Online Training

In today’s digital age, online training is a convenient and effective way to prepare for the CISM exam. Numerous online platforms offer courses tailored to the CISM curriculum, providing flexibility for busy professionals.

1. ISACA Online Training:
   • ISACA’s Online Review Courses: ISACA provides official online courses that cover all the domains tested in the CISM exam. These courses are self-paced, allowing you to study at your own convenience.
2. Third-Party Online Courses:
   • Alternative Online Training: Several reputable third-party platforms, such as Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning, offer CISM preparation courses. These courses vary in price, length, and teaching style, giving you options to choose one that suits your learning preferences.
   • Specialized Content: Some online courses focus on specific domains of the CISM exam, allowing you to strengthen areas where you may need more study.
3. Benefits of Online Training:
   • Flexibility: Study at your own pace and on your own schedule.
   • Accessibility: Access training materials from anywhere with an internet connection.
   • Variety: Choose from a wide range of courses that cater to different learning styles and needs.

CISM Practice Questions and Study Materials

Practice makes perfect, especially when it comes to passing a challenging exam like the CISM. The more you practice, the better you’ll understand the exam format, the types of questions you’ll face, and the areas where you need improvement.

1. ISACA Official Practice Questions:
   • Question Database: ISACA offers a comprehensive question database that includes 815 multiple-choice questions. These questions are organized by the CISM domains, helping you to focus your study on specific areas.
   • Sample Exams: ISACA provides a full-length sample test with 200 questions to simulate the actual exam experience.
2. Review Manuals:
   • Official CISM Review Manual: This manual is an essential study resource that covers all the content areas of the CISM exam. It’s updated annually to reflect the latest in information security management practices.
   • Supplementary Materials: In addition to the review manual, ISACA offers supplementary materials that delve deeper into specific topics or provide additional practice questions.
3. Third-Party Study Guides:
   • Books and Online Resources: Numerous books and online resources are available to supplement your studies. Some popular options include the “CISM Review Questions, Answers & Explanations” and “CISM Certified Information Security Manager All-in-One Exam Guide.”
4. Practice Exams and Self-Assessments:
   • Free Self-Assessment Exam: ISACA offers a free 50-question self-assessment to gauge your readiness for the actual exam.
   • Timed Practice Exams: Take timed practice exams to build your test-taking stamina and improve your time management skills.

The CISM Exam and CISM Exam Dates

The CISM exam is a rigorous assessment that tests your knowledge across four domains of information security management. Understanding the structure and timing of the exam is crucial to your preparation.

1. Exam Structure:
   • Four Domains: The exam covers four key domains: Information Security Governance, Information Risk Management, Information Security Program Development and Management, and Information Security Incident Management.
   • 150 Multiple-Choice Questions: The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within a four-hour timeframe.
2. Exam Dates and Registration:
   • Exam Windows: The CISM exam is offered during specific testing windows throughout the year. Register early to secure your preferred date and location.
   • Registration Process: Registering for the exam can be done online through ISACA’s website. You’ll need to create an account, pay the exam fee, and select your test date and location.
3. Testing Centers:
   • Global Availability: The CISM exam is administered at authorized testing centers worldwide. You can search for a testing center near you on ISACA’s website.
   • Online Proctoring: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, ISACA now offers an online proctoring option for the CISM exam, allowing you to take the exam from the comfort of your home.

CISM Domains

The CISM exam covers four critical domains of information security management. Each domain represents a specific area of knowledge and expertise that is essential for a successful career in information security.

1. Information Security Governance:
   • Definition: Information Security Governance involves the alignment of security strategies with business objectives to ensure that information assets are adequately protected.
   • Focus Areas: Key topics include the development of security policies, the establishment of an information security governance framework, and the integration of security into the enterprise architecture.
2. Information Risk Management:
   • Definition: Information Risk Management focuses on identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks to an organization’s information assets.
   • Focus Areas: This domain covers risk assessment methodologies, the development of risk mitigation strategies, and the communication of risk management practices to stakeholders.
3. Information Security Program Development and Management:
   • Definition: This domain addresses the creation and management of an information security program that supports the organization’s overall business objectives.
   • Focus Areas: Topics include the design of security architectures, the development of security awareness programs, and the management of security budgets and resources.
4. Information Security Incident Management:
   • Definition: Information Security Incident Management involves the identification, response, and recovery from information security incidents.
   • Focus Areas: This domain covers incident response planning, the establishment of incident response teams, and the continuous improvement of incident management processes.

CISM Salary and Job Opportunities

Achieving CISM certification can significantly enhance your career prospects and earning potential. Here’s what you can expect in terms of salary and job opportunities:

1. Salary Expectations:
   • Global Averages: The average salary for CISM-certified professionals varies by region, but it generally ranges from $100,000 to $150,000 per year. In the U.S., the average salary is approximately $118,000, while in the UK, it is around £75,000.
   • Factors Influencing Salary: Several factors can influence your salary as a CISM-certified professional, including your level of experience, the industry you work in, and the size of the organization.
2. Job Roles:
   • Information Security Manager: The most common job title for CISM holders, responsible for overseeing an organization’s information security program.
   • Chief Information Security Officer (CISO): A higher-level executive role that involves managing an organization’s entire information security strategy.
   • Security Consultant: Provides expert advice on information security practices, often working with multiple clients to improve their security posture.
3. Industry Demand:
   • High Demand in Various Sectors: CISM-certified professionals are in high demand across various sectors, including finance, healthcare, government, and technology. The increasing focus on cybersecurity has led to a growing need for qualified information security managers.
4. Career Growth:
   • Leadership Opportunities: The CISM certification is particularly valuable for those looking to move into leadership roles within their organizations. It demonstrates not only technical expertise but also the ability to manage and lead information security initiatives.

CISM vs CISSP

When deciding between the CISM and CISSP certifications, it’s essential to understand the key differences between the two:

1. Focus Areas:
   • CISM: Focuses on information security management, making it ideal for those in or aspiring to managerial roles.
   • CISSP: Covers a broader range of security topics, including technical and operational aspects, making it suitable for those in more hands-on security roles.
2. Target Audience:
   • CISM: Best suited for professionals who manage, design, and oversee an organization’s information security program.
   • CISSP: Geared towards professionals who work directly with security technologies and need a comprehensive understanding of security principles.
3. Certification Requirements:
   • CISM: Requires five years of work experience in information security, with at least two years in a management role.
   • CISSP: Requires five years of work experience in at least two of the eight CISSP domains.
4. Exam Content:
   • CISM: Focuses on four domains related to information security management.
   • CISSP: Covers eight domains, including security and risk management, asset security, security engineering, and more.

Best CISM Review Course Discounts & Comparisons

Bottom Line

The CISM certification is a powerful credential for anyone looking to advance their career in information security management. It offers a unique combination of managerial expertise and security knowledge, making it highly valuable in today’s job market. Whether you’re aiming for a leadership role or looking to solidify your credentials in information security, the CISM certification can help you achieve your career goals. With thorough preparation and a clear understanding of the certification process, you can successfully earn your CISM and unlock new opportunities in the field of information security.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the CISM certification, and who should pursue it?

The CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) certification is a globally recognized credential focused on information security management. It is ideal for professionals in managerial roles or those aspiring to manage and design an organization’s information security programs.

2. How long does it take to become CISM certified?

The timeline varies based on individual preparation. Generally, candidates spend several months preparing for the exam. Additionally, candidates need to have at least five years of work experience in information security, with at least two years in a management role, before obtaining the certification.

3. What are the prerequisites for the CISM certification?

Candidates must have a minimum of five years of work experience in information security, with at least two years in information security management. Some educational and certification achievements can substitute up to two years of the required experience.

4. How much does the CISM certification cost?

The cost varies depending on whether you are an ISACA member. The exam registration fees range from $575 to $760, depending on membership status. Additionally, there is a $50 application fee and potential costs for study materials and review courses.

5. How often is the CISM exam offered?

The CISM exam is offered during specific testing windows throughout the year. Candidates should check the ISACA website for the most current exam schedule and available testing dates.

6. What is the format of the CISM exam?

The CISM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, which must be completed in four hours. The questions are divided into four domains: Information Security Governance, Information Risk Management, Information Security Program Development and Management, and Information Security Incident Management.

7. How can I prepare for the CISM exam?

Preparation can include self-study using ISACA’s official study materials, enrolling in online or in-person review courses, practicing with sample questions, and taking practice exams. It’s crucial to focus on the four key domains covered in the exam.

8. What are the benefits of earning a CISM certification?

Earning a CISM certification can enhance your credibility in the field of information security management, lead to higher salaries, and open up advanced career opportunities. It is also recognized globally, which adds value to your professional credentials.

9. Can I take the CISM exam without meeting the work experience requirements?

Yes, you can take the CISM exam without meeting the work experience requirements. However, you will not be granted the certification until you fulfill the work experience criteria within five years of passing the exam.

10. What is the passing score for the CISM exam?

The CISM exam is scored on a scale of 200 to 800, with a passing score of 450 or higher. This score represents the minimum standard of knowledge required to become certified.

11. How do I apply for the CISM certification after passing the exam?

After passing the exam, you can apply for certification by submitting a completed application form through the ISACA website. You must provide proof of the required work experience and pay the certification application fee.

12. How do I maintain my CISM certification?

To maintain your CISM certification, you must earn and report a minimum of 20 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) hours annually and 120 CPE hours over a three-year period. Additionally, you must comply with ISACA’s Code of Professional Ethics and the Continuing Education Policy.