This FAQ provides answers to the common questions software testers have about software QA certifications.
It is helpful for shared vocabulary and resume screening, especially early in your career or where job posts mention it. It is not a substitute for projects or experience. Treat it as a complement. Review the official ISTQB CTFL overview.
Most testers start with ISTQB CTFL because it unlocks advanced and specialist paths. Pair CTFL with small, real projects so you can speak to concrete results. The ISTQB Glossary helps with terminology.
Some industries and teams expect ISTQB. Many managers prioritize demonstrable skills and impact. Scan local job posts to calibrate to your market.
Expect 40 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes with a 65 percent passing score. Non-native exam language typically gets 25 percent extra time. Precision with glossary terms matters.
The credential is recognized either way. Choose based on convenience and proctoring rules. Major providers support online or test-center delivery.
Build real automation first with tools like Playwright, Selenium, or Cypress. Consider Test Automation Engineer (TAE) when you can connect concepts to working code in a portfolio.
They can help you get interviews or meet a checkbox. Compensation usually follows experience, specialty skills, and measurable results.
They offer bite-sized milestones that show momentum between larger certifications. Pair them with a small portfolio or public repositories. Consider looking at AT*SQA micro-credentials for learning on different software testing topics.
Work through the official syllabus, do sample questions, and use the ISTQB glossary quiz. Practice timing and careful reading. Start with the CTFL syllabus PDF and the ISTQB Glossary.
Foundation, Advanced, and Specialist certificates are generally valid for life. Expert level typically has a renewal period. Verify current policy with your exam provider.
For QA depth, consider ASQ Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE). For testing tracks outside ISTQB, consider QAI options such as CSTE or CAST. For process improvement and assessment, add TMMi Professional.
Scrum Alliance CSM and Scrum.org PSM I are widely recognized scrum foundations. ICAgile offers ICP-TST and ICP-ATA.
AT*SQA Test Automation Certification is earned by stacking four micro-credentials in the Test Automation AT*SkillStack. Use it to structure your learning while you deliver a real project.
CKAD validates hands-on ability to design, build, and deploy cloud-native apps on Kubernetes. It is useful for SDETs who work close to CI and containers.
Splunk Core Certified User shows you can search logs, manage fields and lookups, and create alerts and basic dashboards. Dynatrace Education Services provides paths and exams.
The Postman API Fundamentals Student Expert credential verifies fundamental API skills and is a useful starter for juniors building a portfolio.
CompTIA certifications include Security+ for baseline security knowledge. For hands-on penetration testing exposure, see OffSec courses and GIAC GPEN.
Let current job posts guide you. Start with the credential that aligns with your next role, then add one adjacent credential that fills a gap in your toolkit. Keep building a portfolio as you certify.