What is the CIA Designation?
The Certified Internal Auditor Certification is a globally recognized designation. It demonstrates competence and proficiency and is extremely valuable for professionals pursuing a career in internal auditing.
The Center for Internal Auditing program provides valuable preparation for the Certified Internal Auditor Exam administered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). The LSUCIA program is taught by Glenn Sumners, who is known throughout the world for his successful CIA review sessions. Hundreds of students who completed the LSUCIA program have earned their certifications, including 18 who have won the Student High Achievement Award for the highest student score internationally on the CIA exam. The educational experience and business tools acquired through the certification can be applied instantly in any industry and at any work place.
Why become certified?
Proficiency and competence in governance, risk and control is becoming more and more important. All industries are increasing their focus towards these hot spots. Whether staying in internal auditing or choosing a different career, the CIA designation demonstrates commitment and professionalism in governance, risk, and controls. Additionally, the CIA designation is the only recognized certification for internal auditors. Any professional desiring to increase their salary, skill set, and career opportunities should complete the CIA exam.
Testing
The CIA certification is a computer based test that can be taken any day during the year. Candidates apply and register through the Access Certified Management System (CCMS) provided by the IIA. Once registration is processed and exam fees are paid an appointment can be scheduled at any Pearson testing center. The closest testing center from LSU is on Hilton Avenue off Corporate Boulevard.
Exam Structure & Content
The CIA exam consists of four parts and tests on internal audit knowledge including governance, risk, controls, and ethics. Each exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and can be taken in any order. Candidates have 165 minutes to take each part and will find out immediately after completion if they have passed. A score grater or higher than 75% is a passing grade and is indicated as “passed” only. A score lower than 75% is a failing grade and the numerical score will be given.
Exams can be rescheduled at no cost any time three days prior to taking the exam. Once registered, the exam has to be taken within six months. Candidates who fail an exam have to wait three months to retake that part.
Exam parts 1, 2, and 3 are focused on governance, risk and controls and test internal auditing knowledge and IIA professional practice. Part 4 of the exam focuses on ethics and business environments.
Part 1: The Internal Audit Activity's Role in Governance, Risk and Control
Part 2: Conducting the Internal Audit Engagement
Part 3: Business Analysis and Information Technology
Part 4: Business Management Skills
Exam Fees
Full time students and professors are eligible for a discount on the study material and exam fees. LSUCIA students pay a one-time fee of $60 to apply through the IIA and $80 per exam.
Requirements
Students can take any part while still in college but have to achieve a bachelor degree or higher and 24 months of internal auditing work experience in order to become certified.
Study Material
The LSUCIA program is the best preparation for the exam. The course focuses on internal auditing knowledge, analytical skills, communication, behavioral skills, and the CIA exam preparation. In addition to the study packages used in the internal audit class, the Gleim CIA material provides great preparation tools. Gleim CIA Review material is available at a discounted price for LSUCIA students and will help prepare for and pass the exam.