Next Steps After Passing the CIA Exam

Congratulations on passing the CIA exam! Becoming a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) is a significant milestone in your professional journey. However, the journey doesn't end here. The following steps will help you navigate what you need to do once you successfully pass your CIA exams.

Get your printed CIA certificate

After passing the exam, The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) will issue your official CIA certificate. This is a formal recognition of your achievement. To receive your certificate, you might need to confirm your eligibility and complete any outstanding requirements through the IIA's Candidate Management System (CCMS) if you haven’t already done so. This process ensures that all necessary documentation and qualifications are verified before the certificate is awarded.

Once you complete all requirements, you'll receive an email instructing you to log into the CCMS. There, you can download a PDF of your certificate and request a printed version. Although obtaining the printed certificate takes a bit more time, it's worth the wait.

Earning your CIA certification is a remarkable achievement that signifies your expertise and commitment to the field of internal auditing. Once you receive your certificate, take pride in displaying it prominently. Showing your certificate not only highlights your professional accomplishment but also serves as a testament to your dedication and hard work.

Update your professional profile

Once you've received your CIA certification, update your professional profiles, including LinkedIn, your resume, and any other relevant platforms. Highlight your new credential to attract potential employers and clients. This update will signal to your network and prospective employers that you have achieved a globally recognized certification in internal auditing. On LinkedIn, go to the License and Certifications section to add the CIA to your profile.

Join professional organizations

Consider joining organizations such as The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) and local internal audit chapters. Membership in these organizations provides access to a network of professionals, continued education opportunities, and industry events. These resources can be invaluable for staying updated on best practices, industry developments, and emerging trends in internal auditing.

Get listed on the IIA certification registry

The IIA maintains a registry of all active CIAs. Getting listed on this registry enhances your credibility and demonstrates your certification to potential employers. The registry serves as an official verification of your certification status, making it easier for employers and clients to confirm your credentials. Being listed also showcases your commitment to the internal audit profession and adherence to the highest standards. The option to become listed will appear during the certification issuance process on CCMS.

Pursue continuing professional education (CPE)

Maintaining your CIA certification requires completing Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits. The IIA mandates that practicing CIAs complete 40 hours of CPE annually, with a minimum of 2 hours in ethics. Staying current with CPE ensures that your skills and knowledge remain up to date, enhancing your professional competence and value.

Maintain your active status

Make sure you renew your CIA certification annually. The renewal process opens in October each year and ends by the end of December!

Certification renewal process might be different depending on your certification status. You can check your status in the CCMS (Credentialing Candidate Management System).

• Active Status: That means you simply need to complete your annual CPE requirements and renew by December 31st through CCMS. This allows you to keep using your CIA credential.
• Grace Status: That means you missed the deadline. However, don't panic. You still have a 12-month grace period, but your certification is inactive during this period. To become active again, you'll need to renew for both the current and the previous year through CCMS.
• Revoked Status: That means your certification has been inactive for three years in a row, and it got revoked. To regain your CIA status, you'll need to reapply, retake the exams, and pay all associated fees.

Remember to follow these steps to maintain the value of your CIA certification and position yourself for ongoing success in the internal audit profession. Continuous learning and active engagement in the professional community are crucial for staying at the forefront of your field. Congratulations once again on achieving your CIA designation, and best of luck as you continue to advance your career!