What's Included

303

Practice Questions

Exam Versions

Languages

Translation Beta

Dec 31, 1985

Release Date

Sep 17, 2021Last Updated

Complete Exam Package

303 CQA practice questions with detailed explanations

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Study Mode, Timed Practice, and Flashcard Review

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What topics are on the CQA exam?

Auditing Fundamentals 18%

1.A

Types of quality audits

4 subtopics

1.A.1Method

1.A.2Auditor-auditee relationship

1.A.3Purpose

1.A.4Common elements with other audits

1.B

Purpose and scope of audits

2 subtopics

1.B.1Elements of purpose and scope

1.B.2Benefits of audits

1.C

Criteria to audit against

Key Concepts

industry standards
national standards
international standards
contracts
specifications
quality awards
policies
internal QMS
sustainability
social responsibility

Question Focus

Define and distinguish audit criteria
When to use different criteria

1.D

Roles and responsibilities of audit participants

Key Concepts

audit team members
lead auditor
client
auditee
functions and responsibilities

Question Focus

Define participant roles
Describe responsibilities

1.E

Professional conduct and consequences for auditors

3 subtopics

1.E.1Professional conduct and responsibilities

1.E.2Legal consequences

1.E.3Audit credibility

Audit Process 28%

Auditor Competencies 17%

Audit Program Management and Business Applications 20%

Quality Tools and Techniques 17%

How do I earn the Certified Quality Auditor certification?

Official Pathway Guidance

Track: Quality Auditing

Prerequisites

CQTCertified Quality TechnicianOptional
Foundation-level certification for quality fundamentals
CQIACertified Quality Improvement AssociateOptional
Entry-level for quality improvement knowledge

Next Steps

CMQ/OECertified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence
CSSBBCertified Six Sigma Black Belt
CBACertified Biomedical Auditor

Current Level

CQICertified Quality InspectorQuality Control
CQPACertified Quality Process AnalystProcess Analysis
CQECertified Quality EngineerQuality Engineering
CRECertified Reliability EngineerReliability

Alternative Paths

CSQPCertified Supplier Quality Professional
CSQECertified Software Quality Engineer
HACCPCertified HACCP Auditor
CSSGBCertified Six Sigma Green Belt

Career Progression

Entry Roles

Quality Auditor
Internal Auditor
Compliance Auditor
Quality Assurance Specialist

Mid Level Roles

Lead Auditor
Senior Quality Auditor
Audit Program Manager
Quality Systems Manager

Senior Roles

Chief Audit Executive
Director of Quality Assurance
VP of Quality and Compliance
Management Systems Consultant

Certification Maintenance

Recertification Options:
Pass the current CQA examEarn 18 Recertification Units (RUs) through professional activitiesComplete ASQ recertification journal documenting continuous learning

How do I study for the CQA Exam?

Practice the Certified Quality Auditor with our Exam Simulator

Free practice questions, exam guides, and real exam‑style explanations in our Planet Cert simulator.

Official Resources

Free Resources

Quality Resources ASQ TV Quality Progress Magazine

What's changed on this exam?

Technology Coverage

Audit Management Software

Data Analytics Tools

ISO 19011:20182018

Core standard aligned with CQA Body of Knowledge

Released: 2018-07-01

Industry Trends

Remote and hybrid auditing becoming permanent fixtures
Increased focus on supply chain auditing and resilience
Integration of ESG criteria into quality audits
Growing demand for sector-specific auditing expertise
Emphasis on risk-based audit approaches

Who should take this exam?

Required Prerequisites

Eight years of on-the-job experience in one or more areas of the CQA Body of Knowledge
At least three years must be in a decision-making position

Recommended Experience

Understanding of auditing principles and practices
Knowledge of quality tools and techniques
Experience with quality management systems
Familiarity with ISO 19011:2018 guidelines

Experience Level: Professional

How do I register & what's the exam fee?

Exam Cost	$533 USD
Testing Centers	Pearson VUE, Prometric
Online Proctoring	Available

How long is the certification valid?

Valid For	3 years
Recertification	Recertify by exam - take the current CQA exam Recertify by journal - earn 18 Recertification Units (RUs) within 3-year period Professional activities contributing to RUs include: continuing education, employment, teaching, presentations, publications, exam development, leadership

What jobs can I get with this?

Career Benefits

Validates expertise in quality auditing principles
Demonstrates commitment to professional development
Enhances credibility with employers and clients
Opens opportunities for career advancement
Provides foundation for management system auditing
Recognized globally across industries

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Certified Quality Auditor