This weeks Study Tip discusses how to determine the order in which to sit for parts of the exam.
The CIA exam consists of four parts: Parts 1 and 2 cover internal auditing subject matter, whereas Part 3, Business Analysis and Information Technology, and Part 4, Business Management Skills, cover a wide variety of material.
You may choose to take only one part at each sitting, which is what Gleim recommends. Our most successful candidates study for one part, take it, then move on to the next part. The key is determining the order in which you sit for the four parts. Unless you have a strong preference to do otherwise, it is best to take the parts in numerical order, from Part 1 to Part 4. Whatever you feel good about works fine. Another method, which also works well, is to go from the part in which you are most confident to the one in which you are least confident! As you pass each part, you will build your confidence. When you get to the final part, you will then have all the confidence required to pass! Most important is for you to set up a plan and IMPLEMENT your plan.
Also, be sure to investigate whether or not you qualify to receive the Professional Recognition Credit for Part 4 and, if you do, submit your application and documentation for that immediately.