📊 IIBA certifications

IIBA-AAC vs IIBA-CBDA

Both come from IIBA — but they target different roles and career stages. Here's how Agile Analysis Certification and Certification in Business Data Analytics compare, and how to choose.

Side-by-side comparison

The fastest way to see which credential fits your experience and goals.

  IIBA-AACAgile Analysis Certification IIBA-CBDACertification in Business Data Analytics
LevelSpecialty · AgileSpecialty · Data
Exam length2h 0m3h 0m
Questions (real exam)~85~75
Pass mark70%70%
In a sentenceProve your agile business analysis skills across the three horizons.Where business analysis meets data analytics.
Free practice301 sample questions250 sample questions

Exam parameters are compiled from each vendor's official exam guide. Always confirm the current format, eligibility and fees on the official IIBA site before booking. ExamDeck is an independent study tool and is not affiliated with IIBA.

Cost, study time and renewal

Figures as published by each vendor, transcribed on the date shown. Where a vendor prices differently for members, both prices are listed.

  IIBA-AACfacts as of August 2026 IIBA-CBDAfacts as of August 2026
Fees
Application fee: Not required
Exam fee — member: $250
Exam fee — non-member: $405
Retake — member: $195 ($350 non-member)
Recertification (yearly): 20 CDUs + $30 member / $50 non-member
Application fee: Not required
Exam fee — member: $250
Exam fee — non-member: $405
Recertification (yearly): 20 CDUs + $30 member / $50 non-member
Study timearound 25–50 hours (no official IIBA figure)around 30–50 hours (no official IIBA figure)
Renewal20 Continuing Development Units (CDUs) every year20 Continuing Development Units (CDUs) every year
Entry requirementNo work experience, application fee, or references required. IIBA recommends (but does not require) 2–3 years of analysis work in an agile context.No mandatory requirements — open to anyone. IIBA recommends around 2 years of analysis work in business data analytics.
Body of knowledgethe Agile Extension to the BABOK Guide (v2)IIBA's Business Data Analytics guidance
Full fact pages IIBA-AAC cost · format · eligibility IIBA-CBDA cost · format · eligibility

Compare the three-year cost of any two certifications, member or not, with the certification cost calculator.

Practice for either exam — free

Original, expert-reviewed questions with an explanation for every option. No dumps, no ads.

IIBA-AAC vs IIBA-CBDA — questions, answered

What is the difference between IIBA-AAC and IIBA-CBDA?

Both come from IIBA. IIBA-AAC (Agile Analysis Certification) is a Specialty · Agile credential, while IIBA-CBDA (Certification in Business Data Analytics) is a Specialty · Data credential. They differ mainly in target role, exam length and depth.

Which is harder, IIBA-AAC or IIBA-CBDA?

The IIBA-AAC exam runs about 2h 0m with ~85 questions; the IIBA-CBDA exam runs about 3h 0m with ~75 questions. The more senior credential generally demands more applied, scenario-based judgement.

Can I practice both IIBA-AAC and IIBA-CBDA for free?

Yes. ExamDeck offers free sample questions in full study mode for both IIBA-AAC and IIBA-CBDA, with an explanation for every option. No credit card required.

Start free — questions on either exam

Try IIBA-AAC or IIBA-CBDA practice in study mode, with full explanations and sources. No card required.

Start free →