Software Testing Certifications - ISQTB
The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) software testing certifications are recognized as the industry standard throughout the world with over 110,000 certifications awarded. These certifications provide employers with a dependable benchmark of software testing knowledge which they can use to evaluate job applicants and existing staff. Job seekers and other testing professionals have an advantage over their counterparts without an ISTQB certification when it comes to jobs and career advancement.
In the U.S., the American Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB) administers the program for those residing in the U.S. Its board members are involved in the development and maintenance of the international ISTQB testing program.
Software Testing Certifications Available
The ISQTB offers two levels of software testing certification:
ISQTB Certified Tester, Foundation Level (CTFL) – This certification is appropriate for anyone involved in software testing and wants to validate a basic level of understanding of software testing.
ISQTB Certified Tester, Advanced Level (CTAL) – This certification is appropriate for those who have achieved an advanced level of software testing knowledge and experience. There is a choice of three exams to choose from depending upon one's role: Test Analyst, Test Manager and Technical Test Analyst.
Preparing for Exams
Courses to prepare for these exams can be found at various online colleges and technical training schools, some of which are accredited by the ASTQB. Classes can be taken onsite at a training center, online, via self-study videos or onsite at one's company. Courses for the Foundation level exam are usually three to five days in length with one day classes available to those who only need a review. Prices for a Foundations class vary from between about $800 for a self-study video and $3000 for a week-long course.
Advanced level certification classes vary between five and fifteen days, depending on the training provider and the level of experience the students are expected to have. A week-long course typically costs about $2500 to $3000.
Exam Content
Foundation Level (CFL) – The topics covered in this exam include the following:
- Fundamentals of Testing
- Testing throughout the Software Life Cycle
- Static techniques
- Test design techniques
- Test management
- Tool support for testing
Advanced Level (CTAL) – These exams test advanced concepts of some of the same topics covered in the Foundations level exam as well as additional topics related to management of the testing process:
- Basic aspects of software testing
- Testing processes
- Test management
- Test techniques
- Testing of software characteristics
- Reviews
- Incident management
- Standards and Test Improvement Process
- Test tools and automation
- People skills
Taking Exams
Exams are often taken at the end of a training course at a discounted rate or they can be taken by registering at a test center or at a public scheduled test. If training is offered at a company, the exam is usually given at the end of training. The non-discounted price for the Foundation exam is $250. An Advanced exam has a one-time $100 qualification fee plus a $200 exam fee. The ASTQB website allows online registration for public and test center exams. Those registering for an Advanced exam should do so at least ten days before the exam to leave time for the experience requirement to be validated.
Who Should get ISTQB Certification?
Foundation Level (CFL) – Anyone involved with software testing either directly or indirectly should consider this certification. Test analysts, test engineers, user acceptance testers, project managers, software developers and business analysts will all benefit from this certificate, regardless of their level of testing experience. There are no prerequisite requirements.
Advanced Level (CTAL) – This certification is for those who have at least three years of full-time experience with software testing as a tester, software developer, user acceptance tester or test manager. This experience is validated by the exam board as a pre-requisite for certification. Candidates must also have received the Foundation level (CFL) certification. Depending on a person's job role, they will choose to take the Test Analyst, Test Manager or Technical Test Analyst exam.
Evaluating Training Options
Some factors to consider when making a training choice are discussed below:
- Level of knowledge – Training courses vary in length and are typically geared towards professionals with a certain level of experience. Choosing a course that matches one's own experience level can save time and money and make sure the right level of material is covered to ensure success.
- Exam inclusion - Many courses include the exam at the end of training at a discounted rate. This added convenience that saves time and money is something worth looking for when choosing training.
- Convenience - Online and self-study courses may be preferable to those with limited time and other commitments which prevent them from attending full-day training courses.
About ISTQB and ASTQB
The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) was created in 2002 and has developed a universally accepted, international qualification system aimed at system and software testing professionals. The American Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB) is the U.S. arm of the ISQTB, administering and supporting the ISTQB certifications in the U.S.
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