
The CIA® Challenge Exam
Are you a Qualified CPA (K), CISA or ACCA or a Professional with 10+ years of experience in internal audit or related fields?
Do you know, as an active and qualified CPA(K), CISA, ACCA or a Professional with 10+ years of experience in internal audit or related fields, you can earn the Certified Internal Auditor® (CIA®) designation through the CIA Challenge Exam and demonstrate your knowledge, skill, and competence in Internal Audit to the world. The Exam will only test knowledge areas not covered in CPA (K) or CISA or ACCA exam curriculum.
Now is a perfect time to prove credibility and value by earning the only globally recognized certification for internal auditors. Be certified for success.
The Challenge Exam allows you to obtain the CIA designation after successfully passing a one-part examination. Designed exclusively for experienced professionals or those who hold an eligible credential in Accounting or Information Systems, it evaluates the practical application of internal audit knowledge at an advanced level.
The Testing Windows are in June, September, November, or February each year.
Who Is Eligible for the CIA® Challenge Exam?
- Active Certified Public Accountant of Kenya (CPA-K) or
- Active Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)
- Active Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)™ or
- Professional with 10+ years of experience in internal audit or related fields
The CIA Challenge Exam is now;
- A unified exam for all eligible candidates, regardless of their background or credential
- Updated to align with the Global Internal Audit Standards™
Please note that you can only choose one pathway, either the Qualified Accountant or Qualified Information System Auditor or Professionals with 10+ years of internal audit or related experience
Required are the membership certificate and letter of good standing from the relevant professional body i.e., ICPAK, ACCA, ISACA or Professional justification with 10+ years of internal audit or related experience
What Is the CIA® Challenge Exam?
This is a one-part exam that is consolidated, concise, and cost-effective because it’s:
- An expedited process that allows you to obtain the CIA® designation after successfully passing the one-part examination.
- Comprised of 150 multiple choice questions based on the syllabi.
- Based on the International Professional Practices Framework and Standards.
- Only up to 180 minutes.
- Offered in English only.
- Based on scaled scoring and a passing score of 600 is required out of 750 points.
- Developed following best practices with the support of experts and professionals.
- Available via online testing or at a testing center.
Earning the CIA® designation will elevate you among your peers and demonstrate that you are:
- A credible and trusted internal auditor.
- A stronger, more competent professional.
- Knowledgeable in organizational governance.
- Equipped for career- advancing opportunities.
CIA® Challenge Exam Package
In addition to saving time, the CIA Challenge Exam offers significant financial savings. This Pricing bundle Includes:
- Application
- Examination registration
What is the cost of the CIA Challenge Exam?
Challenge Exam application Fee
- $150 USD (Member)
- $380 USD (Non-Member)
Challenge Exam Fee
- $845 USD (Member)
- $1,245 USD (Non-Member)
Customized Learning System with practice questions and Access to the study materials is available online at a fee.
The application window is now open through September 30th. Don’t miss the chance to add CIA to your credentials with just a 1-part examination.
When Is the Application Window Open for the CIA® Challenge Exam?
The CIA Challenge Examination is only offered in the testing windows as listed below.
Application window:
- Application: April to September
- Exam Registration: All year
- Testing Windows: June, September, November, or February.
Prepare to apply when the window for application opens in April!
How to Apply & Register for the CIA® Challenge Exam
It’s easy to apply and register for the one-part exam by following these five steps:
- Create a profile or log into the Certification Candidate Management System (CCMS).
- Select “Apply for Certified Internal Auditor.”
- Select “CIA Challenge Program for Qualified Chartered Accountants and Certified Public Accountants.”
- After the payment screen, you must upload a letter of good standing from the qualified accounting body and a government-issued ID. Once approved for the program, you may register and schedule your examination. (You have 3 years window period to register, schedule and sit for exam once approved and eligible for the program)
- To register and schedule your exam, select “Manage my program > CIA > Register.” (You have 180 days to sit for Exam once authorized for registration).
Please feel free to contact us in case of any further enquiries on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.












