Certification in Business Data Analytics (IIBA) and PMI Professional in Business Analysis (PMI) cover different bodies of knowledge. Here's how they compare side by side — and how to pick the one that fits your role.
The fastest way to see which credential fits your experience and goals.
| IIBA-CBDACertification in Business Data Analytics | PMI-PBA®PMI Professional in Business Analysis | |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Specialty · Data | Professional |
| Exam length | 3h 0m | 4h 0m |
| Questions (real exam) | ~75 | ~200 |
| Pass mark | 70% | 70% |
| In a sentence | Where business analysis meets data analytics. | Business analysis in projects — PMI's BA credential. |
| Free practice | 250 sample questions | 297 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 and PMI site before booking. ExamDeck is an independent study tool and is not affiliated with IIBA or PMI.
Figures as published by each vendor, transcribed on the date shown. Where a vendor prices differently for members, both prices are listed.
| IIBA-CBDAfacts as of August 2026 | PMI-PBA®facts as of August 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Application fee: Not required Exam fee — member: $250 Exam fee — non-member: $405 Recertification (yearly): 20 CDUs + $30 member / $50 non-member |
Exam fee — PMI member: ~$405 (verify on pmi.org) Exam fee — non-member: ~$555 (verify on pmi.org) PMI membership (optional): $129/yr + $10 one-time Renewal (every 3 yrs): 60 PDUs under the CCR program |
| Study time | around 30–50 hours (no official IIBA figure) | commonly reported 80–120 hours depending on BA experience |
| Renewal | 20 Continuing Development Units (CDUs) every year | 60 PDUs every 3 years under PMI's CCR program |
| Entry requirement | No mandatory requirements — open to anyone. IIBA recommends around 2 years of analysis work in business data analytics. | Secondary degree: 60 months of business analysis experience (last 8 years) + 35 contact hours of BA education, |
| Body of knowledge | IIBA's Business Data Analytics guidance | the official PMI-PBA Examination Content Outline |
| Full fact pages | IIBA-CBDA cost · format · eligibility | PMI-PBA® cost · format · eligibility |
Compare the three-year cost of any two certifications, member or not, with the certification cost calculator.
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IIBA-CBDA (Certification in Business Data Analytics) is a IIBA specialty · data credential, while PMI-PBA® (PMI Professional in Business Analysis) comes from PMI (professional). They cover different bodies of knowledge, so the choice depends on the role you're aiming for rather than difficulty alone.
The IIBA-CBDA exam runs about 3h 0m with ~75 questions; the PMI-PBA® exam runs about 4h 0m with ~200 questions. The more senior credential generally demands more applied, scenario-based judgement.
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