CQA vs. CQE - How tough is CQA test compared to CQE test?

[bostonstudent]

Hello All,

I passed CQE in Dec. 2007 and now thinking of giving CQA exam as well. I have couple of questions :

1. In my new position I am a senior Supplier Quality Engineer and will perform supplier audits on regular basis. I also have been performing supplier audits regularly as well. So the question is do I really need CQA certification ?

2. If yes then, How much time do I need for preparation ? How difficult is the test compared to CQE ?

As always, Thanks a lot for your replies in advance !!

[BradM]

Now, understand, this is my own personal opinion... But I thought the CQE was significantly more difficult than the CQA.

However, I also attended a really good refresher class at my local CQA that helped.

As far as helping you.. I would say "yes". Brushing up on the finer points and getting reminders of things is always helpful.

Plus, you get RU credit for recertification!

[Kales Veggie]

Agree, CQE is more difficult than CQA (math, statistics, you know).

With all tests, preparation and good study material (CQA primer from the Quality Council of Indiana is good).

Also consider reading and studying ISO 19011 (standard for quality auditing).

To be a good auditor, you do not have an CQA certificate, but you need the knowledge and acquire experience in auditing.

[ScottK]

I took the CQA about 12 or 13 years ago. I took the CQE a few years after that.
The CQA exam was way easier.

[Caster]

I did CQE then CQA.

I agree with others who have said CQE is way harder.

I also found the CQA primer from the Quality Council of Indiana was great.

I just read it and then wrote the CQA - no real study as such.

With the CQE I did lots of work to get ready.

Then again, the CQA Body of Knowledge has changed since I wrote the exam, maybe it is now tougher?

[Kingsld1]

I passed the CQE and renewed my CQA by exam last year.

CQA is easier, although the case studies were harder than what I
was led to believe. CQI's case studies were pretty simplistic compared
to what was actually on the test.

Most of the difference is in the statistics, reliability, probability questions.
Without them the two tests are roughly equal.

[amanbhai]

I did my CQE & then CQA. After taken both I can say that CQA is much easier than CQE.
However, I have taken a lead auditor training course & had been an internal auditor for few years before taking the test.

[isomr53]

The CQA is the easiest certification test I've ever taken. It took me about 45 minutes without any reference materials.