Level Up Your Career with IIA Certifications

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) stands as a globally recognized professional organization, offering prestigious IIA certifications that distinguish internal audit professionals worldwide. Pursuing these certifications is a wise career move, as these designations enhance professional credibility, impacting career opportunities and earning potential.

Individuals considering a career in internal auditing, including current accounting and finance students, new auditors, or those seeking specialized risk management skills, should explore these valuable credentials.

What Are IIA Certifications?

These certifications are professional designations awarded by the Institute of Internal Auditors, signifying expertise and commitment in the field of internal auditing and related assurance areas.

These certifications aim to heighten professionalism by improving skills and knowledge, demonstrating a dedication to the profession. They serve as a measure of professional accomplishment and are widely accepted globally.

Types of IIA Certifications

The IIA currently offers three primary certifications, each with a distinct focus and relevance for different career stages and specializations, as explained below.

1. Internal Audit Practitioner (IAP)

The IAP is for university students, new auditors, and those aspiring to the CIA credential. It demonstrates foundational knowledge of Global Internal Audit Standards. Notably, its exam is identical to the CIA Part 1 exam, covering internal audit fundamentals, with no education or experience prerequisites. As of May 2025, the IAP became a permanent certification.

2. Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)

The CIA is the sole globally recognized internal audit certification, considered the "gold standard" for general internal auditors. Its demanding exam has three parts, which can be taken in any order:

1. Part 1: Essentials of Internal Auditing requires answering 125 questions within 2.5 hours.
2. Part 2: Practice of Internal Auditing consists of 100 questions to be completed in 2 hours.
3. Part 3: business knowledge for Internal Auditing also presents 100 questions, with a 2-hour time limit.

The CIA exam topics were updated in May 2025 to align with current global internal auditing practices and the new Global Internal Audit Standards.

3. Certification in Risk Management Assurance (CRMA)

The CRMA is the exclusive risk management assurance certification for internal auditors. It signifies expertise in identifying and communicating key risk management and governance processes to management. 

Ideal for those specializing in risk management, the CRMA does not require the CIA designation as a prerequisite. The exam has 120 questions over 150 minutes.

Steps to Certification

The path to obtaining these certifications to become internal auditors involves a structured process, primarily managed through the IIA’s Certification Candidate Management System (CCMS).

1. Apply

The journey begins by creating a CCMS profile and submitting your application for the chosen certification. This involves uploading a government-issued photo ID and proof of education (e.g., degree/transcripts), though educational prerequisites vary by certification (e.g., IAP has none). 

An ethical agreement is also required. Then, applications are reviewed, and approval notifications are sent via email.

2. Test

Once the application is approved, candidates can register and schedule their exam part(s) through CCMS. Exams are offered year-round at Pearson VUE test centers in various locations globally. After registration, candidates typically have 180 days to sit for the exam. Candidates should arrive at the test center 30 minutes early.

All IIA certification exams are non-disclosed, requiring candidates to sign a confidentiality agreement.

3. Become Certified

Upon passing exams and verifying all requirements, your designation appears in CCMS within 7-14 business days, granting you access to your digital certificate. To maintain the certification annually, you must earn Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits.

Benefits of IIA Certifications

These certifications favor a candidate's way to elevate an internal auditor's career path.

1. Professional Credibility and Recognition

Specifically, CIAs are considered the "gold standard" and are the only globally recognized internal audit certifications. Holding such a designation signals to businesses and firms that an individual is a top professional in the field, attracting credibility and respect across countries.

2. Enhanced Career Opportunities

These certifications qualify holders for a broader range of job opportunities and increased career mobility. CIAs are in high demand due to a rapidly evolving global economy and rising compliance pressures, opening doors to various roles from entry-level specialist to leadership positions like chief audit executive.

3. Increased Earning Potential

Professionals holding these certifications, particularly the CIA, can expect significantly higher salaries. The median salary of a CIA holder can be up to 40% higher than peers without the credential, with even greater benefits over time as they gain experience and maintain their certification.

4. Networking and Resources

Maintaining association with The IIA through certification (and often membership) provides access to a wealth of career-boosting resources. This includes connections with a global network of peers, local chapters, industry-specific career centers, and discounts on educational programs.

5. Comprehensive Skill Development

Pursuing an IIA certification elevates professionalism by rigorously improving an individual's skills and knowledge across critical internal auditing domains. This comprehensive development ensures certified professionals are equipped to handle complex challenges in areas like risk management, corporate governance, internal control, and operations.

How to Prepare for the IIA Certification Exam

Effective preparation is crucial for passing the certification exams, which are designed to be challenging.

1. Understand the Certification Requirements

Understand the specific education, experience, and ethical requirements for your chosen IIA certification. This foundational knowledge ensures you meet all prerequisites for certification.

2. Familiarize Yourself with the Exam Format

Review the official IIA Exam Syllabus, which provides a detailed overview of the topics tested and their weighting. Knowing the number of questions, time limits per section, and question styles will guide your study efforts.

3. Gather High-Quality Study Materials

Resources like The IIA's CIA Learning System or recognized review courses offer comprehensive materials, including lectures, practice questions, and mock exams that cover the entire syllabus and guide candidates’ understanding and preparation. 

4. Practice with Mock Exams

Regularly practice with past exam questions and utilize question banks to understand patterns and improve speed. Taking full-length sample exams under timed conditions helps build stamina and identify areas for improvement.

5. Stay Motivated and Consistent

Shorter, regular sessions help to build consistency and efficacy. Aim for a consistent number of study hours per exam part (e.g., 30-40 hours per part for CIA) and balance it out with physical and mental well-being, which impact your readiness on the test day. 

Ready to Take Your Career to the Next Level?

IIA certifications offer comprehensive skill development that’s highly valuable for career development. Correspondingly, structured and consistent preparation is key to passing the certifications. 

Beyond preparation for global success, Sampoerna University offers an enriching academic experience for students through our two-degree program. Students can earn an S1 (Sarjana) degree from Sampoerna University and a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Arizona in just 4 years. 

Create your own competitive edge and launch your flourishing career by enrolling in Sampoerna University today!