CIA exam day guide
Each CIA part is a computer-based multiple-choice exam with Pearson VUE, at a test center or online: Part 1 is 125 questions in 150 minutes, and Parts 2 and 3 are 100 questions in 120 minutes. A small number of unscored questions are included, and you need 600 out of 750 to pass.
Source: The IIA, checked October 11, 2026.
| Part | Questions | Time | Average per question |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part 1 | 125 | 150 minutes | About 1.2 minutes |
| Part 2 | 100 | 120 minutes | About 1.2 minutes |
| Part 3 | 100 | 120 minutes | About 1.2 minutes |
Tips
- Testing online requires a suitable room and computer, and costs $115 extra; check Pearson VUE’s online requirements first.
- Answer every question; keep to about 70 seconds each.
- Think like The IIA: the best answer follows the Global Internal Audit Standards, not just workplace habit.
Official source & community discussion
The IIA: CIA 2025 FAQ (official) →
See related questions on Quora →