CRA Study Guide 2026

Everything you need to pass the CRA 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.

📋 CRA Exam Format at a Glance

250
Questions
240 min
Time Limit
70%
Passing Score

📚 CRA Topics to Study (23)

✍️ Sample CRA Questions & Answers

1. Why include a timeline in the proposal?
It helps demonstrate project feasibility

Including a detailed timeline in a research proposal demonstrates the project's feasibility and shows reviewers that the researcher has a realistic plan for completing the work within the proposed timeframe. It breaks down the project into manageable phases, assigning specific durations to each task. This provides confidence that the project can be successfully executed and managed.

2. In Staff Management & Training, what is the FIRST step a CRA professional should take when encountering a new case or situation?
Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information

In Staff Management & Training, a thorough initial assessment ensures all relevant factors are identified before deciding on an appropriate course of action. This systematic approach is fundamental to Certified Research Administrator practice.

3. When should a contract be fully executed?
Before any project work begins

A research contract must be fully executed, meaning signed by all authorized parties, before any project work or expenditure of funds commences. This ensures that all terms and conditions are legally binding from the outset, protecting all parties involved. Starting work without an executed contract can lead to financial risks, legal liabilities, and non-compliance with sponsor requirements.

4. Which quality improvement method is most applicable to professional standards & ethics in Certified Research Administrator?
Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) continuous improvement cycle

The PDCA cycle is widely recognized as the most effective quality improvement method, allowing CRA professionals to systematically improve professional standards & ethics practices.

5. Which technology trend is most likely to impact professional standards & ethics in the CRA field in coming years?
Digital tools for enhanced data collection, analysis, and reporting

Digital tools for enhanced data collection, analysis, and reporting represent the most significant and practical technology trend impacting professional standards & ethics, augmenting rather than replacing professional expertise.

6. In Emergency Preparedness & Safety, what is the FIRST step a CRA professional should take when encountering a new case or situation?
Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information

In Emergency Preparedness & Safety, a thorough initial assessment ensures all relevant factors are identified before deciding on an appropriate course of action. This systematic approach is fundamental to Certified Research Administrator practice.

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Your CRA Study Path
1. Learn with Flashcards → 2. Drill Practice Tests → 3. Take the Full Exam Simulation