SOC 2 training: How to become a SOC 2 auditor, requirements

Organizations that handle sensitive customer data, particularly SaaS companies, must demonstrate a strong commitment to security, availability, and confidentiality. SOC 2 audits play a critical role in validating these commitments.

To become a SOC 2 auditor, you need a strong background in IT security, compliance, or auditing, besides relevant certifications such as CPA, CISA, or CISSP. The process involves gaining expertise in SOC 2 criteria, understanding Trust Services Criteria (TSC), and developing audit skills.

Key requirements include professional experience in IT risk management, cybersecurity, and regulatory compliance. Aspiring auditors must also undergo formal training and, in most cases, work with a licensed CPA firm. Certification bodies and organizations like AICPA provide resources to help professionals meet these qualifications.

This guide covers the key steps to becoming a SOC 2 auditor, including necessary qualifications, skills, and industry-recognized certifications. By the end, you'll have a clear roadmap to start or advance your career in SOC 2 auditing.

What is SOC 2 compliance training?

SOC 2 compliance training offers guidance to IT professionals, security teams, auditors, and compliance officers on the principles and requirements of SOC 2 compliance.

The training equips participants with the knowledge to assess, implement, and maintain SOC 2 controls, ensuring organizations meet the TSC for security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy.

These programs are typically provided by accredited training organizations, consulting firms, or professional bodies such as the AICPA and ICASA. While SOC 2 training does not require formal accreditation, reputable courses align with industry standards and best practices.

Training modules cover SOC 2 framework fundamentals, risk management, internal controls, audit preparation, reporting requirements, and continuous compliance strategies.

The duration of a SOC 2 training course varies, typically ranging from a few hours for introductory sessions to several weeks for in-depth programs.

Costs depend on the course provider and level of training, with prices ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars for comprehensive compliance education.

Are SOC 2 training and SOC 2 audit training the same?

No, SOC 2 training and SOC 2 audit training are not the same. SOC 2 training provides an understanding of SOC 2 compliance and its implementation, covering Trust Services Criteria, risk management, security controls, and compliance best practices. In contrast, SOC 2 audit training is designed specifically for auditors, focusing on conducting assessments, evaluating controls, and preparing organizations for SOC 2 audits according to AICPA guidelines. However, only licensed CPA firms can issue official SOC 2 reports.

What does a typical SOC 2 training consist of?

A typical SOC 2 training covers the fundamentals of SOC 2 compliance. A SOC 2 training program typically includes the following modules:

1. Introduction to SOC 2 compliance – Overview of SOC 2 framework, its importance, the role of AICPA, and differences between Type I and Type II reports.

2. Understanding Trust Services Criteria (TSC) – Detailed study of security, availability, processing integrity, confidentiality, and privacy and the related controls.

3. Risk assessment – Identifying and assessing risks in relation to the TSCs.

4. SOC 2 implementation best practices – Steps to establish policies, documentation, and security measures.

5. Audit readiness and compliance maintenance – Preparing for audits and ensuring continuous compliance This involves evidence collection, implementing continuous monitoring, collaborating with auditors, and post-audit remediation.

Can I become a SOC 2 auditor after the training program?

No, completing a SOC 2 training program alone does not qualify you as a SOC 2 auditor. To become a SOC 2 auditor, you must meet specific eligibility criteria, including:

1. Work for a licensed CPA firm – SOC 2 audits must be conducted by a CPA firm authorized to issue SOC 2 reports, but not all auditors need to be CPAs.

2. Obtain relevant certifications – Certifications such as Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) help establish auditing expertise.

3. Gain experience in IT security and compliance – Practical experience in IT security, risk management, compliance auditing, vendor risk management, cloud security, and control assessments is essential.

What are some SOC 2 auditor certification courses?

Here are some SOC 2 audit training courses along with their details:

1. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) – Duration: 40+ hours, Cost: $500–$750

2. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) – Duration: 40+ hours, Cost: $760–$1,000

3. SOC for Service Organizations Certificate (AICPA) – Duration: Self-paced, Cost: $359 (AICPA members), $449 (non-members)

Can the training be done online or offline?

Yes, SOC 2 training can be completed both online and offline. Many training providers offer self-paced online courses, live instructor-led sessions, or in-person corporate training programs. SOC 2 audit training courses are also available in both formats, depending on the provider.

Are there any free SOC 2 training resources?

Yes, some free SOC 2 training resources are available, including:

• AICPA’s SOC 2 Guide – Basic framework overview.
• ISACA Free Webinars – Covers SOC 2 compliance fundamentals.
• Vendor Whitepapers (Scrut, Drata, Vanta, etc.) – Provide insights on SOC 2 implementation.

What are the job titles for a SOC 2 auditor?  

The job titles for a SOC 2 auditor are:

• SOC 2 auditor
• IT compliance auditor
• Security and risk compliance analyst
• Senior IT auditor
• Information security auditor

What are some common training requirements?

Employees undergoing SOC 2 training must:

• Understand SOC 2 Trust Services Criteria and audit process.
• Complete coursework on risk management, security controls, and compliance frameworks.
• Pass assessments or certification exams (if applicable).
• Gain hands-on experience through practical exercises or case studies.

What kind of SOC 2 report should the auditor create?

A SOC 2 auditor prepares either a SOC 2 Type 1 or SOC 2 Type 2 report, which includes:

1. Management’s description of the system – A detailed explanation of the infrastructure, software, data, people, and processes relevant to the SOC 2 audit.

2. Scope of the audit – Defines which Trust Services Criteria are evaluated, audit period (for Type 2 reports), services assessed, and reliance on sub-service organizations.

3. Auditor’s opinion – Provides an independent assessment of whether the controls were suitably designed (Type 1) or effectively operated over time (Type 2), based on evidence collected.

4. Results of testing procedures – Details the specific tests performed, findings, and any deviations or exceptions noted during the audit.

5. Additional information (if applicable) – Management’s responses or remediation plans.

Take a look at our SOC 2 training report example here.

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