Certified Internal Auditor is a globally-recognised qualification that provides a firm foundation for a career in internal auditing. When you study the CIA you’ll learn about internal audit theory and the core frameworks, including the International Standards, and how to plan and perform an internal audit engagement. You will also be introduced to the concepts of internal control, risk, governance and technology.
Becoming a CIA will:
You must be a member to take the CIA in the UK or Ireland.
View our video case studies for these CIAs
To register on the CIA qualification you need to have an undergraduate degree or higher.
Candidates not holding a degree may be able to enter the programme with A-levels, GCSEs or equivalent. In these cases additional experience requirements may apply. Please contact studentsupport@iia.org.uk for further information.
If you don't meet any of the criteria just yet, that still doesn't stop you from starting your CIA studies. You can take our tuition programme at any time and then register once you become eligible.
To become a CIA there are three multiple-choice exams to pass, which you can take at over 100 Pearson Vue centres in the UK and Ireland.
View the exam syllabus | Read more about the exams
All CIA students are given access to the CIA Learning system, which includes digital copies of the text books. Face-to-face exam workshops are also available to support you.
Read more about our study support | View fees and tuition costs
Most students complete the CIA in 12–18 months. The maximum time allowed is four years – that includes the time that needs to elapse for you meet the experience requirement.
Studying requires a time commitment of around 60–80 hours each for CIA parts one and two, and 140–160 hours for CIA part three. That’s equivalent to about six hours per week for a year to complete all three.
Membership of the Chartered IIA must be maintained in order to use the CIA designation, and CIAs are required to maintain their knowledge and skills through continuing professional education (CPE).
There are no exemptions available for the CIA. You will be required to sit all three exams regardless of your prior qualifications or experience.