Certification—FAQs
August 2011
How does one acquire the title of Certified Business Architect (CBA®)?
The title of Certified Business Architect (CBA®) is presented to individuals who successfully complete a competency evaluation and pass a certification exam developed, maintained and controlled by the Business Architects Association (BAA). Interested parties must complete a certification application and submit an application fee. See Certification Requirements for more details.)
Is Business Architects Association membership required to obtain and maintain CBA certification?
Yes.—BAA membership is not required to apply for certification or to take the certification exam, however, it is required for those who pass the evaluation and exam, in order to receive their certification.
How much is the BAA—Certification Test Application fee? And are there any other costs?
The certification application fee is $395, which includes a fee assessed to sit for the certification exam. BAA membership fee is currently $95 annually.
When and where is the Business Architecture Certification Test offered?
The test is offered throughout the course of the year, domestically and internationally. Please check the Sign-up for BAA Certification Page for dates and locations. If none are planned for your geographic location, please contact the BAA and we will work with you to set up a test site.
What should I study, read or review to prepare me for the Business Architecture Certification Test?
This is a practioner test, not an academic test. The instrument tests for an individual’s experience and abilities to effectively perform the function of a professional Business Architect. As a result is no specific “book” or source, which when reviewed, will ensure an individual will pass the test.
How long does it take to sit for the Test?
An average experienced practitioner can expect to take between 2 ½ to 4 hours to complete the test. However the majority of individuals complete the test in about three hours.
When will I be notified if I pass the Test?
You will receive a formal message from the BAA within two weeks of sitting for the test indicating if you passed the test.
If I do not pass the test, can I retake it?
You can take the test as often as you wish within a period of twelve months of sitting for the first attempt. However simply retaking the test will not improve your ability to pass. Since this is a practioners test, relevant experience in the field of business architecture and a clear understanding of the six disciplines which form the nexus of, and the three foundational disciplines of Business Architecture are the only way to improve your ability to successful pass the test.
