CIA Challenge Exam 2026: Eligibility, Syllabus, Fees, Registration & Preparation Guide
The CIA Challenge Exam is a one-part pathway to the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation for eligible CPA/CA holders, qualified CISA holders, and, in 2026, experienced internal audit professionals under a pilot pathway. The exam contains 150 multiple-choice questions and allows 180 minutes . From June 2026, all pathways use one unified syllabus aligned with the 2024 Global Internal Audit Standards. Applications are year-round for accounting and CISA pathways, while the professional pilot closes September 30, 2026, for eligible candidates worldwide. What Is the CIA Challenge Exam? The CIA Challenge Exam is an accelerated route to earning the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) credential from The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) . Instead of completing the standard three-part CIA examination, eligible candidates take one comprehensive multiple-choice exam . The pathway recognizes existing professional credentials or substantial internal audit experience while still ...