An Internal Audit Professional is defined by the IIA SA as someone who has an academic qualification, has completed the IIA SA’s structured on-the-job training program (Professional Training Program), has passed a test of competence (IAT, PIA, and CIA), and is a member of the IIA. These four aspects must be present since they speak to the Internal Auditor’s competence and adherence to an ethical code.
Internal auditors take the following steps in their careers:
Obtaining a formal education. We recommend that you collaborate with an academic institution that has been approved by the IIA wherever possible (IAEP status). Internship programs are frequently available at these universities. Participating in a student internship program is one of the finest ways to learn more about Internal Auditing. An internship can give you unique insights into Internal Auditing, its working relationships, and job-related obligations that textbooks cannot, not to mention the invaluable personal and professional contacts you will establish. Furthermore, internships frequently lead to paid positions following graduation. Tertiary institutions make their own decisions about internship program availability and credit. Registration for your internships will be conducted in accordance with your institution’s standards.
Join the Institute as a member. Any professional must be a member of a professional organization. Being a member of the IIA SA “brands” a person as a professional, immediately associating that person with competence and ethical behavior. When it is understood that their staff are branded as professionals, organizations’ reputations improve.
Take the Professional Training Program offered by the IIA SA. Internal Auditors will benefit from this organized on-the-job training program.
As the last test of expertise, take the CIA exam.
Many Internal Auditors also choose to take the specialist tests, which are meant to help members of government, financial services, and others who wish to improve their facilitation abilities.
Internal auditors must meet the IIA SA’s ongoing professional development criteria in order to keep their professional IIA SA credentials.
In South Africa, how long does it take to become an internal auditor?
It takes at least 18 months. This phase must be completed at an IRBA-registered auditing company. During this time, you will get experience in auditing at a higher level, as well as be involved in more difficult activities. As a result, you will become an auditor specialist.
What credentials do I need to work as an internal auditor?
A bachelor’s degree is usually required for an entry-level internal auditor post, preferably in a business field such as accounting, finance, management, public administration, or computer information systems.
How difficult is the CIA examination?
Pass Rates for the CIA Exam
As you can see, the current total pass percentage for the CIA exam is 43%. The IIA does not reveal individual exam pass statistics, but with such a low total pass percentage, we can assume that none of the exam portions are very difficult.
