CIA Challenge Exam 2026: Eligibility, Syllabus, Fees, Registration & Preparation Guide
The CIA Challenge Exam is The Institute of Internal Auditors’ one-part route to the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation for eligible professionals. In 2026, qualified CPA/CA holders, active CISA holders, and professionals with at least 10 years of relevant audit experience can use designated Challenge pathways. The exam contains 150 multiple-choice questions in 180 minutes, follows the updated syllabus effective June 2026, and requires a scaled passing score of 600. What Is the CIA Challenge Exam? The certified internal auditor challenge exam is an accelerated certification pathway administered by The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) . Instead of completing the traditional three-part CIA examination, eligible candidates can earn the CIA designation by passing one comprehensive examination. Calling it a “one-part exam,” however, should not be interpreted as an easier version of the CIA. The current exam evaluates the practical application of internal audit knowled...