CIA Challenge Exam 2026: Eligibility, Fees, Registration, Syllabus, and a Practical Pass Plan
The CIA Challenge Exam is a one-part pathway for eligible CPAs, CAs, active CISA holders, and, during the 2026 pilot, professionals with at least 10 years of relevant audit experience. Candidates answer 150 multiple-choice questions in 180 minutes. The updated exam follows the 2024 Global Internal Audit Standards and covers professionalism, audit operations, engagement planning, performance, reporting, and monitoring. Passing earns the Certified Internal Auditor designation without completing the traditional three-part CIA examination route separately for each individual exam part. The CIA Challenge Exam is not an easier version of the CIA qualification. It is an accelerated route that recognizes knowledge already demonstrated through an approved accounting credential, an active CISA designation, or substantial internal audit experience. Every eligible pathway now uses the same unified examination and syllabus. The exam contains 150 multiple-choice questions , lasts 180 minute...