Cheapest CISA prep
The lowest-cost serious route is ISACA’s QAE database (about $299-$399, as reported) plus a discounted Udemy course such as Hemang Doshi’s. For extra practice, Pocket Prep’s 1,200 questions cost $49.99 for three months. ISACA members pay less for official materials, and Surgent’s Essentials course costs $349 for 12 months with a money-back guarantee.
Surgent from its own pages; ISACA prices as reported. Checked October 11, 2026.
| Option | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ISACA content outline and candidate guide | Free | What the exam covers |
| Pocket Prep (30 free questions) | Free, then $20.99/month | 1,200 questions; $49.99 for 3 months, $124.99 a year |
| Hemang Doshi (Udemy) | Udemy price, often discounted | Video course |
| ISACA Review Manual | About $109-$139 (reported) | Official study text |
| ISACA QAE database | About $299-$399 (reported) | Official practice questions |
| Surgent Essentials | $349 | 12 months, money-back guarantee |
| Allen Keele SuperReview | $795.95 (about $597 with SAVE25) | 180 days, phone mentoring |
Ways to save
- Join ISACA before buying: members save $185 on the exam and get discounts on official materials.
- Use a short subscription: Pocket Prep’s three-month plan ($49.99) covers most study plans.
- Look for codes: Allen Keele’s store advertises SAVE25 for 25% off the SuperReview.
- Ask your employer; some audit and risk teams fund the CISA, and pricier options like boot camps make most sense when they pay.
- Check your local ISACA chapter for study groups.
Official source & community discussion
ISACA: CISA (official) →
See related questions on Quora →