Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The ultimate purpose of conducting a performance audit is to assess the efficiency, economy, and effectiveness of programs. This type of audit goes beyond mere compliance or financial analysis and focuses on how well government programs achieve their intended results, utilize resources, and provide value to the public.

Performance audits typically evaluate whether resources are being used wisely and effectively, whether programs are achieving their stated goals, and how the overall performance can be enhanced. They help stakeholders understand the operational aspects of a program or service, allowing for informed decision-making and improvements in public administration.

While analyzing financial statements is vital for financial audits, as is ensuring compliance with regulations, these do not encompass the broader objectives of performance audits, which specifically seek to improve program delivery and accountability. Reviewing past audits is also not aligned with the forward-looking focus of performance audits, which are intended to evaluate current practices and outcomes rather than merely reflecting on what has already been done.