CRISC stands for Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control. It is one of the most valuable certifications that an IT or even non-IT professional can take to upgrade their IT risk management capabilities within an organization.
CRISC certified professionals have a much deeper and practical understanding of risks involved in business and can help organizations handle them much better.
It is highly recommended that IT professionals, business analysts, project managers, compliance professionals, and other people working in business and finance-related fields obtain this certificate.
Despite the enormous value it holds, many professionals are doubtful about taking this exam and are left with many unanswered questions. Due to this, several of them either do not opt for this exam or turn down midway.
In this article, I will cover answers to a few frequently asked questions that will motivate you to sign up for the CRISC course and add value to your career.
What is CRISC certification from ISACA? It is a certification that equips you with the required skills to analyze the risks involved in the information security system of your organization and create strategies to counter cyber-attacks for smooth business operations.
What is ISACA? ISACA, also known as Information Systems Audit and Control Association, is a self-governing body that came into existence to provide essential risk management, information security, and governance skills to individuals. CISA, CISM, CGEIT, and CRISC are the certification programs offered by ISACA.
Who is best suited to take the CRISC certification? CRISC certificate is best suited for business analysts, project managers, IT specialists, CIO (Chief Information Officer), audit managers, and people working in business and financial institutions vulnerable to cyber threats.
Is a CRISC certificate must to progress in the information security field? It can help you get an edge over other candidates with the same qualification as yours and enhance your chances of getting hired. Also, you must prepare wholeheartedly for the exam to gain knowledge and not just for the sake of passing the exam.
What is the future scope of CRISC certification? Cyber-attacks are at an all-time high. So, companies need professionals who, apart from having a working knowledge of their field, are well versed in handling the risk involved and counter their ill-effects that can threaten a company’s success. Hence, CRISC certified professionals have excellent prospects.
What are the benefits of CRISC if you work in a bank with no exposure to IT? CRISC acts like a verification badge for your IT risk management skills. However, if you are involved chiefly in an audit-related role, then opting for CISA is recommended. You can also take both exams. It only depends on your future career goals.
Are there any age restrictions for the CRISC exam? There is no age or educational restrictions to appear for the CRISC certification apart from work experience.
Can non-IT professionals appear for the CRISC exam? Yes, you can get certified even you do not have a bachelor’s degree in information technology.
Can a fresher apply for CRISC certification? No, as a fresher, you cannot appear for this certification. Three years of work experience in IT risk design, implementation, and management is mandatory to appear for the CRISC certification exam.
How long does it take to prepare for the CRISC exam? It depends on your expertise level. However, creating a well-crafted study plan for at least six months is recommended. You can start by reading the ISACA exam guide, referring to the CRISC questions and answers database, joining exam study communities, and enrolling in exam preparation courses.
What are the CRISC certification requirements? You must have three years of work experience with two years across two CRISC domains (with one year experience in domain 1 or 2), completed the exam, and agreed to the code of professional ethics and continuing education policy. You can apply for the certification within five years of passing the CRISC exam.
As a product manager, which certification will be relevant, CISA or CRISC? Though you can apply for several certificates after clearing the respective exams, choosing one that matches your career goals is recommended. Also, you are required to fulfill different conditions to obtain each certificate.
How many times can you take the CRISC exam? You can take the exam four times a year, one main attempt and three retakes. For the first retake, you have to wait for 30 days from the first attempt and 90 days from the second and third attempt.
Where can you take the CRISC exam? CRISC is an online computer-based testing exam. So, you can select the location while registering for the exam. However, the exam can be canceled or postponed in the case of natural calamity.
What is the average salary of a CRISC certified professional? CRISC is one of the top ten high-paying IT certifications. The average salary varies from 300000 per annum to 700000 per annum. Other factors, such as work experience, the type of designation in your company, and the kind of organization you work for contribute to the salary package. It can also go up to 20-30 lakhs per annum or even more.
Is enrolling for CRISC exam training worth it? CRISC mainly focuses on risk management. So, if you want to gain expertise in information systems security management, you can go for it as it is one of the highest-paying certifications. You can also try other courses offered by ISACA to expand your knowledge base and career prospects.
Conclusion Here I have focused on CRISC certification and tried to answer those questions that would help you overcome myths related to this globally recognized certification. As an IT professional, this certificate will help you analyze, report, and troubleshoot threats by creating an effective risk management strategy to secure businesses’ digital properties.
If you want to know more about the updated CRISC exam pattern, domains, eligibility criteria, pattern, fees, duration, format, number of questions, passing score, registration process, exam scheduling and rescheduling, certificate validity, job opportunities, and other rules, you can read this comprehensive CRISC exam guide here.