External audit
During the external audit phase, independent auditors evaluate your control environment and determine whether it meets the requirements of your chosen Trust Services Criteria as per your scope.
A CPA or a Certified Public Accounting firm will conduct the external audit. For an efficient audit process, it is ideal to get involved with a CPA within your industry.
The audit follows a structured process that includes planning, fieldwork, evidence review, testing, and reporting. Understanding this process helps set expectations and prepares you for each phase.
During the planning phase, auditors will confirm your scope, review your system description, and develop their testing approach. Next comes the fieldwork phase, where auditors perform control testing.
Auditors compile their independent findings into a formal SOC 2 report during the reporting phase. If any control gaps or exceptions are found, you’ll be notified before finalization, giving you a chance to respond or clarify.