Certified Valuation Analyst Study Guide 2026
Everything you need to pass the Certified Valuation Analyst exam in one place: the exam format, every topic to study, real practice questions with explanations, flashcards, and full-length practice tests. Free, no sign-up needed.
📋 Certified Valuation Analyst Exam Format at a Glance
📚 Certified Valuation Analyst Topics to Study (55)
✍️ Sample Certified Valuation Analyst Questions & Answers
1. What is a buy-sell agreement and how does it relate to business valuation?
A buy-sell agreement governs the transfer of ownership interests when triggering events occur (death, disability, retirement), often specifying how the business will be valued (formula, appraised value) and the terms of purchase.
2. Which empirical data source is most commonly cited for control premiums in acquisitions of publicly traded companies?
The Mergerstat/BVR Control Premium Study compiles control premiums paid over pre-announcement public market prices in U.S. mergers and acquisitions.
3. Which factor would most likely DECREASE the appropriate minority interest discount?
When a company's primary assets are publicly traded securities, minority shareholders can indirectly access liquidity and the value of those assets is readily determinable, reducing the minority discount.
4. What must a CVA do if errors are discovered in a report already issued to a client?
Discovered errors require corrective action and notification to users who relied on the report.
5. What is the adjusted net asset method?
The adjusted net asset method restates each asset (tangible and identifiable intangible) and liability on the balance sheet from book value to fair market value, with the difference representing equity value.
6. Which of the following is a key characteristic of the Income Approach in business valuation?
The Income Approach determines value based on the present value of future economic benefits, such as cash flows or earnings.