CIA exam fees. Breakup

CIA Exam Fees Breakdown: A Detailed Guide

The Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) exam is globally recognized, and the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) offers a flexible fee structure based on membership status, region, and the type of exam format.

This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of the fees involved in the CIA certification process, covering the standard three-part exam and the CIA Challenge Exam for professionals with advanced certifications like CPA, ACCA, and CA.

CIA exam fees

Standard CIA Exam Fees

The CIA exam has three parts, each requiring a separate registration fee. The costs vary depending on whether you are an IIA member, non-member, or a student and may differ slightly based on your region.

Application Fees

Before registering for any part of the CIA exam, candidates must pay a one-time application fee, which covers administrative costs for processing your application.

• IIA Members: USD 120
• Non-Members: USD 240

Exam Registration Fees (Per Part)

Once your application is approved, you must register for each part of the CIA exam separately. The fees for each part depend on your IIA membership status.

 Total Fees for the Three-Part Exam

• IIA Members: USD 870
• Non-Members: USD 1,275

CIA Challenge Exam Fees

The CIA Challenge Exam is designed for professionals who already hold advanced certifications like CPA, ACCA, or CA. This fast-track option requires a single, condensed exam rather than the standard three-part exam.

Challenge Exam Application Fee

Candidates must pay an application fee before registering for the Challenge Exam.

• IIA Members: $95–USD 110
• Non-Members: Typically not applicable (the Challenge Exam is generally offered only to IIA members).

Challenge Exam Registration Fee

The Challenge Exam registration fee is higher than the fees for a single part of the standard exam but less than the combined fees for all three parts. Fees may vary slightly by region.

• IIA Members: $1,255

Total Challenge Exam Fees

• IIA Members: $1,625 (including the application and registration fees)

Additional Fees and Considerations

In addition to the core application and registration fees, you may encounter additional costs during your CIA certification journey.

Membership Fees

They join the IIA as a member who offers reduced exam fees and access to study materials, webinars, and Continuing Professional Education (CPE) opportunities. Membership costs vary based on region and membership type.

• Individual Membership: $280 annually 

Rescheduling and Cancellation Fees

You may incur additional charges if you need to reschedule or cancel your exam.

• Rescheduling Fee: $75 USD if rescheduled within 48 hours of the exam.
• Cancellation Fee: Some regions charge for cancellations or missed exam appointments.

Exam Retake Fees

If you don’t pass a part of the CIA exam, you must pay to retake it. These fees are generally the same as the initial registration fees for that part.

• IIA Members: $310 USD for Part 1; $280 USD for Parts 2 and 3.
• Non-Members: $445 USD for Part 1; USD 410 for Parts 2 and 3.

Study Materials

Purchasing study materials is essential for thorough preparation. Costs for study packages vary by provider:

• IIA CIA Learning System: $500–$1,000 USD depending on the package.
• Other providers like Gleim, Wiley, and Surgent: $400–$1,200 USD for full packages.

Summary of CIA Exam Fees

Here’s a summarized breakdown of the CIA certification fees based on membership status and exam type:

For Standard Three-Part Exam

Conclusion: Planning for CIA Exam Fees

Understanding the full scope of CIA exam fees is essential for planning your financial investment in the certification. Whether you’re pursuing the standard three-part exam or the CIA Challenge Exam, becoming an IIA member can help you save on fees and access valuable resources.

The CIA certification is a powerful credential that can enhance your career prospects and earning potential. By knowing the exact costs involved—including application fees, registration, study materials, and retakes—you can make informed decisions and prepare financially for the journey.