- You are here:
- Home »
- Blog »
- Candidate Stories »
- Internal Audit Practitioner Program: Worth it or Not?
Internal Audit Practitioner Program: Worth it or Not?
Lynnel is our CIA exam blogger from the Philippines. She writes every Friday.
Being new to the industry with zero prior experience is a challenge to look for a job within my expectations. So, after having worked for a year, I decided to quit my job to enhance my credentials and study full-time for the CIA certification. But then, in order to get certified, I need two years of internal audit experience.
It was one of my proctors in the CIA review class who introduces us to the internal audit practitioner badge. Since I just passed parts one and two, I am contemplating on whether the badge is worthy or not.
Overview of the Internal Audit Practitioner Program
This program was created recently by the IIA, as a separate recognition for those who passed Part 1. This is helpful for those who need a proof of their commitment in the internal audit field, for example, if they are looking for a job or a promotion before completing the 3-part exam.
This is not meant to be permanent — it expires once one becomes a full CIA (or CRMA), or after 3 years when one is supposed to complete the exams and fulfill the necessary experience requirements.
This program costs US$100 for IIA members and US$200 for non-IIA members. For those already passed Part 1 (my case), the cost is reduced to $50 for IIA members or $100 for non-members.
My Thoughts
I thought at first that internal audit practitioner badge is automatically earned by individuals who passed CIA Part one without having to apply and pay for it.
I am looking to get a job by March. It is sad to say, but I have been rejected by an employer because they have a candidate with CIA and CPA. This is one of the reasons why my drive to pass Part 3 and get the badge is high.
I am really happy that the IIA created an internal audit practitioner badge. However, I have second thoughts of getting it because of the cost. I (being optimistic) am looking forward to finishing Part 3 in the next few months and might as well use the money on supplementary materials for CIA Part 3.
What are your thoughts?
For those who have the badge, you might consider commenting on this blog if you thought the badge as an advantage.
References:
Note from Stephanie
Hi Lynnel, I would also have second thoughts in getting the badge. I don’t know how the IA / business community think of the badges, but to me, as long as you specify on your CV that you pass Part 1, isn’t it exactly the same as getting the badge? For you, your progress is beyond the badge as you passed Part 2 and are zooming towards Part 3. It’s less of an incentive.
I actually thought about covering this in a new post a few months ago, but decided not because I wasn’t buying into it myself. Having said that, I am sure the IIA has done enough studies and gathered enough support to formally launch this program.
I’d like to hear the thoughts from other readers as well. What do you think? Did any of you get it? Please leave your comment below. Thank you!
- Next Post: Which is Better: Audit Firm or Private Company?
About the Author Lynnel
Lynnel is a recent graduate, with a BSBA Major in Internal Auditing in the Philippines. Lynnel passed Part 1 and 2 on the same day, and Part 3 on her first attempt.
