CISA Study Plan: Weekly Schedule Using Recommended Study Materials

 

CISA Study Plan: Weekly Schedule Using Recommended Study Materials

Becoming a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is a major milestone for professionals in the IT audit, control, and security field. However, preparing for the CISA exam requires a solid study plan and access to the right resources. In this guide, we’ll walk you through a detailed weekly study plan, using some of the best and most effective CISA study materials available.

Whether you're a full-time working professional or a student, this 8-week plan can be tailored to your schedule. Let's get started.

Week 1: Understand the Exam Format and Get Organized

Start by getting familiar with the CISA exam structure and the five domains:

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

Set up a study calendar and gather your materials. Essential resources include:

  • ISACA’s CISA Review Manual
  • Online CISA video lectures
  • Flashcards and practice questions
  • A good mobile app for studying on the go

You can find a list of the best CISA study materials on trusted education blogs and platforms.


Week 2–3: Focus on Domain 1 and Domain 2

Domain 1: Information System Auditing Process

This is the foundation of CISA and carries about 21% of the exam weight. Spend 4–5 days studying:

  • Types of audits
  • Risk-based audit planning
  • Reporting and follow-up

Use the official review manual, watch video lessons, and take short quizzes daily.

Domain 2: Governance and Management of IT

Cover topics such as:

  • IT governance framework
  • Strategy and policies
  • Organizational structure and roles

Use a mix of reading and practice tests. Highlight key points to review later.


Week 4–5: Tackle Domain 3 and Domain 4

Domain 3: Information Systems Acquisition, Development, and Implementation

This domain involves system development methodologies, business case evaluations, and implementation controls.

Make flashcards for key models like SDLC, Agile, and DevOps practices. Review at least 10 practice questions daily.

Domain 4: Information Systems Operations and Business Resilience

This domain covers:

  • IT service management
  • Disaster recovery
  • Change and problem management

Spend 5–6 days here, using audio materials or summaries to reinforce concepts on the go.


Week 6: Study Domain 5 in Depth

Domain 5: Protection of Information Assets

This is one of the most important domains and accounts for 27% of the exam.

Topics include:

  • Access controls
  • Security awareness
  • Network security
  • Data classification

Revisit the CISA certification page to see how these topics align with real-world auditing responsibilities.

Use simulation-based tools or mock labs if possible for better understanding. Spend extra time here since it’s weighted heavily.


Week 7: Revision and Weak Areas

Dedicate this week to:

  • Reviewing notes and flashcards
  • Going through all mock test results
  • Watching videos on tricky topics
  • Re-attempting incorrect answers in practice sets

Start reducing study hours slightly but increase the intensity of revision.


Week 8: Final Mock Exams and Relaxation

In the final week:

  • Take at least 2 full-length timed mock exams
  • Analyze your mistakes in detail
  • Don’t try to study new topics—only review
  • Sleep well, eat healthy, and stay calm

Make sure you’re confident with key areas and test-day logistics.


Bonus Tips for Success

  • Join an online CISA forum or study group
  • Follow a consistent daily routine (1–2 hours on weekdays, 3–4 on weekends)
  • Use spaced repetition for memorizing definitions and frameworks
  • Practice under exam conditions to build stamina

Conclusion

Preparing for the CISA exam is a journey that requires discipline, the right resources, and a solid strategy. By following this 8-week plan and using high-quality CISA study materials, you can significantly improve your chances of passing the exam on your first attempt.

If you're looking for a guided path with expert support, consider enrolling in a professional CISA certification training program to fast-track your success.

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