Are you interested in making your career in IT security? Indeed, CRISC and CISM are the most hunted certifications in cybersecurity. One may possibly get confused about which of these credentials is the best fit for the career. If you are facing this condition, we are here to help you out. In this blog, you will learn the similarities and precise differences between CRISC and CISM. Hence, by the end of this writing, you will have a clear idea of which of these certifications can benefit you the most in your IT security career.
CRISC vs CISM: Similarities
1. Vendor
CRISC and CISM are both offered by ISACA. ISACA offers the world’s best certifications in cybersecurity. Although both the credentials are in the same domain, there are some vivid differences in the two credentials based on domains and level of expertise.
2. Exam Cost
The cost of both exams is the same. The cost of the exam is different for ISACA members and non-members. The cost for ISACA members is US $575, while the non-members have to pay US $760
3. Exam Details
| CRISC | CISM | |
| Exam Length | 4 hours | 4 hours |
| Number of questions | 150 questions | 150 questions |
| Types of questions | Multiple Choice | Multiple Choice |
4. Validity
5. Recertification
You need to obtain Continuing Professional Education (CPE) points in order to maintain your certification. You must obtain 120 CPE points for CRISC or CISM. A minimum of 20 points must be obtained each year.
Read more: CISA vs. CISM: Which is Better
CRISC vs CISM : Differences
1. Targeted Audience
| CRISC | CISM |
| Designed for those experienced in the management of IT risk and the design, implementation, monitoring and maintenance of IS controls. | Designed for those who manage, design, oversee and assess an enterprise’s information security function. |
2. Exam Domains/Topics
3. Exam Languages
4.Exam Requirements
| CRISC | CISM |
| Three (3) or more years of experience in IT risk management and IS control. No experience waivers or substitutions | Five (5) or more years of experience in information security management. Experience waivers are available for a maximum of two (2) years |
Read more: CISSP vs. CISM: Which is a Better option
5. Difficulty Level
| CRISC | CISM |
| CRISC is comparatively easier than CISM. The exam has a passing percentage of 70-80%. | CISM is harder than CRISC. This is because 40-50% of the candidates are able to pass the exam. |
6. Salary
| CRISC | CISM |
| According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary of a CRISC professional is $34,617 /year. The annual salary ranges from $21,500 to $174,500. | According to ZipRecruiter, the average salary of a CISM professional is $101,668 /year. The annual salary ranges from $24,000 to $49,000. |
Read more: CRISC Certification Importance
7. Job Roles
CRISC vs CISM- Which will secure your future?
Once you have decided that you need to take the cybersecurity certification, the next thing that you need to focus on is what is the level of your expertise. What is your professional profile? If you have a few years of experience, then go for CRISC. However, if you have been working in the information security domain for 5 or more years, then CISM is a better certification for you. Whichever certification you take, make sure that you can excel in it confidently. Dumpsgate provides the most comprehensive and precise study material for the preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can anyone take the CRISC or CISM exam?
Yes, anyone can prepare for the CRISC or CISM exam. There is some recommended experience, but that is not compulsory. If you have the relevant knowledge, you can take the exams.
How can I prepare for CISM or CRISC successfully?
To prepare for CISM or CRISC exam, follow these steps:
- Study the official exam guide. It will help you understand the exam topics and exam components in detail.
- The next step is to learn from a proper study course. You can find free videos for each domain on the internet.
- One of the important steps is to prepare the practice questions. Reliable braindumps, like Dumpsgate, are useful for this purpose.
- Revise your material until the things are at your fingertips.
How long does it take to prepare for the CISM exam?
It may take 2-3 weeks to prepare for the CISM exam.
How long does it take to prepare for the CRISC exam?
Usually, the students are able to prepare for the CRISC exam in 3 weeks. Your previous working knowledge and experience also affect your preparation time.
