How long should I study for the CIA exam?

A certified internal auditor is a highly skilled individual who possesses the ability to carry out internal audits by established protocols, investigating and evaluating internal processes, the integrity of the financial system, and organizational controls. Read more.

Cracking the CIA exam is a challenging task that requires a diligent study plan and a modified lifestyle complementing your goal of obtaining the certification in the defined time. However, one of the most common questions that candidates preparing for the exam often ask is how long should they study to pass the CIA exam. While the answer to this question is quite subjective, with proper guidance, a robust study plan, and the willpower to crack the exam, one can properly study for the CIA exam in just 60 days.

Further to this, factors that can influence your study can be

Prior Knowledge, Education, and Experience: If you have the required experience in the internal auditing field, as you meet the eligibility criteria in terms of education and skills required for the CIA exam, then you have won half the battle already. This is because you are aware of the concepts, practices, and challenges of internal auditing as well as how to tackle them in complex scenarios. 

Study Habits: Your study habits and discipline towards following them determine how soon you can pass the exam. The CIA exam is rigorous and comprises three sections. Each section demands a consistent study time duration each day. However, this study duration may vary based on your understanding of each section, learning style, and personal commitments. The recommended preparation hours for each section can be divided as below-

• Part 1: The Essentials of Internal Auditing (125 questions in 150 minutes):  

• Fundamentals of Internal Auditing
• Independence and Objectivity
• Proficiency & Due Professional Care
• Quality Assurance & Improvement Program
• Governance, Risk Management & Control
• Fraud Risks

Recommended Preparation Time: 50-80 hours for 1-2 months

• Part 2: Internal Auditing Practice (100 questions in 120 minutes):

• Managing the Internal Audit Activity
• Planning the Engagement
• Performing the Engagement
• Communicating Engagement Results & Monitoring Progress

Recommended Preparation Time: 60-90 hours for 1.5-2.5 months

• Part 3: Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing (100 questions in 120 minutes): 

• Business Acument
• Information Security
• Information Technology
• Financial Management

Recommended Preparation Time: 80-100 hours for 2-3 months. 

Availability of Study Materials: While allotting specific hours is a good idea to stick to your study discipline, you need to have the right and high-quality study resources to grasp the curriculum better. IIA provides comprehensive textbooks and practice exams for candidates preparing for the CIA exam. In addition, you can also enroll in review courses that provide structured learning and expert guidance to potentially reduce your study and assist in every walk of your CIA journey. Netrika Consulting is an organization that provides one of the best CIA review courses. Our instructor-led CIA course incorporates theoretical components as well as practical elements of the CIA curriculum. Our course is provided by seasoned professionals with over two decades of experience who hold elite certifications that speak volumes of their refined skill set. Our trainers go above and beyond and help candidates succeed in reaching the pinnacle of their respective fields through the CIA certification. We are the proud receiver of the “Best Security Consulting Company of the Year-2023” award from BW Security which only serves to highlight the company’s various accomplishments and in-depth knowledge of industry dynamics.