TeamMate

Why take the CIA?

Post Office

Going through the CIA exams helped me consolidate my knowledge of audit in general and I gained new knowledge in areas such as financial report controls and business process improvement.

It really helped me gain a broader view of internal audit governance, approach, methodology and internal control.  

Elena R. Nistor-Lustermans
Internal Audit Manager IT
Post Office

Certified Internal Auditor

Become a professionally qualified internal auditor, a CIA

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:

  • Demonstrate your proficiency and professionalism
  • Distinguish you from your peers
  • Develop your knowledge of best practices in the industry
  • Lay a foundation for continued improvement and advancement

You must be a member to take the CIA in the UK or Ireland.


Register for the CIA today

Already a member? Register here   or   Join today as a student member


Why become certified? 

View our video case studies for these CIAs


Eligibility

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. 


What you need to do to pass the CIA

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


Studying for the CIA

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


How long does it take?

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.


Maintaining the CIA designation

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).


Exemptions

There are no exemptions available for the CIA. You will be required to sit all three exams regardless of your prior qualifications or experience.


Register for the CIA today     |     Download the qualifications prospectus


Questions? Call 020 7498 0101 or email studentsupport@iia.org.uk