Highest-Paying Audit, Risk & Compliance Certifications in 2026

Internal audit, IT audit, technology risk and fraud examination each have their own credential. Compare advertised pay for CIA, CISA, CRISC and CFE, then explore the experience requirements and exam preparation for the function you want to work in.

2$135k median salary

Validates knowledge of IT auditing, covering audit processes, IT governance, systems development, operations, resilience and information asset protection.

810AdvancedHas prerequisites
3$124k median salary

Validates knowledge of fraud schemes, financial transactions, investigation techniques, relevant law and fraud prevention and deterrence.

699IntermediateHas prerequisites
4$120k median salary

Validates knowledge of internal audit fundamentals, ethics, engagement planning and performance, and managing the internal audit function.

1,515IntermediateHas prerequisites

Median annual advertised pay in US postings that mention each certification, Sep 2025–Aug 2026. Source