The IIA Challenge exam
The CIA Challenge Exam is a limited opportunity to earn the Certified Internal Auditor® (CIA®) designation. Designed exclusively for experienced professionals or those who hold an eligible credential, it evaluates the practical application of internal audit knowledge at an advanced level.
Offered for a limited time each year, you’ll only need to pass one multiple-choice exam to become a CIA, saving you time and money.
Programme timeline
- Application window opens on the 1st of April, 2026, and will remain open on a rolling basis going forward.
- First attempt testing windows: June, August, November, or February
- Once your application is approved, please note you have 180 days to register, schedule, and sit for the exam.
Exam retake dates
- Registration and exam scheduling: all year
- Retake test windows: June, August, November and February
Important dates (Mainland China only)
March test window
- Registration: 01 January -20 January
- Schedule exam: 1 February – 8 February
- Test or retake exam: 8 March at 9am CST only
June test window
- Registration: 01 April -20 April
- Schedule exam: 1 May – 8 May
- Test or retake exam: 7 June at 9am CST only
September test window
- Registration: 01 July - 20 July
- Schedule exam: 1 August – 8 August
- Test or retake exam: 6 September at 9am CST only
December test window
- Registration: 01 October -20 October
- Schedule exam: 1 November – 8 November
- Test or retake exam: 6 December at 9am CST only
ACCA has partnered with Hock International, an authorised CIA licensee, to offer its members discounted access to CIA Challenge Exam learning resources*.
More information is available via this link.
*ACCA will receive a referral fee for each package sold
