FAQs Related to Selecting and Applying:
Q: What is the ASQ CQE exam?
A: The ASQ CQE (Certified Quality Engineer) exam is a professional certification examination administered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It assesses the candidate's knowledge and understanding of quality engineering principles and practices.
Q: What are the benefits of becoming an ASQ Certified Quality Engineer?
A: Obtaining ASQ CQE certification demonstrates your expertise in quality engineering and your commitment to continuous professional development. It can enhance your career prospects, increase earning potential, and improve your credibility within the industry.
Q: What are the eligibility requirements for the ASQ CQE exam?
A: To be eligible for the ASQ CQE exam, candidates must have at least eight years of work experience in one or more areas of the CQE Body of Knowledge. A higher education degree can substitute part of the work experience requirement.
Q: How much does it cost to take the ASQ CQE exam?
A: The ASQ CQE exam fee is $433 for ASQ members and $533 for non-members. Additional fees may apply for rescheduling or retaking the exam.
Q: How do I register for the ASQ CQE exam?
A: To register for the ASQ CQE exam, visit the ASQ website and create an account. Once you have an account, you can apply for the exam and pay the required fees online.
Q: Is the ASQ CQE exam difficult?
A: The ASQ CQE exam is considered challenging due to its comprehensive coverage of quality engineering principles and practices. However, with proper preparation, dedication, and a solid understanding of the CQE Body of Knowledge, many candidates successfully pass the exam.
Q: How does ASQ verify my work experience for the CQE exam?
A: ASQ requires candidates to provide detailed information about their work experience when applying for the CQE exam. This may include job titles, descriptions, durations, and employer contact information. ASQ may contact your current or previous employers to verify the accuracy of the information provided. Be sure to submit accurate and complete information to avoid delays or issues with your application.
Q: How do I choose between the ASQ CQE and Six Sigma certification?
A: Both the ASQ CQE and Six Sigma certifications are valuable credentials for professionals in the field of quality. The ASQ CQE focuses on a broader range of quality engineering topics, while Six Sigma certifications concentrate on process improvement methodologies and tools. Consider your career goals, your current knowledge and experience, and the needs of your industry when deciding which certification to pursue.
Q: How do I choose between the ASQ CQE and PMP (Project Management Professional) certifications?
A: The ASQ CQE and PMP certifications cater to different areas of expertise. The CQE certification focuses on quality engineering principles and practices, while the PMP certification focuses on project management knowledge and skills. Consider your career goals, your current job role, and the needs of your industry when deciding which certification to pursue. You may also consider obtaining both certificates if they align with your professional objectives.
Q: Are washroom breaks allowed?
Yes, washroom breaks are allowed during the ASQ CQE exam. However, the exam clock will not be paused during your break, so it is essential to manage your time wisely. When you need to take a washroom break, inform the testing center staff or proctor, and they will guide you through the process. Remember that per the testing center's procedures, you may be subject to a security check when re-entering the exam room.
FAQs Related to Preparation:
Q: How much time does preparing for the ASQ CQE exam typically take?
A: The time required to prepare for the ASQ CQE exam varies depending on your background, experience, and familiarity with the CQE Body of Knowledge. Most candidates spend several months studying and preparing for the exam, with a minimum of 100 to 150 hours of dedicated study time recommended.
Q: What is the format of the ASQ CQE exam?
A: The ASQ CQE exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions, including 160 scored questions and 15 unscored pretest questions. Candidates have five hours and 18 minutes to complete the exam.
Q: How is the ASQ CQE exam scored?
A: The ASQ CQE exam is scored on a scale of 100 to 750, with a passing score of 550.
Q: What is the CQE Body of Knowledge?
A: The CQE Body of Knowledge is a comprehensive guide to the topics and subtopics covered in the ASQ CQE exam. It includes sections on management and leadership, quality systems, product and process design, product and process control, continuous improvement, and more.
Q: How can I prepare for the ASQ CQE exam?
A: Preparing for the ASQ CQE exam requires a comprehensive approach. An excellent place to start is by reviewing the CQE Body of Knowledge and then supplementing that knowledge with study materials, such as books, practice tests, Quality Gurus CQE exam preparation courses and online resources.
Q: Are there any recommended books or resources for preparing for the ASQ CQE exam?
A: ASQ provides a list of recommended reference materials on their website, including the ASQ CQE Primer, the Certified Quality Engineer Handbook, and other related books and resources. Studying these materials can help you better understand the CQE Body of Knowledge. In addition to these, you can use our CQE exam preparation course and practice tests. The Quality Council of Indiana also provides ASQ CQE Study Primer and Question Bank that could be used for exam preparation.
Q: What is the most difficult area of the ASQ CQE exam?
A: The difficulty of the ASQ CQE exam varies for each candidate, depending on their background and experience. Some candidates may find the statistical tools and techniques challenging, while others may struggle with the management and leadership aspects. Identifying your areas of weakness and focusing your study efforts on those areas can help you overcome any difficulties you may encounter on the exam.
Q: What is the pass rate for the ASQ CQE exam?
A: The pass rate for the ASQ CQE exam varies from year to year, and the pass rate ranges from 60% to 70%. However, it is generally considered a challenging exam.
Q: Is the ASQ CQE exam an open-book exam?
A: Yes, the ASQ CQE exam is an open-book exam. You can bring reference materials and notes into the testing room. However, you may not borrow or use another person's notes or reference materials. All your notes must be in a binder or notebook. Loose papers and stapled materials are not allowed. In addition, you can not bring the collection of questions and answers into the testing room. If you plan to bring the Quality Council of Indiana Primer for ASQ Certification Exams into the testing room, be sure to remove questions and answers from the book before entering.
Q: What items can I bring to the ASQ CQE exam?
A: You can bring a calculator that complies with the ASQ calculator guidelines, a valid government-issued photo ID, and essential personal items (such as glasses, hearing aids, or medication). All other personal things, including electronic devices, bags, and study materials, are prohibited in the exam room.
Q: Can I take the ASQ CQE exam from home?
A: ASQ offers the CQE exam in two formats: computer-based testing (CBT) at designated testing centers and remotely proctored online exams that can be taken from home or another suitable location. Suppose you choose the remotely proctored online exam option. In that case, you must ensure a reliable internet connection, a compatible computer with a webcam and microphone, and a quiet, private space to take the exam.
FAQs Related to Taking the Exam:
Q: What types of questions can I expect on the ASQ CQE exam?
A: The ASQ CQE exam covers a wide range of topics related to quality engineering, including management and leadership, quality systems, product and process design, product and process control, continuous improvement, and more. Questions may require calculations, analysis, and the application of quality engineering principles. These questions will be based on the CQE Body of Knowledge.
Q: Can I use a calculator during the ASQ CQE exam?
A: Yes, you can use a calculator during the ASQ CQE exam. However, you must provide your calculator, and it must be non-programmable. You may not use any electronic device with an internet connection or memory storage capability. The most commonly used calculators are TI-30Xa, Casio fx-991MS, and Casio fx-991EX.
Q: Is there a penalty for guessing on the ASQ CQE exam?
A: No, there is no penalty for guessing on the ASQ CQE exam. Making an educated guess rather than leaving a question unanswered is better.
Q: Can I retake the ASQ CQE exam if I fail?
It is possible to retake the ASQ CQE exam within two years of the last attempt if the first attempt is unsuccessful. Taking the exam in the same exam window is not permitted after failing. You have to pay the retake fee.
Q: How soon will I receive my ASQ CQE exam results?
A: You will receive your official ASQ CQE exam results within seven days of taking the exam. If you pass the exam, you will receive a certificate verifying that you are an ASQ Certified Quality Engineer. If you do not pass, you will receive a diagnostic report outlining areas of strength and weaknesses to better prepare for your next attempt.
FAQs Related to Maintenance and Renewal
Q: How long is the ASQ CQE certification valid?
A: The ASQ CQE certification is valid for three years. To maintain your certification, you must complete recertification requirements, which include accumulating recertification units (RUs) through ongoing professional development activities such as attending conferences and workshops, participating in online courses, or publishing articles related to quality engineering.
Q: How many recertification units (RUs) do I need for renewal?
A: To renew your ASQ CQE certification, you must accumulate 18 recertification units (RUs) over the three-year certification period. These RUs can be obtained through various activities such as attending conferences and workshops, participating in online courses, or publishing articles related to quality engineering.