Internal Audit Practitioner vs. Certified Internal Auditor

Breaking into the internal auditing field means facing your first big certification decision: Internal Audit Practitioner™ (IAP™) or Certified Internal Auditor® (CIA®). Both credentials unlock opportunity and signal your commitment to quality, but the best choice comes down to your career stage and professional goals. Let’s compare the Internal Audit Practitioner vs. Certified Internal Auditor head-to-head.

The internal audit field prizes continuous growth, so starting with the right certification can set a powerful trajectory—whether you’re entering the industry straight from university, switching specializations, or looking to advance into global leadership. 

The choices may seem overwhelming at first. With several internal audit certifications available, each carries its own reputation and rewards. You want to make a smart investment, not just in exam fees but in your long-term success. That’s why it pays to clarify your goals early and consider which credential is right for you. 

Why does this choice matter? Because your internal audit certification not only validates your skills right now, but also shapes your credibility, salary potential, and upward mobility for years to come.

Whether you’re searching for an entry-level internal audit certification or aiming for the benchmark CIA, you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll break down the requirements, costs, and impact of each certification. Plus, we’ll help you understand which fits your background and give you actionable steps to move forward.

The IAP designation is designed for those at the start of their audit journey—think students, new graduates, or anyone exploring internal auditing for the first time.

As of May 28, 2025, the IAP is permanent and no longer expires or requires work experience. This makes the IAP much more accessible than other professional certifications and is a great reason to become an IAP first. 

IAPs become certified by taking the CIA Part 1 exam, which tests internal audit fundamentals. IAPs must maintain their credential by completing 20 CPE hours annually.

The CIA is globally recognized as the premier certification for internal auditors. It requires passing a three-part exam that tests you on Internal Audit Fundamentals, Internal Audit Engagement, and Internal Audit Function. 

To be eligible for the CIA, you traditionally need a bachelor’s degree (or higher) plus the necessary work experience. However, if you earn your IAP first, you do not need to have your bachelor’s degree to earn the CIA. 

To keep their certification active, CIAs must complete 40 hours of CPE annually.

Compare both certifications at a glance with the table below that breaks down the key differences between IAP vs. CIA

*All fees in USD. Fees vary by country and IIA membership status.

The IAP offers credibility to students and professionals entering the internal audit industry for the first time. When recruiters and hiring managers see that you have an internal audit certification, they’ll know you’re committed to professional development and establishing your expertise. 

If you choose to start with the IAP, you’ll already be on the path to earning your CIA. After passing CIA Part 1 to earn your IAP, you’ll only need to pass CIA Parts 2 and 3 to complete the CIA exam—as long as you complete the additional parts during your program eligibility period. Learn more about how to earn your CIA after the IAP in our guide. 

If you’re eyeing a career in management or global consulting, the CIA’s worldwide recognition is indispensable. Organizations often require it for senior auditor, audit manager, or chief audit executive positions, making it a gateway to leadership roles.

CIAs earn 48% more than their non-certified peers—that’s $98k, versus $66k. Robert Half’s 2025 guide lists entry-level internal auditors at $63k midpoint, with growth to $115k+ for experienced roles. Being an Internal Audit Practitioner can expedite your move into a staff role, but the CIA unlocks bigger raises and bonuses.

• Student or No Degree: Start with IAP to establish your skills first, and then move on to the CIA.
• Bachelor’s Degree (or higher): Jump directly to CIA. If you want to build confidence or get a certification under your belt quickly, you could earn IAP first.
• Career Changer: Use IAP to help you enter the industry, and then pursue your CIA once you’ve built up foundational experience.

The CIA is preferred for the Big Four, Banking, SOX, and IT Audit. But if you want to go into Private Industry or Rotational Programs, the IAP can help you get your foot in the door, and you can earn the CIA next to further your career growth.

Expect around 80 hours of study for IAP and around 230 hours for CIA across all three parts. If balancing work and life, secure IAP first, then schedule CIA Parts 2 and 3 over the next 12–18 months.

If you don’t have a bachelor’s degree or are currently a student, your best path is to begin with the Internal Audit Practitioner. These are the steps you can take to jumpstart your internal audit career: 

1. Register for the IAP Program with The Institute of Internal Auditors® (IIA®). 
2. Study for around 2-3 months with our IAP CIA Part 1 Review Course. 
3. Schedule your CIA Part 1 exam and sit for it.
4. After you pass, highlight your IAP on LinkedIn and your resumé as you apply for internal audit positions. 
5. Log 20 CPE hours annually to maintain your certification.

Once you earn your IAP, you’re already on a great path to earn your CIA next. Here’s what you’ll do:

1. Leverage your IAP to meet the CIA eligibility requirements and register for the CIA program with The IIA. 
2. Prepare for CIA Parts 2 and 3 with our CIA review course. Set up a plan to study for around 4 months across both remaining parts. 
3. Schedule your exams for Parts 2 and 3 individually, and sit for them. 
4. Begin applying for promotions and job opportunities while you secure your CIA.
5. Complete the required 40 hours of CPE annually to keep your CIA active. 

1. Confirm you meet the eligibility requirements, and apply for The IIA’s CIA program. 
2. Study for all three exam parts with our Premium CIA Review course. 
3. Schedule and sit for all 3 parts so that you can pass within your 3-year program window.
4. Highlight your CIA certification on LinkedIn and on your resumé and apply for senior roles or global assignments.
5. Complete the required 40 hours of annual CPE.

Choosing IAP vs. CIA isn’t about making the right or wrong choice—it’s about timing and trajectory. IAP delivers quick credibility for newcomers, while the CIA maximizes salary, leadership potential, and global mobility. Treat certifications as stepping-stones: start where you qualify today, plan for where you want to be tomorrow, and let expert resources guide your journey.

Ready to get started? Learn more about our IAP review course or CIA review course.