Cheapest CIA exam prep
Start free with The IIA’s syllabi and the Global Internal Audit Standards. The cheapest full course is Surgent at about $499 for 18 months; HOCK costs about $119.99 a month, so it’s cheaper only if you finish in four months or less. Becker Essentials starts at about $899.
Prices as checked on providers’ sites by CPA Exam Guide in August 2026. Checked October 11, 2026.
| Option | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| IIA syllabi and Standards | Free | What the exam tests |
| Surgent Essentials | About $499 | 18 months, all parts |
| HOCK membership | About $119.99/month | All parts; about $480 for four months |
| Becker Essentials | About $899 | 24 months, official partner |
| Gleim Traditional | About $1,099 | 18 months |
Ways to save
- Join The IIA: member exam fees save $525, and some local IIA affiliates negotiate course discounts.
- Ask your employer; some internal audit teams fund the CIA.
- Active CPAs: the one-part Challenge Exam may cost less overall than three parts.
Official source & community discussion
The IIA: certification pricing (official) →
See related questions on Quora →