What is CIA: Full Form, Course Duration, Admission 2025, Colleges, Salary & Scope

Updated on Jul 24, 2025 03:23 IST

CIA full form is Certified Internal Auditor. CIA courses teach students to excel in internal auditing which focuses on risk management, internal control processes and even governance.

The CIA Certification is divided in three parts - Essentials of Internal Auditing, Practice of Internal Auditing and Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing.

CIA Course Details: Highlights

Below are the key highlights of the CIA course:

Particulars

All About CPA Course Details

CIA Course Full Form 

CIA Full Form in Commerce is a Certified Internal Auditor

CIA in India Course Level

Certification

CIA Course Duration 

6 months – 2 years 

CIA Course Structure

3 Parts:
• Part 1: Essentials of Internal Auditing
• Part 2: Practice of Internal Auditing
• Part 3: Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing

Conducting Body

Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)

CIA Course Eligibility 

Bachelor’s degree + relevant work experience (or 5 years work exp. without degree)

CIA Course Fees

Approx. INR 70,000 – INR 90,000

CIA Average Salary

INR 7 - 10 LPA

CIA Job Profiles

Internal Auditor, Risk Consultant, Compliance Officer, Audit Manager

CIA Top Recruiters

KPMG, EY, Deloitte, PwC, Barclays, Citi, HDFC, TCS, Amazon, and MNCs

Relevant Links for CIA Courses:

How to do Chartered Accountancy in India?

What ia a BCom Course?

 

Q:   What is the CIA course all about?
A:

The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) certifies professionals as Certified Internal Auditors (CIA). The CIA designation is the world's most generally recognised internal audit credential. The CIA designation is a great asset for professionals interested in working in internal auditing.

CIA course demonstrates that the individual possesses the requisite knowledge and abilities to be an effective internal auditor. The CIA accreditation may also result in more work prospects and higher pay.

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Q:   What benefit I will get of doing Maths with Commerce in 12th?
A:

If you combine Math with Commerce in Class 12 you get a lot of advantages for your academic and professional future. You will have a strong base for higher studies in Economics, Business Management and Finance where you will need excellent mathematical proficiency. Also it prepares you for competitive MBA exams.

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Q:   What is the duration of CIA course?
A:

The Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) is basically a professional certification awarded by the IIA. The CIA course is meant for internal auditors to teach them about internal audit practices, internal controls, risk management, etc. You can complete the program in 1 to 2 years where you have to pass three CIA exam sections, meet the experience requirements and adhere to the IIA’s standards. The CIA program duration usually differs on the basis of individual pace of study and commitment.

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Q:   Is the Certified Internal Auditor course available in India?
A:

Yes, the Certified Internal Auditor course is popular in India. Many candidates enroll through local IIA India chapters and register for the CIA exams, which are conducted globally via Pearson VUE test centers and online proctoring.

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Q:   What is the average salary of a Certified Internal Auditor in India?
A:

Certified Internal Auditor can earn an average salary which can range from INR 6 Lacs to INR 20 Lacs per annum depending on their experience, industry and location in India . Senior internal auditors and audit managers with a CIA certification often earn higher packages.

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Q:   What is the course duration for Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)?
A:

There is no fixed course duration for Certified Internal Auditor Cousres. Candidates typically take 12–18 months to prepare and pass all three exam parts. The IIA allows you up to three years to complete the certification once your application is approved.

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Q:   Is there any free Certified Internal Auditor course available?
A:

No, the official CIA certification requires paid registration and exam fees. However, some free webinars or sample study materials are available online to help you prepare.

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Q:   How can I find a Certified Internal Auditor course near me?
A:

You can find local training providers or IIA-authorized coaching centers near you by visiting the IIA India chapter website or contacting local audit institutes that offer CIA coaching and exam prep support.

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Table of content
  • CIA Course Eligibility Criteria and Admission 2025
  • CIA Exam Pattern
  • CIA Course Syllabus
  • CIA Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters
  • CIA Courses: FAQs
  • Popular CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) Colleges in India
  • Popular Private CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) Colleges in India
View More

CIA Course Eligibility Criteria and Admission 2025

Candidates can check the table below to see a general outline of the CIA eligibility:

Education level

Work Exp.

PG degree

12 months of internal audit experience or equivalent

UG degree

24 months of internal audit experience or equivalent

Associate degree, three A-level certificates with a grade of C or higher, or equivalent

60 months of internal audit experience or equivalent

  • Character Reference: Candidates must provide a character reference, typically from a CIA holder, supervisor, or professor.

 

CIA ID Requirements

Following is a table listing the acceptable and unacceptable forms of ID.

Acceptable Forms of ID Unacceptable Forms of ID
Passport Work Badge or Employee ID
Government-issued driver's license Insurance card
Alien registration card College or University ID
Military ID Expired Photo ID
Government-issued local language ID ID without photo/name/DOB

 

CIA Certification Admission Process 2025

  • Check Eligibility
  • Apply Online with the IIA
  • Submit Required Documents
  • Get Approval
  • Register & Schedule Exam
  • Pass All Exam Parts
  • Complete Work Experience
  • Receive the CIA Designation

Relevant Links for CIA Course:

Cost & Management Accounting course

Management Accounting Certification in India

 

Q:   When admission process started for CIA course and what is fee for it. Where to apply.
A:

You need to fill the form available online on google for CIA course, they are available throughout the year, firstly you have to create a CCMS profile, then you have to apply to the CIA programme, after that to have to upload the requisite documents, then register for the CIA exam, take the scheduled exam, after the result if you have cleared it you will become a CIA fees for it is rs 5928.56 for application, they will charge other then it for the exams, it was divided into three parts P1 - rs 14407.77, P2 - 11926. 05, P3 - 11926.05. You can find the CIA portal online and apply there.

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Q:   Is normal work experience as accountatn for more than 5 years, conderable for CIA certification?
A:
On average, it takes six to seven years to meet the combination of education and experience requirements to become a Certified Internal Auditor. It's possible to overlap your three-year eligibility period and pass the CIA exam before completing your experience requirement. Candidates have three years to complete the requirements of the CIA certification programme.
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Q:   I have no experience in Internal Auditing. Can I apply for CIA?
A:
The CIA programme accepts degree and non-degree candidates without experience for entry. However, a candidate without a Bachelor's or master's degree needs at least five years of internal audit experience to begin. All candidates must have professional experience before exiting the programme and receiving CIA certification.
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Q:   I have completed diploma after class 10th. Am I eligible for CIA + SAP?
A:
Accountants are vital support function of the organisation and trained accountants have good career opportunities. Certified Industrial Accountant + SAP course offered by ICA have been designed to meet the needs of the industry. The courses prepare accountants who are totally relevant for any industry. Students are taught Business Computer Application, Financial Accounting, Advanced Practical Accounts, Banking, Payroll & Investments, Taxation, R. O. C, Excise & Service Tax, due to which they are in high demand due to their knowledge in accounts and practical orientation. Students are also trained on SAP with respect to accounts receivable/payable and navigation in SAP. The eligibility criteria for the course is that a candidate must have passed 10+2 from a recognised board. Unfortunately, Diploma after 10th is not considered equivalent to 10+2, therefore such candidates are not eligible for CIP + SAP course. Also, course is not aligned to your basic qualification.
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Q:   What is the eligibility for the Certified Internal Auditor course?
A:

To be eligible for the CIA certification, you must have:

  • A bachelor's degree (or equivalent).
  • Relevant work experience: 1–2 years depending on your education level.
  • A valid government ID.

Students can take the exam first and submit proof of experience later.

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Q:   Can I take the Certified Internal Auditor course online?
A:

Yes, you can prepare online through accredited coaching providers or self-study with IIA-approved study materials. The CIA exam can also be taken via secure online proctoring in many locations.

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CIA Exam Pattern

Here’s an overview of the CIA exam pattern:

CIA Exam Part Number of Questions Exam Duration
Part 1 - Essentials of Internal Auditing 125 questions 150 minutes
Part 2 - Practice of Internal Auditing 100 questions 120 minutes
Part 3 - Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing 100 questions 120 minutes

Helpful Links for CIA Courses:

Commerce courses

BCom Honours

 

How to Schedule a CIA Exam?

  • Create an IIA Global Account
  • Submit Your CIA Application
  • Pay the Exam Fees
  • Receive Authorization to Test (ATT)
  • Schedule with Pearson VUE
  • Prepare for Exam
  • Take the Exam

 

Important Exam Dates

DatesUpcoming Exam Dates
14 Nov ' 24 - 30 Oct ' 25

CGCUET 2025 Registration

ONGOING
01 Aug ' 25 - 30 Nov ' 25

ICSI CS Executive June 2026 Registration- Both Modules

ONGOING
16 Oct ' 25 - 15 Dec ' 25

CSEET 2026 Registration- January Session

ONGOING
03 Nov ' 25 - 16 Nov ' 25

CA Inter registration Jan 2026

08 Nov ' 25

CSEET Exam Date 2025 November session

17 Nov ' 25 - 19 Nov ' 25

CA Inter registration Jan 2026 with late fee

01 Dec ' 25 - 31 Jan ' 26

ICSI CS Executive June 2026 Registration- Single Module

DatesPast Exam Dates
15 Sep ' 25

CA Inter exam September 2025 Group II

13 Sep ' 25

CA Inter exam September 2025 Group II

11 Sep ' 25

CA Inter exam September 2025 Group II

Q:   What are CIA exams in India?
A:

This is a well-respected certification from the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) in the USA, and you can take the exams right here in India at authorized centers. The certification involves passing three exams, all done on a computer at Pearson VUE centers in various cities across the country.

Below is an overview of the CIA exam pattern:

CIA Exam PartNumber of QuestionsExam Duration
Part 1 - Essentials of Internal Auditing125 questions150 minutes
Part 2 - Practice of Internal Auditing100 questions120 minutes
Part 3 - Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing100 questions120 minutes
Q:   What are the skillset required for CIA Course?
A:

The Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) course equips professionals with a robust skill set necessary for effective internal auditing. These skills collectively enable CIAs to perform comprehensive and effective audits, contribute to organizational improvement, and uphold the standards of the internal auditing profession.

The purpose of the CIA exam is to identify candidates who meet the competencies in current internal audit practice. Therefore, candidates must have the following skill sets.

Skills Required for the CIA Course
Critical thinkingAnalytical ability
Verbal communication

Research oriented

 

Q:   What is the syllabus for the Certified Internal Auditor exam?
A:

The CIA exam syllabus is divided into three parts:

  • Part 1: Essentials of Internal Auditing
  • Part 2: Practice of Internal Auditing
  • Part 3: Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing
    Each part tests knowledge of governance, risk, controls, fraud, and business skills.

CIA Course Syllabus

The CIA course syllabus for each part is given below:

CIA Course Part I
Foundations of Internal Auditing (15%) Independence and Objectivity (15%)
Proficiency and Due Professional Care (18%) Quality Assurance and Improvement Program (7%)
Fraud Risks (10%) -
CIA Course Part II
Managing the Internal Audit Activity (20%)  Planning the Engagement (20%)
Performing the Engagement (40%) Communicating Engagement Results and Monitoring Progress (20%)
CIA Course Part III
Business Acumen (35%) Information Security (25%)
Information Technology (20%) Financial Management (20%)

CIA Course Fees

The CIA course fees structure for all the levels is given in the table below:

CIA Course Fees IIA Member IIA Non-Member Student
Application Fee $115 $230 $65
CIA Exam Fee - Part 1 $280 $395 $230
CIA Exam Fee - Part 2 $230  $345 $180
CIA Exam Fee - Part 3 $230 $345 $180

Note: The fees is taken from the other sources and can be different. And to avail for 'Student' fees, candidates must have been enrolled for UG (at least 12 semesters) and PG (at least 9 hours) courses.

CIA Course Fees - Other Fees

The CIA course fee structure for other things is given in the table below:

CIA Course Fees IIA Member IIA Non-Member
Registration Extension Fee $100 $100
Exam Rescheduling/Cancellation Fee $75 $75
One-time, 12-month certification program eligibility extension $275 $275
CPE Reporting NA (for North American members) $120
Reinstatement Fee $100 $250

 

Popular Specializations

Q:   What is the syllabus for CIA course?
A:

CIA syllabus is divided in 3 parts, for the first part, called "Foundations of Internal Auditing," you'll need to understand the basics of internal auditing, making sure auditors are independent and objective, doing your work professionally and carefully, having a system to check and improve the quality of audits, and knowing about fraud risks.

The second part, "Practice of Internal Auditing," focuses on how to actually do an audit. This includes managing the whole internal audit process, planning each specific audit, doing the audit work itself, and then sharing the results and keeping track of any improvements needed.

The third part of the CIA exam, "Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing," tests your broader understanding of the business world. This section focuses on four main areas: having a good grasp of general business principles (which makes up 35% of this part), understanding how to keep information safe (25%), knowing about information technology (20%), and being familiar with how finances are managed (also 20%). So, this part checks if you have the wider business knowledge needed to be an effective internal auditor.

CIA Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salary and Top Recruiters

CIA course graduates are now in high demand because they contribute to key business functions including corporate governance, risk management, internal control, fraud detection and prevention, operations etc. Candidates who graduated from the CIA course can become internal auditors, internal auditing managers, auditors, chief internal auditors, quality assurance managers, internal audit directors and auditing managers.

CIA Salary in India

The average salary as per the CIA job posts is given below.

CIA Jobs

Average Salary

Internal Auditors

INR 2.8 LPA - INR 14.6 LPA

Internal Auditing Managers

INR 4 LPA - INR 34 LPA

Auditors

INR 2.2 LPA - INR 11.4 LPA

Chief Internal Auditors

INR 15 LPA - INR 1 Crore

Quality Assurance Managers

INR 6 LPA - INR 36 LPA

Auditing Managers

INR 3 LPA - INR 30 LPA

Note: This average salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.

CIA Top Recruiters

Top recruiters for CIA course graduates typically include a mix of multinational corporations, financial institutions, consulting firms, and government agencies. Some of the leading employers known for hiring CIA are:

CIA Top Recruiters

Tata Motors

ABC Consultants

EY (Ernst & Young)

JP Morgan Chase & Co (JPMCC)

DMart

HCL Technologies

WELLS FARGO

PwC

Master Card

Deloitte

BirlaNu

HP

KPMG

Groww

TATA

Suggested Read for CIA Course:

Risk Management

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

How to Become a CIA?

To become a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), follow these steps:

  • Meet the Eligibility Requirements
  • Apply for the CIA Program
  • Pass the CIA Exam
  • Maintain Your Certification
  • Join Professional Networks
Q:   Is only CIA course enough for getting a good salary in India?
A:
It is unlikely that taking only a CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) course would guarantee a good salary in India. While the CIA certification can be valuable for those seeking a career in internal auditing, it is not the only factor that employers consider when making hiring decisions or determining salaries. Other important factors that can affect your earning potential in India include your education, work experience, skills, industry, location, and the demand for your specific role in the job market. Additionally, networking and building professional relationships can also be key to finding job opportunities and negotiating salaries. Therefore, while obtaining a CIA certification may be beneficial for a career in internal auditing, it is important to consider other factors that can impact your salary and overall career success in India.
Q:   Can I get a placement after completing CIA from ICA institution?
A:
Yes, you can get placement after completing the Certified Industrial Accountant CIA course. The ICA Edu Skills Institute facilitates proper industry-based training and provides help throughout the placement process. After you have attained the required skills, you will be sent for OJT (on the job training), which is just like an internship. Based on your performance, you will get a job opportunity after the training period is over. Testimonies of successful candidates are available on their official website, and you may get placed in companies like Godrej. You just have to perform well in training and excel in job interviews.
Q:   What is salary after doing CIA course from yuva?
A:
Hi, Salary after doing CIA course totally depends on the company you join, the profile you take. It can give you the average which is INR 8, 00,000 pa. It also depends on the cities and your profile and skills you have. It benefits you financially as you grow in this field, can move your career to next level and have great hike in your career. Hope this helps you.
Q:   What are the government job opportunities after completing CIA + SAP?
A:
Certified internal auditor with SAP does not provides you with many government job opportunities because government does not have any job or positions related to certified internal auditor with SAP. There are many certified internal auditor with SAP which are needed by many private companies for the audit so they are needed to complete these audits. There are also some companies who are offering the certified internal auditor with SAP a position in the company as auditor and some of the companies which are interested in this are as follows: Adecco Group | Aircel | Airtel | Axis Bank | Big Bazaar | DTDC | Flipkart | Genpact | GODREJ | HDFC Bank | HP | HSBC | Hyundai | IBM | India Bulls | ITC | Kotak Bank | Make My Trip | RBS (Royal Bank of Scotland) | Spicejet | Standard Chartered bank | TCS | Videocon Average salary provided by these companies to the students of CIA + SAP is about 4 LPA. Highest salary provided by these companies to the students of CA + SAP is about 10 LPA.

CIA Courses: FAQs

Candidates can refer below for FAQs regarding CIA courses.

Q:   Is there any institute give assurance 100% success on CIA certification course.
A:
It is highly unlikely that any reputable institute would offer a 100% success guarantee on a CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) certification course. The CIA certification is a professional designation that requires passing a rigorous exam that tests knowledge, skills, and competencies related to internal auditing. The exam is designed to be challenging, and success is not guaranteed. While some training institutes may advertise a high pass rate, it's important to keep in mind that individual success on the exam ultimately depends on factors such as individual study habits, experience, and aptitude. Additionally, many reputable training providers will offer resources and support to help students prepare for the exam, but they will not guarantee a passing score. Therefore, it's important to choose a reputable training provider with a track record of success and to approach the CIA certification exam with a serious commitment to study and preparation.
Q:   Is it worth to pursue a CIA + SAP from distance learning in India and why?
A:
Hi, CIA+SAP from distance learning is just as good or bad as pursuing any other practical course in India. You lack to learn the practical aspect of the course. CIA is very specific to internal auditing. As for career growth, it's good to have if you are focused on internal auditing jobs, but pales in comparison to the broader CMA and is nowhere near what a CPA license will do for your career. CIA is globally recognized. So, you have the international market open for you which simply means a fair share of opportunities. Internal auditors pay varies according to their post. CIA comes into play in speeding your promotion. In many companies they expect you to be a CIA holder for top level positions. And, CIA+SAP is definitely a good option for a long lasting and fulfilling career. As an IT fresher, ABAP (Technical module) is the best bet. Do not waste your time any further thinking about the other module (HANA, FICO), as they are not recommended for IT freshers. I am sure you must have worked somewhere in the last two years. If you have some functional domain experience, you could look at a SAP functional module. All the best.

Popular CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) Colleges in India

Following are the most popular CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) Colleges in India. Learn more about these CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
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#3 India Today

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#1 Outlook

70 K - 14.62 L
4.8 - 6.14 LPA

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25 Courses
2.5 L - 9 L
5.15 - 7.78 LPA

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10 Courses
43.41 K - 3.82 L
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#6 India Today

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30.71 K - 66.13 K
5.45 - 6.05 LPA

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Popular Private CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) Colleges in India

60 K - 1.8 L
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Accounting & Commerce Applications open. Apply Now

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