Three Training Pathways
to Certification
ACI-approved training follows a structured career pathway. Each level builds on the last — from awareness through to leading audit teams independently.
Choose Your Level
Select the training level that matches your current experience and career goal.
For those new to management systems or auditing. The Foundation course introduces core concepts, terminology, and the principles of the relevant ISO standard. It is the starting point for anyone who wants to understand what a management system is and how auditing works.
For professionals conducting internal audits within their organisation. This course covers auditing principles and teaches delegates how to plan, conduct, and report on internal audits against a specific ISO standard. Ideal for quality managers, HSE officers, and compliance professionals.
The most advanced ACI training level. The Lead Auditor course qualifies delegates to plan, lead, and manage audit programmes independently. This is the qualification required for ACI Lead Auditor grade and for professionals conducting third-party audits on behalf of certification bodies.
Training Levels at a Glance
| Feature | Foundation | Internal Auditor | Lead Auditor |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 2–3 days | 2–3 days | 5 days |
| Contact Hours | 16–24 hours | 16–24 hours | 40 hours |
| Examination | Foundation exam (70%) | Foundation exam (70%) | Lead Auditor exam (65%) |
| Target Audience | Newcomers, awareness | Internal audit teams | Professional auditors, leads |
| ACI Grades | PA, AA | PA, AA, AU | AU, LA |
| Prerequisite | None | Work experience recommended | Auditing experience recommended |
| CPD Credits | 14–24 credits | 14–24 credits | 31 credits |
| Certification Body Recognition | Awareness only | Internal audit roles | Full third-party audit recognition |
Search the ACI course directory by scheme, level, location, and delivery mode.