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Use Quiz Software to Check Differences Between CPA and CIA | ET

Accounting certifications are necessary if you aspire to be a professional accountant. The certifications come in different forms and knowing the difference is important if you want to decide which is the right one for you. Here we will take a look at the difference between the two most popular accounting certificates and explain how quiz software can help you decide which is best for you.

A Tale of Two Certifications

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) certifications are highly valued by many companies. Both of them are accounting-related certifications, however they have different requirements and serve different purposes.

1. License Requirements

The requirements for a CPA typically include 30 additional hours of study beyond the bachelor's degree in accounting. The licensing requirement also includes passing the uniform CPA examination and some documented experience.

Candidates who want to become a CIA are also required to have a bachelor's degree. 24 months of auditing experience is required unless they have a master’s degree. If you have obtained a master’s, the experience requirement is cut down to 12 months.

2. Time Duration

There is no time limit for passing the CPA exams. Individuals can take the exam as many times as they like. On the other hand, the time limit for passing the CIA exam is four years. You can take as many attempts as you like within this time period. However, to save time and money, we recommend using a quiz software to prepare yourself for the exams before taking them.

3. Difficulty Level

Passing the exams is the biggest obstacle for those seeking to obtain a CPA or CIA license. With a pass rate of under 50 percent for both exams, it is crucial that you prepare yourself before taking the exam. Using quiz software to practice and determine which avenue is better for you is very important.

Which One Should You Choose?

CIA certification is easier to obtain as compared than a CPA certification. The questions are less challenging to answer. However, having said that, you have to pass CIA exam within four years. There is no such time limit for passing the CPA exam. You can make as many attempts to pass the exam as you like.

Whether you should get a CPA or CIA license depends on your inclinations. If you only want to work as an internal auditor, you should go for CIA. However, if you want more opportunities related to management and financial accounting, you should get your CPA certification.

Just remember to use the right study techniques such as practice exams, mind mapping, and using online quiz software to make a quiz. Effective study techniques will allow you to pass the certification exam sooner rather than later.