How to Register for the CIA Exam
The Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation is an internationally respected credential for auditing professionals. Candidates often include internal corporate control managers, auditors, finance directors, and accounting operations managers, among others. To achieve the CIA designation, you must successfully complete all three parts of the CIA exam.
The CIA exam is computer-based and features multiple-choice questions only. To register for your exam, you must complete the below steps and then sit for each part at one of the 900+ Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide.
CIA Exam Dates
There are no set CIA exam dates, and a candidate can take the exam practically any time throughout the year depending on Pearson VUE testing center appointment availability.
You may take Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 in any order. As there are no prescribed exam windows, it is especially important to allow two to three months of adequate preparation time based on your schedule and existing commitments. See below for recommended study periods to ensure you pass the first time.
| Weeks Spent Studying | Recommended Hours Per Week |
|---|---|
| 6 Weeks | 10-16.5 Hours |
| 8 Weeks | 7.5-12.5 Hours |
| 10 Weeks | 6-10 Hours |
| 12 Weeks | 5-8.5 Hours |
CIA Exam Registration
The CIA exam registration process is simple and straightforward.
Before registering for your upcoming CIA exam, you must create a profile in the IIA’s candidate system and apply to enroll in the CIA exam program. Once accepted, you’ll be able to register, pay your applicable exam fees, and schedule your exam with Pearson VUE. See more details below:
- Create your profile in IIA’s Certification Candidate Management System (CCMS)
- Complete the CIA exam program application
- Upload proof of identity and proof of education
- Get your testing authorization from the IIA
- Register for the CIA exam (you may take Parts 1, 2, and 3 in any order)
- Pay your CIA exam fee
- Schedule your chosen CIA exam part in the IIA’s CCMS with a Pearson VUE testing center location
The CCMS allows you to monitor your certification progress, access exam scores, report the continuing professional education (CPE) credits, and access and print receipts for your exam.
After completing the application and paying your fees, you should promptly schedule your CIA exam on the Pearson VUE website. Select a testing center and choose your preferred language for the CIA exam. You’ll then receive a confirmation of your appointment with Pearson.
Taking the CIA Exam From Home
Some candidates may take the exam from home, but Pearson VUE has strict rules for remote testing to ensure security and integrity. Remote test-takers are monitored via audio and video and may be recorded. Key rules include:
- Stay in view of your webcam throughout the exam.
- Do not leave your testing area except for approved breaks.
- Communicate only with your proctor.
- Avoid reading questions aloud; speaking out loud may result in a warning.
- Keep your mobile phone in the room but out of reach.
- Eating, smoking, and tobacco use are prohibited.
- Headphones and headsets are not allowed.
If you meet the setup requirements and adhere to these rules, remote testing for the CIA exam may be an option for you.