Examination

Each certification candidate is required to pass an examination that consists of multiple-choice questions that measure comprehension of the Body of Knowledge. 

Computer Delivered - The CQA examination is a one-part, 165- multiple choice question, five-and-a-half-hour exam and is offered in English only. 150 multiple choice questions are scored and 15 are unscored.

Paper and Pencil - The CQA examination is a one-part, 150- multiple choice question, five-hour exam and is offered in English and Spanish in certain locations.

All examinations are open book, with the exception of the constructed response (essay) portion of the CMQ/OE exam. Each participant must bring his or her own reference materials. Use of reference materials and calculators is explained in the FAQs.

Case Studies

The CQA examinations will continue to present a number of case studies. Each case study will include a brief scenario outlining critical details about an audit situation. In addition, each case study will be supported by related audit documents.

Approximately 15 percent to 20 percent (25-30 questions) of the test will be devoted to these case studies.

Although the questions related to these cases will use the same four-choice answer format as the rest of the test, the use of scenario details and sample documents will allow the candidates to apply their critical thinking skills in evaluating realistic situations and accompanying documents, memos, etc.