Our only savior is our will power. Will is the switch that controls everything in this universe. If you don't exercise your will power, you will be a weakling, easily influenced by your environment. Development of the will is the secret of magnetism. Men of success are men of great will power. When you develop will, no matter how you are pounded down by life, you rise again and say, "I am successful. I can win." Regards from Prof Mahaley Head Gmsisuccess Your Career Mentor Gmsisuccess...

Sunday, August 31, 2025

Growth Mindset in students...

How to Foster a Growth Mindset in Students

A Guide for GMSISuccess Learners

A growth mindset means believing that intelligence and abilities can be developed through effort, learning, and perseverance. When students adopt this mindset, they see challenges as opportunities, not obstacles. At GMSISuccess, we encourage students to build this mindset for stronger academic performance and long-term career success.

1. Embrace Challenges

Instead of avoiding tough problems or difficult subjects, face them with curiosity. Every challenge is a chance to stretch your abilities and grow stronger.

Tip: When you feel stuck, remind yourself: “I may not know it yet, but I can learn it.”

2. Value Effort Over Results

Effort is what leads to mastery. Success isn’t just about being “naturally talented”—it’s about consistent hard work, smart strategies, and learning from mistakes.

Tip: Track your progress weekly. Celebrate improvements, not just final scores.

3. Learn From Feedback

Constructive feedback is a gift. Instead of taking it personally, use it as a roadmap to get better.

Tip: After every test or assignment, ask: “What can I do differently next time?”

4. Replace “I Can’t” with “I Can’t Yet”

Words shape mindset. By adding “yet,” you shift from a fixed mindset to a growth one. This simple change builds resilience.

Tip: Write your own list of “I can’t yet” goals (e.g., I can’t yet master data analytics, I can’t yet solve advanced audit problems). Work toward them step by step.

5. Surround Yourself with Positive Learners

Peers influence mindset. Stay connected with classmates, mentors, or groups who motivate you to keep improving.

Tip: In GMSISuccess study groups, encourage each other by sharing progress stories, not just exam tips.

6. Focus on Learning, Not Just Grades

Grades measure performance at one point in time, but learning is lifelong. Focus on mastering concepts deeply—you’ll naturally improve scores.

Tip: Instead of asking, “What will come in the exam?” ask, “What new skill or insight will this topic give me?”

7. Practice Self-Reflection

At the end of each week, reflect:

What new skill or concept did I learn?
Where did I struggle, and how can I improve?
What am I proud of this week?

Final Thought for GMSISuccess Students

Success in exams like CMA, CIA, ACCA, or CPA is not about having a “genius brain.” It’s about consistent effort, smart study strategies, and believing that growth is always possible. When you adopt a growth mindset, you don’t just prepare for exams—you prepare for lifelong learning and success.

👉 Best wishes 🍀 from Prof Mahaley Head Gmsisuccess Mumbai

Feel free 🆓 to discuss with me if you have any questions in mind..sure 😊 I will guide you. Call or text 9773464206

www.gmsisuccess.in

Internal Audit Practitioner (IAP) course and certification program offered by The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)—often referred to as the IAP course:

Here’s a detailed overview of the Internal Audit Practitioner (IAP) course and certification program offered by The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)—often referred to as the IAP course:

What Is the Internal Audit Practitioner (IAP)?

The IAP is an entry-level certification designed for:

University students
Beginner or rotational internal auditors
Professionals without a degree
It serves to validate your foundational knowledge of internal auditing and the Global Internal Audit Standards.

What Does the IAP Exam Involve?

The IAP certification is based on the CIA Part 1 exam, titled Internal Audit Fundamentals, following a revision effective May 28, 2025.
Exam format:
- 125 multiple-choice questions
- Duration: 150 minutes (2.5 hours)
Passing score: Typically 600 points out of 750 (80%)

Syllabus Breakdown:

Topic Area	Weightage
Foundations of Internal Auditing	35%
Ethics & Professionalism	20%
Governance, Risk Management & Control	30%
Fraud Risks	15%

Eligibility & Application Process

No prior education or experience required—only a valid government-issued ID and completion of the application through IIA’s Certification Candidate Management System (CCMS).
IIA membership is optional in many locations but required in:
- United Kingdom
- Ireland
- South Africa
- Eswatini
- Lesotho

After approval, you have two years to sit for and pass the IAP exam.

Cost Overview (USD)

Fee Type	IIA Member	Non-member	Student
Application Fee	$120	$240	$65
Exam Fee	$310	$445	$245
Total	$430	$685	$310

Pricing may vary outside North America; always check your local National Institute for accurate fees and applicable taxes.

Why Pursue IAP?

Fast-track to CIA certification: Passing IAP means you skip CIA Part 1 and only need to pass Parts 2 and 3—subject to specific waiver rules and timelines.
Permanent designation: As of May 28, 2025, the IAP no longer expires. However, starting in 2026, you must complete 20 hours of annual Continuing Professional Education (CPE) and renew your certification annually.
Global, recognized credential: Helps you stand out to employers early in your career and demonstrates command over industry standards.

Exam Preparation & Resources

The IIA offers syllabus guides, practice questions, and candidate handbooks through CCMS.
Reputable exam prep partners:
- Becker: IIA’s official partner offering courses, practice tests, simulated exams, lecture videos, and AI-powered tools.
- Other providers like Gleim and PRC also offer review courses aligned with the updated syllabus.

Summary Quick-Guide

Category	Details
Exam Format	CIA Part 1 — 125 MCQs, 150 min
Syllabus Topics	Foundations (35%), Ethics (20%), Governance/Risk (30%), Fraud (15%)
Eligibility	Government ID; no education/experience needed; regional membership rules
Time Limit	2 years to pass exam after approval
Fees (USD)	Application: $65–$240; Exam: $245–$445
Certification Status	Permanent (with 20 CPE hrs annual from 2026)
Path to CIA	CIA Part 1 waived; must pass Parts 2 & 3

Here’s the detailed breakdown—including subtopics—of the Internal Audit Practitioner (IAP) / CIA Part 1: Internal Audit Fundamentals syllabus along with their respective exam weightings:

IAP (CIA Part 1) Syllabus Structure & Subtopics

Based on the official syllabus document from The IIA:

Section 1: Internal Audit Attributes — 20%

(Aligned with IIA Standards 1000, 1100, 1200)
Subtopics include:

Recognize elements of the IIA’s International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF)
Difference between assurance and consulting services provided by internal audit
Define internal audit activity independence and individual auditor objectivity (including identifying impairments thereto)
Describe knowledge and competencies required for auditor responsibilities
Define “due professional care” and explain competency demonstrated through continuing professional development

Section 2: Nature of Work — 20%

(Aligned with IIA Standard 2100)
Subtopics include:

Fundamental risk concepts and effectiveness of risk management within processes/functions
Internal control concepts, control types, and globally accepted frameworks
Identify the effectiveness and efficiency of internal controls
Recognize fraud risks—types, red flags, and the need for special consideration in engagements

Section 3: Engagement Planning — 23%

(Aligned with IIA Standard 2200)
Subtopics include:

Identify relevant information (e.g., audit reports, walkthroughs, interviews, observations) during preliminary survey of the engagement area
Define engagement objectives, evaluation criteria, and scope—ensuring key risks & controls are identified
Describe use of checklists and risk/control questionnaires in preliminary surveys
Conduct detailed risk assessment per audit area—evaluate and prioritize risk and controls
Recognize engagement procedures and work program components—including resource planning

Section 4: Engagement Work — 25%

(Aligned with IIA Standard 2300)
Subtopics include:

Recognize relevance, sufficiency, and reliability of evidence in workpapers and documentation supporting conclusions/results
Recognize risk implications and controls in business processes (e.g., HR, procurement, product development, sales, marketing, logistics, outsourced processes)
Describe computerized audit tools/techniques—data mining, continuous monitoring, automated workpapers, embedded modules
Identify appropriate analytical and process-mapping techniques—process identification, workflow analysis, process maps, spaghetti maps, RACI diagrams
Identify sampling methods (random, judgmental, discovery, etc.) and statistical analysis techniques
Differentiate performance measures (financial vs operational, qualitative vs quantitative, productivity, quality, efficiency, effectiveness) and financial analyses (horizontal and vertical analysis, profitability, liquidity, leverage ratios)

Section 5: Engagement Communication — 12%

(Aligned with IIA Standard 2400)
Subtopics include:

Recognize communication quality characteristics—accurate, objective, clear, concise, constructive, complete, timely; plus essential elements (objectives, scope, conclusions, recommendations, action plans)
Discuss recommendations aimed at enhancing or protecting organizational value
Describe engagement communication stages—preliminary reporting, interim reporting, conclusions, and dissemination to appropriate parties

Summary Table: Topic, Subtopics & Weight

Section	Title	Weight	Key Subtopics
1	Internal Audit Attributes	20%	IPPF, assurance vs consulting, independence/objectivity, competencies, due professional care
2	Nature of Work	20%	Risk concepts, internal controls, control frameworks, fraud red flags
3	Engagement Planning	23%	Preliminary survey, objectives/scope, checklists, risk assessment, work program
4	Engagement Work	25%	Evidence, process controls, audit tools, mapping, sampling, performance & financial analytics
5	Engagement Communication	12%	Communication quality, recommendations, reporting stages

Why This Breakdown Matters

Understanding subtopics helps you allocate study efforts efficiently. For instance:

Engagement Work (25%) carries the highest weight—ensure strong focus here on tools, evidence, process mapping, and analytics.
Engagement Planning (23%) follows closely—get comfortable with planning procedures, risk assessments, and scoping.
Internal Audit Attributes and Nature of Work are foundational—you’ll need solid conceptual understanding.
Engagement Communication, although smallest in weight, is critical for clarity and professionalism in audit reporting.

www.gmsisuccess.in Tel 9773464206

Feel free 🆓 to discuss with me if you have any questions ‼️ like

Additional topic breakdowns or real-world examples?
Recommended prep resources for each domain?
Practice question strategies by topic weight?

Just let me know—happy to help you tailor your study plan!

Happy to help you get started with the IAP!

Friday, August 29, 2025

HOW INDIAN CA, COST ACCOUNTANT INCREASE THEIR EARNINGS?

🚀

For Indian Chartered Accountants (CA) and Cost Accountants (CMA), technical knowledge of accounting, auditing, costing, and taxation is no longer enough to maximize career growth and earnings. In today’s digital-first economy, upgrading soft skills aligned with technology and data can significantly boost both employability and earning potential. Here’s how:

1. Technology & Digital Literacy

ERP Systems (SAP, Oracle, TallyPrime, QuickBooks): Companies expect finance professionals to manage and interpret large financial data through ERP tools. Proficiency can help you qualify for higher-paying roles like Finance Business Partner or ERP Implementation Consultant.

Cloud Accounting Tools (ZohoBooks, Xero): SMEs and startups are adopting cloud solutions. Familiarity adds value in consulting roles.

💡 Impact on earnings: Specialized ERP/Cloud system knowledge can increase salaries by 20–30% compared to peers without it.

2. Data Analytics & Visualization

Tools: Excel (advanced), Power BI, Tableau, Python (for finance analytics), R.

Skills: Building dashboards, predictive cost analysis, fraud detection, budgeting with AI-driven insights.

Role Upgrade: From a traditional accountant to a Finance Data Analyst or Strategic Decision Advisor.

💡 Impact: Professionals with data analytics skills earn 30–40% more, and are often shortlisted for leadership roles.

3. Information Technology & Cybersecurity Awareness

IT Controls & Audit: Knowledge of IT General Controls (ITGC), Information Systems Audit.

Cybersecurity Risks: Understanding data privacy laws, compliance frameworks (ISO, GDPR).

Role Growth: Expands scope into IT Audit, Risk Consulting, or Forensic Accounting.

💡 Impact: IT auditors and forensic accountants in India can command 1.5x–2x the salary of general auditors.

4. Soft Skills Enhanced by Tech

Communication & Storytelling with Data: Turning complex numbers into simple, visual insights for CXOs.

Collaboration in Tech-enabled Workspaces: Remote tools (Slack, MS Teams, Zoom) and project management (Asana, Trello, Jira).

Leadership with Digital Teams: Managing hybrid teams effectively with technology.

💡 Impact: These skills directly link to promotions into managerial/leadership roles, where pay jumps significantly.

5. Specializations That Pay More

Financial Modelling & Valuation using Tech (Excel, Python).

Blockchain & Digital Currencies (crypto taxation, auditing smart contracts).

AI & Automation in Finance (RPA with UiPath, Automation Anywhere).

💡 Impact: Specialists in blockchain or RPA consulting earn 30–50% higher fees in advisory roles.

6. Practical Steps for CA/CMA to Upgrade

1. Enroll in short-term certifications:

Data Analytics for Finance (IIM/ISB, Coursera, Udemy).

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).

Diploma in Information System Audit (DISA by ICAI).

Power BI/Tableau courses.

2. Build personal projects/portfolios: Publish financial dashboards or case studies online.

3. Offer consulting to startups/SMEs on ERP, automation, and data insights.

4. Network with CFO forums, fintech communities, and professional LinkedIn groups.

✅ In short:

Indian CA/CMA professionals who integrate finance + technology + data skills + communication transition from compliance-driven accountants to strategic business leaders and consultants. This transformation not only increases employability but also justifies higher salaries, consulting fees, and leadership opportunities.

www.gmsisuccess.in

Feel free 🆓 to discuss with me if you have any questions ‼️ Call or text me on 9773464206.

Let’s build a step-by-step career roadmap for Indian CA/CMA professionals to steadily upgrade in technology, data analytics, and IT — so that earnings and career opportunities grow at each stage.

🚀 Career Roadmap for CA/CMA Professionals (Tech + Analytics Focus)

Stage 1: Foundation (0–3 Years Experience)

🎯 Goal: Build strong finance + basic tech skills

Strengthen Core Accounting & Finance Tools
- Excel (Advanced formulas, pivot tables, macros).
- TallyPrime, ZohoBooks, QuickBooks.
- Exposure to ERP basics (SAP FI/CO or Oracle).
Begin Data Awareness
- Learn Power BI or Tableau for simple dashboards.
- Practice on real CA/CMA work data (MIS, variance analysis, cost reports).
Certifications (Short-term, Entry Level)
- MS Excel Advanced / Financial Modelling.
- Basics of Power BI (Microsoft learning or Udemy).

💰 Earnings Impact: You position yourself for analyst roles instead of just accounting roles → 20–30% higher packages.

Stage 2: Growth (3–6 Years Experience)

🎯 Goal: Move from compliance to analytics-driven finance

Data Analytics Skills
- SQL (for querying finance databases).
- Python (pandas, NumPy, matplotlib for finance analytics).
- R (optional, if into statistics-heavy cost analysis).
ERP & IT Controls
- Deep dive into SAP FICO, Oracle Fusion, or Microsoft Dynamics.
- Learn basics of ITGC, IS Audit, Cybersecurity awareness.
Certifications (Intermediate Level)
- DISA (ICAI) or CISA (ISACA) for IT Audit.
- Certificate in Data Analytics for Finance (IIM, Coursera, ISB).
- Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate.
Soft Skills
- Present data in storytelling format for management.
- Learn to lead tech-enabled teams using MS Teams/Slack/Jira.

💰 Earnings Impact: Eligible for Financial Analyst / Business Analyst / Internal Audit – IT Controls roles with 40–60% better pay than traditional accounting.

Stage 3: Advanced (6–10 Years Experience)

🎯 Goal: Become a Finance–Tech Leader / Specialist

Specialization in Advanced Tech Areas
- Automation (RPA): UiPath, Automation Anywhere.
- Blockchain & Digital Assets: Crypto taxation, auditing smart contracts.
- AI in Finance: Forecasting, predictive cost analysis, fraud detection.
High-Value Roles
- Finance Data Scientist.
- IT Risk Consultant.
- ERP Implementation / Digital Transformation Specialist.
- FP&A Manager with Analytics expertise.
Certifications (Advanced Level)
- Certified Data Scientist for Finance (EdX, Harvard, or IIT programs).
- Blockchain Council – Certified Blockchain Auditor.
- AI for Finance (MIT, IIM Executive programs).
Consulting & Advisory Expansion
- Start offering consulting to SMEs/startups on ERP, analytics, automation.
- Build a personal portfolio (dashboards, case studies, LinkedIn posts).

💰 Earnings Impact: Salaries 2x–3x higher than traditional finance roles; consulting side-income possible (₹2–10 lakhs per project).

Stage 4: Leadership & Global Impact (10+ Years Experience)

🎯 Goal: Be a CFO / Partner / Independent Consultant with tech edge

Strategic Tech-Driven Finance Leadership
- Oversee digital finance transformation projects.
- Lead cross-functional teams (finance, IT, operations).
Global Certifications
- Certified Analytics Professional (CAP).
- FinTech courses (Harvard, LSE, or ISB Executive programs).
- Digital CFO Programs (offered by IIM/ISB).
Networking & Influence
- Speak at finance–tech forums (CFO roundtables, ICAI events).
- Publish whitepapers/blogs on Finance + Analytics.
Independent Consulting & Entrepreneurship
- Offer ERP/Data/Automation consulting.
- Build a firm specializing in Digital Finance Advisory.

💰 Earnings Impact: Senior leadership (CFO/Partner) roles with salaries ₹60L – ₹1Cr+, or independent consulting fees ₹5L–20L per client.

📌 Summary Roadmap

0–3 yrs: Build Excel + ERP + BI basics.
3–6 yrs: Learn SQL, Python, IT Audit + Mid-level certifications.
6–10 yrs: Specialize in RPA, Blockchain, AI + Consulting.
10+ yrs: CFO/Partner/Independent Consultant with global credentials.

👉 This roadmap ensures CAs/CMAs evolve from “record keepers” → “business analysts” → “strategic digital leaders”, directly multiplying earnings.

www.gmsisuccess.in

Feel free 🆓 to discuss with me if you have any questions ‼️ Call or text on 9773464206.

CIA Part 1 New syllabus 2025

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of CIA Part 1 – Internal Audit Fundamentals (2025 syllabus), covering the topics (sections), subtopics, and their weightings. Unfortunately, official sources don’t publicly specify difficulty levels, but I’ve shared insights on cognitive depth where available.

CIA Part 1 — 2025 Syllabus Overview

Part 1 now consists of four main sections with the following weightings: Foundations of Internal Auditing (35%), Ethics and Professionalism (20%), Governance, Risk Management, and Control (30%), and Fraud Risks (15%) .

Section Breakdown & Subtopics

A. Foundations of Internal Auditing – 35%

Key learning objectives include:

Purpose of Internal Auditing
- Objectives and benefits of the internal audit function
- Factors enhancing its effectiveness
Internal Audit Mandate & Responsibilities
- Authority, roles, and responsibilities of the function
- Role of the chief audit executive (CAE) in establishing the mandate
- Board and senior management responsibilities
Internal Audit Charter
- Required components per Global Standards
- Importance of board approval and stakeholder discussion
Assurance vs. Advisory Services
- Definition and differentiation
- Scope and context for each
- Service types to determine suitability
Types of Assurance Services
- Risk & control assessments
- Compliance audits (third-party, contract)
- IT security & privacy audits
- Performance, quality, operational, financial, regulatory audits
- Audits of culture and management reporting
Types of Advisory Services
- Roles in training, system design, due diligence
- Data privacy, benchmarking, internal control assessments, process mapping

B. Ethics and Professionalism – 20%

Learning outcomes include:

Demonstrate Integrity
- Apply honesty and professional courage in ethical dilemmas
- Act legally and professionally at all times
Evaluate Objectivity Impairments
- Consider self-review bias, familiarity bias, and conflict-of-interest situations
Mitigate Objectivity Impairments
- Reassign auditors
- Outsource tasks
- Disclose impairments
- Recognize unacceptable gifts or favors
Apply Key Competencies
- Communication (written/verbal), critical thinking, research
- Persuasion, negotiation, relationship-building, change management, curiosity, continuing education evaluation
Demonstrate Due Professional Care
- Evaluate cost vs. benefit, probability of errors/fraud, skepticism, organizational alignment
Maintain Confidentiality
- Follow organizational policies, use appropriate information protection techniques

C. Governance, Risk Management, and Control – 30%

Key subtopics include:

Organizational Governance
- Roles of board, management, internal audit, and other assurance parties
- Governance frameworks and models
Impact of Organizational Culture
- Defining culture and control environment
- Influence on engagement risk and controls
Ethical & Compliance Issues
- Identifying legal, ethical, and compliance requirements
- Role of internal audit in ethical frameworks
Fundamentals of Risk Types
- Differentiating strategic, operational, financial, compliance, reputational, environmental/social responsibility risks
- Understanding inherent vs. residual risk
Risk Management Process
- Define risk management and related cycles
- Assess risk appetite/tolerance and response strategies
Risk Management within Processes
- Evaluate design and effectiveness of risk processes
- Benefits and purpose of frameworks
Internal Control Concepts
- Purpose of internal control
- Preventive, detective, corrective control types
- Recommending risk-mitigation controls
Control Design and Effectiveness
- Review design and effectiveness of controls across financial and nonfinancial contexts

D. Fraud Risks – 15%

Important objectives include:

Fraud Risk Concepts
- Fraud triangle: motivation, opportunity, rationalization
- Recognizing fraud risks and common schemes
Evaluating Fraud Risks
- Planning engagement with special fraud considerations
- Assessing processes for fraud exposure
Assessing Fraud Detection
- Evaluate fraud risk management and red-flag detection at organizational/process levels
- Auditor’s role in flag reporting
Fraud Prevention Controls
- Tone at the top, segregation of duties, authorization levels
- Tools like hotlines, reconciliations, supervisory reviews
Investigation Techniques
- Role of audit function in investigations
- Interview, investigation, fraud testing methods
- Coordination with investigators

Difficulty Level Insights

While the official 2025 syllabus moves away from labeling topics as "Basic" or "Proficient," the depth and complexity vary:

Foundations: largely comprehension and recognition-based—low to moderate cognitive depth.
Ethics and Professionalism, Governance & Risk, Fraud Risks: involve application, analysis, evaluation, and even judgment—increasingly higher cognitive demands.

To gauge difficulty, aim to understand definitions deeply and master usage/application through scenarios, not just memorization.

Summary Snapshot

Section	Weight	Highlights
Foundations of Internal Auditing	35%	Mandates, charters, service types, audit roles
Ethics & Professionalism	20%	Integrity, objectivity impairments, professional skills
Governance, Risk & Control	30%	Governance structures, control & risk frameworks, culture
Fraud Risks	15%	Fraud triangle, detection, prevention, investigation

Study Tips by Section

Focus more effort on Foundations and Governance/Risk (together 65%)—master charters, frameworks, risk types, and control categories.
Use real-world examples for Ethics & Professionalism to visualize impairments and response strategies.
Apply scenario-based learning for Fraud Risks, such as fraud triangle cases, control breakdowns, red-flag recognition.
Reframe each learning objective into practice questions—e.g., “Which control addresses opportunity in the fraud triangle?” or “Which competency helps resolve stakeholder conflict?”

www.gmsisuccess.in

Feel free 🆓 to discuss with me if you have any questions ‼️ Call or text on 9773464206.

CIA 2025 syllabus changes

Here’s a clear breakdown of the key changes in the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) syllabus between the 2019 version and the 2025 updated version, as released by The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA):

Overview: Why the 2025 Update?

The 2025 syllabus refresh aims to:
- Align more closely with the new Global Internal Audit Standards, effective January 9, 2025 .
- Reduce redundancy across the three CIA exam parts.
- Clarify the required knowledge, skills, and abilities for candidates .

Changes by Exam Part

Part 1

Title Change: From Essentials of Internal Auditing → Internal Audit Fundamentals .
Sections Reduced: From 6 to 4.
Removed Domains: Independence & Objectivity; Proficiency & Due Professional Care; Quality Assurance & Improvement Program.
Retained and Modified Sections:
- Foundations of Internal Auditing: weight increased from 15% to 35%.
- Governance, Risk Management, and Control: decreased from 35% to 30%.
- Fraud Risks: increased from 10% to 15%.
- New Section: Ethics and Professionalism at 20% .

Part 2

Title Change: From Practice of Internal Auditing → Internal Audit Engagement .
Sections Reduced: From 4 to 3.
Old to New Realignments:
- Engagement Planning: 50% (formerly Planning the Engagement).
- Information Gathering, Analysis, and Evaluation: 40% (formerly Performing the Engagement plus info gathering).
- Engagement Supervision and Communication: 10% (reflects Communicating Results & Monitoring) .

Part 3

Title Change: From Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing → Internal Audit Function .
Sections Remain at 4 but Content Shifted:
- Internal Audit Operations: 25% (new emphasis).
- Internal Audit Plan: 15%.
- Quality of the Internal Audit Function: 15%.
- Engagement Results and Monitoring: now highest weight at 45% .

Structural & Conceptual Updates

Cognitive Levels Removed: Unlike the 2019 syllabus, the 2025 version no longer categorizes topics as “Basic” or “Proficient” .
Learning Outcomes Streamlined:
- Part 1 now has 27 learning outcomes, with about 74% assessed at a Basic level (up from 46% in 2019).
- Part 2 has 17 learning outcomes, with 41% at Basic level (versus 40% in 2019) .

Summary Table

Feature	2019 Syllabus	2025 Syllabus
Part 1 Name	Essentials of Internal Auditing	Internal Audit Fundamentals
Part 1 Sections	6 (incl. Independence, Quality, etc.)	4 (incl. new Ethics & Professionalism)
Part 2 Name	Practice of Internal Auditing	Internal Audit Engagement
Part 2 Sections	4	3 (consolidated domains)
Part 3 Name	Business Knowledge for Internal Auditing	Internal Audit Function
Part 3 Weight Shift	Balanced across tech/business topics	Heavy focus on Engagement Results & Monitoring
Cognitive Levels	Basic/Proficient distinction present	No categorization by cognitive level
Learning Outcomes	More numerous, less grouped	Fewer, more clearly grouped

In a Nutshell:

2025 brings leaner, clearer exam parts, with updated emphasis areas (especially ethics, monitoring, and fundamentals).
The cognitive-level distinction is removed—but the exams still require both comprehension and analytical skills.
Structural and naming changes across all parts help align the CIA certification more closely with the revised Global Internal Audit Standards.

www.gmsisuccess.in

Feel free 🆓 to discuss with me if you have any questions ‼️ Call or text on 9773464206

Thursday, August 28, 2025

Ethics and Professionalism

Ethics and professionalism make up a significant part of the CIA Part 1 syllabus, covering principles and standards essential for internal auditors, including integrity, objectivity, competency, due professional care, and confidentiality .

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Feel free 🆓 to discuss,if you have any questions

on this topic Text on 9773464206

Key Concepts in Ethics and Professionalism

Ethics and professionalism account for about 20% of the CIA Part 1 syllabus and test how well candidates understand and apply the International Professional Practices Framework (IPPF) and The IIA's Code of Ethics in various internal audit scenarios .

Core Principles for Internal Auditors

Integrity: Auditors must establish trust and provide a basis for reliable judgment by performing duties with honesty, courage, and legal compliance .
Objectivity: Auditors must remain impartial, unbiased, and avoid conflicts of interest. They must not allow professional judgment to be compromised by external influences such as gifts or personal relationships .
Competency: Auditors are expected to continuously develop their skills, maintain proficiency, and perform work that they are qualified to carry out .
Due Professional Care: Auditors should perform their responsibilities diligently, with skepticism, and strive for accuracy and completeness in all tasks .
Confidentiality: Auditors must safeguard sensitive information acquired during engagements and only use such information for authorized purposes, never for personal gain .

Practical Applications

Abiding by the internal audit charter and complying with the organization's additional code of conduct as well as The IIA’s Code of Ethics .
Demonstrating ethical behavior in all audit activities, including reporting and communication, accepting gifts, and maintaining independence .
Addressing violations such as bias, misuse of confidential information, and dishonesty, which can compromise the quality and success of audit activities .

Scenario-Based Learning

The CIA Part 1 exam emphasizes scenario and case-study-based questions on ethics and professionalism, rather than rote definitions, testing whether candidates can identify and respond to ethical dilemmas in real-world situations .

Coverage and Importance

Ethics and professionalism form one of the major domains of CIA Part 1, reflecting the increased focus on professional integrity and ethical conduct in global internal auditing standards .
Mastery of this domain is critical for passing the CIA exam and for effective, trustworthy performance as an internal auditor .

Summary Table: Ethics and Professionalism Topics

Principle	Description	Application Example
Integrity	Honesty, legal compliance, moral courage	Refusing gifts, reporting all known facts
Objectivity	Impartial, unbiased, avoid conflicts	Declining to audit a relative’s department
Competency	Maintain skills, quality, knowledge	Continuous training, certifications
Due Professional Care	Diligence, skepticism, thoroughness	Cross-checking information, feedback usage
Confidentiality	Protect information, authorized use only	Secure handling of company data

These points encompass the essential topics and expectations regarding ethics and professionalism in CIA Part 1, which are vital for both exam success and a career in internal auditing .

www.gmsisuccess.in