ASQ CQE Certification - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the CQE certification?

The Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ) that validates expertise in customer quality management principles and practices. An ASQ Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) focuses on enhancing processes and systems to guarantee quality and efficiency within an organization. They possess expertise in areas such as quality control, statistical analysis, product and process design, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations.

Who should pursue the CQE certification?

The CQE certification is designed for professionals in customer service, quality management, customer experience, or related fields. This includes customer service managers, quality professionals, business analysts, process improvement specialists, and others who want to enhance their knowledge of customer-focused quality management systems.

What are the prerequisites for the CQE certification?

Candidates must have at least 8 years of work experience in one or more areas covered in the Body of Knowledge (BOK). Education can substitute for part of the experience requirement: A diploma/certificate—1 year waived, an associate degree—2 years waived, a bachelor's degree—4 years waived, and a master's or doctorate—5 years waived.

What topics are covered in the CQE exam?

Watch the video for details.

How is the CQE exam structured?

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge of the Body of Knowledge. It is a computer-based test with a time limit, typically 4 hours. The exact number of questions may vary, but candidates should be prepared to answer approximately 150-175 questions.

How should I prepare for the CQE exam?

Preparation strategies include:

• Studying the ASQ CQE Body of Knowledge
• Taking ASQ's CQE certification preparation course
• Reading recommended textbooks and reference materials
• Joining study groups with other certification candidates
• Taking practice exams to familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions

How long is the CQE certification valid?

The CQE certification is valid for three years from its award date.

How do I recertify my CQE credential?

To maintain your certification, you must recertify every three years by either:

1. Taking and passing the CQE exam again, or
2. Earning the required number of Recertification Units (RUs) through professional development activities such as attending conferences, publishing articles, participating in ASQ activities, or completing relevant courses.

What is the cost of the CQE certification?

The exam fee varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member and your geographical location. ASQ members typically receive discounted rates. Additional costs may include preparation materials, courses, and recertification fees.

How do I register for the CQE exam?

You can register for the exam through the ASQ website. The registration process includes submitting an application with documentation of your work experience and education and paying the exam fee.

What professional benefits does the CQE certification offer?

Benefits include:

• Recognition of expertise in customer quality management
• Enhanced credibility with employers and clients
• Increased competitive advantage in the job market
• Access to a network of certified professionals
• Professional development opportunities
• Potential for career advancement and salary increases

Are there any sample questions available for practice?

Our training course has approximately 1,000 test questions to help candidates prepare for the CCQM certification exam.

Can I take the CQE exam remotely?

ASQ now offers remote proctored exams for many certifications, including the CQE. This allows candidates to take the exam from home or office, supervised by an online proctor. Check the ASQ website for the latest information on exam delivery options.

What is the passing score for the CQE exam?

ASQ uses a scaled scoring system, and the passing score may vary slightly from exam to exam based on difficulty. Generally, candidates must answer approximately 70-75% of the questions correctly to pass.

What happens if I don't pass the CQE exam?

If you don't pass the CQE exam on your first attempt, you can retake it after a waiting period, typically 90 days. There may be additional fees for retaking the exam.

Is the CQE certification recognized internationally?

Yes, ASQ certifications, including the CQE, are recognized globally as a standard of professional excellence.

Will I be allowed to take the Handbook, Instructor Notes, and Calculator into the CQE exam with me?

Yes, however, you may consider taking the example problems out of the Instructor Notes. I have never heard of the Instructor Notes being rejected at the testing center (even when nothing is removed). However, if you want to be safe, I would take the appendix to the testing center. Also, if you want to be extra safe, remove the appendix portion entitled “formulas with explanations,” as they have some example problems. 

Can I take handwritten notes to the testing center?

Yes, but they will have to be placed into a three-ring binder (loose papers are not allowed in the testing center, perhaps a three-ring binder). You can also take notes in your Handbook and/or Instructor notes; make your notes statements and not questions. Otherwise, they may feel you are trying to sneak in old exam questions. Never takes notes as questions.

What steps should I follow to complete the course?

First, complete all of your online lectures and associated exams. Second, review the Handbook. Listen to my lectures on solving practice problems. Listen to my solution, and then work on them on your own, as needed. Then work on practice exams until you get 75% or above. 

Do you recommend using both the Handbook and Instructor Notes at the CQE exam or only critical stack items from the Instructor Notes?

We recommend taking the handbook and the appendix (minus “formulas with explanations”). You may also want to listen to my video  “What to expect at the ASQ testing facility (Prometric).” We have replaced the Primer with the Handbook, so ignore comments on the Primer.

Why take the CQE exam prep course from Alpha Superior Quality Training?

Alpha Superior Quality Training offers comprehensive CQE exam preparation led by experienced instructors who are certified quality professionals. Our course covers the entire Body of Knowledge with focused materials, practice exams, and personalized support. With a 90% pass rate, our structured curriculum breaks down complex concepts into manageable sections while providing ongoing access to resources and a community of peers. We offer flexible learning options, including self-paced online, live virtual, and in-person boot camp formats, to accommodate different learning styles and schedules.

Am I guaranteed to pass the CQE Exam?

While no training provider can guarantee passing, Alpha Superior Quality Training provides an Exam Success Guarantee program. If you don't pass on your first attempt after completing our course, we offer extended access to materials, additional tutoring sessions, and exam strategy review at no extra cost. Our 90% pass rate demonstrates our commitment to your success.

What is your pass rate for the CQE Exam?

Our students enjoy a 90% pass rate on their first attempt, significantly higher than the industry average. This success is attributed to our comprehensive curriculum, experienced instructors, and extensive practice materials designed to prepare candidates for the exam format thoroughly and content.

What can you tell me about the CQE Exam?

The CQE exam tests proficiency in quality engineering principles and practices as defined by ASQ's Body of Knowledge. It covers quality concepts, leadership, and management tools; product, process, and service design; quality assurance and control; continuous improvement; quantitative methods and tools; and risk management. The exam includes multiple-choice and constructed-response (essay) questions, requiring theoretical knowledge and practical application.

How many questions are on the CQE Exam?

The CQE exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions. Of these, 160 are scored, and 15 are unscored questions being evaluated for future exams. The exam covers all areas of the Body of Knowledge with varying emphasis on each section.

How much time do I have to complete the CQE Exam?

Candidates have 5.5 hours (330 minutes) to complete the CQE exam. This allows approximately 1.9 minutes per question, though time management strategies are an important part of our exam preparation.

Where can I take the CQE Exam?

The CQE exam is offered in two formats:

1. Computer-based testing (CBT) is available year-round at Prometric testing centers worldwide
2. Paper-based testing (PBT) is offered at specific locations four times per year (typically in March, June, October, and December)

You can locate your nearest testing center through the ASQ website once you register for the exam.

Should I become a member of ASQ?

Becoming an ASQ member is recommended for several reasons:

• Reduced exam registration fees (members save $100+ on certification exams)
• Access to professional development resources, publications, and research
• Networking opportunities with quality professionals
• Local and virtual chapter participation
• Discounted continuing education opportunities needed for recertification
• Career advancement resources
• The membership benefits typically outweigh the cost, especially when pursuing certification.

Where do I start my application for membership in ASQ?

Start your ASQ membership application at the official ASQ website (asq.org). Navigate to the "Membership" section and select "Join ASQ" to view membership options and complete the application process. Alternatively, you can call ASQ directly at 1-800-248-1946 to help with membership enrollment.

Where do I start my application for becoming a CQE?

To apply for the CQE certification exam:

1. Visit the ASQ website (asq.org)
2. Navigate to the "Certifications" section
3. Select "Quality Engineer (CQE)"
4. Click on "Apply for Certification"
5. Create an account if you don't already have one
6. Complete the application with your educational background and work experience
7. Submit payment for the exam fee
8. Applications must be submitted 6+ weeks before your preferred exam date for paper-based tests or prior to scheduling your computer-based test.

How much does the CQE exam cost?

As of 2025, the CQE exam costs:

• ASQ Members: $498
• Non-members: $648

Prices may vary slightly based on location and testing format. These figures represent the standard U.S. pricing; international pricing may differ.

How much does membership in ASQ cost?

ASQ membership costs approximately $179 per year for full membership (as of 2025). ASQ also offers various membership options including:

• Associate membership ($99/year)
• Student membership ($39/year)
• Retired membership ($84/year)
• Enterprise/organizational membership (varies)
• Considering the exam discount alone ($150), membership is cost-effective when taking the CQE exam.

Should I start my CQE application before starting my class?

Yes, starting your CQE application before beginning your preparation course is recommended. This allows you to:

1. Confirm your eligibility based on education and work experience
2. Become familiar with the application requirements
3. Set a target exam date to structure your study schedule
4. Take advantage of any ASQ resources available to applicants
5. Potentially discover if you need additional documentation or experience
6. However, you don't need to schedule your specific exam date until you feel ready after completing the course.

What does the CQE Body of Knowledge consist of?

The CQE Body of Knowledge includes seven major categories:

1. Quality Concepts, Leadership, and Management (15% of exam)
2. The Quality System Development, Implementation, and Verification (15%)
3. Product, Process, and Service Design (23%)
4. Product and Process Control (18%)
5. Continuous Improvement (10%)
6. Quantitative Methods and Tools (19%)
7. Risk Management (0% - integrated throughout other sections)
8. Each area contains multiple subtopics covering theoretical knowledge and practical application.

What score is needed to pass the CQE exam?

The CQE exam uses a scaled scoring system, with 550 points out of 750 possible points (approximately 73%) required to pass. However, ASQ does not publish the exact raw-to-scaled score conversion. The exam is weighted according to the Body of Knowledge percentages, with some questions potentially counting more than others based on difficulty.

What is needed to maintain a CQE certification?

To maintain CQE certification, you must recertify every three years by either:

1. Retaking the exam, or
2. Earning 18 Recertification Units (RUs) through professional development activities such as:

• Employment in the quality field (max 10.8 RUs)
• Educational courses and teaching
• ASQ participation (meetings, committees)
• Professional publications, presentations, and conferences
• Other professional certifications

You must submit your recertification application with documentation and the recertification fee before your certification expires.

Why should I become CQE certified?

CQE certification offers numerous benefits:

• Increased earning potential (certified professionals typically earn 10-15% higher salaries)
• Enhanced career opportunities and advancement
• Globally recognized professional credential
• Validation of your expertise and knowledge
• Professional credibility with employers and clients
• Standardized knowledge of quality engineering principles
• Professional development and continuous learning
• Access to a network of quality professionals
• Potential for leadership roles in quality management

What are the work requirements for the CQE certification?

To qualify for CQE certification, you need:

• Eight years of experience in one or more areas of the CQE Body of Knowledge
• At least three years must be in a decision-making position
• Education waivers reduce the experience requirement:
• Associate degree: reduces requirement by 1 year (7 years needed)
• Bachelor's degree: reduces requirement by 4 years (4 years needed)
• Master's/Doctorate: reduces requirement by 5 years (3 years needed)
• All work experience must relate to the quality field and educational waivers must be in relevant disciplines.

What kind of a calculator can I bring into the CQE exam?

For the CQE exam, you may bring a silent, battery-operated, non-programmable calculator without communication features. Specifically:

• Basic calculators with standard mathematical functions are allowed
• Scientific calculators (non-programmable) are permitted
• Graphing calculators, calculators with alphanumeric keyboards, or those capable of storing programs/formulas are prohibited
• No smartphones, smartwatches, or other electronic devices may be used as calculators
• ASQ provides a list of approved calculator models on their website. It's advisable to check this list before your exam date.

How long does it take to get my exam results?

For computer-based testing (CBT), you'll receive preliminary pass/fail results immediately upon completing the exam at the testing center. Official results with your score are typically emailed within 7-10 business days.

For paper-based testing (PBT), results are typically available within 5-7 weeks after the exam date. Results are sent via email to the address provided during registration.

If you pass, your digital certificate will be available in your ASQ account, and a physical certificate package will be mailed within 6-8 weeks.