Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP)

Last Updated: January 2026 | By Exam Team

Premium Practice Questions

In an increasingly globalized economy, the integrity of a supply chain is only as strong as its weakest link. For professionals dedicated to ensuring that third-party vendors meet rigorous quality standards, the Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP) designation is the gold standard. Administered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), this certification validates a professional's ability to manage supplier selection, risk, and performance improvement.

This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about the CSQP exam, from eligibility requirements and costs to study strategies and career impact.

What is the Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP)?

The CSQP is a professional credential that certifies an individual’s proficiency in the entire lifecycle of supplier quality management. It is designed for those who work with suppliers to maintain high-quality inputs and foster collaborative improvement.

  • Official Exam Name: Certified Supplier Quality Professional
  • Acronym: CSQP
  • Conducting Body: ASQ (American Society for Quality). Founded in 1946, ASQ is the world’s leading authority on quality across all industries.
  • Purpose of Exam: Professional Certification. It is intended to standardize the competencies required to manage supplier quality, risk, and compliance.
  • Geographic Validity: Globally recognized. ASQ certifications are the benchmark in the United States, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
  • Level of Competence: Specialist/Professional level. It sits above entry-level quality roles but focuses specifically on the "Supplier" niche of the quality domain.
  • Brief History: The CSQP was officially launched by ASQ in 2016 to address a growing gap in supply chain quality management as outsourcing became a dominant business model.

Who Can Take the Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP)? (Eligibility Requirements)

ASQ maintains strict eligibility criteria to ensure that only experienced professionals receive the designation. Candidates must demonstrate a combination of education and "on-the-job" experience.

Work Experience Requirements

Candidates must have eight years of on-the-job experience in one or more of the areas of the CSQP Body of Knowledge (BoK). A minimum of three years of this experience must be in a "decision-making" role (defined as the authority to execute or control projects and processes).

Education Waivers

If you have a degree, part of the 8-year experience requirement is waived:

  • Diploma from a technical or trade school: 1 year waived.
  • Associate Degree: 2 years waived.
  • Bachelor’s Degree: 4 years waived.
  • Master’s or Doctorate: 5 years waived.

Eligibility Summary Table

Requirement Details
Minimum Total Experience 8 Years (can be reduced via degree)
Decision-Making Experience 3 Years (mandatory, no waivers)
Academic Background No specific degree required, but higher degrees reduce experience requirements.
Language Proficiency Exam is in English. Suggested IELTS 6.5+ equivalent (though no test is required).
Documentation Transcripts, CV, and Proof of Work Experience.

Documentation Checklist

  • Official academic transcripts (if claiming a waiver).
  • Detailed resume highlighting decision-making roles.
  • Verification of employment from current/past supervisors.
  • Valid government-issued photo ID (Passport or Driver’s License).

How to Register for the Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP)

The registration process is handled entirely through the ASQ website and its testing partner, Prometric.

Exam Schedule & Availability

The CSQP exam follows a bi-monthly testing window. It is held during the following months:

  • January, March, May, July, September, November.

Applications usually close approximately 30 days before the start of the testing window.

Exam Fees (2024-2025 Pricing)

Fee Category ASQ Member Price Non-Member Price
Application & Exam Fee $398 $538
Retake Fee $298 $298
Rescheduling Fee $35 - $70 (based on timing) $35 - $70
Annual Membership (Optional) $174 N/A

Booking Process

  1. Create an ASQ Account: Register on the ASQ.org portal.
  2. Submit Application: Fill out your experience and education details. Pay the fee.
  3. Application Review: ASQ takes 1-2 business days to review your eligibility.
  4. Schedule Exam: Once approved, you receive an "Eligibility ID" to book your seat via Prometric.
  5. Select Mode: Choose between a physical Prometric test center or Remote Proctoring (ProProctor).

Retake Policy

If you do not pass, you can retake the exam for a reduced fee. There is no mandatory waiting period other than waiting for the next available testing window. ASQ allows unlimited retakes, but you must pay the retake fee each time.

Score Validity

The certification is valid for three years. To maintain it, you must either earn 18 Recertification Units (RUs) through professional development or retake the exam.

Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP) Exam Format & Structure

The CSQP exam is a comprehensive assessment that tests both knowledge and the application of quality principles in real-world supplier scenarios.

Exam Format

  • Delivery: Computer-Based Test (CBT).
  • Proctoring: In-person at Prometric centers or via Live Remote Proctoring.
  • Open Book: ASQ exams are unique because they are Open Book. You may bring your own reference materials (textbooks, handbooks) as long as they are bound. No loose papers or staples allowed.

Timing & Duration

Feature Details
Total Duration 4.5 Hours (270 minutes)
Break Allowance No scheduled breaks (clock keeps running if you leave)
Tutorial Time 15 Minutes (additional to exam time)

Question Count & Types

  • Total Questions: 160 questions.
  • Scored Questions: 150 questions.
  • Unscored Questions: 10 (experimental questions used for future exams).
  • Question Type: 100% Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) with four options.

Syllabus & Content Domains (Body of Knowledge)

Domain Topics Covered Weightage
I. Supplier Strategy Supply chain vision, cost of quality, globalization, outsourcing. 14%
II. Risk Management Risk identification, assessment (FMEA), mitigation, and monitoring. 12%
III. Supplier Selection Evaluation criteria, pre-award audits, financial assessment. 16%
IV. Part/Service Approval PPAP, First Article Inspection (FAI), Technical reviews. 14%
V. Supplier Performance KPIs, Scorecards, Supplier reviews, Monitoring. 18%
VI. Quality Systems ISO 9001, AS9100, IATF 16949, Auditing, CAPA. 16%
VII. Relationship Management Communication, Supplier development, Coaching/Mentoring. 10%

How is the Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP) Scored?

The Passing Threshold

ASQ uses a Scaled Scoring system. The raw score (number of correct answers) is converted into a scale that ranges from 200 to 800. The passing score for the CSQP is 550.

Scoring Mechanics

  • Negative Marking: No. There is no penalty for incorrect answers. You should answer every question.
  • Partial Credit: None. Only fully correct answers earn points.
  • Sectional Cut-offs: There are no individual section passing requirements. Your total score determines your pass/fail status.

Score Reporting

  • Immediate Results: For CBT exams, you will receive a preliminary "Pass" or "Fail" notification at the testing center before you leave.
  • Official Report: A detailed diagnostic report is emailed within 3-5 business days. For failing candidates, this report shows performance in each domain to help with future study.

How Difficult is the Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP)?

The CSQP is considered a Moderate to Challenging exam. Unlike the Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) exam, which is heavy on complex statistics, the CSQP focuses more on business processes, auditing, and risk management logic.

Historical Pass Rates

Metric Estimated Percentage
First-Time Pass Rate 62% - 68%
Overall Pass Rate 70%

Most Challenging Topics

  • Risk Management (Domain II): Applying FMEA and risk-based thinking to supplier scenarios.
  • Quality Systems (Domain VI): Distinguishing between various industry standards (Medical vs. Aerospace vs. Automotive).

CSQP vs. Similar Certifications: Which One is Right for You?

Feature CSQP (ASQ) CQA (ASQ) CPIM (APICS)
Primary Focus Supplier Quality & Risk Quality Auditing Inventory & Production
Difficulty Moderate Moderate High
Math Level Low/Medium Low High
Total Cost ~$500 ~$500 ~$1,200+

Choose CSQP if: You work in procurement, supply chain quality, or vendor management and want to focus on the technical and relational side of supplier performance.

Choose CQA if: You want to be a professional auditor across all areas of a business, not just suppliers.

How to Prepare for the Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP)

Recommended Study Timeline

  • Total Prep Time: 100 - 150 hours.
  • Duration: 3-4 months (approx. 10 hours per week).

Best Study Resources

  • The Certified Supplier Quality Professional Handbook: The primary reference for the exam.
  • ASQ Question Bank: Highly recommended to get used to the phrasing of ASQ questions.
  • Quality Council of Indiana (QCI) Primer: Widely considered the "cheat code" for ASQ exams due to its excellent summaries and practice questions.

Study Approach

  1. Read the BoK: Understand the weightage of each section.
  2. Tab Your Books: Since the exam is open-book, use permanent tabs to mark chapters in your handbook for quick reference.
  3. Practice Exams: Take at least 3 full-length timed practice tests.

What to Expect on Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP) Exam Day

  • Arrival: Arrive 30 minutes early. If you are 15 minutes late, you may be denied entry.
  • ID Requirements: One valid government-issued photo ID with a signature.
  • Permitted Items: Bound reference materials, a battery-operated calculator (non-programmable, like the TI-30Xa), and your Eligibility ID.
  • Prohibited Items: Watches, smartphones, loose paper, staples, or food.
  • Check-in: You will be scanned with a metal detector and asked to empty your pockets.

After Passing the Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP)

Once you pass, you can officially use the "CSQP" designation after your name. You will receive a digital badge and a physical certificate via mail within 4-6 weeks.

  • Career Opportunities: Common roles include Supplier Quality Engineer, Strategic Sourcing Manager, and Supply Chain Risk Manager.
  • Salary Impact: According to ASQ’s Salary Survey, certified professionals earn an average of 10-15% more than their non-certified peers.
  • Recertification: Every 3 years. Keep a log of your professional activities, webinars, and conferences.

Frequently Asked Questions about the CSQP

1. Is the CSQP exam open book?
Yes, you can bring bound books. No loose-leaf papers or electronic devices are allowed.
2. Can I take the exam from home?
Yes, ASQ offers remote proctoring through Prometric’s ProProctor platform.
3. What calculator should I use?
The TI-30Xa is the standard choice for ASQ exams.
4. Does the CSQP expire?
Yes, it must be renewed every three years through recertification units (RUs).
5. Is there a lot of math on the CSQP?
There is some math related to Cost of Quality, KPIs, and basic statistics, but it is less intensive than the CQE exam.
6. Can I use the ASQ Handbook during the exam?
Yes, the "Certified Supplier Quality Professional Handbook" is the most common resource brought into the exam room.
7. What happens if I fail?
You can apply for a retake in the next window by paying the retake fee ($298).
8. How long does it take to get results?
You get unofficial results immediately and official results within 3-5 days.
9. Is ASQ membership required?
No, but it reduces the exam fee significantly, making it worth the cost.
10. Is the CSQP recognized in the UK/EU?
Yes, ASQ is a global authority and the CSQP is highly respected by multinational corporations worldwide.

Loading study notes...

Loading flash cards...

Video Lessons Locked
Upgrade to Premium to unlock video lessons.
Unlock Premium

Loading mindmap...

Loading premium content...

Pass Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP) With Confident

Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP) (365 Days)
  • 3 Hours Video Study Key Notes
  • Instant Access
  • Study Anywere
  • Support All Devices
  • Detailed Explanation
  • Mimic Real Examination Format
  • One Year Success Guaranteed
Last Updated: 27 December 2025
Number of premium questions: 2700
Payment: One-time payment (no recurring fees)
Team requires at least 2 licenses.
Team purchases show a 10% discount and let you add extra member emails at checkout.
Best Value
365 Days Access Total: $497 USD
$1.3USD/day
180 Days Access Total: $397 USD
$2.2USD/day
90 Days Access Total: $297 USD
$3.3USD/day
60 Days Access Total: $197 USD
$3.2USD/day
30 Days Access Total: $97 USD
$3.2USD/day
Get Instant Access

But Wait … There Is More

After enabling any module, you will also get 3 bonuses For Free

Free Bonus #1 - 101 Resume Writing Tips

101 Resume Writing Tips – Master the Art of Creating a Unique Resume and Stand Out from the Competition. Secure Your Dream Job Effortlessly.

Free Bonus #2 - Grit Mindset And Relentless Drive

In this 20-part video series, you will discover essential strategies and tips for achieving success:

  • Eight strategies to overcome obstacles on your path to success
  • Top five tips for mentally shaping successful habits
  • Nine mind-blowing techniques for developing any success-oriented habit
  • Ten daily reminders to help you maintain successful habits
  • Four hidden factors that might be hindering your progress
  • Five science-backed secrets to sustaining new habits
  • Six unique methods to conquer procrastination and achieve your goals
  • Four secret habits of highly successful people
  • Five ways to permanently embed successful habits
  • Six tips for starting new habits that lead to success
  • Ten techniques for building resilience and thriving
  • Understanding the connection between grit and personal well-being
  • Cultivating grit in the workplace
  • The art of taking calculated risks with grit
  • How grit, resilience, and a growth mindset are interconnected

Free Bonus #3 - Beat Information Overload

In this comprehensive 77-page ebook on exam preparation, you will explore:

  • The unexpected history of information overload
  • Understanding and combating information overload
  • The role of social media in exacerbating information overload
  • The limits of your working memory
  • The effects of information overload on the brain
  • Strategies to navigate an information-heavy world
  • How multitasking harms productivity

Free Bonus #4 - Video Key Study Notes

With SCMExam Premium, you also get 3 hours of key video study notes to help you prepare for the exam while driving, commuting, or even with your eyes closed. The notes will read out all the key concepts and answers to you in detail, helping you make the most of your fragmented time and achieve success.

Free Bonus #5 - Study Mindmap

Detailed Study Mind Map for Supply Chain and Logistics Exam

Preparing for the Supply Chain and Logistics exam can feel overwhelming, and it’s easy to lose track of which topics you’ve covered. With SCMExam, you can streamline your preparation using a comprehensive study mind map. This tool helps you stay organized, track your progress, and ensure all essential concepts are thoroughly reviewed, making your exam preparation more efficient and effective.

Why Candidates Trust SCMExam

Our past candidates loves us. Let’s see how they think about our service

One Year Success Guarantee

SCMExam is dedicated to ensuring your success in passing the logistics and supply chain management exam with a guaranteed 100% success rate. Earning a professional designation to include in your email signature and LinkedIn profile will earn you respect from peers and colleagues, opening doors to career advancements and new opportunities effortlessly.

We highly value the trust you place in us and are fully committed to helping you excel in the logistics and supply chain management exam through our comprehensive offerings. Our belief in our program is steadfast, which is why we offer a one-year guarantee.

If you do not succeed while using our services, see no improvement in your exam preparation knowledge, find our service and attention to detail unsatisfactory, or face challenges due to work commitments, we will provide you with an additional round of access at no extra charge. You can easily submit your request via email or postal mail.

It would be unfair to retain your payment if you are dissatisfied, so we have streamlined the process for obtaining free access. There are no obligations, forms to fill out, or burdens of proof. Rest assured, we will not scrutinize your request. It’s noteworthy that annually, over 1600 candidates benefit from our services, and we have never received a refund request.

In fact, we are so confident in the effectiveness of our services and the positive impact they will have on your career and life that we make this promise: anyone requesting free access will receive it without any inquiries, complications, or delays—guaranteed.

FAQ

The SCMExam content for the supply chain and logistics exam is meticulously crafted and designed to closely mimic the real exam format. This thoughtful approach ensures that candidates experience a realistic testing environment, which helps them build confidence and familiarity with the types of questions and scenarios they will encounter on the actual exam.

Upon completing your payment, you will gain instant access to all the materials, including practice questions, study notes, and comprehensive explanations for all the questions.

 

In the event that you do not pass the exam after utilizing our services, we are committed to providing you with another round of free access within one year until you successfully pass.

SCMExam is designed to be compatible with a wide range of platforms, such as mobile devices, iPads, tablets, and laptops. This ensures that you can conveniently access our resources and services from any device of your choice.

Once you make a purchase of any of our products, you will instantly receive access to three bonuses that will be activated on your account page. These bonuses are specifically designed to enrich your learning experience and offer added value alongside the product you have selected.

Our practice questions are thoughtfully designed to accurately reflect the formats and difficulty levels of real exams. However, we uphold the copyright of the official organization, so we do not offer exact questions from the exam. We firmly believe that any vendor suggesting you can pass the exam solely by memorizing a question bank is acting irresponsibly and failing to provide a sustainable solution for long-term success.

Certainly! Once your payment is successfully processed, we will immediately send an official invoice to your specified email address. This invoice will include key details such as your email address, the product purchased, its cost, and the purchase date. We understand the importance of a transparent transaction record and are committed to delivering the invoice promptly, without any delay.

Invest in yourself for less than the price of a cup of coffee today

Certified Supplier Quality Professional (CSQP) (365 Days)
  • 3 Hours Video Study Key Notes
  • Instant Access
  • Study Anywere
  • Support All Devices
  • Detailed Explanation
  • Mimic Real Examination Format
  • One Year Success Guaranteed
Last Updated: 27 December 2025
Number of premium questions: 2700
Payment: One-time payment (no recurring fees)
Team requires at least 2 licenses.
Team purchases show a 10% discount and let you add extra member emails at checkout.
Best Value
365 Days Access Total: $497 USD
$1.3USD/day
180 Days Access Total: $397 USD
$2.2USD/day
90 Days Access Total: $297 USD
$3.3USD/day
60 Days Access Total: $197 USD
$3.2USD/day
30 Days Access Total: $97 USD
$3.2USD/day
Get Instant Access