The Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation is the only globally accepted certification for internal auditors and remains the standard by which individuals demonstrate their competency and professionalism in the internal auditing field. Since the programs launch in 1973, it has opened up countless doors of opportunity for practitioners around the world as it communicates their ability to serve as a key player in their organizations success. Candidates leave the program enriched with educational experience, applicable knowledge, and business tools that can deliver a positive impact in any organization or business environment.ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTSCandidates in the CIA program agree to accept the conditions of the program, including eligibility requirements, exam confidentiality, Code of Ethics, and Continuing Professional Education (CPE), along with other conditions enacted by The IIAs Professional Certification Board (PCB).Education: CIA candidates must hold a 4-year post-secondary degree (or higher) or its educational equivalent from an accredited university.Important change to the Education Requirement for the CIA: The Global Board of Directors has approved an alternate path to eligibility for the CIA for those candidates who do not possess a Bachelors degree from an accredited university.Candidates may now become eligible for the CIA, subject to approval, who possess:Two years post-secondary education and five years verified experience in internal audit or its equivalent, ORSeven years verified experience in internal audit or its equivalent.Work Experience: CIA candidates with a 4 year post secondary degree must obtain a minimum of 24 months of internal auditing experience or its equivalent. A Masters degree can substitute for 12 of the required 24 months. A completed Experience Verification Form is required. Candidates may apply to the program and sit for the exam prior to satisfying the professional experience requirement, but will not be certified until all program requirements have been met.DURATION OF COURSE/ELIGIBILITY PERIODEffective November 2010, the certification programs eligibility requires candidates to complete the program certification process within four years of application approval. However, serious candidates