The CIA is the only globally accepted designation for internal auditors and the standard by which internal auditing professionals demonstrate their knowledge and competence to facilitate and manage today’s complex internal audit responsibilities. Candidates leave the program enriched with educational experience, information, and business tools that can be applied immediately in any organization or business environment. But the CIA is more than a title. The program is designed as a comprehensive educational and development program to help internal auditors strengthen and showcase their professional abilities.

ATTAINING THE CIA DESIGNATION outwardly signifies your achievement and commitment to the profession. Whether you choose to stay within the field of internal auditing or move up within your organization, the broad-based understanding of business, risk, and control required of CIAs will serve as an invaluable base of knowledge. The CIA designation will:

• Distinguish you from your peers.
• Carry weight with internal staff and external clients.
• Develop your knowledge of best practices in the industry.
• Demonstrate your proficiency and professionalism.
• Give you personal satisfaction of achievement.
• Boost your career opportunities.
• Lay a foundation for continued improvement and advancement.

Earning the CIA designation is an important accomplishment and a professional advantage for internal auditors during all stages of their careers, including:

• Chief audit executives.
• Audit managers.
• Audit staff.
• Risk management staff.
• Risk management staff.
• Students enrolled in accounting, business, or financial degree programs.

For internal auditors, no credential is more highly regarded than the CIA. To uphold this standard, the designation is awarded only to those individuals who have:

• Satisfied the program’s eligibility requirements for education and character reference.
• In relation to the ‘old’ format, passed Parts I, II and III and passed or received Professional Recognition Credit for Part IV of the CIA exam.
• In relation to the ‘new’ format, passed Parts I, II & III of the CIA exams.
• Provided verification of the relevant internal auditing experience or equivalent.
• Agreed to adhere to The IIA’s Code of Ethics.

CIAs OFFER ADDITIONAL EXPERTISE and thorough knowledge of operations; CIAs are a valuable resource to executive management and boards of directors in accomplishing overall goals and objectives. Such diversity gives internal auditors a broad perspective on the organization.

CONTINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (CPD)
Upon certification, CIAs will be required to maintain their knowledge and skills and stay abreast of improvements and current developments in internal audit standards, procedures, and techniques. CIAs must acquire 40 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) every year and report these hours in compliance with CPD reporting requirements. In acknowledgement of the study time required to successfully complete the CIA exam, the CPD requirement is waived for the year in which the exam is passed and for the subsequent year.

PROFESSIONAL RECOGNITION CREDIT
The board of regents has recognized the professional accomplishments of several certifications, such as the "Chartered Accountant" and "Certified Public Accountant" designations conferred in many countries. For more info on PRC click here.