Why Become Certified?
There are many reasons to earn an official IIA certification designation. Whether it’s the hallmark designation of internal audit — the Certified Internal Auditor® (CIA®) designation — or one of our four specialty industry certifications, obtaining a certification is professionalism defined.
Earning your certification is like having a key to the vast world of opportunities the profession of internal auditing offers placed in the palm of your hand. It can open doors you did not even know existed, as the three or four letters that now follow your name will make one powerful statement about the expertise you bring to the table. Ultimately, becoming certified will:
- Help you earn credibility and respect in your field.
- Open more opportunities for advancement.
- Increase your earning potential by as much as 51%.*
- Prove your willingness to invest in your own development.
- Demonstrate your commitment to your profession.
- Improve your internal audit skills and knowledge.
- Build confidence in your knowledge of the profession.
Part 1 – Essentials of Internal Auditing
125 questions I 2.5 hours (150 minutes)
The CIA exam Part 1 is well aligned with The IIA’s International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) and includes six domains covering the foundation of internal auditing; independence and objectivity; proficiency and due professional care; quality assurance and improvement programs; governance, risk management, and control; and fraud risk. Part one tests candidates’ knowledge, skills, and abilities related to the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing, particularly the Attribute Standards (series 1000, 1100, 1200, and 1300) as well as Performance Standard 2100.
Part 2 – Practice of Internal Auditing
100 questions I 2.0 hours (120 minutes)
The CIA exam Part 2 includes four domains focused on managing the internal audit activity, planning the engagement, performing the engagement, and communicating engagement results and monitoring progress. Part 2 tests candidates’ knowledge, skills, and abilities particularly related to Performance Standards (series 2000, 2200, 2300, 2400, 2500, and 2600) and current internal audit practices.
Part 3 – Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing
100 questions I 2.0 hours (120 minutes)
The CIA exam Part 3 includes four domains focused on business acumen, information security, information technology, and financial management. Part Three is designed to test candidates’ knowledge, skills, and abilities particularly as they relate to these core business concepts.
