Salary in Internal Audit: The Real Story They Don't Tell You

Why Internal Audit Still Pays Off (Even If It's Not the Flashiest)

Let's get this straight—internal audit doesn't scream glamor. You won't be on the trading floor or pitching billion-dollar deals. But here's what you do get:

• Exposure to the entire business process
• A front-row seat to how decisions are made
• A stable role in companies where risk control matters
• And yes, a decent and growing salary in internal audit

This field teaches you how to look at a business from all angles—finance, operations, compliance, and tech. And that learning? It starts paying back quicker than you think.

What's the Starting Salary in Internal Audit?

If you're just stepping in—maybe right after clearing CA or with 0-1 years of experience—you can expect:

• ₹6–9 LPA if you're in a Big 4, consulting firm, or a large corporate
• ₹5–7 LPA in smaller firms or niche audit roles
• ₹7–10 LPA if you already have some relevant internship or tech experience

This salary in internal audit might not turn heads at first—but it's consistent, and growth can be strong if you stay the course.

Mid-Level Growth: 2–5 Years Experience

Here's where things get interesting. If you stick around, get involved in risk mapping, SOX audits, or process automation, your profile becomes hard to replace. Internal auditors who understand controls and business strategy are rare—and companies pay for that.

• Most professionals in this range earn ₹10–18 LPA
• Add a CIA or CISA certification, and the number can push ₹20+ LPA
• Firms with global operations may offer international exposure and bonuses

Senior Roles in Internal Audit (6+ Years)

Once you move into AVP, VP, or Head of Internal Audit roles, you're no longer “just an auditor.” You're the person the CFO trusts to find blind spots before regulators do.

• Salaries easily range between ₹25 LPA to ₹50+ LPA
• Companies in BFSI, tech, and pharma pay on the higher side
• You may also get ESOPs, global travel, or bonuses based on internal control performance

What Affects Your Salary in Internal Audit?

Several things influence how much you'll make. Here's what matters:

• Industry: Industries like Tech and BFSI usually pay more than the manufacturing industry.
• Certifications: If you think of taking up additional certifications apart from your degree, then this will not only boost your resume, but will also make you a sought after candidate in the eyes of recruiter. Certifications like: CIA, CPA, CISA show credibility
• Location: Metro cities usually offer better pay
• Tech Skills (Or Hard Skills): Know how to use Power BI, SAP, or AuditBoard? You’re ahead
• Type of Audit: IFC, SOX, and risk audits often pay more than basic process checks

Common Doubts: Salary in Internal Audit & Career Growth

• Is internal audit a good career for CA freshers?
  Yes. You'll learn fast, grow into leadership roles, and build strong business sense early on.
• How does the salary in internal audit compare to FP&A or tax?
  Slightly lower in the beginning, but stable and often less stressful. With time, growth is comparable.
• What's the average salary in internal audit at a senior level?
  Around ₹25-40 LPA depending on sector, location, and skillset.
• Can non-CAs enter internal audit?
  Definitely. MBAs, BCom grads, and even engineers with process knowledge are hired-especially with CIA or CISA certifications.
• What's the biggest misconception about internal audit?
  That it's boring or slow. In reality, it's strategic, fast-moving, and gets you face time with leadership.

Final Thoughts: Is the Salary in Internal Audit Worth It?

If you're chasing glamour, internal audit may not be your first pick. But if you're after real business exposure, job security, and consistent salary growth—it's one of the smartest paths in finance today.
The salary in internal audit might not double every year, but it rises with skill, exposure, and ownership. And more importantly, it puts you in rooms where decisions are made—not just documented.
So if you've got the curiosity to dig deeper, the patience to follow processes, and the hunger to grow—internal audit might just be your best-kept career secret.