Learn more about the Certified Business Appraiser designation
The certification process includes a half day proctored exam combining essay and multiple choice questions with a complete case study. The exam covers material contained in a 10-book reading list of technical works by the industry’s leading practitioners.
Only after passing the examination is the applicant eligible for peer review. The peer review process requires submission of two comprehensive appraisal reports. The reports must demonstrate excellent application of the appraisal theory and strict adherence to appraisal and ethical standards.
The applicant is given a detailed written analysis, providing constructive-and often pointed criticism.
As one member remarked, “IBA’s peer review process was a valuable learning experience for me. I have been performing business appraisals for years, but I am a much better appraiser for having completed the review process.”
Report Requirements for CBA Applicants
To merit the CBA designation, an applicant must show professional excellence in these aspects of business appraisal:
- Current business valuation methodology
- Application of the asset, income and market approaches
- Adjustments for marketability and control
- Forecast of earnings
- Analysis of the subject industry
- Support of subjective factors such as capitalization and discount rates
- Reconciliation of indicated values
- Professional ethics and standards
Failure to demonstrate proficiency in any of these areas will result in disqualification of the report
How IBA Supports Certified Business Appraisers
Since 1978, the Institute of Business Appraisers has been committed to supporting its members with the professional tools needed to perform business appraisals to the highest professional standards. IBA’s over 3,400 members are a cross-section of the business appraisal industry: Accountants, Business Brokers, Economists, Financial Analysts, Professors, and Attorneys.