CIA Blog

Question: Just what is the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and how has it increased the demand of internal auditors? Answer: The U.S. federal Sarbanes-Oxley Act was created to protect investors by improving the accuracy and reliability of corporate disclosures. The act covers issues such as establishing a public company accounting oversight board, auditor independence, corporate responsibility and...Read More

Sometimes I hear the phrases “research foundation” and “The IIA” mentioned in the same sentence. Can you explain the relationship between these seemingly unrelated entities? The Institute of Internal Auditors Research Foundation (IIARF) was founded in 1976 by The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). The IIA formed the foundation as a tax-exempt corporation to provide...Read More

Take a Break from Break Time Discussions Do not discuss the examination with other candidates during the break periods between exam times. Such conversations can increase stress and reduce confidence. The IIA does not grade these discussions. Why, then, should you allow them to negatively influence your performance? Give your a brain and body a...Read More

If Not You, Then Who? As an internal auditor, you are better positioned than anyone else in your organization to educate your audit committee. It is your responsibility to keep your committee informed about appropriate audit committee activities and processes, what should be included in the audit committee charter, new rules and regulations, the status...Read More

Question: My friends and family ask me for a definition of internal auditing. Unfortunately, my explanations tend to be too long and technical. Can you give me a brief yet accurate answer to that question? Once they understand the career field I would like to enter, they may lend more support toward my goal of...Read More

To keep test anxiety to a minimum during exam day, you should arrive to the site at least half an hour prior to taking the test. This will give you time to collect your thoughts and belongings. An early arrival will also allow you to visit the restroom, get a drink and check in without...Read More

The IIA is now endorsing CIA review programs at universities. The benefits of an IIA endorsed program are support of local IIA chapters, publications from the IIA, and increased opportunities for students concerning internships and employment. The students who participate in these programs are also better equipped to deal with the business world than students...Read More

Confidence is crucial. It is directly related to your determination to PASS the CIA exam and to your commitment to preparing for it. The vast majority of CIA candidates who continue to take the exam will pass. The point is that you will become a CIA if you are determined. You have already taken a...Read More