CBL - Chartered by Learning - April 2027
Chartered by Learning Programme - April 2027
Internal audit is constantly evolving, and so are the skills needed to succeed.
Our Chartered Internal Auditor certification supports your lifelong learning journey, helping you develop the strategic thinking, business insight and leadership capabilities expected of today's senior internal audit professionals. Whether you're stepping into a senior role or looking to strengthen your impact, it's a certification that grows with your career.
Why choose this certification?
- Achieve a highly valued and respected advanced internal audit certification.
- Develop your competencies to meet your career goals.
- Reach the rigorous requirements and international standards of internal auditing.
- Demonstrate your ability to lead in your team, organisation and the profession as a whole.
- Gain the globally recognised Chartered Internal Auditor designation (CMIIA) designation
- You will become a voting member of the Chartered IIA
Ways to study
There are two study routes at the Chartered IIA and each is designed to support different levels of experience.
The first is a fully supported learning route, Chartered by Learning. This is ideal for those looking to develop their skills and better understand the leadership requirements in internal audit.
The second is an assessment only route, Chartered by Experience. This is better suited to those already in a senior internal audit position with experience which matches the learning objectives of the certification.
For applicants seeking a senior position.
Course content
• Competencies and skills required for strategic decision-makers and leaders.
• How to face operational challenges and be accountable for internal audit function.
Learning methods
Learning programme with resources and materials, classes with experienced tutors, an open forum to post questions and a final assessments.
Final assessment
Applied professional assignment and timed application question.
If you are a member of the Chartered IIA, sign in above.
If you are not a member, please sign up.
For applicants who are already a leader with senior experience.
Assessment
A written application and panel interview.
If you are a member of the Chartered IIA, sign in above.
If you are not a member, please sign up.
Achieve Chartered Status with Chartered by Learning Programme
This programme is developed to:
- Equip aspiring Chief Audit Executives with advanced core knowledge and practical skills typically demanded by those in the profession.
- Develop key competencies and ethical decision-making to face complex challenges.
- Master Global Internal Audit Standards and their application.
- Promote deep, meaningful learning that supports both personal and professional growth and instil a commitment to Continuing Professional Education (CPE)
The syllabus is based on the responsibilities of the Chief Audit Executive (CAE) as outlined in the International Professional Practices Framework (IPFF) and The IIA’s Competency Framework. It also reflect challenges faced by CAEs as they negotiate risks within internal audit in areas such as technology; talent recruitment, development and retention; and data security.
The syllabus does not address the process of internal audit engagements but instead focusses on the management of the internal audit function, and the CAE’s contribution to the leadership of the organisation.
The syllabus includes Domains I, II, III and IV of the IPPF. Domain V is not addressed as it forms the basis of the CIA.
Given the Global Standards’ strong focus on CAE expectations within internal audit leadership, the syllabus is further enriched with knowledge and skills designed to equip aspiring leaders to meet the evolving demands of the profession.
The new syllabus is presented in the four sections below and constitutes a total of 400 hours of learning:
Section 1: Professionalism
This section primarily aligns with Domains I and II of the Global Internal Audit Standards (GIAS) and explores the importance of areas like independence, objectivity and due professional care, and how these ethical elements feed into the competency of the CAE.
Section 2: Governance
This section primarily aligns with Domain III of GIAS and explores the relationship of the CAE with the Board and Senior management to ensure effective authorisation and oversight, in the delivery of internal audit’s purpose.
Section 3: Leadership
This section primarily aligns with Domain IV of GIAS and focusses on equipping CAEs with strategic leadership skills. It covers key management and leadership theories, frameworks for risk and assurance, and techniques for aligning the internal audit function with organisational goals. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based decision-making, stakeholder engagement, and ensuring the internal audit function delivers maximum value and supports long-term organisational success.
Section 4: Management
This section primary aligns with Domain IV of GIAS and prepares candidates to effectively manage internal audit resources, including budgeting, staffing, and technology use. It emphasises quality assessment, continuous improvement, and alignment with professional standards, as well as the CAE’s key responsibilities in overseeing audit engagements and stakeholder communication.
- Audit Managers/Supervisors
- Aspiring leaders
Hold professional membership within the Chartered IIA, and one of the following:
- Hold an active CIA certification
- Hold an active Chartered qualification in a related industry (like accountancy, risk management, banking, business) and have a minimum of two years internal audit experience
- Hold a masters degree in a subject area such as banking, governance or business (typically an MBA) and have five years internal audit experience.
Your facilitator will guide you through the programme, first as you navigate the theoretical elements introduced by the syllabus and then support you as you prepare your assessment.
You will have access to a dedicated site on our Moodle learning platform. This provides access to a range of learning materials and resources, including a dedicated discussion forum. Your learning will be further supported by the Perlego online reading library, which offers in-depth reading material.
The programme also includes 11 virtual classes, each led by a facilitator who guides discussion around the syllabus topics. The forums provide a collaborative space to share insights, ask questions, and connect with fellow students and facilitators on programme, related themes and assignments.
Recommended reading list information to be announced
| Registration open | Open now |
| Induction | Monday 19 April 2027 |
| Learning Phase Concludes | Friday 10 December 2027 |
| Assessment Phase Induction | Monday 10 January 2028 |
| Applied Professional Assignment submission | Monday 13 March 2028 |
| Application Question Assessment | Week commencing Monday 20 March 2028 |
| Results Published | Monday 5 June 2028 |
The Chartered Leadership Programme has two assessments delivered within a 12 week period after the learning phase has been completed.
Applied Professional Assignment (APA)
The purpose is to assess your ability to integrate learning from the Chartered by Learning syllabus within a selected theme/ scenario into a professional context. Demonstrating strategic insight, governance awareness, and leadership in internal audit within the role of a CAE.
Application Question (AQ)
The purpose is to expand your ability and knowledge from the content of the Applied Professional Assignment to communicate application and implementation ideas.
You will be supported through the assessment phase with an induction on week 1 and a virtual class on week 6 through the completion of your Applied Professional Assignment and to prepare for the Application Question.
Registration opens from 19th January, email educationsupport@charterediia.org for any queries.
- Suitable for experienced Internal audit leaders.
- Recent internal audit leadership experience covering the eligibility criteria for a period of at least 18 months. This would ideally be in a current role but could be within a recent role during the past five years.
To be eligible to apply, the following criteria must be met:
- The applicant must first join the Chartered IIA as a member
- Eligible applicants will be internal audit leaders. Recent internal audit leadership experience covering the eligibility criteria for a period of at least 18 months. This would ideally be in a current role but could be within a recent role during the past five years.
- Ensure your CV clearly demonstrates you meet all eligibility criteria.
This means that they are able to demonstrate:
- That they not only fulfilled the eligibility criteria but also the competencies.
- Responsibility for discharging the responsibilities of Chief Audit Executive as set out in the Global Internal Audit Standards.
- Attendance at an audit committee (or equivalent) in their capacity as an internal audit leader. This should be regular attendance at the committee, requiring the applicant to have a relationship with the committee and its members. The applicant will be involved in audit committee meetings (rather than just observing or preparing papers for a colleague to present).
- Regular engagement with senior executive management in their capacity as an internal audit leader.
- Line management / people management responsibilities within an internal audit function.
- Ownership / accountability for internal audit quality (even if some elements of this are delegated to other team members).
- Recent internal audit leadership experience covering the above criteria for a period of at least 18 months. This would ideally be in a current role but could be within a recent role during the past five years.
Eligibility criteria depending on their internal audit function
For large / complex organisations and internal audit functions:
For small internal audit functions (3 or fewer full time internal auditors)
For large or complex organisations, applicants may hold a Head of Internal Audit role below Group Head of Internal Audit, provided they have overall responsibility for leading internal audit within a defined business area (such as a subsidiary or region) and formally attend the relevant audit committee(s).
For complex organisations, it is likely that there will be junior audit committees based on corporate structure, geographic region, or business divisions. formal responsibility for attending one or more relevant audit committees meets the eligibility criteria.
For small internal audit functions (3 or fewer full time internal auditors)
We recognise that for small internal audit functions, there may not be a significant line management role for the head of internal audit. This should not prevent audit leaders from small internal audit functions from applying. We also recognise that in some smaller functions, the job title of the individual leading the internal audit function may not reflect a ‘head’ or ‘chief’ role. The candidate should make clear in their submission their role and how it meets the eligibility criteria.
For multi-client providers (for example a shared service or a professional services firm)
For multi-client providers (for example a shared service or a professional services firm)
Eligible candidates who are employed by a multi-client provider will be able to demonstrate that they fulfil the role of head of internal audit and the eligibility criteria for one or more named clients / customers.
Candidates are expected to demonstrate suitability against the following competency areas. These are aligned to the Global Internal Audit Standards and are explored through the application and professional discussion.
Purpose and professionalism
- Links to Domains I and II of the Global Internal Audit Standards
- Candidates should be able to demonstrate that they operate ethically, with integrity and professional courage; apply business acumen; uphold the Global Internal Audit Standards; and exercise due professional care and professional scepticism.
Leading and governing the internal audit function
- Links to Domain III of the Global Internal Audit Standards
- Candidates should be able to demonstrate recent experience as a head of internal audit or internal audit leader; engage effectively with the audit committee and senior management; evaluate governance arrangements for internal auditing; and understand the organisation’s assurance needs.
Managing the internal audit function
- Links to Domain IV of the Global Internal Audit Standards
- Candidates should be able to demonstrate effective communication; the management of people, financial and technological resources; an understanding of assurance needs; and experience of managing change or transformation.
Delivery of internal audit services
- Links to Domain V of the Global Internal Audit Standards
- Candidates should be able to demonstrate that they understand and evaluate governance, risk management and control; provide assurance over change and business-as-usual risks; address key technology, data, fraud, finance and culture risks; and challenge management constructively on risk appetite, risk acceptance and mitigation.
Register through the website and become a member of the Chartered IIA. If you are already a member, you can register for an assessment date through the website.
The application process is an opportunity to reflect on your professional journey, demonstrate the contribution you have made to internal audit, and show how your experience aligns with the standards expected of a Chartered Internal Auditor.
You will need to provide the following documents as part of your application and email it to assessment@charterediia.org within the published schedule deadline. Please note that you will need to provide all your information at the same time:
A candidate statement
Your candidate statement is a key part of the application. It should present a clear account of your professional experience, achievements, leadership and impact within internal audit. A strong statement helps assessors understand what you have done, the professional judgement you have applied, and how your work demonstrates the level of experience expected for Chartered status. Click here for template.
Two referee statements
Referee statements provide independent confirmation of an applicant’s professional experience, competence, and conduct. Having references from individuals who know the applicant’s work helps ensure the Chartered by Experience application is credible, robust, and aligned with the standards expected of Chartered Internal Auditors. Click here for template.
A sponsor statement
A sponsor statement provides independent assurance of an applicant’s integrity, professionalism, and commitment to professional standards. It supports the application by confirming that the applicant is recognised by a professional peer who can attest to their conduct, credibility, and suitability for Chartered status. Click here for template.
Your CV
Submitting a CV as part of a Chartered by Experience (CBE) application helps assessors gain a clear overview of your professional career and determine whether your experience aligns with the requirements for Chartered Status.
Organisation Chart
Organisational charts help assessors understand the applicant’s role, reporting lines, and position within both the organisation and internal audit function. They provide important context for evaluating the applicant’s level of responsibility, influence, and professional experience against Chartered status requirements. You will need to submit Your employer's organisational chart (*showing your role and reporting lines within that organisation) and an organisation chart for your internal audit function.
* Please note that for candidates who work for a multi-client provider, this must be for one of the named client organisations within your submission.
Training and development activity
An overview of the training and development activities you have undertaken in the past 12 months helps assessors understand how you keep your professional knowledge current, respond to developments within the profession, and continue to enhance your competence. This may include formal training, professional qualifications, webinars, conferences, mentoring, coaching, self-directed learning, or other relevant development activities.
Additional documentation
Copies of relevant academic and professional qualifications used to support your application.
The application fee is £2,090 +VAT.
What to expect
After submitting your application, you will be notified if you have been shortlisted for a panel interview. All interviews are conducted online and last approximately 60 minutes which includes a 10-minute presentation where the topic will have been sent prior to the assessment.
During the assessment, a lead assessor and a support assessor will review your presentation and discuss specific points from your presentation and prior internal audit experience. These discussions will be informed by the examples you provided in your candidate statement and application and assessed against the Chartered by Experience competencies.
Important details:
For quality assurance purposes, the interview will be recorded. Recordings are securely stored for 60 days before being permanently deleted. If you have concerns about this, please contact us at assessment@charterediia.org .
On the day of your interview, you must present a valid photographic ID. Accepted forms of ID include:
- Passport
- Driving licence
- Government-issued ID (e.g., NHS/Civil Service pass scheme cards)
If you cannot provide valid ID, your assessment will need to be rescheduled. This process ensures a fair and thorough evaluation of your qualifications and experience.
Key dates for 2026 assessment
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Register online by: |
Monday 5 October 2026 |
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Written application deadline: |
Monday 19 October 2026 |
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Interview shortlist announced: |
Monday 2 November 2026 |
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Panel interviews: |
Monday 16 November 2026 |
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Results confirmed: |
Tuesday 1 December 2026 |
New dates will be available soon. For more information, please call 020 7498 0101 or email educationsupport@charterediia.org and we will send you an email when new dates are available.
I have read the information but am still unsure whether I am eligible for Chartered by Experience. What should I do?
If you remain uncertain about your eligibility, please use the self-assessment tool here to determine whether you meet the criteria for this route.
Do I need to hold CIA certification or any specific qualifications?
No specific qualification is required. Applications are assessed primarily on professional experience, leadership responsibilities, and evidence of competence against the required standards.
What is the assessment process?
The assessment begins with a review of your candidate statement and supporting documents by an assessor. If your application is approved, you will be invited to a panel interview on your chosen assessment date. The Chartered IIA will confirm the interview time and provide the topic for a 10-minute presentation, which forms part of the assessment. The presentation will be followed by a professional discussion with trained assessors, giving you the opportunity to expand on your submitted evidence and demonstrate your professional competence.
How long does the assessment take?
The professional discussion typically lasts up to 75 minutes. Applicants should also allow time to prepare their application and supporting evidence before submission. While preparation time varies, many applicants take around one month to gather and compile the required documentation, depending on their work commitments and the availability of supporting evidence.
What happens if my application is unsuccessful?
Applicants who are not successful will receive feedback outlining the areas that did not meet the required standard. If an application is unsuccessful at the portfolio review stage, applicants may, depending on the outcome and the extent of the amendments required, be offered the opportunity to revise and resubmit additional evidence. If an applicant progresses to the professional discussion but is not successful overall, detailed feedback and recommendations for improvement will be provided.
Applicants may also choose to submit a new application at a future assessment window once they have addressed the identified development areas. As a general guide, reapplication is normally recommended after 12 months, although this may vary depending on individual circumstances and the assessment outcome.
Please note that assessment fees are non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the assessment.
How will I receive my result?
Results are normally communicated by email following the completion of the assessment process and quality assurance checks. You will also be issued a certificate confirming that you have been awarded the CMIIA designation. Results are usually released two weeks after the assessment.
What designation can I use if I am successful?
Successful applicants will be awarded Chartered Internal Auditor status and will be entitled to use the appropriate professional designation (CMIIA), subject to maintaining membership requirements.
How often are Chartered by Experience assessment available?
Assessment windows are typically offered every other month throughout the year. Application deadlines and assessment dates are published on our website for each assessment window. If you would like to view the full timetable for the year, please contact us at assessment@charterediia.org, and we will be happy to provide it.
Please note that all dates are subject to change and applicants should refer to the latest information available at the time of booking.
Can I apply if I work outside the UK?
Yes. The Chartered by Experience route is open to eligible applicants from the UK and internationally, provided they can demonstrate that they meet the required eligibility and competency requirements. However, they have to have an active membership with the Chartered IIA in order to apply and once they have successfully passed the assessment, their membership must remain active for applicants to be able to use the CMIIA designation.
Please note that the Chartered by Experience route leads to a Chartered IIA UK & Ireland designation and is distinct from IIA Global certifications. As a result, continuing professional development requirements and reporting arrangements may differ from those that apply to IIA Global certification holders. For further information, please refer to the relevant membership and CPE guidance.
What kind of roles are suitable for this route?
The route is generally designed for professionals in senior internal audit positions, such as Chief Audit Executives, Heads of Internal Audit, Group Heads of Internal Audit, or other senior leaders with significant responsibility for internal audit activities.
How can I prepare for the panel interview?
Applicants should familiarise themselves with the evidence submitted as part of their application and candidate statement and ensure that their presentation is well prepared and rehearsed so that it can be delivered within the allocated 10-minute timeframe.
Applicants should also be prepared to discuss examples from their professional experience, including areas such as leadership, audit strategy, governance, risk management, stakeholder engagement, and professional judgement. The professional discussion provides an opportunity to expand on the evidence presented in the application and demonstrate how the required competencies have been achieved in practice.
We encourage applicants to be as open and candid as possible in their responses. However, we recognise that professional confidentiality obligations may limit the level of detail that can be shared about specific organisations, projects, or individuals. In such cases, applicants may discuss their experience in a way that protects confidential information while still demonstrating their knowledge, skills, and impact.
Can I submit evidence from previous roles?
Yes. Evidence may be drawn from both current and previous roles, provided it demonstrates the competencies and experience required by the assessment.
Can I speak to someone before applying?
Yes. If you are unsure whether the Chartered by Experience route is suitable for you, please contact our team who will be happy to provide guidance on the eligibility requirements and application process. You can contact us at assessment@charterediia.org
Does my role title need to be "Head of Internal Audit" to be eligible?
No. While many successful applicants hold titles such as Head of Internal Audit or Chief Audit Executive, eligibility is assessed on the scope of your responsibilities, level of influence, and professional experience rather than job title alone. Applicants should demonstrate that they operate at the required senior level and meet the published eligibility criteria and competencies.
What are the main benefits of becoming a Chartered Internal Auditor through this route?
Achieving Chartered Internal Auditor status formally recognises your professional expertise, leadership experience, and contribution to the internal audit profession. It demonstrates a commitment to the highest professional standards and can enhance career progression opportunities.
Achieve Chartered Status with Chartered by Experience
Book your Chartered by Experience assessment
Click below to book onto the Chartered by Experience assessment
Chartered members from accountancy bodies in the UK and Ireland currently working in internal audit, or internal auditors holding advanced business degrees, may be eligible for our direct entry route.