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One Exam. Three Pathways. Earn your Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) through the 1-part Challenge Exam

Become a Certified Internal Auditor® (CIA®) and join the more than 200,000 CIAs with diverse professional and educational backgrounds from more than 170 countries who have achieved this highly respected global certification.

Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) Challenge Exam

Qualified professionals can earn the CIA through the 1-part Challenge Exam

The Challenge Exam allows you to obtain the CIA designation after successfully passing a one-part examination. Designed exclusively for experienced professionals or those who hold an eligible credential, it evaluates the practical application of internal audit knowledge at an advanced level.

Which CIA Challenge Exam path is right for you?

Choose the option that aligns with your qualifications

While eligibility criteria differ, each pathway follows the same exam content and syllabus.

Accounting CIA Challenge Exam

  • Available to approved CPA and CA holders
  • Applications open 1 April 2026
  • 1 multiple-choice exam
    • 150 questions
    • 180-minute exam
Learn more about CIA Challenge Exam

Information systems CIA Challenge Exam

  • Available to qualified CISA™ holders
  • Applications open 1 April 2026
  • 1 multiple-choice exam
    • 150 questions
    • 180-minute exam
Learn more about CIA Challenge Exam

Professional CIA Challenge Exam

  • Available to professional with 7+ years of experience in internal audit or related fields
  • Applications open 1 April 2026
  • 1 multiple-choice exam
    • 150 questions
    • 180-minute exam
Learn more about CIA Challenge Exam

How has the CIA Challenge Exam and eligibility been updated?

The one-part CIA Challenge Exam recognizes your experience and credentials, with expanded eligibility options and new offerings.

Global standards aligned

The CIA Challenge Exam is aligned to the 2024 Global Internal Audit Standards

Accounting bodies eligible

17 new accounting bodies are eligible for the accounting CIA Challenge Exam

Testing and application windows

Testing windows: February, June, September, and November
Applications open 1 April 2026 and will remain open all year

Pricing is applicable in the United States, Canada, and select countries throughout the world. Pricing may differ in countries where exams are administered through agreements with National Institutes.

Applicable taxes may be collected in accordance with local laws and regulations.

Candidates residing in the United Kingdom/Republic of Ireland or South Africa must be IIA members to apply for the CIA, CRMA, IAP, and CIA Challenge Exam.

CISA™ is a trademark of ISACA.