The Internal Control Institute
The Internal Control Institute
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CICS

The entry credential. The foundation of the ladder.

CICS demonstrates your understanding of the Internal Control Common Body of Knowledge — the credential hiring managers and audit committees recognize.

Certified Internal Control Specialist (CICS) badge
Verified on Credly

Completing this program earns the Certified Internal Control Specialist (CICS) digital badge on Credly — a public, verifiable record you can add to LinkedIn, your email signature, or a CV. See the badge.

3,127 awarded to date · last verified 7 September 2026
The Internal Control Institute

Eligibility (one of):

  • 3 years of internal control work experience + a college bachelor's or master's degree in an acceptable field
  • 5 years of internal control work experience

The process

  1. Pay the certification fee online
  2. Download the Excel application, complete it, sign the Code of Conduct Affirmation, and submit via email
  3. Take the online exam — you have 12 months to complete it once your application is approved

What you receive on passing

  • Official CICS certificate
  • Digital badge through Credly (shareable on LinkedIn, email signatures, websites)
  • Listing in the ICI member directory

Maintenance

Active CICS holders maintain 120 CPE hours per 3-year cycle (at least 40 per year). Recertification fee is $100 per cycle. See renewal details →

Step 1

Pay the certification fee

Begin the CICS process with secure online payment.

Pay & begin