The below frequently asked questions should provide you with information to assist in meeting your certification goals:

1. What does RABQSA stand for?
RABQSA is not an acronym; the name came about following a 2005 company merger.

2. What is the main difference between Qualification based and Competency based certification?
Qualification based certification examines your audit experience, which is demonstrated by submitting a completed audit log. Competency based certfication evaluates your competence to audit through a witnessed assessment and online personal attributes assessment.

3. Under what circumstances would I be required to complete an online examination?
If your training is over 3 years old, you must complete the online examination to ensure your knowledge is up-to-date. If you hold Qualification based training (TCC) and apply for Competency based certification (TPECS) it is required to bridge the knowledge gap between the two types of training.

4. Can I have a refund of the fee's I have paid?
Unfortunately we cannot refund fees that have been already paid. As it is stated on our website and during the application process, all fees are non-refundable.

5. What is a first certification invoice?
The first fee is for the review of your application. Now that your application has been approved you are now required to pay the first certification fee, which is also your annual fee, to maintain your certification.

6. How often is recertification required under Qualification based certification?
Every three years you can recertify to maintain your Qualification based certification. It is recommended that you submit your documents at the same time to maintain consistency and thus experience a smoother, faster process.

7. How do I maintain my Competency based certification?
To maintain Competency based certification, all certified auditors (except for provisional grade) are required to pay an annual fee and demonstrate the requirements below:

Surveillance- Every two years from the date of initial certification or each re-certification
1. Successful completion of the relevant RABQSA e-based Surveillance Examination* for the type and grade of certification.
2. Confirmation that the RABQSA Code of Conduct has been adhered to and any complaints against performance have been resolved.

Recertification- Every four years from the date of initial certification and each subsequent recertification
1. Skill examination
2. PAAS Master*
3. Confirmation that the RABQSA Code of Conduct has been adhered to and any complaints against performance have been resolved.

8. What if I cannot meet the recertification requirements?
Since RABQSA holds accrediation by JAS ANZ to the ISO 17024:2003 guidelines, we cannot provide exemptions. However, you can speak to your Scheme Examiner about downgrading your certification to fulfill the requirements to keep your certification.

9. Does RABQSA provide discounts on multiple certifications?
Due to our accreditation under ISO 17024:2003, we cannot provide discounts, offers, incentives, etc.

10. Do I receive my card and certificate annually?
RABQSA no longer sends out cards and certificates with each annual renewal. You will receive an updated card and certificate each time you complete recertification.

11. How long will it take for my application to be processed?
Depending on whether or not the application payment has been received, the application process can take between 2-4 weeks to complete. An RABQSA Examiner will contact you within 2-3 business days after receiving your application.

12. Where do I obtain login details to the e-based examination?
After you have applied for certification, a Scheme Examiner will contact you with the login details.

13. My certification has expired. What can I do to get it back?
You have two options- the first option is to pay the outstanding fees and re-instate your existing certification, by submitting the required recerfication documents (within the specified time frame by RABQSA). The second option is to apply for a new certification, where you will be required to resubmit all necessary documents.

14. How do I transition from IRCA to RABQSA?
If you are transitioning to same grade from IRCA to RABQSA, you will need to provide a copy of your current IRCA certification or card and pay the first certification fee. If you are transitioning into the Competency based scheme, you will also need to complete the online knowledge examination.

15. How can I upgrade my certification?
To expand your grade or scopes, you will need to complete the Expansion application form and fee, along with providing evidence of the requirements for the grade and/or scope you are requesting.

16. Why do I need to pay an annual fee?
To maintain your certification, you need to submit an annual fee. Every three years you have to apply for recertification.

17. What is the Continuing Professional Development (CPD)?
CPD means Continuing Professional Development. All Qualification based certified auditors are required to undertake at least 45 hours of appropriate continuing professional development every three years. The following activities are examples of acceptable CPD activities: formal/short courses, workshops, seminars, conferences, ect.

18. Do I need to submit a career certificate?
Career certificates are not an essential requirement; however, you will need to provide the name and contact details of your employer, dates of employment, roles and responsibilities and achievements. All experience must be verifiable.

19. Does RABQSA have industrial sector codes such as the ones IRCA does?
RABQSA does not offer industrial codes; however, applicants may be awarded recognition for their competence to conduct specialized audits in the Scopes listed in the RABQSA certification requirements. The decision on which Scopes are appropriate will be dependent on each applicant's specialized qualifications (education, training and/or professional experience).

20. What is a Scope and do I have to apply for them?
A Scope recognizes that an Auditor has demonstrated the qualifications to conduct audits of a defined ISO standard or industry sector. Applying for a Scope is not mandatory and you can still gain certification without it.