SQF Internal Auditor Training
Overview
This course does not automatically make you a certified SQF Lead Auditor. It is built to help you perform internal audits of your facility under the SQF framework and prepare for more advanced roles in audit leadership.
NOTE: This SQF Internal Auditor Training is also available as part of our SQF Training & Implementation Program package, which is a cost-effective way to receive more comprehensive SQF training along with dozens of ready-to-use templates, forms, and SOPs.
Curriculum
What You’ll Learn in the SQF Internal Auditor Course
This training meets the SQF Edition 9 internal audit requirement and covers:
SQF Requirements & Code Interpretation
- Dive into the SQF Code / SQF Edition structure and intent
- Explore the Food Safety Management System, GMP requirements, and how they tie to audits
Internal Audit Process & Execution
- Plan your audit program: scheduling, choosing audit scope
- Prepare checklists and gather documentation
- Conduct audit interviews, trace audits, and evaluate compliance
Reporting & Follow-Up
- Document findings, nonconformities, and evidence
- Communicate opening and closing meetings
- Guide root cause determination and corrective/preventive actions (CAPA)
- Verify implementation and review effectiveness
Hands-On Mock Audit
- Use the tools to perform an audit of “Mandy’s Vanilla,” a fictional company
- Gain experience from start to finish: planning, conducting, documenting, closing
You’ll complete a final test (not timed; you may use notes), and you may retake it until you pass before issuing your certificate.
FAQ
What is SQF Internal Auditor Training?
SQF internal auditor training is a course that teaches professionals how to perform internal audits of a food company’s Safe Quality Food (SQF) system to ensure it complies with SQF Code requirements and GFSI-approved standards. The training covers how to plan and conduct audits, write reports, implement corrective actions, and use the audit process to drive continuous improvement and compliance.
Who should take the SQF Internal Auditor course?
Personnel in food manufacturing, retail, or distribution involved in food safety and quality management should take SQF internal auditor training. This includes SQF practitioners, Quality Assurance/Quality Control staff, department supervisors, and food safety managers who need to conduct internal audits to ensure compliance with the SQF Code.
Why take SQF Internal Auditor Training?
SQF Internal Auditor training equips food safety and quality professionals with the skills to conduct consistent, accurate, and effective internal audits aligned with the SQF version used in their facility. The course strengthens audit readiness, reduces nonconformances, and improves internal verification and documentation practices. Completing this training also enhances your professional credibility, provides a Certificate of Completion, and prepares you for advanced roles such as SQF Lead Auditor or audit leadership positions.
Why take SQF Internal Auditor training with Registrar Corp?
Registrar Corp is a globally recognized compliance training provider. Our top-rated SQF Training is developed and reviewed by regulatory experts to ensure alignment with the latest SQF edition and GFSI standards. You’ll gain real-world tools, step-by-step instruction, and access to live customer support — all backed by our satisfaction guarantee.
How long does it take to complete the SQF Internal Auditor Training course and how long do I have to complete it?
Registrar Corp’s SQF Practitioner course is fully online and self-paced, allowing you to complete the training on your own schedule. Most participants finish the course in approximately 8-10 hours, depending on experience and pace.
How is the SQF Internal Auditor course structured, and how do I pass?
Registrar Corp’s SQF Internal Auditor Training course is 100% online and self-paced, allowing you to complete the training on your own schedule. The course is divided into interactive modules covering all aspects of SQF internal auditing, including audit preparation, conducting audits, documenting findings, corrective actions, and follow-up procedures. Each module includes instructional videos, practical exercises, and quizzes to reinforce learning.
To pass the course, you must achieve a minimum score of 80% on each module assessment. You can retake exercises as needed to ensure mastery. Upon successful completion of all modules, you will receive the official Certificate of Completion, demonstrating your proficiency in conducting SQF internal audits and supporting your facility’s compliance with GFSI-recognized food safety standards.
How do I receive my Certificate of Completion, and does it expire?
After successfully completing the course, you’ll receive a certificate of completion from Registrar Corp. Certificates are downloadable immediately upon completion and do not expire.
While retraining isn’t required, many professionals choose to retake the SQF course when new versions are released to stay current with the latest updates.
Does this course make me a certified lead auditor?
No. This training prepares you for performing internal audits under the SQF framework, but it does not confer SQF Lead Auditor certification. For that, specialized SQF Lead Auditor Training is required.
How do I update my LinkedIn profile?
Once you complete your SQF Internal Auditor course and receive your certificate, you can easily add it to your LinkedIn profile:
- Log in to your Registrar Corp account and download your digital certificate.
- Open LinkedIn and go to your Profile.
- Scroll to the Licenses & Certifications section and click + to add a new credential.
- Enter the certificate details:
- Name: e.g., “SQF Internal Auditor Training”
- Issuing Organization: Registrar Corp
- Credential ID: (optional – copy from your certificate)
- Credential URL: (optional – link directly to your digital certificate)
- Click Save, and your certification will now appear on your LinkedIn profile.
What other courses do you recommend?
Continue your food safety education with these complementary Registrar Corp trainings:
HACCP Certification Master Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) — a core component of every SQF-compliant food safety plan.
PCQI 2.0 Training Meet FDA’s Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) requirements and align your food safety plan with FSMA and SQF expectations.
FSVP Training Learn to manage foreign supplier verification under the Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) — ideal for facilities sourcing or importing ingredients.
Instructor
Meet Your SQF Course Instructor
Cynthia Weber, Food Safety Expert
Dr. Cynthia Weber is an internationally recognized food safety expert with over 25 years of experience in Food Safety Management, GFSI systems, and regulatory compliance. As Director of Online Training at Registrar Corp, she leads the design and delivery of courses that align with global standards, including the current SQF Edition and SQF Code.
Dr. Weber is a registered SQF Trainer and Consultant, an FSPCA Lead Instructor for Preventive Controls for Human and Animal Food, and a certified lead auditor for ISO 22000 and FSSC 22000. Her training programs are known for their practical, real-world approach and clear, engaging instruction.
Backed by the Registrar Corp Food Safety Team
Registrar Corp’s regulatory experts review every module for accuracy and relevance, ensuring your training reflects the latest SQF requirements and industry best practices.
Why Choose Registrar Corp
