Frequently asked questions
Courses
Which standards do you offer courses for?
ISO 9001:2015, ISO 14001:2015, ISO 45001:2018, ISO/IEC 27001:2022, ISO 22000:2018, ISO 22301:2019, ISO 37001:2025, ISO/IEC 27701:2025 and ISO/IEC 42001:2023.
What does each course cover?
Every course covers three subjects: ISO/IEC 17021 (requirements for certification bodies), ISO 19011:2018 (guidelines for auditing management systems) and the requirements of the chosen standard.
What is the difference between the 40-hour and the 24-hour formats?
Both cover the same subjects and both include teaching materials and a test. The 40-hour format gives you more time on each topic. The 24-hour format is a shorter option. We are happy to help you choose.
How are the lessons delivered?
Live online on the Zoom platform, so you can join from anywhere.
Is there a final test?
Yes. Every course ends with a test.
What is included?
Teaching materials, the live lessons on Zoom and the test.
Qualification and certification
What is an IAF/EA sector?
IAF/EA sectors (codes 01 to 39) are the categories certification bodies use to group economic activities, such as 28 Construction or 33 Information technology. Auditors are usually assigned to audits based on the sectors in which their competence has been demonstrated.
What is ISO/IEC 17024 and how does it relate to your certification?
ISO/IEC 17024 is the international standard that sets the general requirements for bodies certifying persons. Our competence certification scheme is structured according to ISO/IEC 17024: application, eligibility prerequisites, exam and assessment, certification decision, surveillance, recertification, impartiality, appeals and complaints, and rules on use of the certificate.
How long is the certificate valid?
One year. The certificate is renewed every year, based on up-to-date evidence of your competence and professional activity.
What if I disagree with a decision?
You can appeal in writing to aqqualityacademyllc@gmail.com. Appeals are handled by people who were not involved in the original decision, and you receive a written outcome.
Can I make a complaint?
Yes. Anyone can complain about our services or about a certified person. Complaints are recorded, investigated and answered in writing.
Do I have to take your course to be certified?
No. You need evidence that you attended a relevant training course, which can be from QA Quality Academy or from any other provider. Our courses are optional. Keeping training separate from certification is a core principle of ISO/IEC 17024.
What does the certification exam look like?
It is a written multiple-choice test. It checks your knowledge of the standard, of auditing principles and techniques (ISO 19011) and of the requirements for certification bodies (ISO/IEC 17021). Pass mark: 70%.
Can I be certified for more than one sector?
Yes. Your competence can be assessed for one or more EA sectors.
Which documents do I need to send for auditor qualification?
A detailed CV, copies of your diploma/degree and professional certifications, your auditor qualification certificate, training course certificates, a consultancy experience attestation form and an audit experience certification form. You can find the full list on the Auditor Qualification page.
Who makes the final decision?
The Quality Manager reviews all your documents and evaluation results and makes the final approval decision.
How long are records kept?
All records of applications, assessments, evaluations and issued certificates are kept securely for at least five years.
Do I need to keep my certification up to date?
QA Quality Academy may ask for periodic updates or specialisation courses to keep the certification valid over time.
Do you work with certification bodies?
Yes. We support certification bodies in developing and qualifying the competence of their auditors.
Dates, quotes and contact
When is the next course?
Email us to get the next available dates.
How do I contact you?
By email at aqqualityacademyllc@gmail.com.