About the CIA Exam
When and where is the exam offered?
The CIA exam is offered just twice a year in May and November. You must register for the May exam by March 31st and for the November exam by September 30th. There are over 200 testing locations. To find the one nearest you, go to The Institute of Internal Auditors website and click on the CIA Exam Schedule link and then Exam Sites where you will enter your state. The exam is administered in English, Spanish, French and Hebrew. You may sit for the exam prior to satisfying the CIA experience requirements.
What does the exam consist of?
The CIA exam consists of 4 parts that may be taken on separate occasions or all at once. However, do keep in mind that there are only two exam dates per year.
Parts 1 and 2 focus on the theory and practice of internal auditing.
Part 1 - The Internal Audit Activity's Role in Governance, Risk and Control
Specifics include:
Comply with the IIA's Attribute Standards
Establish a Risk-based Plan to Determine the Priorities of the IA Activity
Understand the Internal Audit Activity's Role in Organizational Governance
Perform Other Internal Audit Roles and Responsibilities
Governance, Risk and Control Knowledge Elements
Plan Engagements
Part 2 - Conducting the Internal Audit Engagement
Specifics include:
Parts 3 and 4 test the candidate's knowlege of a variety of methods, techniques and topics ranging from behavior to economics.
Part 3 - Business Analysis and Information Technology
Specifics include:
Part 4 - Business Management Skills
Specifics include:
Time limits for passing
Candidates lose credit for any exam parts previously passed if they don't take a single exam part within a two-year period from their last exam date.
Type and number of questions
Each exam part consists of 125 multiple-choice questions.
Scoring and grade delivery
Each exam part is graded separately. Raw scores are converted to a reporting scale ranging from 250 to 750 points. A score of 600 points (75%) or higher is required to pass. Grades are mailed by July 15th for May exams and by January 15th for November exams.
Improve your score
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