An ISACA Certificate is a foundational, skills-based credential earned by completing shorter training programs and passing an online knowledge exam. Certificates do not require prior experience and do not require annual maintenance. Examples include the Cybersecurity Fundamentals Certificate and IT Risk Fundamentals Certificate.

An ISACA Certification, on the other hand, is a professional, globally recognized credential such as CISA, CISM, CRISC, or CGEIT. Certifications require passing a formal proctored exam, submitting professional experience, and maintaining the credential each year through CPE hours and an annual maintenance fee. Certifications validate advanced expertise and are widely recognized by employers worldwide.