Why should I get certified as a business architect?

The Certified Business Architect (CBA)® certification program allows business architects to be recognized for their skills, experience and knowledge of business architecture. CBA® certification also helps organizations define job descriptions, assess job candidates and employee performance, and structure programs that enable business architecture professionals to enhance their knowledge and skills.

Where can I take the certification exam?

The exam will be administered by Pearson VUE. Pearson VUE is considered the gold-standard in exam administration and delivery.  We are providing 2 options. You may choose which one is best for you when you register at Pearson Vue

1. The exam may be taken in person and will be administered at any one of thousands of convenient Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide.
2. The exam may be taken online. Details about the online exam are provided on the Pearson VUE page. The online format will be administered and monitored by Person VUE.
   
   

How much does it cost to take the certification exam?

The standard exam fee will be USD $375 (or foreign currency equivalent outside the US). Note that the price will be slightly higher in non-English speaking countries. The cost is the same if you take the exam in person or online.

Are there any special requirements for me to be eligible to take the certification exam?

You will have to be a Business Architecture Guild® member in good standing in order to register for the exam. When you sign-up, you will need to be issued a voucher number and Guild membership will be checked when you request a voucher. You must also be a member in order to sit for the exam and be recognized by the Guild as a Certified Business Architect® and receive our certificate

Will there be training available to help prepare me for the certification exam?

The Business Architecture Guild® does not offer training courses. The Guild does accredit training partners so applicants may find training courses available from third parties that can help prepare for certification. Please see our Guild Accredited Training Partner® (GATP®) Program page under Resources. Please read our policy on Use of Unauthorized training material.

What experience should I have and what topics should I be familiar with prior to attempting the certification exam?

The Certified Business Architect (CBA)® exam is intended to be the first of a multi-level certification. The exam taker should have practical experience working in the field of business architecture. In addition, the exam taker should have basic business architecture domain knowledge.

Are there recommended sources of information that can be used to prepare for the certification exam?

Preparing for the exam involves being familiar with certain industry information and literature. Information on various topics may be gleaned from a number of industry sources, training courses, and practical experience. The Business Architecture Guild® ’s A Guide to the Business Architecture Body of Knowledge® (BIZBOK® Guide) provides a comprehensive perspective on these topics. Additional information may be gleaned from various Business Architecture Guild® white papers and Guild webinar series. These resources are found on the Business Architecture Guild Learning Center.  We have provided a Guided Self - Study. Please read our policy on Use of Unauthorized training material.

Study Groups

Members may sometimes connect with other members with the purpose of forming study groups. These groups are entirely member-driven and the Guild does not support or facilitate the formation of these groups, nor do we assume any responsibility for information exchanged. Any members participating in one of these groups must be aware of our fair use policy and trademarks. Any attempt to advertise or promote these groups to the general public may be considered a violation of the member code of ethics. Please read our policy on Use of Unauthorized training material.

What do I get for passing the Certified Business Architect (CBA)® exam?

Individuals who pass the certification exam will be awarded the Certified Business Architect® designation and be able to display the CBA® logo on their credentials.  In addition, that individual will be listed in the Business Architecture Guild® ’s Certified Business Architect (CBA)®s Professional Directory, unless that individual opts out. Please note that the Guild will not provide any information on passing scores, contact information, location or profession, etc., other than what has been publicly provided.

What happens if I do not pass the exam?

The opportunity to request a retake voucher is available. The retake vouchers are discounted. 

• An examine taker will be required to wait 30 days prior to retaking the CBA® exam; a retake voucher will only be issued after the 30-day time period has expired.
• After three exam failures, a review will be triggered and escalated to Guild leadership who will determine if the exam taker may receive a retake voucher, whereby the voucher request may be rejected.
• After the 4th and every subsequent exam failure, an applicant will be restricted from retaking the exam for a period of 6 months.

How do I maintain certification?

The Certified Business Architect (CBA)® program certifies an individual as competent in the field of business architecture for a period of three years from date of issuance of the CBA®. Candidates passing the exam must remain members on a continuous basis, without lapse, in order to maintain their certification. During this period of time, individuals having achieved CBA® status will be required to maintain certification status by logging continuing education unit (CEU) credits.