How long (and how many hours) do I need to study for the CIA exams?
Before you start studying for the CIA exams, make sure that you meet the eligibility requirements and apply for the CIA program through The IIA Management System. After the IIA approves your application, you will have three years to complete the certification process. If necessary, there is an eligibility extension available for a fee, which adds another year for you to finish.
Three years is a long time, but it doesn't have to be. Based on our twenty years of experience, most students pass all three Parts of the exam within about one year. Of course, there are many factors that you need to consider when planning your studies such as your work experience, education, learning style, life priorities, schedule, and how many hours you can study each week.
We recommend studying approximately:
- 70 hours for Part 1
- 70 hours for Part 2
- 110 hours for Part 3
In total, this adds up to about 250 hours of studying for all three Parts.
How does HOCK help me plan my study time?
HOCK students have access to an interactive learning system called PassMap™ and a Personal Study Plan that:
- Guides you through the whole exam syllabus with a topic-by-topic study plan.
- Links the textbook, videos, and practice questions for each topic so that you know what to study together.
- Provides an estimated study time for each topic so that you can plan your studies.
- Shows you how many hours you need to study each week to meet your target exam date and automatically adapts if you change your exam date.
Are you ready to become a Certified Internal Auditor?
Not only does HOCK offer complete and affordable exam prep materials to master the CIA syllabus, we also help you manage your study schedule, overcome self-doubt, and pass your exams with confidence.
Learn more about the HOCK CIA Exam Prep and check out our free trial of the HOCK CIA materials so you can see the PassMap™ firsthand.