Proficiency Testing Providers
General requirements for proficiency testing. Specifies requirements for the development and operation of proficiency testing schemes used to evaluate the performance of testing and calibration laboratories.
ISO/IEC 17043 specifies requirements for the development and operation of proficiency testing (PT) schemes, which are used to evaluate laboratory performance by comparing results across multiple laboratories testing identical materials. The 2023 revision updates statistical requirements and clarifies PT scheme design obligations.
PT schemes are a critical quality assurance tool for laboratories and a requirement under ISO/IEC 17025. PT providers design schemes, prepare and distribute test items, statistically analyse results, and report performance to participants. The standard ensures PT schemes are technically valid and operated impartially.
ACI-certified auditors evaluate proficiency testing provider management systems, assess the statistical validity of PT scheme designs, and review the adequacy of item preparation and homogeneity testing.
Attend an ACI-Approved Training Provider (ATP) course for your chosen grade level. ACI-approved courses are aligned to the examination syllabus for ISO/IEC 17043.
Examinations are administered exclusively through ACI Approved Training Providers. Foundation and Internal Auditor examinations require 70% to pass; Lead Auditor requires 65%.
Submit your application through the ACI portal with your examination result, training certificate, and relevant audit experience log. Upon approval you receive your ACI Card ID and digital certificate.
Available Grades for ISO/IEC 17043
All six ACI auditor grades are available for this scheme. Each grade has defined competence, experience, and examination requirements.
Entry-level certification for those beginning their auditing career. Suitable for individuals who have completed foundation training but have limited audit experience.
For auditors who have completed Internal Auditor training and have begun accumulating audit experience under supervision or in an internal audit role.
Full auditor grade for practitioners with demonstrated audit experience. Recognised as a competent independent auditor of management systems.
Senior grade for experienced auditors capable of leading audit teams and managing full audit programmes. The most widely recognised auditor grade internationally.
Advanced grade for highly experienced auditors demonstrating sustained performance in complex audit environments and contributions to the auditing profession.
The highest ACI designation, awarded to individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to the management system auditing profession and to the ACI community.
Find an Approved Training Provider, sit the examination, and submit your application to ACI.