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Business Excellence Drives Business Success

Driven by the rise of complexity and uncertainty in today’s world, business excellence is key to enabling change that drives project and business success.

ADVOCATING BUSINESS EXCELLENCE® FOR ORGANIZATIONS 

DID YOU KNOW?
Companies that invest in business excellence processes and capabilities see a return on investment (ROI) of 3.5 times their initial investment, on average.      LEARN MORE

There's Value in Building Business Excellence Processes & Capability

Building business excellence capability is essential for organizations that want to remain competitive and achieve sustainable success in today's rapidly changing business environment.

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Business excellence helps organizations to focus on delivering high-quality products and services that meet or exceed customer expectations, while also continuously improving operations, reducing waste, and optimizing efficiency.

Common Room

Excellence Points

The African Excellence Model acknowledges that excellence can be achieved through excellence in operations and results. Thus, the model is based on the philosophy of causality, with enabling criteria and results criteria each worth 500 excellence points, resulting in a cumulative total of 1000 excellence points.

Commitment to Quality

building business excellence capability can lead to better financial performance, improved brand reputation, and increased stakeholder satisfaction. It demonstrates an organization's commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement, which can differentiate it from its competitors and attract new customers and investors.

DID YOU KNOW?
Organizations with strong business excellence capabilities outperform their peers in terms of revenue growth and shareholder value creation. Companies with high business excellence scores had a revenue growth rate of 6.5%, compared to 4.4% for those with low scores. LEARN MORE

African Excellence Model

The African Excellence Model (AEM) is a performance excellence framework developed by the African Excellence Forum (AEF) to provide a structured approach to achieving excellence in African organizations.

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The Model is a comprehensive enterprise-wide management system that integrates logical and operational excellence criteria with results criteria. This model has been widely recognized as one of the best frameworks that promotes humanity, trinity, and a high level of excellence by the Global Excellence Council. Organizations in Africa that adopt this framework are committed to operating at a high culture of excellence to achieve sustainable superior results and can become members of the African Excellence Forum. As a member of the African Excellence Forum, we can assist you in implementing this management system, providing toolsets, and digital systems to support your organization's journey towards business excellence.

Support and resources to help build Business Excellence capability

We are here to help you get the buy-in. Contact us.

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Mohammad Sheriff

Corporate Account Executive, BEX

Email: eep@bexcertification.org

1021 Capitol Hill

Monrovia, Liberia

Common Room

Three resources to help you advocate. Get started.

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  1. Copy and paste this email draft to send to your decision maker.
     

  2. Download this Business Case for Business Excellence and attach it to your email.
     

  3. Print this overview of the Value of BEX Corporate Program to share with your decision-maker.

DID YOU KNOW?
Companies that prioritize business excellence processes and capabilities report higher levels of customer satisfaction, employee engagement, and financial performance. LEARN MORE

Direction

The Direction category of the African Excellence Model provides a framework for the development and execution of a clear direction and purpose for the organization. This criterion covers the organization's vision, mission, and values, which set the foundation for the direction and guide the organization towards achieving its goals. It also encompasses strategic planning.

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Advancing Business Capability Drives Transformational Success

GoldSkin, a mid-sized lotion manufacturing firm, had been struggling with inconsistent performance and a lack of clear direction for several years. The leadership team recognized that in order to achieve sustainable success, they needed to clarify the company's vision, mission, and values, and develop a strategic plan to guide decision-making and performance.

READ BUSINESS EXCELLENCE STORY

Governance

The Governance criterion of the African Excellence Model focuses on the leadership and governance structures that the organization has in place, as well as its risk management practices. Effective governance is essential for ensuring that an organization is well-managed and operates in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements.

The Role Business Excellence Professionals Play in the Success of Organizations

MTN Group, a multinational telecommunications company based in South Africa has a clear governance structure that includes a board of directors and various committees responsible for oversight and risk management. Through effective leadership, clear governance structures, and robust risk management practices, MTN has been able to achieve sustainable growth and deliver value to its stakeholders. The company has also been recognized for its commitment to governance, receiving awards and recognition for its ethical business practices.

READ BUSINESS EXCELLENCE STORY

DID YOU KNOW?
Implementing a business excellence framework such as ISO 9001 can result in cost savings, improved efficiency, and increased customer satisfaction. The ISO estimates that for every $1 spent on implementing ISO 9001, organizations can expect to see a return of $6 in improved efficiency and reduced waste (The International Organization for Standardization. LEARN MORE

Realization

Realization is an important criterion of the African Excellence Model as it covers the operational and process management practices of an organization. It encompasses the effective implementation of an organization's strategy and objectives through efficient processes and operations. This criterion includes areas such as innovation, quality management, process improvement, and risk management while demonstrating a culture of continuous improvement that encourages innovation and creativity among employees. This can be achieved through the use of tools and techniques such as Lean Six Sigma, process mapping, and root cause analysis.

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Maturing business excellence into a vibrant capability with consistent execution

Dunkan Filling Station, a petroleum retail company in Liberia applied the Realisation criterion of the African Excellence Model by implementing a Total Quality Management (TQM) system. The company defined its processes and set quality standards for each step of the production process. They also trained employees on the TQM principles and encouraged them to identify areas for improvement. Through continuous monitoring and improvement, the company was able to reduce waste, improve product quality, and increase customer satisfaction.

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READ BUSINESS EXCELLENCE STORY

Human Capital

The Human Capital category of the African Excellence Model recognizes that an organization's success is largely dependent on its people. It covers areas such as recruitment, training and development, retention, and diversity and inclusivity practices. The core concepts of Valuing people and Organizational learning are particularly relevant in this category, as they emphasize the importance of investing in people's development and building a culture of learning.

Maturing business analysis into a vibrant capability with consistent execution

A nonprofit organization in Liberia, TeensMom values diversity and inclusivity in its hiring practices benefit from a wider range of perspectives and ideas, leading to more innovative solutions to business challenges. By investing in its employees' development, a company can build a strong pipeline of talent for leadership positions, ensuring long-term success and sustainability.

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The Human Capital category of the African Excellence Model highlights the importance of investing in people's development and creating a culture of learning and inclusivity, which can lead to improved organizational performance and long-term success.

READ BUSINESS EXCELLENCE STORY

Intelligence

Intelligence is a key component of the African Excellence Model, which focuses on ensuring that organizations have the right data, tools, and processes in place to support effective decision-making. This criterion covers a range of areas, including measurement, analysis, and knowledge management. Measurement involves identifying the key performance indicators (KPIs) that are most important to the organization's success and establishing processes for tracking and reporting on these metrics. This can involve everything from customer satisfaction surveys to financial reporting to employee performance evaluations.

Maturing business evaluation into a vibrant capability with consistent execution

AfriHub is a South African software company identified the need to improve its measurement, analysis, and knowledge management practices to enhance its decision-making processes and gain a competitive advantage in the market.

To achieve this, the company implemented various initiatives, such as investing in business intelligence software, conducting customer satisfaction surveys, and developing a knowledge-sharing platform. The software provided real-time data on sales, inventory, and customer behavior, enabling the company to make informed decisions quickly. The surveys helped the company to better understand customer preferences and expectations, and the knowledge-sharing platform allowed employees to share best practices and insights across departments.

READ BUSINESS EXCELLENCE STORY

Outcomes

The Outcomes criterion of the African Excellence Model focuses on measuring an organization's results and achievements in different areas, such as financial, customer satisfaction, and social impact. This includes assessing the effectiveness of the organization's processes and initiatives in achieving its desired outcomes, and identifying areas where improvement is needed. The Outcomes criterion can also be used to assess the organization's social impact. This may include measuring the company's contribution to the community, such as through philanthropic activities or environmental initiatives. 

Maturing business excellence into a vibrant capability with consistent execution

For example, a company that implements the African Excellence Model may use the Outcomes criterion to evaluate its financial performance, customer satisfaction, and impact on the environment and society. By tracking and analyzing financial data, the organization can identify areas where it may need to adjust its strategies or operations to improve profitability. Similarly, by surveying customers and analyzing their feedback, the company can gain insights into their needs and preferences, and make improvements to its products or services.

READ BUSINESS EXCELLENCE STORY

Roadmap for Successful Business Transformation

Excellence Model Component: Management By Fact 

Management by fact is one of the 12 core components of the Business Excellence Model. It is an approach to decision-making that emphasizes the use of data and facts rather than intuition, personal experience, or opinion. This approach involves collecting and analyzing data to gain insights into organizational performance, identify areas for improvement, and inform decision-making.

To implement management by fact, organizations need to establish a culture of data-driven decision-making. This involves setting clear goals and objectives, identifying key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure progress towards those goals, and collecting data on those KPIs. Data should be collected in a consistent and standardized manner to ensure accuracy and reliability.

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Once data has been collected, it should be analyzed to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement. This analysis should be used to inform decision-making and drive continuous improvement efforts. Key stakeholders should be involved in the analysis process to ensure buy-in and alignment.

Strategy to Execution Framework

Curated as a supplemental to BEX® Body of Knowledge Guide, the Strategy to Execution Framework will help those engaged with strategic business excellence processes to work more effectively with the business to create the strategies and elements that guide the business in moving from strategy to execution.

DOWNLOAD A PREVIEW COPY 

Below are four specific scenarios of the business excellence value proposition and operating efficiencies with typical financial savings experienced regularly by organizations who have built business excellence practices and capability.

  • What are the fees for certification?
    Please Follow this link for our Certification Fees page.
  • Is it possible to make a combined payment for both the application fee and exam fee?
    To initiate the certification process, you must pay the application fee and submit your hours for approval. Once your application has been approved, you can then pay the exam fee to schedule your exam.
  • How do I apply for BEX® certification?
    For information on how to apply for certification and submit your hours for approval, please refer to the BEX® Certification Handbook, which contains detailed information and specific process documents. If you are interested in CBPA™ and CBEA™ certification, please refer to section 3.0 of the handbook, which covers the CBPA™ and CBEA™ Application Process. For CEBE™ and CEQA™ certification, please refer to section 2.0 of the handbook, which covers the CEBE™ and CEQA™ Application Process.
  • What is the process for requesting a refund of the exam or exam retake fee?
    You can request a refund of your exam or exam retake fee within 12 months from the date that BEX® received your exam payment. After this period, the payment becomes non-refundable, and you forfeit the amount paid. To request a refund, please send an email to certification@bex.org. Please note that cancellation fees may still apply, and the Exam Cancellation/Reschedule/Missed or Late policy may override the refund policy in certain situations. Before requesting a refund, you must first cancel your scheduled exam with PSI. Once you have done this, you can then email your refund request to certification@bex.org, including a reason for the request. It is important to note that the application fee for BEX® core certifications is non-refundable.
  • What are the available payment options for the certification application and/or exam fee?
    You can pay the application and/or exam fee using any of the following methods: Online payment through PayPal or credit card (Mastercard, Visa, Amex) using the shopping cart on the BEX® website. Bank deposit at a location recommended by the testing site. Mailing in a cheque or international money order along with a copy of your invoice.
  • What is the timeline for receiving notification of exam eligibility after submitting the application for certification?
    Your submitted application will undergo an immediate assessment to ensure that you have met all the eligibility requirements. You can only submit your application if all the requirements have been satisfied. Upon meeting all requirements, you can submit the application, and you will receive an email instantly indicating whether you are approved or approved pending audit. If you are approved, the email will also provide instructions on paying the exam fee, enabling you to schedule the exam.
  • In the event that I am chosen for an audit, what should I do?
    For all levels of the core business analysis certification program, random application audits are conducted. If an applicant is selected for an audit, their application will be evaluated to ensure the accuracy of the work experience, professional development, and references submitted. If the application is marked as "approved pending audit," the audit will be conducted within a month. The applicant may be requested to verify information on their application. The applicant is responsible for acquiring and providing this verification, and the timing of the audit is determined by the responses from references. If the audit is unsuccessful, the applicant will be notified via email of the reason and the application will not be approved, with all fees paid forfeited. The applicant may reapply only after addressing the reasons for the failed audit, and may also appeal the decision by sending an email to certification@bex.org.
  • What is the process for requesting an extension on the application?
    The policy for application extensions is reserved for extenuating circumstances. These circumstances refer to an event or hardship that would make it necessary for an applicant to request an extension. You can request an extension or learn more about the requirements by referring to our Extenuating Circumstance Policy.
  • Is it possible to apply the exam fee paid for an expired application towards a new application, if the exam has not been taken yet?
    Please note that any paid exam or exam retake fee cannot be carried over to a subsequent application. Applicants have a 12-month period from the day your exam payment was received by BEX® to ask for a refund. If you fail to make the request within this timeframe, your exam or exam retake fee payment will be forfeited. To seek a refund of your exam or exam retake fee, please send an email to certification@bex.org and provide a reason for your refund request.
  • Is it feasible to apply the same work experience and professional development hours entered for a lower certification level, such as from CBEA™ to CBPA™ or from CEQA™ to CEBE™, towards a higher certification level?
    If you are applying for a higher level of certification, such as from CBEA™ to CBPA™ or from CEQA™ to CEBE™, you may reuse your previously entered work experience and professional development hours, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements for the new certification level.
  • What identification types are needed to be admitted to the exam?
    Exam Admission Requirements To take the BEX® certification exam, you must present a valid, current, and government-issued photo ID with your signature. The name on your ID must match the name on your email confirmation from BEX®. If there is any discrepancy in your name, please contact certification@bex.org to resolve the issue at least one week before your scheduled exam appointment. Please note that you will not be allowed to take the exam without proper identification, and no refund will be provided in case of failure to comply with this requirement. Acceptable IDs must be original (not a photocopy) and not expired, and include both a photo and signature. The following types of IDs are accepted: Government-issued driver's license National/state/country identification card Government-issued passport
  • Scheduling Your Exam
    To schedule your BEX® exam, you must log in to your account and access the Certification section under My Certifications. From there, click the "Schedule and Pass Exam" button which will take you to the PSI exam scheduling page where you can select your preferred language, country, time zone, and exam date and time. Once you have confirmed the details, your booking will be created and you will be directed to the "View Details" page where you can review security procedures, required identification documents, and exam instructions. If needed, you can also reschedule or cancel your exam from this page. It is important to note that exams must be scheduled at least 3 business days in advance.
  • Cancellation and Reschedule Policy
    Within 12 months from the date BEX® receives your exam or exam rewrite fee, you may request a refund. After this period, your exam or exam rewrite fee payment becomes non-refundable, and you will need to repay the fee to schedule and sit the exam. To receive a refund within the eligibility period, cancel your scheduled exam, and email your refund request to certification@bex.org. However, missing the scheduled exam without cancelling or rescheduling in advance will result in forfeiture of the exam fee or exam rewrite fee already paid, unless there is an extenuating circumstance, and you will need to repay the fee to schedule and sit the exam. To cancel or reschedule the exam, login with your BEX® credentials, select Certification > My Certifications, and click the Schedule and Pass Exam button. You will be directed to the PSI exam scheduling page, where you can select the Cancel Schedule or Reschedule button. Please note that PSI requires a minimum of 3 business days to reschedule your exam without penalty. For further information on cancellations and rescheduling, refer to the Scheduling and Rescheduling section within the PSI Exams FAQs.
  • Special Accommodations (only if required)
    Special accommodations for the exam can be requested if you have a disability, handicap, or condition that may affect your ability to take the exam. Requests for special exam accommodations must be reasonable and should not compromise the validity and reliability of the exam. Before scheduling your exam, contact BEX® at certification@bex.org to request special accommodations. To request special accommodations, you will need to provide a note from a doctor or healthcare professional that explains your diagnosis and supports the need for the accommodations. The note should include specific recommendations for the accommodations that are required. Do not schedule your exam until after you have received approval for your request. If you need to reschedule or cancel your exam, include the original exam date and the desired exam date in your email to certification@bex.org. Once your request has been approved, you will receive an email from BEX® with instructions on how to schedule your exam with the accommodations.
  • Taking CEQA™ or CEBE™ at a PSI Exam Center
    CEQA™ and CEBE™ exams can be taken either remotely via online proctoring or in person at PSI Exam Centers. These two exams are the only IIBA exams offered at exam centers. To ensure a smooth testing experience, make sure to check the PSI Exam FAQs for specific requirements related to the test center, such as arrival time, items allowed and not allowed, and questions from the Exam Administrator. Additionally, you can watch the PSI Test Center Experience video to learn more about what to expect.
  • What are the rules that need to be followed on the day of an online remote proctored exam?
    Important reminders for the day of your exam: Make sure you have your acceptable identification ready. Review the PSI Exam FAQs and the PSI Remote Proctored Candidate Experience video before your exam. Note that only one monitor is allowed during the exam. Log in up to 30 minutes before your scheduled start time to complete the check-in procedures. To access the PSI exam page, use your BEX® credentials and select Certification > My Certifications > Schedule and Pass Exam button. Double-check the security procedures, acceptable identification, and exam instructions to ensure that you're ready to launch the exam. The Proctor will provide guidance and check you in at your scheduled start time. Special Rules for CBEA™ to CBPA™ Exams: During the exam, it is not allowed to take breaks away from the Proctor's view. You can take a moment to get up and stretch at your desk as long as the Proctor can see you. You are permitted to have a clear water bottle with no labels, as well as blank paper (8.5x11”) or a whiteboard (8.5x11”) to take notes during the exam. Note that the Proctor will ask you to tear up the paper or erase the whiteboard before ending the exam. Special Rules for CEQA™ and CEBE™ Exams: During the exam, you are permitted one break of up to 15 minutes away from the Proctor's view. The exam timer will continue to run during the break, and you will not be granted extra time. If you exceed the 15-minute time limit, your exam will be considered abandoned, and you will forfeit your exam fee. To take the exam again at a later date, you will be required to pay the full exam fee. An online calculator will be provided on the exam screen. Additionally, you are allowed to have a clear water bottle without labels and a blank paper or whiteboard (8.5x11") to make notes during the exam. Please note that you will be asked to tear up the paper and erase the whiteboard before ending the exam. If you need additional accommodations beyond what is typically allowed during an exam, please make a request for a special accommodation before paying the exam fee. You can find more information on how to make such requests in the Special Accommodations section of this FAQ.
  • On the Day of your Exam: Rules for Exams at PSI Exam Centers
    These rules apply to you only if you are taking your CCBA ®or CBAP® exam at a PSI Exam Center. Before you go to the PSI Exam Center, review the rules for arrival time, testing environment, screening, and check-in process, if you have not done so previously. Review the PSI Exam FAQs, the PSI Exam Center Experience video and the IIBA Certification FAQs. Ensure you have the acceptable identification with you. You will NOT be admitted to the examination without the proper identification, and there will be no refund of your test fee. Breaks: You can take a break (i.e. outside the testing room) but cannot be longer than 15 minutes. You will need to take a break (i.e. outside the testing room) to get a drink. The clock will continue to run on the exam while you are on break. You will not be given extra time. Upon return from a break, you will be rescreened/checked back into the testing room. You will be provided with 2 sheets of paper (8.5x11”) or a white board at the start. They will be collected at the end of the exam by the Test Center Administrator. A PSI online calculator will be available on your screen during the exam. NOTE: If you require more than what is allowed for an exam, please request a special accommodation prior to paying the exam fee. Consult the Special Accommodations section on this page.
  • How and when are exams offered?
    All exams are offered via remote online proctoring through PSI using your own computer. The BEX® exams are also available at the Stella Maris University Testing Locations as well as proctored online exams. You can select your option when you schedule your exam. Please review our Exam Information page.
  • How much time is needed to prepare for the exams?
    The amount of time required for studying depends on individual factors such as level of experience and knowledge. To help you prepare for the exam, please refer to the exam preparation suggestions listed on each certification page.
  • Are there training courses offered by BEX® for certification preparation, and are there other training providers available as well?
    While BEX® does not offer courses, we have Endorsed Education and Training Providers that offer courses which meet the professional development criteria for certification. These providers have been assessed and validated by BEX® to ensure the quality of their courses. You can find an endorsed provider and course that suits your needs by visiting the Endorsed Education and Training Provider page. Note that BEX® does not provide specific course recommendations.
  • Where can I find information on scheduling the exams?
    Please review our Exam Information page.
  • How do I request for a special accommodation for the exam?
    Please review our policy on the Exam Information page.
  • How do I cancel or reschedule my exam?
    Please review our exam cancellation and rescheduling policy within our Exam Information page.
  • How can I schedule my retake of an exam?
    You must wait for C-BAP to receive your exam result from the testing provider and upload it to your C-BAP profile before you can pay and schedule your rewrite exam. This may take up to 24 hours from your exam day. As soon as your score is uploaded into your C-BAP profile account, you will receive an e-mail from C-BAP instructing you on your next steps to pay the exam rewrite fee and to schedule your rewrite of the exam. To schedule your retake, you are required to pay the retake fee to C-BAP first.
  • How can I obtain information about exam logistics such as location, room, directions, and time after registering for an exam at a test center?
    After scheduling your exam at a test center, you will receive an email confirmation with the exam logistics shortly. This email will contain information such as the location, room number, directions, and scheduled time of your exam. Two days prior to your exam date, you will receive an appointment reminder via email.
  • I cannot schedule my exam because I am getting an error message, what do I do?
    If you experience an error while trying to schedule your exam, please contact certification@bex.org.
  • How will an incorrect address on the exam confirmation email from the testing administrator impact admission to the exam?
    It will not affect your admission into the exam.
  • Within my exam confirmation e-mail from the testing administrator, my name is incorrect or incomplete. Will this affect admission into my exam?
    Yes, it will affect your admission into the exam. Please e-mail certification@cbap.org right away. If you are not admitted to the exam due to inadequate identification, you will be required to pay a fee to IIBA in order to reschedule your exam.
  • What kind of identification do I need the day of the exam?
    To find out what type of identification is required on the day of your exam, please review our Exam Information page.
  • What could be the reason for not being able to access the online remote proctored exam even after passing the system compatibility check?
    Even if the system compatibility check has been passed, there could be various reasons why you may not be able to access the online remote proctored exam on the day of your scheduled exam. Some common reasons include internet connectivity issues, technical problems with the exam platform, software updates, and firewall settings. It is recommended to perform a system check a few days before the exam and to reach out to the exam administrator if any issues arise.
  • What happens if I miss the exam or arrive late to the exam?
    If you miss your exam date without canceling or rescheduling beforehand and paying the necessary fee, you will be marked as a no-show and have to forfeit your exam fee or rewrite fee unless there is an extenuating circumstance. For exams at testing centers, you must arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled exam time. For remote proctored exams, if you are more than 15 minutes late for the exam, you will not be allowed to take the exam, and you will have to forfeit your exam fee or rewrite fee. You can find more information about our exam cancellation, rescheduling, missed or late policy on the Exam Information page.
  • What are the guidelines for items that are allowed and not allowed during an online proctored exam?
    To find out what is permitted and prohibited for an online proctored exam, please read The C-BAP® Guide to Online Proctored Exams and review the rules provided in the document titled On the Day of your Exam: Rules for Online Remote Proctored Exams.
  • How do I know what is permitted and prohibited when taking an exam at a Test Center?
    Read On the Day of your Exam: Rules for Exams at PSI Test Centers
  • What is the passing mark for the Certifications?
    At BEX®, we do not release scores or scoring percentages for any of our certification exams. This is in line with the practices of many professional member associations that offer professional certifications. Instead, we provide performance indicators to help candidates identify areas where they may need to improve their skills or knowledge. These indicators are intended to support candidates as they prepare for a retake of the exam or seek to enhance their job performance. Please note that they are not meant to be used for comparison with other candidates.
  • When will I receive my exam results?
    You will see your exam results immediately after you submit your exam. Confirmation of your exam result will also be emailed to you by BEX®. Please note that they are not meant to be used for comparison with other candidates. within 2 business days.
  • I passed my exam. When will my profile be updated?
    From your exam date, it can take up to 2 business day for BEX® to process your result from the testing provider. Once this is done, you will receive a confirmation e-mail from BEX®.
  • How do I recertify and what happens if I do not recertify?
    Please refer to the Recertification Handbook for details about your certification: CEBE™ CEQA™ CBEA™ CBPA™
  • Do I need to provide documentation for the activities that I completed to earn my Continuing Education Units (CEUs) when submitting my recertification application?
    It is not necessary to provide documents that verify your CEUs when you submit your recertification application. However, in case your application is selected for an audit, you will be required to provide proof at that time. It is advised that you keep a copy of the supporting documentation for all CEUs claimed for at least 12 months. The Recertification Handbooks provide a list of the required supporting documentation and acceptable formats under Audits and Audit Documentation.
  • How do I request a recertification extension for an extenuating circumstance?
    Recertification extensions can only be requested for extenuating circumstances. An extenuating circumstance is an event or hardship that would prevent you from completing your recertification. To request an extension, please visit the Extenuating Circumstance Policy page.
  • What is competency-based certification?
    Competency-based certification awards credentials based on an individual's proven mastery of the specific knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform a particular job or role. It differs from traditional certification programs that require completion of a curriculum or specific learning program. Competency-based certification, such as the CBEA™, CBPA™, CEQA™ and CEBE™, evaluates an individual's actual performance and abilities through practical assessments, exams, and other evaluations. This type of certification is often used in professional and technical fields where job-specific skills and knowledge are essential for success.
  • What is the difference between a Certificate and a Professional Certification?
  • Do I need to be a BEX® member to apply for certification or recertification?
    Membership with BEX® is not mandatory to apply for certification. However, there are various advantages to becoming a member, including but not limited to discounted certification and recertification fees, free PDF copy of the BEX® Guide, and other benefits.
  • I am in a Suspended Status. What do I do?
    Please refer to the relevant Recertification Handbook for details.
  • What the eligibility Requirement for CBEA™, CBPA™, CEQA™, CEBE™?
    Please refer to the certification pages: Certified Executive in Business Excellence (CEBE™) Certified Excellence Quality Administrator (CEQA™) Certified Business Performance Advisor (CBPA™) Certified Business Excellence Analyst (CBEA™)
  • What activities count towards fulfilling the Professional Development Requirement for BEX® certification?
    The Professional Development (PD) requirement for BEX® refers to any training or education that helps to enhance your skills and knowledge in a particular area. This can include various activities such as: Classroom and online courses (including those endorsed by colleges or other providers), Webinars (both live and recorded) Conference sessions, tutorials, keynotes, workshops, Chapter events (such as presentations, study groups, workshops, and conference days), and Self-directed learning (such as reading and reviewing the BEX® Guide). It's important to note that the content of these professional development activities must align with the BEX® Guide.
  • Can you provide information on the activities that can fulfill the Professional Development requirements for CEQA™ and CEBE™?
    For a course to fulfill the Professional Development requirement, it must comply with the following guidelines: The session must be led or moderated like a formal course and have clear learning objectives that can be measured. The objectives must be applicable directly to the role of the business analyst and have the potential to enhance skills or change behavior. Simply providing a presentation on a particular topic is not sufficient. Students must have the opportunity to engage with the content, make the learning significant, and practice the presented task or objective. The facilitator or moderator must assess the students' performance. The subject matter must be directly linked to the BEX® Guide. Additionally, courses must have been initiated within the past four years from the date the application was submitted and completed by the same date. All courses in the Endorsed Education and Training Provider program meet the aforementioned requirements and are automatically approved by BEX®. The Endorsed Education and Training Provider section of our website enables you to check if any courses you have already taken are included in the program. To determine if any previously taken courses are included in our program, search the Endorsed Education and Training Provider section of our website.
  • Are Professional Development hours the same as Continuing Education Units (CEU) on the application?
    Yes, Professional Development hours are the same as Continuing Education Units (CEU) on the application. When applying online, you enter in your professional development hours in the CEU field. Please note: 1 hour of Professional Development = 1 CEU Hour.
  • Will BEX® verify professional development or work experience?
    Applicants and recipients may be randomly selected for audit to validate work experience, professional development and other information provided when they apply and/or recertify.
  • Can practical experience gained through instructing business excellence workshops and providing consulting services beyond the classroom discussions be used to fulfill the work experience requirement for certification? Also, what is the process for recording this experience?
    Coaching and training provided during a training session cannot be considered as work experience for certification, as it is considered part of the training course. Nevertheless, any subsequent coaching and consulting services offered outside of the training course, which are specific to a participant’s work situation, can count towards the work experience requirement. To keep track of such hours spent on coaching and consulting across different organizations, it is recommended to combine them into one project for documentation purposes. In addition, you will need to provide the contact details of a person from your organization who can verify that you provided the service to course participants and the number of hours spent on it.
  • What is the required number of references and what are the criteria that must be met by these references?
    To complete the application, you must enter, into your application, two references: either a career manager, client (internal or external), or BEX® recipient. BEX® will only ask for endorsement from your references if your application is selected for a random audit. If your application is selected for a random audit, it is the applicant’s responsibility to do any necessary follow-up to ensure that the references reply to BEX® in a timely fashion. These references must meet the following conditions: At least one of the references must be a current contact. All references must have known the applicant for at least six months. A career manager is defined by BEX® as the person who is responsible for providing and preparing the applicant’s annual performance review. Project managers cannot be references unless they are also the applicant’s career manager. The reference form must clearly indicate they fill both roles or the reference will not qualify.
  • What are the fees for certification?
    Please Follow this link for our Certification Fees page.
  • Is it possible to make a combined payment for both the application fee and exam fee?
    To initiate the certification process, you must pay the application fee and submit your hours for approval. Once your application has been approved, you can then pay the exam fee to schedule your exam.
  • How do I apply for BEX® certification?
    For information on how to apply for certification and submit your hours for approval, please refer to the BEX® Certification Handbook, which contains detailed information and specific process documents. If you are interested in CBPA™ and CBEA™ certification, please refer to section 3.0 of the handbook, which covers the CBPA™ and CBEA™ Application Process. For CEBE™ and CEQA™ certification, please refer to section 2.0 of the handbook, which covers the CEBE™ and CEQA™ Application Process.
  • What is the process for requesting a refund of the exam or exam retake fee?
    You can request a refund of your exam or exam retake fee within 12 months from the date that BEX® received your exam payment. After this period, the payment becomes non-refundable, and you forfeit the amount paid. To request a refund, please send an email to certification@bex.org. Please note that cancellation fees may still apply, and the Exam Cancellation/Reschedule/Missed or Late policy may override the refund policy in certain situations. Before requesting a refund, you must first cancel your scheduled exam with PSI. Once you have done this, you can then email your refund request to certification@bex.org, including a reason for the request. It is important to note that the application fee for BEX® core certifications is non-refundable.
  • What are the available payment options for the certification application and/or exam fee?
    You can pay the application and/or exam fee using any of the following methods: Online payment through PayPal or credit card (Mastercard, Visa, Amex) using the shopping cart on the BEX® website. Bank deposit at a location recommended by the testing site. Mailing in a cheque or international money order along with a copy of your invoice.
  • What is the timeline for receiving notification of exam eligibility after submitting the application for certification?
    Your submitted application will undergo an immediate assessment to ensure that you have met all the eligibility requirements. You can only submit your application if all the requirements have been satisfied. Upon meeting all requirements, you can submit the application, and you will receive an email instantly indicating whether you are approved or approved pending audit. If you are approved, the email will also provide instructions on paying the exam fee, enabling you to schedule the exam.
  • In the event that I am chosen for an audit, what should I do?
    For all levels of the core business analysis certification program, random application audits are conducted. If an applicant is selected for an audit, their application will be evaluated to ensure the accuracy of the work experience, professional development, and references submitted. If the application is marked as "approved pending audit," the audit will be conducted within a month. The applicant may be requested to verify information on their application. The applicant is responsible for acquiring and providing this verification, and the timing of the audit is determined by the responses from references. If the audit is unsuccessful, the applicant will be notified via email of the reason and the application will not be approved, with all fees paid forfeited. The applicant may reapply only after addressing the reasons for the failed audit, and may also appeal the decision by sending an email to certification@bex.org.
  • What is the process for requesting an extension on the application?
    The policy for application extensions is reserved for extenuating circumstances. These circumstances refer to an event or hardship that would make it necessary for an applicant to request an extension. You can request an extension or learn more about the requirements by referring to our Extenuating Circumstance Policy.
  • Is it possible to apply the exam fee paid for an expired application towards a new application, if the exam has not been taken yet?
    Please note that any paid exam or exam retake fee cannot be carried over to a subsequent application. Applicants have a 12-month period from the day your exam payment was received by BEX® to ask for a refund. If you fail to make the request within this timeframe, your exam or exam retake fee payment will be forfeited. To seek a refund of your exam or exam retake fee, please send an email to certification@bex.org and provide a reason for your refund request.
  • Is it feasible to apply the same work experience and professional development hours entered for a lower certification level, such as from CBEA™ to CBPA™ or from CEQA™ to CEBE™, towards a higher certification level?
    If you are applying for a higher level of certification, such as from CBEA™ to CBPA™ or from CEQA™ to CEBE™, you may reuse your previously entered work experience and professional development hours, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements for the new certification level.
  • What identification types are needed to be admitted to the exam?
    Exam Admission Requirements To take the BEX® certification exam, you must present a valid, current, and government-issued photo ID with your signature. The name on your ID must match the name on your email confirmation from BEX®. If there is any discrepancy in your name, please contact certification@bex.org to resolve the issue at least one week before your scheduled exam appointment. Please note that you will not be allowed to take the exam without proper identification, and no refund will be provided in case of failure to comply with this requirement. Acceptable IDs must be original (not a photocopy) and not expired, and include both a photo and signature. The following types of IDs are accepted: Government-issued driver's license National/state/country identification card Government-issued passport
  • Scheduling Your Exam
    To schedule your BEX® exam, you must log in to your account and access the Certification section under My Certifications. From there, click the "Schedule and Pass Exam" button which will take you to the PSI exam scheduling page where you can select your preferred language, country, time zone, and exam date and time. Once you have confirmed the details, your booking will be created and you will be directed to the "View Details" page where you can review security procedures, required identification documents, and exam instructions. If needed, you can also reschedule or cancel your exam from this page. It is important to note that exams must be scheduled at least 3 business days in advance.
  • Cancellation and Reschedule Policy
    Within 12 months from the date BEX® receives your exam or exam rewrite fee, you may request a refund. After this period, your exam or exam rewrite fee payment becomes non-refundable, and you will need to repay the fee to schedule and sit the exam. To receive a refund within the eligibility period, cancel your scheduled exam, and email your refund request to certification@bex.org. However, missing the scheduled exam without cancelling or rescheduling in advance will result in forfeiture of the exam fee or exam rewrite fee already paid, unless there is an extenuating circumstance, and you will need to repay the fee to schedule and sit the exam. To cancel or reschedule the exam, login with your BEX® credentials, select Certification > My Certifications, and click the Schedule and Pass Exam button. You will be directed to the PSI exam scheduling page, where you can select the Cancel Schedule or Reschedule button. Please note that PSI requires a minimum of 3 business days to reschedule your exam without penalty. For further information on cancellations and rescheduling, refer to the Scheduling and Rescheduling section within the PSI Exams FAQs.
  • Special Accommodations (only if required)
    Special accommodations for the exam can be requested if you have a disability, handicap, or condition that may affect your ability to take the exam. Requests for special exam accommodations must be reasonable and should not compromise the validity and reliability of the exam. Before scheduling your exam, contact BEX® at certification@bex.org to request special accommodations. To request special accommodations, you will need to provide a note from a doctor or healthcare professional that explains your diagnosis and supports the need for the accommodations. The note should include specific recommendations for the accommodations that are required. Do not schedule your exam until after you have received approval for your request. If you need to reschedule or cancel your exam, include the original exam date and the desired exam date in your email to certification@bex.org. Once your request has been approved, you will receive an email from BEX® with instructions on how to schedule your exam with the accommodations.
  • Taking CEQA™ or CEBE™ at a PSI Exam Center
    CEQA™ and CEBE™ exams can be taken either remotely via online proctoring or in person at PSI Exam Centers. These two exams are the only IIBA exams offered at exam centers. To ensure a smooth testing experience, make sure to check the PSI Exam FAQs for specific requirements related to the test center, such as arrival time, items allowed and not allowed, and questions from the Exam Administrator. Additionally, you can watch the PSI Test Center Experience video to learn more about what to expect.
  • What are the rules that need to be followed on the day of an online remote proctored exam?
    Important reminders for the day of your exam: Make sure you have your acceptable identification ready. Review the PSI Exam FAQs and the PSI Remote Proctored Candidate Experience video before your exam. Note that only one monitor is allowed during the exam. Log in up to 30 minutes before your scheduled start time to complete the check-in procedures. To access the PSI exam page, use your BEX® credentials and select Certification > My Certifications > Schedule and Pass Exam button. Double-check the security procedures, acceptable identification, and exam instructions to ensure that you're ready to launch the exam. The Proctor will provide guidance and check you in at your scheduled start time. Special Rules for CBEA™ to CBPA™ Exams: During the exam, it is not allowed to take breaks away from the Proctor's view. You can take a moment to get up and stretch at your desk as long as the Proctor can see you. You are permitted to have a clear water bottle with no labels, as well as blank paper (8.5x11”) or a whiteboard (8.5x11”) to take notes during the exam. Note that the Proctor will ask you to tear up the paper or erase the whiteboard before ending the exam. Special Rules for CEQA™ and CEBE™ Exams: During the exam, you are permitted one break of up to 15 minutes away from the Proctor's view. The exam timer will continue to run during the break, and you will not be granted extra time. If you exceed the 15-minute time limit, your exam will be considered abandoned, and you will forfeit your exam fee. To take the exam again at a later date, you will be required to pay the full exam fee. An online calculator will be provided on the exam screen. Additionally, you are allowed to have a clear water bottle without labels and a blank paper or whiteboard (8.5x11") to make notes during the exam. Please note that you will be asked to tear up the paper and erase the whiteboard before ending the exam. If you need additional accommodations beyond what is typically allowed during an exam, please make a request for a special accommodation before paying the exam fee. You can find more information on how to make such requests in the Special Accommodations section of this FAQ.
  • On the Day of your Exam: Rules for Exams at PSI Exam Centers
    These rules apply to you only if you are taking your CCBA ®or CBAP® exam at a PSI Exam Center. Before you go to the PSI Exam Center, review the rules for arrival time, testing environment, screening, and check-in process, if you have not done so previously. Review the PSI Exam FAQs, the PSI Exam Center Experience video and the IIBA Certification FAQs. Ensure you have the acceptable identification with you. You will NOT be admitted to the examination without the proper identification, and there will be no refund of your test fee. Breaks: You can take a break (i.e. outside the testing room) but cannot be longer than 15 minutes. You will need to take a break (i.e. outside the testing room) to get a drink. The clock will continue to run on the exam while you are on break. You will not be given extra time. Upon return from a break, you will be rescreened/checked back into the testing room. You will be provided with 2 sheets of paper (8.5x11”) or a white board at the start. They will be collected at the end of the exam by the Test Center Administrator. A PSI online calculator will be available on your screen during the exam. NOTE: If you require more than what is allowed for an exam, please request a special accommodation prior to paying the exam fee. Consult the Special Accommodations section on this page.
  • How and when are exams offered?
    All exams are offered via remote online proctoring through PSI using your own computer. The BEX® exams are also available at the Stella Maris University Testing Locations as well as proctored online exams. You can select your option when you schedule your exam. Please review our Exam Information page.
  • How much time is needed to prepare for the exams?
    The amount of time required for studying depends on individual factors such as level of experience and knowledge. To help you prepare for the exam, please refer to the exam preparation suggestions listed on each certification page.
  • Are there training courses offered by BEX® for certification preparation, and are there other training providers available as well?
    While BEX® does not offer courses, we have Endorsed Education and Training Providers that offer courses which meet the professional development criteria for certification. These providers have been assessed and validated by BEX® to ensure the quality of their courses. You can find an endorsed provider and course that suits your needs by visiting the Endorsed Education and Training Provider page. Note that BEX® does not provide specific course recommendations.
  • Where can I find information on scheduling the exams?
    Please review our Exam Information page.
  • How do I request for a special accommodation for the exam?
    Please review our policy on the Exam Information page.
  • How do I cancel or reschedule my exam?
    Please review our exam cancellation and rescheduling policy within our Exam Information page.
  • How can I schedule my retake of an exam?
    You must wait for C-BAP to receive your exam result from the testing provider and upload it to your C-BAP profile before you can pay and schedule your rewrite exam. This may take up to 24 hours from your exam day. As soon as your score is uploaded into your C-BAP profile account, you will receive an e-mail from C-BAP instructing you on your next steps to pay the exam rewrite fee and to schedule your rewrite of the exam. To schedule your retake, you are required to pay the retake fee to C-BAP first.
  • How can I obtain information about exam logistics such as location, room, directions, and time after registering for an exam at a test center?
    After scheduling your exam at a test center, you will receive an email confirmation with the exam logistics shortly. This email will contain information such as the location, room number, directions, and scheduled time of your exam. Two days prior to your exam date, you will receive an appointment reminder via email.
  • I cannot schedule my exam because I am getting an error message, what do I do?
    If you experience an error while trying to schedule your exam, please contact certification@bex.org.
  • How will an incorrect address on the exam confirmation email from the testing administrator impact admission to the exam?
    It will not affect your admission into the exam.
  • Within my exam confirmation e-mail from the testing administrator, my name is incorrect or incomplete. Will this affect admission into my exam?
    Yes, it will affect your admission into the exam. Please e-mail certification@cbap.org right away. If you are not admitted to the exam due to inadequate identification, you will be required to pay a fee to IIBA in order to reschedule your exam.
  • What kind of identification do I need the day of the exam?
    To find out what type of identification is required on the day of your exam, please review our Exam Information page.
  • What could be the reason for not being able to access the online remote proctored exam even after passing the system compatibility check?
    Even if the system compatibility check has been passed, there could be various reasons why you may not be able to access the online remote proctored exam on the day of your scheduled exam. Some common reasons include internet connectivity issues, technical problems with the exam platform, software updates, and firewall settings. It is recommended to perform a system check a few days before the exam and to reach out to the exam administrator if any issues arise.
  • What happens if I miss the exam or arrive late to the exam?
    If you miss your exam date without canceling or rescheduling beforehand and paying the necessary fee, you will be marked as a no-show and have to forfeit your exam fee or rewrite fee unless there is an extenuating circumstance. For exams at testing centers, you must arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled exam time. For remote proctored exams, if you are more than 15 minutes late for the exam, you will not be allowed to take the exam, and you will have to forfeit your exam fee or rewrite fee. You can find more information about our exam cancellation, rescheduling, missed or late policy on the Exam Information page.
  • What are the guidelines for items that are allowed and not allowed during an online proctored exam?
    To find out what is permitted and prohibited for an online proctored exam, please read The C-BAP® Guide to Online Proctored Exams and review the rules provided in the document titled On the Day of your Exam: Rules for Online Remote Proctored Exams.
  • How do I know what is permitted and prohibited when taking an exam at a Test Center?
    Read On the Day of your Exam: Rules for Exams at PSI Test Centers
  • What is the passing mark for the Certifications?
    At BEX®, we do not release scores or scoring percentages for any of our certification exams. This is in line with the practices of many professional member associations that offer professional certifications. Instead, we provide performance indicators to help candidates identify areas where they may need to improve their skills or knowledge. These indicators are intended to support candidates as they prepare for a retake of the exam or seek to enhance their job performance. Please note that they are not meant to be used for comparison with other candidates.
  • When will I receive my exam results?
    You will see your exam results immediately after you submit your exam. Confirmation of your exam result will also be emailed to you by BEX®. Please note that they are not meant to be used for comparison with other candidates. within 2 business days.
  • I passed my exam. When will my profile be updated?
    From your exam date, it can take up to 2 business day for BEX® to process your result from the testing provider. Once this is done, you will receive a confirmation e-mail from BEX®.
  • How do I recertify and what happens if I do not recertify?
    Please refer to the Recertification Handbook for details about your certification: CEBE™ CEQA™ CBEA™ CBPA™
  • Do I need to provide documentation for the activities that I completed to earn my Continuing Education Units (CEUs) when submitting my recertification application?
    It is not necessary to provide documents that verify your CEUs when you submit your recertification application. However, in case your application is selected for an audit, you will be required to provide proof at that time. It is advised that you keep a copy of the supporting documentation for all CEUs claimed for at least 12 months. The Recertification Handbooks provide a list of the required supporting documentation and acceptable formats under Audits and Audit Documentation.
  • How do I request a recertification extension for an extenuating circumstance?
    Recertification extensions can only be requested for extenuating circumstances. An extenuating circumstance is an event or hardship that would prevent you from completing your recertification. To request an extension, please visit the Extenuating Circumstance Policy page.
  • What is competency-based certification?
    Competency-based certification awards credentials based on an individual's proven mastery of the specific knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform a particular job or role. It differs from traditional certification programs that require completion of a curriculum or specific learning program. Competency-based certification, such as the CBEA™, CBPA™, CEQA™ and CEBE™, evaluates an individual's actual performance and abilities through practical assessments, exams, and other evaluations. This type of certification is often used in professional and technical fields where job-specific skills and knowledge are essential for success.
  • What is the difference between a Certificate and a Professional Certification?
  • Do I need to be a BEX® member to apply for certification or recertification?
    Membership with BEX® is not mandatory to apply for certification. However, there are various advantages to becoming a member, including but not limited to discounted certification and recertification fees, free PDF copy of the BEX® Guide, and other benefits.
  • I am in a Suspended Status. What do I do?
    Please refer to the relevant Recertification Handbook for details.
  • What the eligibility Requirement for CBEA™, CBPA™, CEQA™, CEBE™?
    Please refer to the certification pages: Certified Executive in Business Excellence (CEBE™) Certified Excellence Quality Administrator (CEQA™) Certified Business Performance Advisor (CBPA™) Certified Business Excellence Analyst (CBEA™)
  • What activities count towards fulfilling the Professional Development Requirement for BEX® certification?
    The Professional Development (PD) requirement for BEX® refers to any training or education that helps to enhance your skills and knowledge in a particular area. This can include various activities such as: Classroom and online courses (including those endorsed by colleges or other providers), Webinars (both live and recorded) Conference sessions, tutorials, keynotes, workshops, Chapter events (such as presentations, study groups, workshops, and conference days), and Self-directed learning (such as reading and reviewing the BEX® Guide). It's important to note that the content of these professional development activities must align with the BEX® Guide.
  • Can you provide information on the activities that can fulfill the Professional Development requirements for CEQA™ and CEBE™?
    For a course to fulfill the Professional Development requirement, it must comply with the following guidelines: The session must be led or moderated like a formal course and have clear learning objectives that can be measured. The objectives must be applicable directly to the role of the business analyst and have the potential to enhance skills or change behavior. Simply providing a presentation on a particular topic is not sufficient. Students must have the opportunity to engage with the content, make the learning significant, and practice the presented task or objective. The facilitator or moderator must assess the students' performance. The subject matter must be directly linked to the BEX® Guide. Additionally, courses must have been initiated within the past four years from the date the application was submitted and completed by the same date. All courses in the Endorsed Education and Training Provider program meet the aforementioned requirements and are automatically approved by BEX®. The Endorsed Education and Training Provider section of our website enables you to check if any courses you have already taken are included in the program. To determine if any previously taken courses are included in our program, search the Endorsed Education and Training Provider section of our website.
  • Are Professional Development hours the same as Continuing Education Units (CEU) on the application?
    Yes, Professional Development hours are the same as Continuing Education Units (CEU) on the application. When applying online, you enter in your professional development hours in the CEU field. Please note: 1 hour of Professional Development = 1 CEU Hour.
  • Will BEX® verify professional development or work experience?
    Applicants and recipients may be randomly selected for audit to validate work experience, professional development and other information provided when they apply and/or recertify.
  • Can practical experience gained through instructing business excellence workshops and providing consulting services beyond the classroom discussions be used to fulfill the work experience requirement for certification? Also, what is the process for recording this experience?
    Coaching and training provided during a training session cannot be considered as work experience for certification, as it is considered part of the training course. Nevertheless, any subsequent coaching and consulting services offered outside of the training course, which are specific to a participant’s work situation, can count towards the work experience requirement. To keep track of such hours spent on coaching and consulting across different organizations, it is recommended to combine them into one project for documentation purposes. In addition, you will need to provide the contact details of a person from your organization who can verify that you provided the service to course participants and the number of hours spent on it.
  • What is the required number of references and what are the criteria that must be met by these references?
    To complete the application, you must enter, into your application, two references: either a career manager, client (internal or external), or BEX® recipient. BEX® will only ask for endorsement from your references if your application is selected for a random audit. If your application is selected for a random audit, it is the applicant’s responsibility to do any necessary follow-up to ensure that the references reply to BEX® in a timely fashion. These references must meet the following conditions: At least one of the references must be a current contact. All references must have known the applicant for at least six months. A career manager is defined by BEX® as the person who is responsible for providing and preparing the applicant’s annual performance review. Project managers cannot be references unless they are also the applicant’s career manager. The reference form must clearly indicate they fill both roles or the reference will not qualify.
  • What are the fees for certification?
    Please Follow this link for our Certification Fees page.
  • Is it possible to make a combined payment for both the application fee and exam fee?
    To initiate the certification process, you must pay the application fee and submit your hours for approval. Once your application has been approved, you can then pay the exam fee to schedule your exam.
  • How do I apply for BEX® certification?
    For information on how to apply for certification and submit your hours for approval, please refer to the BEX® Certification Handbook, which contains detailed information and specific process documents. If you are interested in CBPA™ and CBEA™ certification, please refer to section 3.0 of the handbook, which covers the CBPA™ and CBEA™ Application Process. For CEBE™ and CEQA™ certification, please refer to section 2.0 of the handbook, which covers the CEBE™ and CEQA™ Application Process.
  • What is the process for requesting a refund of the exam or exam retake fee?
    You can request a refund of your exam or exam retake fee within 12 months from the date that BEX® received your exam payment. After this period, the payment becomes non-refundable, and you forfeit the amount paid. To request a refund, please send an email to certification@bex.org. Please note that cancellation fees may still apply, and the Exam Cancellation/Reschedule/Missed or Late policy may override the refund policy in certain situations. Before requesting a refund, you must first cancel your scheduled exam with PSI. Once you have done this, you can then email your refund request to certification@bex.org, including a reason for the request. It is important to note that the application fee for BEX® core certifications is non-refundable.
  • What are the available payment options for the certification application and/or exam fee?
    You can pay the application and/or exam fee using any of the following methods: Online payment through PayPal or credit card (Mastercard, Visa, Amex) using the shopping cart on the BEX® website. Bank deposit at a location recommended by the testing site. Mailing in a cheque or international money order along with a copy of your invoice.
  • What is the timeline for receiving notification of exam eligibility after submitting the application for certification?
    Your submitted application will undergo an immediate assessment to ensure that you have met all the eligibility requirements. You can only submit your application if all the requirements have been satisfied. Upon meeting all requirements, you can submit the application, and you will receive an email instantly indicating whether you are approved or approved pending audit. If you are approved, the email will also provide instructions on paying the exam fee, enabling you to schedule the exam.
  • In the event that I am chosen for an audit, what should I do?
    For all levels of the core business analysis certification program, random application audits are conducted. If an applicant is selected for an audit, their application will be evaluated to ensure the accuracy of the work experience, professional development, and references submitted. If the application is marked as "approved pending audit," the audit will be conducted within a month. The applicant may be requested to verify information on their application. The applicant is responsible for acquiring and providing this verification, and the timing of the audit is determined by the responses from references. If the audit is unsuccessful, the applicant will be notified via email of the reason and the application will not be approved, with all fees paid forfeited. The applicant may reapply only after addressing the reasons for the failed audit, and may also appeal the decision by sending an email to certification@bex.org.
  • What is the process for requesting an extension on the application?
    The policy for application extensions is reserved for extenuating circumstances. These circumstances refer to an event or hardship that would make it necessary for an applicant to request an extension. You can request an extension or learn more about the requirements by referring to our Extenuating Circumstance Policy.
  • Is it possible to apply the exam fee paid for an expired application towards a new application, if the exam has not been taken yet?
    Please note that any paid exam or exam retake fee cannot be carried over to a subsequent application. Applicants have a 12-month period from the day your exam payment was received by BEX® to ask for a refund. If you fail to make the request within this timeframe, your exam or exam retake fee payment will be forfeited. To seek a refund of your exam or exam retake fee, please send an email to certification@bex.org and provide a reason for your refund request.
  • Is it feasible to apply the same work experience and professional development hours entered for a lower certification level, such as from CBEA™ to CBPA™ or from CEQA™ to CEBE™, towards a higher certification level?
    If you are applying for a higher level of certification, such as from CBEA™ to CBPA™ or from CEQA™ to CEBE™, you may reuse your previously entered work experience and professional development hours, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements for the new certification level.
  • What identification types are needed to be admitted to the exam?
    Exam Admission Requirements To take the BEX® certification exam, you must present a valid, current, and government-issued photo ID with your signature. The name on your ID must match the name on your email confirmation from BEX®. If there is any discrepancy in your name, please contact certification@bex.org to resolve the issue at least one week before your scheduled exam appointment. Please note that you will not be allowed to take the exam without proper identification, and no refund will be provided in case of failure to comply with this requirement. Acceptable IDs must be original (not a photocopy) and not expired, and include both a photo and signature. The following types of IDs are accepted: Government-issued driver's license National/state/country identification card Government-issued passport
  • Scheduling Your Exam
    To schedule your BEX® exam, you must log in to your account and access the Certification section under My Certifications. From there, click the "Schedule and Pass Exam" button which will take you to the PSI exam scheduling page where you can select your preferred language, country, time zone, and exam date and time. Once you have confirmed the details, your booking will be created and you will be directed to the "View Details" page where you can review security procedures, required identification documents, and exam instructions. If needed, you can also reschedule or cancel your exam from this page. It is important to note that exams must be scheduled at least 3 business days in advance.
  • Cancellation and Reschedule Policy
    Within 12 months from the date BEX® receives your exam or exam rewrite fee, you may request a refund. After this period, your exam or exam rewrite fee payment becomes non-refundable, and you will need to repay the fee to schedule and sit the exam. To receive a refund within the eligibility period, cancel your scheduled exam, and email your refund request to certification@bex.org. However, missing the scheduled exam without cancelling or rescheduling in advance will result in forfeiture of the exam fee or exam rewrite fee already paid, unless there is an extenuating circumstance, and you will need to repay the fee to schedule and sit the exam. To cancel or reschedule the exam, login with your BEX® credentials, select Certification > My Certifications, and click the Schedule and Pass Exam button. You will be directed to the PSI exam scheduling page, where you can select the Cancel Schedule or Reschedule button. Please note that PSI requires a minimum of 3 business days to reschedule your exam without penalty. For further information on cancellations and rescheduling, refer to the Scheduling and Rescheduling section within the PSI Exams FAQs.
  • Special Accommodations (only if required)
    Special accommodations for the exam can be requested if you have a disability, handicap, or condition that may affect your ability to take the exam. Requests for special exam accommodations must be reasonable and should not compromise the validity and reliability of the exam. Before scheduling your exam, contact BEX® at certification@bex.org to request special accommodations. To request special accommodations, you will need to provide a note from a doctor or healthcare professional that explains your diagnosis and supports the need for the accommodations. The note should include specific recommendations for the accommodations that are required. Do not schedule your exam until after you have received approval for your request. If you need to reschedule or cancel your exam, include the original exam date and the desired exam date in your email to certification@bex.org. Once your request has been approved, you will receive an email from BEX® with instructions on how to schedule your exam with the accommodations.
  • Taking CEQA™ or CEBE™ at a PSI Exam Center
    CEQA™ and CEBE™ exams can be taken either remotely via online proctoring or in person at PSI Exam Centers. These two exams are the only IIBA exams offered at exam centers. To ensure a smooth testing experience, make sure to check the PSI Exam FAQs for specific requirements related to the test center, such as arrival time, items allowed and not allowed, and questions from the Exam Administrator. Additionally, you can watch the PSI Test Center Experience video to learn more about what to expect.
  • What are the rules that need to be followed on the day of an online remote proctored exam?
    Important reminders for the day of your exam: Make sure you have your acceptable identification ready. Review the PSI Exam FAQs and the PSI Remote Proctored Candidate Experience video before your exam. Note that only one monitor is allowed during the exam. Log in up to 30 minutes before your scheduled start time to complete the check-in procedures. To access the PSI exam page, use your BEX® credentials and select Certification > My Certifications > Schedule and Pass Exam button. Double-check the security procedures, acceptable identification, and exam instructions to ensure that you're ready to launch the exam. The Proctor will provide guidance and check you in at your scheduled start time. Special Rules for CBEA™ to CBPA™ Exams: During the exam, it is not allowed to take breaks away from the Proctor's view. You can take a moment to get up and stretch at your desk as long as the Proctor can see you. You are permitted to have a clear water bottle with no labels, as well as blank paper (8.5x11”) or a whiteboard (8.5x11”) to take notes during the exam. Note that the Proctor will ask you to tear up the paper or erase the whiteboard before ending the exam. Special Rules for CEQA™ and CEBE™ Exams: During the exam, you are permitted one break of up to 15 minutes away from the Proctor's view. The exam timer will continue to run during the break, and you will not be granted extra time. If you exceed the 15-minute time limit, your exam will be considered abandoned, and you will forfeit your exam fee. To take the exam again at a later date, you will be required to pay the full exam fee. An online calculator will be provided on the exam screen. Additionally, you are allowed to have a clear water bottle without labels and a blank paper or whiteboard (8.5x11") to make notes during the exam. Please note that you will be asked to tear up the paper and erase the whiteboard before ending the exam. If you need additional accommodations beyond what is typically allowed during an exam, please make a request for a special accommodation before paying the exam fee. You can find more information on how to make such requests in the Special Accommodations section of this FAQ.
  • On the Day of your Exam: Rules for Exams at PSI Exam Centers
    These rules apply to you only if you are taking your CCBA ®or CBAP® exam at a PSI Exam Center. Before you go to the PSI Exam Center, review the rules for arrival time, testing environment, screening, and check-in process, if you have not done so previously. Review the PSI Exam FAQs, the PSI Exam Center Experience video and the IIBA Certification FAQs. Ensure you have the acceptable identification with you. You will NOT be admitted to the examination without the proper identification, and there will be no refund of your test fee. Breaks: You can take a break (i.e. outside the testing room) but cannot be longer than 15 minutes. You will need to take a break (i.e. outside the testing room) to get a drink. The clock will continue to run on the exam while you are on break. You will not be given extra time. Upon return from a break, you will be rescreened/checked back into the testing room. You will be provided with 2 sheets of paper (8.5x11”) or a white board at the start. They will be collected at the end of the exam by the Test Center Administrator. A PSI online calculator will be available on your screen during the exam. NOTE: If you require more than what is allowed for an exam, please request a special accommodation prior to paying the exam fee. Consult the Special Accommodations section on this page.
  • How and when are exams offered?
    All exams are offered via remote online proctoring through PSI using your own computer. The BEX® exams are also available at the Stella Maris University Testing Locations as well as proctored online exams. You can select your option when you schedule your exam. Please review our Exam Information page.
  • How much time is needed to prepare for the exams?
    The amount of time required for studying depends on individual factors such as level of experience and knowledge. To help you prepare for the exam, please refer to the exam preparation suggestions listed on each certification page.
  • Are there training courses offered by BEX® for certification preparation, and are there other training providers available as well?
    While BEX® does not offer courses, we have Endorsed Education and Training Providers that offer courses which meet the professional development criteria for certification. These providers have been assessed and validated by BEX® to ensure the quality of their courses. You can find an endorsed provider and course that suits your needs by visiting the Endorsed Education and Training Provider page. Note that BEX® does not provide specific course recommendations.
  • Where can I find information on scheduling the exams?
    Please review our Exam Information page.
  • How do I request for a special accommodation for the exam?
    Please review our policy on the Exam Information page.
  • How do I cancel or reschedule my exam?
    Please review our exam cancellation and rescheduling policy within our Exam Information page.
  • How can I schedule my retake of an exam?
    You must wait for C-BAP to receive your exam result from the testing provider and upload it to your C-BAP profile before you can pay and schedule your rewrite exam. This may take up to 24 hours from your exam day. As soon as your score is uploaded into your C-BAP profile account, you will receive an e-mail from C-BAP instructing you on your next steps to pay the exam rewrite fee and to schedule your rewrite of the exam. To schedule your retake, you are required to pay the retake fee to C-BAP first.
  • How can I obtain information about exam logistics such as location, room, directions, and time after registering for an exam at a test center?
    After scheduling your exam at a test center, you will receive an email confirmation with the exam logistics shortly. This email will contain information such as the location, room number, directions, and scheduled time of your exam. Two days prior to your exam date, you will receive an appointment reminder via email.
  • I cannot schedule my exam because I am getting an error message, what do I do?
    If you experience an error while trying to schedule your exam, please contact certification@bex.org.
  • How will an incorrect address on the exam confirmation email from the testing administrator impact admission to the exam?
    It will not affect your admission into the exam.
  • Within my exam confirmation e-mail from the testing administrator, my name is incorrect or incomplete. Will this affect admission into my exam?
    Yes, it will affect your admission into the exam. Please e-mail certification@cbap.org right away. If you are not admitted to the exam due to inadequate identification, you will be required to pay a fee to IIBA in order to reschedule your exam.
  • What kind of identification do I need the day of the exam?
    To find out what type of identification is required on the day of your exam, please review our Exam Information page.
  • What could be the reason for not being able to access the online remote proctored exam even after passing the system compatibility check?
    Even if the system compatibility check has been passed, there could be various reasons why you may not be able to access the online remote proctored exam on the day of your scheduled exam. Some common reasons include internet connectivity issues, technical problems with the exam platform, software updates, and firewall settings. It is recommended to perform a system check a few days before the exam and to reach out to the exam administrator if any issues arise.
  • What happens if I miss the exam or arrive late to the exam?
    If you miss your exam date without canceling or rescheduling beforehand and paying the necessary fee, you will be marked as a no-show and have to forfeit your exam fee or rewrite fee unless there is an extenuating circumstance. For exams at testing centers, you must arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled exam time. For remote proctored exams, if you are more than 15 minutes late for the exam, you will not be allowed to take the exam, and you will have to forfeit your exam fee or rewrite fee. You can find more information about our exam cancellation, rescheduling, missed or late policy on the Exam Information page.
  • What are the guidelines for items that are allowed and not allowed during an online proctored exam?
    To find out what is permitted and prohibited for an online proctored exam, please read The C-BAP® Guide to Online Proctored Exams and review the rules provided in the document titled On the Day of your Exam: Rules for Online Remote Proctored Exams.
  • How do I know what is permitted and prohibited when taking an exam at a Test Center?
    Read On the Day of your Exam: Rules for Exams at PSI Test Centers
  • What is the passing mark for the Certifications?
    At BEX®, we do not release scores or scoring percentages for any of our certification exams. This is in line with the practices of many professional member associations that offer professional certifications. Instead, we provide performance indicators to help candidates identify areas where they may need to improve their skills or knowledge. These indicators are intended to support candidates as they prepare for a retake of the exam or seek to enhance their job performance. Please note that they are not meant to be used for comparison with other candidates.
  • When will I receive my exam results?
    You will see your exam results immediately after you submit your exam. Confirmation of your exam result will also be emailed to you by BEX®. Please note that they are not meant to be used for comparison with other candidates. within 2 business days.
  • I passed my exam. When will my profile be updated?
    From your exam date, it can take up to 2 business day for BEX® to process your result from the testing provider. Once this is done, you will receive a confirmation e-mail from BEX®.
  • How do I recertify and what happens if I do not recertify?
    Please refer to the Recertification Handbook for details about your certification: CEBE™ CEQA™ CBEA™ CBPA™
  • Do I need to provide documentation for the activities that I completed to earn my Continuing Education Units (CEUs) when submitting my recertification application?
    It is not necessary to provide documents that verify your CEUs when you submit your recertification application. However, in case your application is selected for an audit, you will be required to provide proof at that time. It is advised that you keep a copy of the supporting documentation for all CEUs claimed for at least 12 months. The Recertification Handbooks provide a list of the required supporting documentation and acceptable formats under Audits and Audit Documentation.
  • How do I request a recertification extension for an extenuating circumstance?
    Recertification extensions can only be requested for extenuating circumstances. An extenuating circumstance is an event or hardship that would prevent you from completing your recertification. To request an extension, please visit the Extenuating Circumstance Policy page.
  • What is competency-based certification?
    Competency-based certification awards credentials based on an individual's proven mastery of the specific knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform a particular job or role. It differs from traditional certification programs that require completion of a curriculum or specific learning program. Competency-based certification, such as the CBEA™, CBPA™, CEQA™ and CEBE™, evaluates an individual's actual performance and abilities through practical assessments, exams, and other evaluations. This type of certification is often used in professional and technical fields where job-specific skills and knowledge are essential for success.
  • What is the difference between a Certificate and a Professional Certification?
  • Do I need to be a BEX® member to apply for certification or recertification?
    Membership with BEX® is not mandatory to apply for certification. However, there are various advantages to becoming a member, including but not limited to discounted certification and recertification fees, free PDF copy of the BEX® Guide, and other benefits.
  • I am in a Suspended Status. What do I do?
    Please refer to the relevant Recertification Handbook for details.
  • What the eligibility Requirement for CBEA™, CBPA™, CEQA™, CEBE™?
    Please refer to the certification pages: Certified Executive in Business Excellence (CEBE™) Certified Excellence Quality Administrator (CEQA™) Certified Business Performance Advisor (CBPA™) Certified Business Excellence Analyst (CBEA™)
  • What activities count towards fulfilling the Professional Development Requirement for BEX® certification?
    The Professional Development (PD) requirement for BEX® refers to any training or education that helps to enhance your skills and knowledge in a particular area. This can include various activities such as: Classroom and online courses (including those endorsed by colleges or other providers), Webinars (both live and recorded) Conference sessions, tutorials, keynotes, workshops, Chapter events (such as presentations, study groups, workshops, and conference days), and Self-directed learning (such as reading and reviewing the BEX® Guide). It's important to note that the content of these professional development activities must align with the BEX® Guide.
  • Can you provide information on the activities that can fulfill the Professional Development requirements for CEQA™ and CEBE™?
    For a course to fulfill the Professional Development requirement, it must comply with the following guidelines: The session must be led or moderated like a formal course and have clear learning objectives that can be measured. The objectives must be applicable directly to the role of the business analyst and have the potential to enhance skills or change behavior. Simply providing a presentation on a particular topic is not sufficient. Students must have the opportunity to engage with the content, make the learning significant, and practice the presented task or objective. The facilitator or moderator must assess the students' performance. The subject matter must be directly linked to the BEX® Guide. Additionally, courses must have been initiated within the past four years from the date the application was submitted and completed by the same date. All courses in the Endorsed Education and Training Provider program meet the aforementioned requirements and are automatically approved by BEX®. The Endorsed Education and Training Provider section of our website enables you to check if any courses you have already taken are included in the program. To determine if any previously taken courses are included in our program, search the Endorsed Education and Training Provider section of our website.
  • Are Professional Development hours the same as Continuing Education Units (CEU) on the application?
    Yes, Professional Development hours are the same as Continuing Education Units (CEU) on the application. When applying online, you enter in your professional development hours in the CEU field. Please note: 1 hour of Professional Development = 1 CEU Hour.
  • Will BEX® verify professional development or work experience?
    Applicants and recipients may be randomly selected for audit to validate work experience, professional development and other information provided when they apply and/or recertify.
  • Can practical experience gained through instructing business excellence workshops and providing consulting services beyond the classroom discussions be used to fulfill the work experience requirement for certification? Also, what is the process for recording this experience?
    Coaching and training provided during a training session cannot be considered as work experience for certification, as it is considered part of the training course. Nevertheless, any subsequent coaching and consulting services offered outside of the training course, which are specific to a participant’s work situation, can count towards the work experience requirement. To keep track of such hours spent on coaching and consulting across different organizations, it is recommended to combine them into one project for documentation purposes. In addition, you will need to provide the contact details of a person from your organization who can verify that you provided the service to course participants and the number of hours spent on it.
  • What is the required number of references and what are the criteria that must be met by these references?
    To complete the application, you must enter, into your application, two references: either a career manager, client (internal or external), or BEX® recipient. BEX® will only ask for endorsement from your references if your application is selected for a random audit. If your application is selected for a random audit, it is the applicant’s responsibility to do any necessary follow-up to ensure that the references reply to BEX® in a timely fashion. These references must meet the following conditions: At least one of the references must be a current contact. All references must have known the applicant for at least six months. A career manager is defined by BEX® as the person who is responsible for providing and preparing the applicant’s annual performance review. Project managers cannot be references unless they are also the applicant’s career manager. The reference form must clearly indicate they fill both roles or the reference will not qualify.
  • What are the fees for certification?
    Please Follow this link for our Certification Fees page.
  • Is it possible to make a combined payment for both the application fee and exam fee?
    To initiate the certification process, you must pay the application fee and submit your hours for approval. Once your application has been approved, you can then pay the exam fee to schedule your exam.
  • How do I apply for BEX® certification?
    For information on how to apply for certification and submit your hours for approval, please refer to the BEX® Certification Handbook, which contains detailed information and specific process documents. If you are interested in CBPA™ and CBEA™ certification, please refer to section 3.0 of the handbook, which covers the CBPA™ and CBEA™ Application Process. For CEBE™ and CEQA™ certification, please refer to section 2.0 of the handbook, which covers the CEBE™ and CEQA™ Application Process.
  • What is the process for requesting a refund of the exam or exam retake fee?
    You can request a refund of your exam or exam retake fee within 12 months from the date that BEX® received your exam payment. After this period, the payment becomes non-refundable, and you forfeit the amount paid. To request a refund, please send an email to certification@bex.org. Please note that cancellation fees may still apply, and the Exam Cancellation/Reschedule/Missed or Late policy may override the refund policy in certain situations. Before requesting a refund, you must first cancel your scheduled exam with PSI. Once you have done this, you can then email your refund request to certification@bex.org, including a reason for the request. It is important to note that the application fee for BEX® core certifications is non-refundable.
  • What are the available payment options for the certification application and/or exam fee?
    You can pay the application and/or exam fee using any of the following methods: Online payment through PayPal or credit card (Mastercard, Visa, Amex) using the shopping cart on the BEX® website. Bank deposit at a location recommended by the testing site. Mailing in a cheque or international money order along with a copy of your invoice.
  • What is the timeline for receiving notification of exam eligibility after submitting the application for certification?
    Your submitted application will undergo an immediate assessment to ensure that you have met all the eligibility requirements. You can only submit your application if all the requirements have been satisfied. Upon meeting all requirements, you can submit the application, and you will receive an email instantly indicating whether you are approved or approved pending audit. If you are approved, the email will also provide instructions on paying the exam fee, enabling you to schedule the exam.
  • In the event that I am chosen for an audit, what should I do?
    For all levels of the core business analysis certification program, random application audits are conducted. If an applicant is selected for an audit, their application will be evaluated to ensure the accuracy of the work experience, professional development, and references submitted. If the application is marked as "approved pending audit," the audit will be conducted within a month. The applicant may be requested to verify information on their application. The applicant is responsible for acquiring and providing this verification, and the timing of the audit is determined by the responses from references. If the audit is unsuccessful, the applicant will be notified via email of the reason and the application will not be approved, with all fees paid forfeited. The applicant may reapply only after addressing the reasons for the failed audit, and may also appeal the decision by sending an email to certification@bex.org.
  • What is the process for requesting an extension on the application?
    The policy for application extensions is reserved for extenuating circumstances. These circumstances refer to an event or hardship that would make it necessary for an applicant to request an extension. You can request an extension or learn more about the requirements by referring to our Extenuating Circumstance Policy.
  • Is it possible to apply the exam fee paid for an expired application towards a new application, if the exam has not been taken yet?
    Please note that any paid exam or exam retake fee cannot be carried over to a subsequent application. Applicants have a 12-month period from the day your exam payment was received by BEX® to ask for a refund. If you fail to make the request within this timeframe, your exam or exam retake fee payment will be forfeited. To seek a refund of your exam or exam retake fee, please send an email to certification@bex.org and provide a reason for your refund request.
  • Is it feasible to apply the same work experience and professional development hours entered for a lower certification level, such as from CBEA™ to CBPA™ or from CEQA™ to CEBE™, towards a higher certification level?
    If you are applying for a higher level of certification, such as from CBEA™ to CBPA™ or from CEQA™ to CEBE™, you may reuse your previously entered work experience and professional development hours, as long as they meet the eligibility requirements for the new certification level.
  • What identification types are needed to be admitted to the exam?
    Exam Admission Requirements To take the BEX® certification exam, you must present a valid, current, and government-issued photo ID with your signature. The name on your ID must match the name on your email confirmation from BEX®. If there is any discrepancy in your name, please contact certification@bex.org to resolve the issue at least one week before your scheduled exam appointment. Please note that you will not be allowed to take the exam without proper identification, and no refund will be provided in case of failure to comply with this requirement. Acceptable IDs must be original (not a photocopy) and not expired, and include both a photo and signature. The following types of IDs are accepted: Government-issued driver's license National/state/country identification card Government-issued passport
  • Scheduling Your Exam
    To schedule your BEX® exam, you must log in to your account and access the Certification section under My Certifications. From there, click the "Schedule and Pass Exam" button which will take you to the PSI exam scheduling page where you can select your preferred language, country, time zone, and exam date and time. Once you have confirmed the details, your booking will be created and you will be directed to the "View Details" page where you can review security procedures, required identification documents, and exam instructions. If needed, you can also reschedule or cancel your exam from this page. It is important to note that exams must be scheduled at least 3 business days in advance.
  • Cancellation and Reschedule Policy
    Within 12 months from the date BEX® receives your exam or exam rewrite fee, you may request a refund. After this period, your exam or exam rewrite fee payment becomes non-refundable, and you will need to repay the fee to schedule and sit the exam. To receive a refund within the eligibility period, cancel your scheduled exam, and email your refund request to certification@bex.org. However, missing the scheduled exam without cancelling or rescheduling in advance will result in forfeiture of the exam fee or exam rewrite fee already paid, unless there is an extenuating circumstance, and you will need to repay the fee to schedule and sit the exam. To cancel or reschedule the exam, login with your BEX® credentials, select Certification > My Certifications, and click the Schedule and Pass Exam button. You will be directed to the PSI exam scheduling page, where you can select the Cancel Schedule or Reschedule button. Please note that PSI requires a minimum of 3 business days to reschedule your exam without penalty. For further information on cancellations and rescheduling, refer to the Scheduling and Rescheduling section within the PSI Exams FAQs.
  • Special Accommodations (only if required)
    Special accommodations for the exam can be requested if you have a disability, handicap, or condition that may affect your ability to take the exam. Requests for special exam accommodations must be reasonable and should not compromise the validity and reliability of the exam. Before scheduling your exam, contact BEX® at certification@bex.org to request special accommodations. To request special accommodations, you will need to provide a note from a doctor or healthcare professional that explains your diagnosis and supports the need for the accommodations. The note should include specific recommendations for the accommodations that are required. Do not schedule your exam until after you have received approval for your request. If you need to reschedule or cancel your exam, include the original exam date and the desired exam date in your email to certification@bex.org. Once your request has been approved, you will receive an email from BEX® with instructions on how to schedule your exam with the accommodations.
  • Taking CEQA™ or CEBE™ at a PSI Exam Center
    CEQA™ and CEBE™ exams can be taken either remotely via online proctoring or in person at PSI Exam Centers. These two exams are the only IIBA exams offered at exam centers. To ensure a smooth testing experience, make sure to check the PSI Exam FAQs for specific requirements related to the test center, such as arrival time, items allowed and not allowed, and questions from the Exam Administrator. Additionally, you can watch the PSI Test Center Experience video to learn more about what to expect.
  • What are the rules that need to be followed on the day of an online remote proctored exam?
    Important reminders for the day of your exam: Make sure you have your acceptable identification ready. Review the PSI Exam FAQs and the PSI Remote Proctored Candidate Experience video before your exam. Note that only one monitor is allowed during the exam. Log in up to 30 minutes before your scheduled start time to complete the check-in procedures. To access the PSI exam page, use your BEX® credentials and select Certification > My Certifications > Schedule and Pass Exam button. Double-check the security procedures, acceptable identification, and exam instructions to ensure that you're ready to launch the exam. The Proctor will provide guidance and check you in at your scheduled start time. Special Rules for CBEA™ to CBPA™ Exams: During the exam, it is not allowed to take breaks away from the Proctor's view. You can take a moment to get up and stretch at your desk as long as the Proctor can see you. You are permitted to have a clear water bottle with no labels, as well as blank paper (8.5x11”) or a whiteboard (8.5x11”) to take notes during the exam. Note that the Proctor will ask you to tear up the paper or erase the whiteboard before ending the exam. Special Rules for CEQA™ and CEBE™ Exams: During the exam, you are permitted one break of up to 15 minutes away from the Proctor's view. The exam timer will continue to run during the break, and you will not be granted extra time. If you exceed the 15-minute time limit, your exam will be considered abandoned, and you will forfeit your exam fee. To take the exam again at a later date, you will be required to pay the full exam fee. An online calculator will be provided on the exam screen. Additionally, you are allowed to have a clear water bottle without labels and a blank paper or whiteboard (8.5x11") to make notes during the exam. Please note that you will be asked to tear up the paper and erase the whiteboard before ending the exam. If you need additional accommodations beyond what is typically allowed during an exam, please make a request for a special accommodation before paying the exam fee. You can find more information on how to make such requests in the Special Accommodations section of this FAQ.
  • On the Day of your Exam: Rules for Exams at PSI Exam Centers
    These rules apply to you only if you are taking your CCBA ®or CBAP® exam at a PSI Exam Center. Before you go to the PSI Exam Center, review the rules for arrival time, testing environment, screening, and check-in process, if you have not done so previously. Review the PSI Exam FAQs, the PSI Exam Center Experience video and the IIBA Certification FAQs. Ensure you have the acceptable identification with you. You will NOT be admitted to the examination without the proper identification, and there will be no refund of your test fee. Breaks: You can take a break (i.e. outside the testing room) but cannot be longer than 15 minutes. You will need to take a break (i.e. outside the testing room) to get a drink. The clock will continue to run on the exam while you are on break. You will not be given extra time. Upon return from a break, you will be rescreened/checked back into the testing room. You will be provided with 2 sheets of paper (8.5x11”) or a white board at the start. They will be collected at the end of the exam by the Test Center Administrator. A PSI online calculator will be available on your screen during the exam. NOTE: If you require more than what is allowed for an exam, please request a special accommodation prior to paying the exam fee. Consult the Special Accommodations section on this page.
  • How and when are exams offered?
    All exams are offered via remote online proctoring through PSI using your own computer. The BEX® exams are also available at the Stella Maris University Testing Locations as well as proctored online exams. You can select your option when you schedule your exam. Please review our Exam Information page.
  • How much time is needed to prepare for the exams?
    The amount of time required for studying depends on individual factors such as level of experience and knowledge. To help you prepare for the exam, please refer to the exam preparation suggestions listed on each certification page.
  • Are there training courses offered by BEX® for certification preparation, and are there other training providers available as well?
    While BEX® does not offer courses, we have Endorsed Education and Training Providers that offer courses which meet the professional development criteria for certification. These providers have been assessed and validated by BEX® to ensure the quality of their courses. You can find an endorsed provider and course that suits your needs by visiting the Endorsed Education and Training Provider page. Note that BEX® does not provide specific course recommendations.
  • Where can I find information on scheduling the exams?
    Please review our Exam Information page.
  • How do I request for a special accommodation for the exam?
    Please review our policy on the Exam Information page.
  • How do I cancel or reschedule my exam?
    Please review our exam cancellation and rescheduling policy within our Exam Information page.
  • How can I schedule my retake of an exam?
    You must wait for C-BAP to receive your exam result from the testing provider and upload it to your C-BAP profile before you can pay and schedule your rewrite exam. This may take up to 24 hours from your exam day. As soon as your score is uploaded into your C-BAP profile account, you will receive an e-mail from C-BAP instructing you on your next steps to pay the exam rewrite fee and to schedule your rewrite of the exam. To schedule your retake, you are required to pay the retake fee to C-BAP first.
  • How can I obtain information about exam logistics such as location, room, directions, and time after registering for an exam at a test center?
    After scheduling your exam at a test center, you will receive an email confirmation with the exam logistics shortly. This email will contain information such as the location, room number, directions, and scheduled time of your exam. Two days prior to your exam date, you will receive an appointment reminder via email.
  • I cannot schedule my exam because I am getting an error message, what do I do?
    If you experience an error while trying to schedule your exam, please contact certification@bex.org.
  • How will an incorrect address on the exam confirmation email from the testing administrator impact admission to the exam?
    It will not affect your admission into the exam.
  • Within my exam confirmation e-mail from the testing administrator, my name is incorrect or incomplete. Will this affect admission into my exam?
    Yes, it will affect your admission into the exam. Please e-mail certification@cbap.org right away. If you are not admitted to the exam due to inadequate identification, you will be required to pay a fee to IIBA in order to reschedule your exam.
  • What kind of identification do I need the day of the exam?
    To find out what type of identification is required on the day of your exam, please review our Exam Information page.
  • What could be the reason for not being able to access the online remote proctored exam even after passing the system compatibility check?
    Even if the system compatibility check has been passed, there could be various reasons why you may not be able to access the online remote proctored exam on the day of your scheduled exam. Some common reasons include internet connectivity issues, technical problems with the exam platform, software updates, and firewall settings. It is recommended to perform a system check a few days before the exam and to reach out to the exam administrator if any issues arise.
  • What happens if I miss the exam or arrive late to the exam?
    If you miss your exam date without canceling or rescheduling beforehand and paying the necessary fee, you will be marked as a no-show and have to forfeit your exam fee or rewrite fee unless there is an extenuating circumstance. For exams at testing centers, you must arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled exam time. For remote proctored exams, if you are more than 15 minutes late for the exam, you will not be allowed to take the exam, and you will have to forfeit your exam fee or rewrite fee. You can find more information about our exam cancellation, rescheduling, missed or late policy on the Exam Information page.
  • What are the guidelines for items that are allowed and not allowed during an online proctored exam?
    To find out what is permitted and prohibited for an online proctored exam, please read The C-BAP® Guide to Online Proctored Exams and review the rules provided in the document titled On the Day of your Exam: Rules for Online Remote Proctored Exams.
  • How do I know what is permitted and prohibited when taking an exam at a Test Center?
    Read On the Day of your Exam: Rules for Exams at PSI Test Centers
  • What is the passing mark for the Certifications?
    At BEX®, we do not release scores or scoring percentages for any of our certification exams. This is in line with the practices of many professional member associations that offer professional certifications. Instead, we provide performance indicators to help candidates identify areas where they may need to improve their skills or knowledge. These indicators are intended to support candidates as they prepare for a retake of the exam or seek to enhance their job performance. Please note that they are not meant to be used for comparison with other candidates.
  • When will I receive my exam results?
    You will see your exam results immediately after you submit your exam. Confirmation of your exam result will also be emailed to you by BEX®. Please note that they are not meant to be used for comparison with other candidates. within 2 business days.
  • I passed my exam. When will my profile be updated?
    From your exam date, it can take up to 2 business day for BEX® to process your result from the testing provider. Once this is done, you will receive a confirmation e-mail from BEX®.
  • How do I recertify and what happens if I do not recertify?
    Please refer to the Recertification Handbook for details about your certification: CEBE™ CEQA™ CBEA™ CBPA™
  • Do I need to provide documentation for the activities that I completed to earn my Continuing Education Units (CEUs) when submitting my recertification application?
    It is not necessary to provide documents that verify your CEUs when you submit your recertification application. However, in case your application is selected for an audit, you will be required to provide proof at that time. It is advised that you keep a copy of the supporting documentation for all CEUs claimed for at least 12 months. The Recertification Handbooks provide a list of the required supporting documentation and acceptable formats under Audits and Audit Documentation.
  • How do I request a recertification extension for an extenuating circumstance?
    Recertification extensions can only be requested for extenuating circumstances. An extenuating circumstance is an event or hardship that would prevent you from completing your recertification. To request an extension, please visit the Extenuating Circumstance Policy page.
  • What is competency-based certification?
    Competency-based certification awards credentials based on an individual's proven mastery of the specific knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform a particular job or role. It differs from traditional certification programs that require completion of a curriculum or specific learning program. Competency-based certification, such as the CBEA™, CBPA™, CEQA™ and CEBE™, evaluates an individual's actual performance and abilities through practical assessments, exams, and other evaluations. This type of certification is often used in professional and technical fields where job-specific skills and knowledge are essential for success.
  • What is the difference between a Certificate and a Professional Certification?
  • Do I need to be a BEX® member to apply for certification or recertification?
    Membership with BEX® is not mandatory to apply for certification. However, there are various advantages to becoming a member, including but not limited to discounted certification and recertification fees, free PDF copy of the BEX® Guide, and other benefits.
  • I am in a Suspended Status. What do I do?
    Please refer to the relevant Recertification Handbook for details.
  • What the eligibility Requirement for CBEA™, CBPA™, CEQA™, CEBE™?
    Please refer to the certification pages: Certified Executive in Business Excellence (CEBE™) Certified Excellence Quality Administrator (CEQA™) Certified Business Performance Advisor (CBPA™) Certified Business Excellence Analyst (CBEA™)
  • What activities count towards fulfilling the Professional Development Requirement for BEX® certification?
    The Professional Development (PD) requirement for BEX® refers to any training or education that helps to enhance your skills and knowledge in a particular area. This can include various activities such as: Classroom and online courses (including those endorsed by colleges or other providers), Webinars (both live and recorded) Conference sessions, tutorials, keynotes, workshops, Chapter events (such as presentations, study groups, workshops, and conference days), and Self-directed learning (such as reading and reviewing the BEX® Guide). It's important to note that the content of these professional development activities must align with the BEX® Guide.
  • Can you provide information on the activities that can fulfill the Professional Development requirements for CEQA™ and CEBE™?
    For a course to fulfill the Professional Development requirement, it must comply with the following guidelines: The session must be led or moderated like a formal course and have clear learning objectives that can be measured. The objectives must be applicable directly to the role of the business analyst and have the potential to enhance skills or change behavior. Simply providing a presentation on a particular topic is not sufficient. Students must have the opportunity to engage with the content, make the learning significant, and practice the presented task or objective. The facilitator or moderator must assess the students' performance. The subject matter must be directly linked to the BEX® Guide. Additionally, courses must have been initiated within the past four years from the date the application was submitted and completed by the same date. All courses in the Endorsed Education and Training Provider program meet the aforementioned requirements and are automatically approved by BEX®. The Endorsed Education and Training Provider section of our website enables you to check if any courses you have already taken are included in the program. To determine if any previously taken courses are included in our program, search the Endorsed Education and Training Provider section of our website.
  • Are Professional Development hours the same as Continuing Education Units (CEU) on the application?
    Yes, Professional Development hours are the same as Continuing Education Units (CEU) on the application. When applying online, you enter in your professional development hours in the CEU field. Please note: 1 hour of Professional Development = 1 CEU Hour.
  • Will BEX® verify professional development or work experience?
    Applicants and recipients may be randomly selected for audit to validate work experience, professional development and other information provided when they apply and/or recertify.
  • Can practical experience gained through instructing business excellence workshops and providing consulting services beyond the classroom discussions be used to fulfill the work experience requirement for certification? Also, what is the process for recording this experience?
    Coaching and training provided during a training session cannot be considered as work experience for certification, as it is considered part of the training course. Nevertheless, any subsequent coaching and consulting services offered outside of the training course, which are specific to a participant’s work situation, can count towards the work experience requirement. To keep track of such hours spent on coaching and consulting across different organizations, it is recommended to combine them into one project for documentation purposes. In addition, you will need to provide the contact details of a person from your organization who can verify that you provided the service to course participants and the number of hours spent on it.
  • What is the required number of references and what are the criteria that must be met by these references?
    To complete the application, you must enter, into your application, two references: either a career manager, client (internal or external), or BEX® recipient. BEX® will only ask for endorsement from your references if your application is selected for a random audit. If your application is selected for a random audit, it is the applicant’s responsibility to do any necessary follow-up to ensure that the references reply to BEX® in a timely fashion. These references must meet the following conditions: At least one of the references must be a current contact. All references must have known the applicant for at least six months. A career manager is defined by BEX® as the person who is responsible for providing and preparing the applicant’s annual performance review. Project managers cannot be references unless they are also the applicant’s career manager. The reference form must clearly indicate they fill both roles or the reference will not qualify.

Building Business Excellence Process & Capability is a Good Investment

Investing in building business excellence processes and capabilities can yield significant returns for organizations. Here are some numbers to back up this statement:
 

  1. Companies that invest in business excellence processes and capabilities see a return on investment (ROI) of 3.5 times their initial investment, on average. (PwC, 2011).

  2. Organizations with strong business excellence capabilities outperform their peers in terms of revenue growth and shareholder value creation. Companies with high business excellence scores had a revenue growth rate of 6.5%, compared to 4.4% for those with low scores. (The McKinsey & Company,  2010).

  3. Companies that prioritize business excellence processes and capabilities report higher levels of customer satisfaction, employee engagement, and financial performance. (ASQ, 2015)

  4. Implementing a business excellence framework such as ISO 9001 can result in cost savings, improved efficiency, and increased customer satisfaction. The ISO estimates that for every $1 spent on implementing ISO 9001, organizations can expect to see a return of $6 in improved efficiency and reduced waste (The International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 2012).

  5. Organizations that implement a business excellence framework like EFQM see a 14% improvement in productivity and a 16% improvement in customer satisfaction. (European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM), 2010).

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