So, you’ve decided to take the CIA exam—congrats! Earning the Certified Internal Auditor title is a big step toward advancing your career, but let’s be real: passing the exam takes serious preparation.
The problem?
With a variety of CIA review courses available, finding the right one can feel overwhelming. Each course has its unique strengths, but the best choice depends on your learning style, budget, and career goals. Choosing the wrong course could lead to wasted time, money, and effort, so it’s essential to make an informed decision.
A recent article from Internal Auditor highlights how earning the CIA designation can sharpen your skills and boost your career, but having the right study tools is key. That’s why I’ve done the research for you, comparing the top courses on the market. From adaptive learning to pass guarantees, this guide has everything you need to succeed.
Best CIA Review Course Comparison
| Best CIA Courses |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ranking | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 |
| Price | $899 | $499-$1,249 | $499 | $595-$825 |
| Discounts | No Discounts | Save $549 | Save $150 | No Discounts |
| Access Length | 24 Months | 18 Months to Access Until You Pass® | 18 Months | 18 Months |
| Practice Questions | 3,000+ | 3,000 | 2,500+ | 3,500+ |
| Video Lessons | Coming Soon | Yes, 45+ On-Demand Video Hours | No | Yes, On-Demand and Live Online |
| Unlimited Exams | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Pass Guarantee | No | Access Until You Pass® | Money-Back Guarantee | Money-Back Guarantee |
| Support Options | Phone, Email, Chat | Phone, Email, Personal Counselors, Accounting Experts | Phone and Email | Phone, Email, and Instructor Support |
| Get Started | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now |
Which CIA Review Course Is Right for You?
- If you want official, exam-aligned content developed with the IIA → Becker is your best bet.
- If you want support, practice questions, and strong video content → Gleim is the way to go.
- If you want advanced tech and efficient prep → Surgent is your best bet.
- If you’re all about practice and want the biggest question bank → PRC is your top choice.
- If you’re looking for supplemental materials with strong alignment to the syllabus → IIA’s Learning System is worth considering.
1. Becker – The IIA CIA® Exam Review: Best for Efficient Studying
For CIA candidates who want to study smarter, not longer, Becker CIA Review offers a highly efficient prep solution built for modern learners. What sets it apart isn’t just its polished dashboard or clean design — it’s how the course intelligently adapts to you. Becker’s adaptive practice technology pinpoints your weak areas in real-time and automatically curates practice questions around them, so you don’t waste hours reviewing what you’ve already mastered. That’s the kind of automation that saves serious time and boosts retention.
Becker is also the only course built in partnership with the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) — the organization that writes the CIA exam. This direct line to the exam content ensures you’re studying material that’s not just relevant, but directly aligned with what you’ll see on test day. If you’re looking for a program that respects your time while maximizing exam-readiness, Becker is built exactly for that purpose.
Becker’s CIA Course Options
Becker offers three distinct CIA exam prep packages to suit a variety of study styles, learning needs, and budget levels. Here’s a quick breakdown of what each package includes:
Essentials Package: Ideal for independent learners who want flexible access to core study tools and content.
Includes:
- 24-month course access
- Digital textbooks
- Practice MCQs
- Unlimited practice tests powered by Becker’s Adapt2U™ Technology
- 2 simulated exams per part
- Customizable study planner
- Unlimited academic support
- Concept videos and digital flashcards coming soon
Premium Package: Designed for students who want more support and flexibility, along with print materials and added peace of mind.
Includes everything in Essentials, plus:
- Unlimited course access
- Becker Pass Guarantee
- Printed textbooks ($225 value)
- Flexible payment options with 0% interest
Pro Package: Best for students who want structured, instructor-led guidance on top of self-paced content.
Includes everything in Premium, plus:
- LiveOnline virtual classes ($299 value)
All packages are built in partnership with The IIA and aligned with the latest 2025 CIA exam syllabus. Whether you prefer a fully self-guided approach or expert-led instruction, Becker offers a flexible, reliable path to CIA exam success.
Key Features to Know
- Official IIA Partnership: Only Becker offers CIA content created in collaboration with the IIA, ensuring perfect alignment with exam standards.
- Adapt2U Practice Technology: Tracks your performance and automatically adjusts question sets to focus on areas you need most.
- Simulated Exams (1 per Part): Full-length, timed exams that mirror the real testing experience for Parts 1, 2, and 3.
- Customizable Study Planner: Set your goals, deadlines, and daily time commitments, and the tool builds your ideal plan.
- Unlimited Support + Peer Group: Access expert help anytime and join Becker’s CIA Facebook group to connect with other candidates.
Pros
- Backed by the IIA: Built with the same organization that develops the actual CIA exam.
- Fast, clean user interface: More polished and intuitive than most traditional CIA review platforms.
- Targeted studying: Adaptive tools help you skip over what you’ve mastered and zero in on weak areas.
- Solid value for price: For 2 years of access, it’s competitively priced for a premium offering.
- Community access: Study alongside others in Becker’s official CIA study group.
Cons
- Still rolling out some features: Becker’s CIA course is brand new, and a few components (like concept videos) are still being released.
Final Thoughts
After hands-on testing of Becker’s CIA Review course, it’s clear this program is built for serious candidates who value structure, smart tools, and a modern study experience. The dashboard is intuitive, the adaptive practice engine quickly identifies weak spots and adjusts your practice accordingly, and the customizable study planner makes it easy to stay on track without burning out. While some video content is still rolling out, the core materials are already top-tier. If you’re looking for a course that saves you time, keeps you focused, and is built in direct partnership with the IIA, Becker is the smartest investment.
2. Gleim CIA Review: Best for Guided Support with Personal Counselors
If you’re looking for a course packed with detailed materials and personalized support, Gleim CIA Review is my top recommendation. This program tailors the study process to meet your needs, giving you the tools to prepare effectively for the CIA exam like no other provider. Here’s what you can expect.
Gleim’s GIA Course Options
- Premium CIA Review System: Includes over 45 hours of video lectures, SmartAdapt™ technology, and their “Access Until You Pass®” guarantee for continuous support.
- Traditional CIA Review System: Offers a structured plan with a comprehensive test bank and guidance from personal counselors.
- CIA Test Bank: Perfect for practice-focused learners, with thousands of multiple-choice questions and access to digital books.
Key Features to Know
- SmartAdapt™ Technology: Tracks your progress and targets weaker areas to optimize your study time.
- Comprehensive Test Bank: Includes thousands of practice questions that mirror the difficulty of the CIA exam.
- Personal Counselors: Each student gets personalized support to navigate their study plan effectively.
- Multimedia Learning Tools: Offers video and audio lectures to break down complex topics.
- Question Walkthrough Videos: Features 230+ step-by-step video explanations that teach you how to approach and solve real exam-style questions.
Pros
- Custom Study Paths: SmartAdapt™ ensures you’re focusing on the areas that need improvement most.
- Extensive Question Database: The test bank is one of the largest available, giving you ample practice.
- Supportive Community: Many students praise Gleim for its helpful counselors and detailed materials.
Cons
- Overwhelming Options: With multiple packages, deciding which one fits your needs can take time.
Final Thoughts
I think Gleim CIA Review is the best choice for anyone serious about passing the CIA exam. It combines comprehensive study materials with personalized guidance through its SmartAdapt™ technology, which pinpoints your weak areas and helps you focus where it matters most. With one of the largest test banks available, you’ll get plenty of practice to feel fully prepared for exam day. Just take the time to choose the package that best fits your goals and budget, and you’ll be well on your way to success.
3. Surgent CIA Exam Review: Best Tech
Surgent CIA Review is a top choice for aspiring Certified Internal Auditors. It’s known for tailoring study plans to fit your specific needs, making exam prep efficient and stress-free. Here’s a closer look at what makes it shine.
What You’ll Get with Surgent
Surgent CIA Review provides a single, comprehensive program with an 18-month access period and a suite of tools designed to help you succeed on the CIA exam:
- A.S.A.P. Technology: Focuses your study time on weaker areas using adaptive learning.
- ReadySCORE: Predicts your readiness so you’ll know exactly when you’re prepared to pass.
- Extensive Practice Questions: Includes over 2,000 multiple-choice questions with unlimited practice exams.
- Extra Resources: Comes with a study app, eBooks, and automatic updates to ensure your materials are always current.
- Pass Guarantee: Confidence backed by a money-back promise.
“I found the explanations provided after each question helped to clarify the answer and WHY it was correct/incorrect. For me, this helped me understand the material compared with just reading the information. I failed my first attempt at part 2, got the Surgent materials and passed on the second attempt.”
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Pros
- Pinpoint Accuracy: Analytics break down your performance by topic so you know where to focus.
- Flexibility: Mobile access and unlimited practice exams make it easy to fit studying into any schedule.
- Practical Knowledge: Beyond exam prep, the materials cover real-world internal auditing skills.
- Exam Simulation: ReadySCORE and realistic questions mimic the test day experience, helping ease anxiety.
- Free Trial: Test the platform with a short trial to see if it’s the right fit for you.
Cons
- Short Trial Period: The free trial lasts just three days, but it’s enough to explore the course’s features and decide if it meets your needs.
Final Thoughts
Surgent’s CIA Review is a strong contender for the best CIA review course based on your preferences. Its adaptive tech, tough practice resources, and focus on practical skills make it ideal for candidates aiming to succeed not only on the CIA exam but also in their careers. Plus, the pass guarantee shows they believe in their program—and you can, too.
4. PRC CIA Review: Solid Choice for In-Depth Practice
PRC is a great option if you’re aiming for comprehensive practice and solid preparation for the CIA exam. It offers a range of tools to help you focus on your weakest areas while building confidence in your test-taking skills.
Course Options to Choose From
- Standard Package: Includes 18 months of access to a question bank, mock exams, and mobile-friendly flashcards. Great for candidates seeking reliable study tools without extra features.
- Premium Package: Offers everything in the Standard package plus live virtual classes, tutorial videos, and printed textbooks (for shipping costs). This package also comes with a pass guarantee and a 12-month extension option.
PRC Key Features
- Massive Question Bank: Over 3,500 practice questions with customizable sessions to target specific topics.
- Mock Exams: Realistic simulations of the CIA exam to get you ready for exam day.
- Virtual Classes: Live online sessions with experienced instructors, plus recorded videos for flexibility.
- Flashcards for Quick Review: Perfect for studying on the go, these cover key topics in a simple, mobile-friendly format.
“Gleim is the go-to. However, I also went over PRC as it is more detailed, so whenever there’s a big topic that doesn’t have a lot of details, I would jump to PRC to review it. But for the finance part, I never reviewed anything other than Gleim.”
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Pros
- Interactive Classes: Live sessions include polls and quizzes to make learning engaging.
- Thorough Prep: The large question bank and mock exams cover every corner of the exam syllabus.
- Expert Guidance: Instructors are Certified Internal Auditors who bring real-world experience to the classroom.
Cons
- Overwhelming Content: The sheer volume of materials can feel like too much, especially for beginners.
- Platform Navigation: Some users report the online interface isn’t as intuitive as other CIA review courses.
- Limited Personal Interaction: While the live classes are interactive, they don’t fully replicate the energy of in-person learning.
Final Thoughts
PRC CIA Review is packed with features for those who want in-depth preparation. The question bank, mock exams, and live classes provide plenty of support for passing the CIA exam. That said, the interface and heavy content load might not be for everyone. If you’re comfortable with online learning and self-paced study sessions, PRC could be a strong contender to help you earn the Certified Internal Auditor designation.
5. HOCK: Flexible Option with Mixed Results
HOCK International is a familiar name for CIA exam preparation, offering a variety of tools designed to help aspiring Certified Internal Auditors succeed. While the course is packed with features, its relevance to the actual exam has been questioned by some users.
Course Options
- Monthly Plans: Flexible options for short-term prep, including a 1-month plan ($99) or a 3-month plan ($249).
- One-Time Payment: For $849, this option includes one year of access with updates and support, making it ideal for those who prefer an extended timeline without recurring fees.
What’s Included
- Textbooks: Both online and physical copies cover the full CIA syllabus. The digital versions can be annotated and accessed across devices.
- Video Lectures: A visual supplement to the textbooks with hours of recorded content for all exam parts.
- Test Bank and Mock Exams: A large database of practice questions and full-length mock exams to simulate the real exam.
- PassMap™ System: Offers a personalized study plan and progress tracking to help you stay on schedule.
Pros
- Flexible Subscriptions: Affordable monthly plans let you pay as you go and cancel anytime.
- Customizable Study Plan: The PassMap™ system helps you stay organized, targeting weaker areas for efficient study.
Cons
- Not Always Exam-Accurate: Some users report that the course’s practice questions don’t match the phrasing or style of the actual CIA exam, even though the concepts are covered.
- Pricey Monthly Option: While flexible, the $99 monthly fee can add up quickly if you need more time to prepare.
- Dated Presentation: While the content is thorough, the layout and design might not appeal to visual learners who prefer modern, engaging formats.
Final Thoughts
HOCK CIA Review provides a solid foundation and a flexible subscription model. However, the mismatch between practice questions and the real exam could leave you unprepared for what you’ll face on exam day. If you choose HOCK, it’s worth pairing it with another CIA review course to cover all your bases. For visual learners or those on a tight budget, you may find more engaging or affordable options elsewhere.
Comparing Popular CIA Review Courses
Choosing the right CIA review course can make all the difference in your exam prep. Here’s how some of the top providers stack up against each other.
Becker vs. Gleim
- Best for Structured, Modern UX: Becker’s user interface and customizable study planner provide a smooth, beginner-friendly study flow that feels more modern and intuitive.
- Best for Deep Content Coverage: Gleim offers the most comprehensive material set on the market, ideal for candidates who want to go deep into every concept.
- Recommendation: Becker is better for those who want a guided path and a polished study environment. Gleim is a solid choice for learners who want to cover everything in detail, even if it means more self-navigation.
Becker vs. Surgent
- Best for Official Content Alignment: Becker is the only CIA course developed in partnership with the IIA, ensuring its study materials are directly aligned with current exam standards.
- Best for Adaptive Learning Efficiency: Surgent’s A.S.A.P. Technology and ReadySCORE™ streamline the process by focusing your time on the areas that matter most.
- Recommendation: Choose Becker if you want confidence in content accuracy and a clean, structured study experience. Go with Surgent if you’re short on time and want a smart system that fast-tracks your readiness.
Gleim vs. Surgent
- Best for Comprehensive Resources: Gleim’s extensive question bank (over 3,000 questions) and multimedia learning tools provide a robust, guided study experience.
- Best for Adaptive Tech: Surgent’s A.S.A.P. Technology and ReadySCORE focus on weak areas, streamlining preparation for busy professionals.
- Recommendation: Choose Gleim for in-depth materials and long-term access. Opt for Surgent if you prioritize efficiency and real-time readiness tracking.
Surgent vs. HOCK
- Best for Efficiency: Surgent’s adaptive learning system targets specific weaknesses, minimizing wasted study time.
- Best for Traditional Learning: HOCK offers comprehensive textbooks and a structured syllabus approach, appealing to those who prefer physical study aids.
- Recommendation: Surgent is better for tech-savvy learners, while HOCK suits those who value traditional resources.
Gleim vs. HOCK
- Best for Comprehensive Support: Gleim provides a rich mix of multimedia tools, personal counselor support, and a large question bank for well-rounded preparation.
- Best for Budget-Friendly Traditional Study: HOCK stands out for offering a full textbook-driven curriculum with lifetime access at a lower price point.
- Recommendation: Pick Gleim if you want depth and personalized guidance throughout your prep. HOCK is a great fit for those looking for value, structured reading, and a more self-directed learning path.
Gleim vs. PRC
- Best for Guided Prep: Gleim’s SmartAdapt™ system provides tailored feedback and a variety of tools, including videos and personal counselors.
- Best for Practice-Intensive Learners: PRC offers 3,500+ practice questions, mock exams, and live virtual classes for hands-on preparation.
- Recommendation: Use Gleim if you want a mix of learning formats and support. PRC is ideal for candidates focused on extensive practice.
| Best CIA Courses | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ranking | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 |
| Price | $899 | $499-$1,249 | $499 | $595-$825 |
| Discounts | No Discounts | Save $549 | Save $150 | No Discounts |
| Access Length | 24 Months | 18 Months to Access Until You Pass® | 18 Months | 18 Months |
| Practice Questions | 3,000+ | 3,000 | 2,500+ | 3,500+ |
| Video Lessons | Coming Soon | Yes, 45+ On-Demand Video Hours | No | Yes, On-Demand and Live Online |
| Unlimited Exams | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Pass Guarantee | No | Access Until You Pass® | Money-Back Guarantee | Money-Back Guarantee |
| Support Options | Phone, Email, Chat | Phone, Email, Personal Counselors, Accounting Experts | Phone and Email | Phone, Email, and Instructor Support |
| Get Started | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now |
Conclusion
The right CIA course depends on your learning style and priorities. Becker is a strong choice if you want a structured, exam-aligned experience with materials developed alongside the IIA. Gleim works well for students who prefer comprehensive coverage and don’t mind spending more time mastering every detail. Surgent is ideal for those who value efficiency and want a system that adapts to their progress.
Each course offers unique strengths, so the best pick comes down to how you study best and what kind of support you need.
FAQs
Pricing can vary, but most courses range from $500 to $1,500, depending on features like unlimited access, live instruction, and premium materials.
Some courses, like Gleim and Surgent, include a pass guarantee, which extends access or offers a refund if you don’t pass. This can add extra confidence to your investment.
Yes, a few courses like Becker, Gleim, and Surgent allow unlimited attempts at practice exams, which is a valuable tool for mastering exam content and building confidence.
Candidates often focus on adaptive learning technology, comprehensive study materials, expert support, and flexible access periods to match their study schedules and needs.
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