ICAI · Information Systems Audit

ISA AT – Complete Guide to Eligibility, Passing Marks, Exam Pattern and Preparation

The ISA AT (Information Systems Audit Assessment Test) is conducted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) for members pursuing the Information Systems Audit qualification. It evaluates your understanding of information systems audit, IT governance, risk management, information security and related professional areas.

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With businesses increasingly relying on technology for financial reporting, business operations and data management, the demand for professionals with information systems audit knowledge continues to grow. The ISA qualification helps Chartered Accountants strengthen their understanding of technology-driven audit processes and develop skills relevant to a changing professional environment.

If you are planning to appear for the ISA AT, understanding its eligibility requirements, passing marks, examination pattern and preparation strategy is essential. This guide explains the important details every candidate should know before starting preparation.

ISA AT at a Glance

200

Multiple Choice Questions, 1 mark each

4 Hours

Computer Based Test (CBT) mode

120 / 200

Minimum passing marks (60% in aggregate)

No

Negative marking

What Is ISA AT?

The ISA AT (Information Systems Audit Assessment Test) is the final assessment conducted by ICAI for candidates pursuing the Information Systems Audit qualification.

The examination tests your knowledge of information systems, technology risks, IT controls, cybersecurity, business applications and information systems assurance. It is designed to assess whether candidates can apply their knowledge to practical audit and technology-related situations.

ISA AT is conducted by the Examination Department of ICAI. Candidates who qualify can proceed towards the Diploma in Information Systems Audit (DISA), subject to fulfilment of the applicable requirements.

ISA AT Eligibility Criteria

The assessment test is intended for eligible ICAI members who have completed the required stages of the ISA qualification process. To become eligible for ISA AT, a candidate must:

1. ICAI Membership

Be enrolled as a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India.

2. Cleared ISA ET

Have successfully passed the ISA Eligibility Test (ISA ET).

3. Or an Eligibility Certificate

Alternatively, possess an eligibility certificate issued by ICAI's Committee on Information Technology (CIT) or Digital Accounting and Assurance Board (DAAB), as applicable.

4. Other ICAI Conditions

Fulfil the other conditions specified in the relevant ICAI examination notification.

Completing professional training alone does not automatically make a candidate eligible for ISA AT. You must also have qualified in the ISA Eligibility Test or received the required eligibility certificate.

Difference Between ISA ET and ISA AT

Many candidates confuse the two examinations, but each serves a different purpose in the ISA qualification process.

ISA ET – Eligibility Test

The Eligibility Test that candidates must clear before becoming eligible to appear for the Assessment Test.

ISA AT – Assessment Test

The subsequent examination conducted by ICAI's Examination Department. Candidates cannot apply for it merely by completing ISA Professional Training.

ISA AT Passing Marks

One of the most searched topics among candidates is ISA AT passing marks. According to ICAI's examination guidance, a candidate is ordinarily declared to have passed after securing a minimum of 60% marks in aggregate. The examination carries 200 marks, so you need at least 120 marks to meet the passing requirement.

Examination Details Information
Total Questions 200 MCQs
Total Marks 200
Marks per Question 1 mark
Minimum Passing Percentage 60%
Minimum Passing Marks 120
Negative Marking No

Aim to score comfortably above the minimum qualifying marks rather than preparing only to touch the passing percentage.

ISA AT Exam Pattern

Understanding the pattern helps you plan your preparation and manage time effectively. As per ICAI's ISA AT November 2026 examination guidance, the test is conducted in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode. It consists of 200 multiple-choice questions with one mark each. Candidates get four hours to complete it, and there is no negative marking.

This format calls for a clear understanding of the syllabus and regular practice in answering questions within the available time.

Important ISA AT Exam Details (November 2026 guidance)

Particulars Details
Exam Name Information Systems Audit Assessment Test
Conducting Body ICAI
Examination Mode Computer Based Test
Duration 4 Hours
Total Questions 200
Total Marks 200
Question Type Multiple Choice Questions
Negative Marking No
Passing Marks 120 out of 200

Note: Examination dates, application deadlines and other instructions may change for subsequent attempts. Always refer to the latest official ICAI notification before applying.

ISA AT Syllabus and Important Areas to Prepare

A structured preparation strategy starts with understanding the syllabus. Follow the applicable ISA 3.0 syllabus and study material prescribed by ICAI. The major subject areas are:

1. IT Infrastructure & Emerging Technologies

IT infrastructure, technology environments and emerging developments that influence business operations, and the risks and controls that come with them.

2. Information Systems Assurance Services

Assurance and audit approaches, and the auditor's role in evaluating technology-based processes and the reliability of business information.

3. IT Governance, Risk Management & Compliance

Governance frameworks, risk identification and assessment, compliance requirements, and how organisations monitor technology-related risks.

4. Information Security & Asset Protection

Access controls, data protection, cybersecurity threats, security policies and the protection of critical information assets.

5. Systems Development, Acquisition & Implementation

The systems development life cycle, software acquisition, implementation processes and related controls.

6. Business Applications Software Audit

How business applications operate and how auditors evaluate their controls, processing accuracy and reliability.

7. Business Continuity Management

Business continuity planning, disaster recovery and keeping essential operations running during unexpected disruptions.

8. Professional Opportunities in IT

Career opportunities in technology-related assurance, consulting and auditing services.

How to Prepare for ISA AT Effectively

Clearing ISA AT takes more than reading the study material. Focus on understanding concepts, applying your knowledge and building confidence in solving exam questions.

Study the ICAI Material

Start with the ICAI-prescribed ISA 3.0 material. Divide the syllabus into manageable sections and keep a realistic schedule. Give extra attention to IT governance, information security, risk management and systems audit.

Practise MCQs Regularly

Regular MCQ practice builds familiarity with the exam format and shows you which areas need more revision.

Attempt Timed Mock Tests

Mock tests under timed conditions improve speed, accuracy and time management across all 200 questions.

Revise Periodically

Revise key concepts throughout your preparation instead of leaving everything to the final days, and review incorrect answers after every practice test.

Why Is ISA AT Important for Chartered Accountants?

Technology has changed how organisations maintain financial records, process transactions and manage business information. Auditing is no longer limited to traditional financial and accounting procedures.

The ISA qualification lets Chartered Accountants build specialised knowledge in information systems auditing. It can help you understand IT-related risks, evaluate technology controls and contribute to assurance engagements involving complex information systems.

For CAs interested in technology assurance, internal controls, risk management and information systems auditing, it is a valuable professional development opportunity.

Prepare for ISA AT with Abhyaass

Preparing for a professional examination needs the right study approach, consistent practice and a clear understanding of the syllabus. At Abhyaass, you can explore learning resources and preparation support relevant to ICAI professional examinations. Focus on conceptual clarity, practise MCQs regularly and track your progress through revision and mock examinations.

Explore the available ISA and DISA preparation resources at Abhyaass and take a more organised approach to your examination preparation.

Conclusion

The ISA AT is an important step for Chartered Accountants pursuing specialised knowledge in Information Systems Audit. Understanding the ISA AT eligibility, passing marks, examination pattern and syllabus helps you prepare with greater clarity and confidence.

With consistent revision, regular MCQ practice and a well-planned preparation strategy, you can work towards meeting the qualifying requirements. Always refer to the latest ICAI guidelines for accurate examination information and updates.

Frequently Asked Questions About ISA AT

1. WHAT IS ISA AT?

ISA AT stands for Information Systems Audit Assessment Test. It is an examination conducted by ICAI for eligible members pursuing the Information Systems Audit qualification.

2. WHAT ARE THE ISA AT PASSING MARKS?

The minimum passing requirement is 60% in aggregate. Since the examination carries 200 marks, candidates need at least 120 marks to qualify.

3. WHAT IS THE ELIGIBILITY FOR ISA AT?

Candidates must be members of ICAI and must have passed the ISA Eligibility Test or hold an eligibility certificate issued by the relevant ICAI committee or board.

4. IS THERE NEGATIVE MARKING IN ISA AT?

No. According to ICAI's November 2026 examination guidance, there is no negative marking in ISA AT.

5. HOW MANY QUESTIONS ARE THERE IN ISA AT?

The examination consists of 200 multiple-choice questions carrying one mark each. The total duration is four hours.

6. CAN I APPEAR FOR ISA AT AFTER ISA PROFESSIONAL TRAINING?

No. Completing professional training alone is not sufficient. Candidates must also qualify in the ISA Eligibility Test or hold the required eligibility certificate.

7. WHO CONDUCTS THE ISA AT EXAMINATION?

The Information Systems Audit Assessment Test is conducted by the Examination Department of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI).

8. WHAT HAPPENS AFTER PASSING ISA AT?

Candidates who qualify can proceed towards obtaining the Diploma in Information Systems Audit (DISA), subject to fulfilment of the applicable ICAI requirements.