Certified Financial Services Auditor™

What is the CFSA™

Certified Financial Services Auditor™ (CFSA™) is one of the IIA's specialty certifications that measures an individual's knowledge of, and proficiency in, audit principles and practices within the banking, insurance, and securities financial services industries. The exam format offers candidates a choice of three financial services disciplines - banking, insurance or securities.

The CFSA™ exam is available on a year-round basis via Computer Based Testing (CBT).

Workload

It is recommended that candidates set aside approximately 60 to 80 hours of study for the exam, over a minimum of a three month period.

 

Entry Criteria

By applying to become a candidate in the CFSA™ Program, an individual agrees to accept the conditions of the program.  These include requirements regarding eligibility, exam confidentiality, ethics and continuing professional education.

Eligibility and Skills Requirement

CFSA™ candidates must meet the following eligibility requirements:
Education: CFSA™ candidates must have a bachelor's (four-year) degree or equivalent. Two years of post-secondary schooling with an accredited organisation plus three years of general business experience may be substituted for a bachelor's degree. A copy of the degree or transcripts must accompany the application.

Character Reference: CFSA™ candidates must exhibit high moral and professional character and must submit a character reference signed by a CFSA™, a Certified Internal Auditor, a CCSA™ or CGAP™ or the candidate's supervisor. 

Work  Experience: CFSA™ candidates must obtain two years of auditing experience in a financial services environment. Work experience must be verified by a CFSA™, a CIA®, a CCSA™, or a CGAP™, or the candidate's supervisor. Experience verification may accompany application or be submitted later at registration for the examination.

Completion Timeframe

Candidates must take their exam within 180 days of their exam registration date.  The Institute's approval of a candidate's CFSA™ application and eligibility allows the candidate to participate in the CFSA program for two years from the date that the application is approved.™

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