Both come from IIBA — but they target different roles and career stages. Here's how Certified Business Analysis Professional and Certification in Business Data Analytics compare, and how to choose.
The fastest way to see which credential fits your experience and goals.
| CBAP®Certified Business Analysis Professional | IIBA-CBDACertification in Business Data Analytics | |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Senior | Specialty · Data |
| Exam length | 3h 30m | 3h 0m |
| Questions (real exam) | ~120 | ~75 |
| Pass mark | 70% | 70% |
| In a sentence | The senior-level BABOK certification. | Where business analysis meets data analytics. |
| Free practice | 253 sample questions | 250 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.
Figures as published by each vendor, transcribed on the date shown. Where a vendor prices differently for members, both prices are listed.
| CBAP®facts as of August 2026 | IIBA-CBDAfacts as of August 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Application fee (one-time, non-refundable): $145 Exam fee — IIBA member: $350 (first-year membership included) Exam fee — non-member: $505 Retake — member: $295 Recertification (every 3 yrs): $85 member / $120 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 time | 150–200 hours over 2–3 months (roughly 5–8 hours a week) | around 30–50 hours (no official IIBA figure) |
| Renewal | 60 Continuing Development Units (CDUs) every 3 years | 20 Continuing Development Units (CDUs) every year |
| Entry requirement | 7,500 hours of BA work in the last 10 years | No mandatory requirements — open to anyone. IIBA recommends around 2 years of analysis work in business data analytics. |
| Body of knowledge | BABOK v3 | IIBA's Business Data Analytics guidance |
| Full fact pages | CBAP® 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.
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Both come from IIBA. CBAP® (Certified Business Analysis Professional) is a Senior credential, while IIBA-CBDA (Certification in Business Data Analytics) is a Specialty · Data credential. They differ mainly in target role, exam length and depth.
The CBAP® exam runs about 3h 30m with ~120 questions; the IIBA-CBDA exam runs about 3h 0m with ~75 questions. The more senior credential generally demands more applied, scenario-based judgement.
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