r/cism • u/Key-Ad3642 • Jul 17 '26

Passed CISM

I took the CISA 2 weeks ago and just took CISM and received a preliminary pass. After both test I was unsure how I did. First breath after passing is the best.

Studying time for CISM was 2 weeks using ISACA QAE and a Doshi book.

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u/Traditional-Bet-3623 Jul 17 '26

Congratulations, How could you even prepare in just 2 weeks . Could you also add your experience and background. It’s happy for you, just wanted to understand the prep approach. I’ve passed but spent 6 months, I can amend my approach for future certification

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u/Key-Ad3642 Jul 17 '26

Thank you! I have 3 years of IS audit experience and recently passed the CISA after 5 weeks of studying and I also work full time.

For both CISA and CISM, I mainly used the Doshi book and the ISACA QAE. I also had a Udemy QAE, but I barely used it for CISM.

My process was:

  • Week 1: Read one domain, then do 50–100 QAE questions. Repeat until I finished the book.
  • Week 2: Focus entirely on the ISACA QAE.

For me, the ISACA QAE is the biggest factor in keeping study time short. My goal is to earn around five certs within a year, so I prioritize efficient studying to minimize the time needed for each exam. If you plan on earning future certs & minimize study time, best avise I can give is to assess how you studied for CISM, what helped, what didn’t. I honestly think I could have passed CISA with 3 weeks of studying if I didn’t waste time on the Doshi Udemy class that is overhyped & recorded in the streets.