Self-Assessment with Independent Validation (SAIV)
A cost-effective form of external quality assessment in which the internal audit function assesses its own conformance with the Standards, and an independent external validator then validates this self-assessment. SAIV is particularly suitable for smaller audit functions and enhances staff awareness of professional standards.
Source: IIA GIAS 2024, Quality Assessment Manual Chapter 5
A Self-Assessment with Independent Validation (SAIV) is a cost-effective form of external quality assessment in which the internal audit function first assesses its own conformance with the Global Internal Audit Standards (GIAS) 2024, after which an independent external validator reviews and confirms that self-assessment. The function therefore performs most of the work itself, while the validator safeguards the objectivity of the final rating. SAIV is one of the two accepted forms of external assessment alongside a full external review.
For the board, the supervisory board and the audit committee, SAIV offers a proportionate way to meet the legal and professional requirement that the function be externally assessed at least once every five years (Standard 8.4 of the Global Internal Audit Standards 2024). For smaller audit functions in particular this is more efficient than a full external review, while the independent validation safeguards the credibility of the rating. Performing the assessment in-house also increases staff awareness of the professional standards.
In practice, SAIV proceeds in two phases. First the team carries out a self-evaluation following the structure of the Standards, supported by evidence such as the audit charter, policies, the audit plan and working papers. The independent validator then reviews this material, conducts additional interviews and sample tests, and confirms or adjusts the conformance rating of generally conforms, partially conforms or does not conform. The validator must be demonstrably qualified and free of any conflict of interest.
ONE Risk Advisory provides the independent validation and ensures the rating meets GIAS Standard 8.4. In a self-assessment with independent validation the audit function assesses itself, after which ONE Risk Advisory validates that assessment as an external party; this is the second accepted EQA form alongside a full external assessment and is often the more efficient route for smaller functions.
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Related service External Quality Assessment (EQA)
Frequently asked questions
Which organisations is SAIV suitable for?
SAIV is particularly suitable for smaller internal audit functions seeking a proportionate, cost-effective way to meet the mandatory external assessment. The function performs most of the work itself, with independent validation of the rating.
Does SAIV meet the five-year requirement of the Standards?
Yes. SAIV is one of the two accepted forms of external assessment and meets the requirement that the function be externally assessed at least once every five years (Standard 8.4 of the Global Internal Audit Standards 2024). The independent validation makes the rating valid.
What exactly does the independent validator do?
The validator reviews the team's self-evaluation, conducts additional interviews and sample tests, and confirms or adjusts the conformance rating. This keeps the final rating objective, even though the function does most of the work itself.
Is SAIV less reliable than a full external assessment?
No, not when the validator is demonstrably qualified and independent. The difference lies in the division of work, not in the validity of the rating; both forms lead to a conformance rating under the Standards.