📊 IIBA certifications

IIBA-AAC vs IIBA-CPOA

Both come from IIBA — but they target different roles and career stages. Here's how Agile Analysis Certification and Certificate in Product Ownership Analysis 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-CPOACertificate in Product Ownership Analysis
LevelSpecialty · AgileSpecialty · Product
Exam length2h 0m2h 0m
Questions (real exam)~85~85
Pass mark70%70%
In a sentenceProve your agile business analysis skills across the three horizons.Agile product ownership analysis for modern POs and BAs.
Free practice301 sample questions299 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-CPOAfacts 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-only — member: $250
Exam-only — non-member: $405
Learning + Exam bundle: $395 member / $550 non-member
Recertification (yearly): 20 CDUs + $30 member / $50 non-member
Study timearound 25–50 hours (no official IIBA figure)around 20–40 hours (no official IIBA figure)
Renewal20 Continuing Development Units (CDUs) every yearNone — the CPOA is a certificate and does not expire
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 work experience, education, PD, or reference requirements — read the handbook and pass the exam.
Body of knowledgethe Agile Extension to the BABOK Guide (v2)IIBA's Product Ownership Analysis guidance
Full fact pages IIBA-AAC cost · format · eligibility IIBA-CPOA 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-CPOA — questions, answered

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

Both come from IIBA. IIBA-AAC (Agile Analysis Certification) is a Specialty · Agile credential, while IIBA-CPOA (Certificate in Product Ownership Analysis) is a Specialty · Product credential. They differ mainly in target role, exam length and depth.

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

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

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

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

Start free — questions on either exam

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

Start free →