📊 IIBA certifications

ECBA® vs IIBA-AAC

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

Side-by-side comparison

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

  ECBA®Entry Certificate in Business Analysis IIBA-AACAgile Analysis Certification
LevelEntrySpecialty · Agile
Exam length1h 15m2h 0m
Questions (real exam)~50~85
Pass mark70%70%
In a sentenceThe entry-level certification for new business analysts.Prove your agile business analysis skills across the three horizons.
Free practice281 sample questions301 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.

  ECBA®facts as of August 2026 IIBA-AACfacts as of August 2026
Fees
Exam fee (includes 1st-year IIBA membership): $395
Application fee: Not required
Retake: $95 member / $250 non-member
Recertification: None — does not expire
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
Study timearound 30–60 hours (IIBA publishes no official figure)around 25–50 hours (no official IIBA figure)
RenewalNone — the ECBA does not expire and requires no recertification or CDUs20 Continuing Development Units (CDUs) every year
Entry requirementNo work experience, professional-development hours, or references required — ECBA is entry-level and open to anyone with an IIBA account.No work experience, application fee, or references required. IIBA recommends (but does not require) 2–3 years of analysis work in an agile context.
Body of knowledgethe BABOK Guide and IIBA's Business Analysis Standardthe Agile Extension to the BABOK Guide (v2)
Full fact pages ECBA® cost · format · eligibility IIBA-AAC cost · format · eligibility

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ECBA® vs IIBA-AAC — questions, answered

What is the difference between ECBA® and IIBA-AAC?

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

Which is harder, ECBA® or IIBA-AAC?

The ECBA® exam runs about 1h 15m with ~50 questions; the IIBA-AAC exam runs about 2h 0m with ~85 questions. The more senior credential generally demands more applied, scenario-based judgement.

Can I practice both ECBA® and IIBA-AAC for free?

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

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