Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about QA Assessor personnel certification. If your question is not answered below, please contact certification@qaassessor.com.
About Certification
What is personnel certification under ISO/IEC 17024:2012?
Personnel certification is a formal process by which an independent certification body confirms that an individual has demonstrated the competence required for a specific role or function. ISO/IEC 17024:2012 is the international standard that sets requirements for bodies operating certification of persons, ensuring that the process is fair, impartial, and competence-based.
How is certification different from training?
Training provides knowledge and skills development. Certification independently verifies that an individual has the competence to perform specific tasks. QA Assessor operates both training and certification functions with strict structural separation, as required by ISO/IEC 17024:2012. Certification decisions are made independently of training: trainers do not participate in certification decisions for candidates they have trained, and completing a preparation course does not guarantee certification.
Which ISO standards does QA Assessor certify against?
We operate 40 certification schemes across 10 ISO management system standards: ISO 9001 (QMS), ISO 14001 (EMS), ISO 45001 (OH&S), ISO/IEC 27001 (ISMS), ISO 22000 (FSMS), ISO 22301 (BCMS), ISO 13485 (MDQMS), ISO 37001 (ABMS), ISO/IEC 42001 (AIMS), and ISO 50001 (EnMS). Each standard is offered at five levels. See the Certification Catalogue for full details.
Does QA Assessor provide training?
Yes. QA Assessor offers optional preparation courses to help candidates prepare for certification examinations across all levels and standards. These courses are structurally separated from certification decisions in accordance with ISO/IEC 17024:2012. Completing QA Assessor training does not guarantee certification.
Application & Eligibility
How do I apply for certification?
Submit a completed application through our online application form. You can also navigate directly from the Certification Catalogue, which will pre-fill your chosen standard and level. After submission, email your supporting documents to certification@qaassessor.com.
How long does the application process take?
You will receive an acknowledgement within 2 business days. Once all documentation is received, the eligibility review is completed within 5 business days. If eligible, your examination is scheduled within 10 business days.
What if I am not deemed eligible?
You will be informed of the specific criteria that were not met and provided with guidance on what is needed. You may reapply once the eligibility requirements are satisfied. If you disagree with the eligibility decision, you may submit an appeal.
Can I apply without completing a training course?
Yes. Training is not a mandatory prerequisite for all levels. However, completion of relevant preparation training is strongly recommended and may be expected for Internal Auditor and Lead Auditor levels. Check the Certifications Catalogue for scheme-specific requirements.
How long does the eligibility review take?
You will receive an acknowledgement within 2 business days and an eligibility decision within 5 business days of submitting complete documentation.
Examinations
What is the pass mark?
The pass mark for all QA Assessor examinations is 70%.
Can I re-sit an examination if I fail?
Yes. If you do not pass, you may re-sit after a minimum waiting period of 30 days. There is no limit on the number of attempts, but a re-sit fee applies for each attempt.
Are special accommodations available?
Yes. Candidates with disabilities or special needs can request accommodations such as extra time, alternative formats, or accessible facilities. Contact us at certification@qaassessor.com at least 14 days before your examination date.
How are examinations delivered?
Examinations are delivered as computer-based online proctored assessments or paper-based at approved examination centres, depending on availability and your preference.
What is the pass mark?
The pass mark for all QA Assessor certification examinations is 70%.
How many times can I re-sit?
There is no limit on re-sits. A minimum waiting period of 30 days applies between attempts. Re-sit fees apply.
Maintaining Certification
How long is my certification valid?
All QA Assessor certifications are valid for 3 years from the date of issue. You must apply for recertification before expiry to maintain your certified status.
What are the CPD requirements?
Certified persons must complete a minimum of 15 CPD hours per year (45 hours over the 3-year certification cycle). CPD activities should be relevant to the certification scope and may include courses, conferences, workshops, self-study, mentoring, or professional practice.
How do I verify someone’s certification?
Use the Verify a Certificate page. Enter the certificate number and optionally the family name to confirm the status, scope, and validity of any QA Assessor certification.
Can I use my certificate as proof of organisational certification?
No. QA Assessor certifies individuals (personnel), not organisations. Your certificate demonstrates your personal competence and cannot be used to claim that your organisation is certified to any ISO standard.
How do I display my certification?
You may reference your certification title on your CV, LinkedIn profile, business cards, and professional correspondence. A digital badge is provided for use on digital platforms. You must not display the certification after it has expired, been suspended, or been withdrawn.
Does the AIMS (ISO/IEC 42001) certification have a different cycle?
Yes. ISO/IEC 42001 AI Management System certifications are valid for 2 years instead of the standard 3-year cycle, reflecting the rapidly evolving nature of AI governance. CPD requirements for AIMS schemes are higher on an annual basis accordingly.
Policies & Procedures
How do I submit a complaint or appeal?
Appeals against certification decisions must be submitted within 30 days using QA-CB-FORM-009. Complaints about certified persons or QA Assessor operations can be submitted at any time using QA-CB-FORM-010. See our Complaints & Appeals Policy for full details.
How does QA Assessor ensure impartiality?
QA Assessor maintains impartiality through structural and procedural safeguards as required by ISO/IEC 17024:2012. These include: independence from training providers, conflict of interest declarations from all personnel and committee members, an impartiality committee that oversees operations, and transparent policies. See our Impartiality Policy.