ISC Exam Guide
Information Systems and Controls
Quick Answer
ISC (Information Systems and Controls) has a 67% pass rate and requires 60–100 study hours. It uniquely weights MCQs at 60% (vs 50% in other sections) and covers IT governance, cybersecurity frameworks, and SOC engagements. Ideal for tech-savvy candidates. Surgent and UWorld Roger CPA offer the strongest ISC-specific content.
Covers IT and data governance, assurance/advisory services regarding business processes, internal control testing, and information system security.
Pass Rate Insight: Highest discipline pass rate with unique 60/40 MCQ/TBS weighting. Good for tech-savvy candidates.
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Build My Study PlanExam Format & Time Management
Exam Structure
Recommended Pacing
Testlet Progression
Content Blueprint
| Area | Content | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| I | Information Systems and Data Management | 35-45% |
| II | Security, Confidentiality, and Privacy | 35-45% |
| III | Considerations for SOC Engagements | 15-25% |
Key Topics Tested
- Data collection methods and techniques
- Data storage: data warehouse, data lake, data mart
- IT governance frameworks
- HIPAA Security and Privacy Rules
- GDPR scope and principles
- PCI DSS requirements
- NIST Cybersecurity Framework
- SOC 1, SOC 2, SOC 3 engagements
Study Tips for ISC
- 1Focus on remembering and understanding — 55-65% of skills tested at this level
- 2Study regulatory frameworks: HIPAA, GDPR, PCI DSS, NIST are critical
- 3ISC has MORE MCQs (82) but FEWER TBSs (6) than other sections
- 4Time management: ~1.5 minutes per MCQ, prioritize MCQ accuracy
- 5Practice with full-length mock exams to build familiarity with IT terminology
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Best Courses for ISC
Top-rated CPA review courses for mastering Information Systems and Controls
Study Resources for ISC
ISC Frequently Asked Questions
Other Exam Sections
Free ISC Study Guide PDF
4-page guide with topic sequences, weekly timeline, and practice tracker for all 60–100 hours of ISC prep.
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