CIA exam format, scoring and pass rates
The CIA has three multiple-choice parts: Part 1 has 125 questions in 150 minutes, and Parts 2 and 3 have 100 questions in 120 minutes each. A scaled score of 600 on a 250 to 750 scale passes each part. The IIA’s current global pass rates are 44%, 48% and 56% for Parts 1, 2 and 3.
Last checked October 2026. Based on the IIA’s page on its 2025 exam changes and third-party guides. Pass rates are as reported by a prep provider citing the IIA. Another guide says part-level rates are not publicly disclosed, so treat them with caution.
The three parts
| Part | Questions | Time | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Part 1: Internal Audit Fundamentals | 125 | 150 minutes | The Global Internal Audit Standards, the purpose of internal auditing and the Three Lines Model |
| Part 2: Internal Audit Engagement | 100 | 120 minutes | A guide weights it 50% planning, 40% information gathering, analysis and evaluation, 10% supervision and communication |
| Part 3: Internal Audit Function | 100 | 120 minutes | A guide weights it 25% operations, 15% audit plan, 15% quality, 45% engagement results and monitoring |
Question counts and times from the IIA’s page. Weights from a study guide.
Rules to know
- All multiple choice. No manual grading, and one guide says there is no penalty for wrong answers.
- Any order. Guides say you can take the parts in any order.
- Results. A guide says official results come within three weeks.
- Retakes. A guide reports a 30-day wait and attempt limits within your eligibility window.
- Credit. You keep credit for parts you already passed when the exams change.
Common questions
What changed in the 2025 update?
The IIA says candidates retain successfully completed parts. The new exams reorganize the content to align with the Global Internal Audit Standards.
Is there a shortcut for CPAs?
A guide says CPA or CA holders may be able to earn the CIA through a challenge exam in a single sitting, with an application window that opened in April 2026. Confirm eligibility with the IIA.