Top 11 Game Tester Certifications

Certifications for game testers are important because they demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary to perform well in the job. They also show potential employers that the tester has a commitment to the profession and is willing to invest time and resources into furthering their education. Certifications can also help testers stand out among other applicants as they provide evidence of specialized knowledge, experience, and ability. Additionally, certifications give testers an edge when applying for higher-level positions or promotions within their current organization.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Game Testers and explains how they can help to advance a game tester's career.

What are Game Tester Certifications?

Game tester certification is a type of professional recognition that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field of game testing. It is designed to provide employers with assurance that individuals who hold the certification have the skills necessary to perform quality and efficient game testing services.

Game tester certification can be beneficial in a number of ways. First, it can help individuals stand out among their peers when applying for jobs or promotions within the gaming industry. Certification provides proof that individuals possess the skills needed to successfully test games, which may give them an edge over other applicants. Second, it can provide employers with assurance that those they hire to test their games have the necessary experience and knowledge to do so effectively. Finally, having a game tester certification may also open up opportunities for career advancement, as more organizations are likely to recognize and value individuals who have taken the time to become certified in this field.

Pro Tip: Before you start your game tester certification, make sure to do research and familiarize yourself with the different types of certifications available. This will help you determine which one is best suited for your career goals, as each type has its own unique requirements and expectations.

Related: What does a Game Tester do?

Top 11 Game Tester Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Game Testers today.

1. ISTQB Foundation Level Certification

ISTQB Foundation Level Certification is a globally recognized qualification for software testers. It is the most popular entry-level certification in the field of software testing and provides a solid foundation for further learning and development. The certification covers topics such as fundamental testing principles, test design techniques, static testing, test management, tool support for testing, and more.

The ISTQB Foundation Level Certification exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and consists of 40 multiple choice questions. To pass the exam, you must answer at least 65% of the questions correctly.

In order to get certified, you need to register with an accredited training provider or take an online course from an approved provider. Once you have completed your course or training program, you can then apply to take the ISTQB Foundation Level Certification exam.

The cost of the ISTQB Foundation Level Certification varies depending on where you take it and who administers it. Generally speaking, it will cost between $200-$300 USD to become certified.

2. ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification

ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification is an advanced certification program offered by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB). The certification is designed for experienced software testers who want to demonstrate their expertise in test management. It covers topics such as test planning, risk analysis, test design techniques, and defect management.

The ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in software testing and completion of a three-day training course. The course can be completed online or in a classroom setting. After completing the training course, individuals must pass an exam to become certified.

The cost of the ISTQB Advanced Level Test Manager Certification varies depending on the provider offering the course and exam. Generally, it costs between $500-$1,000 USD for both the training and exam fees.

Once certified, individuals are required to maintain their certification by completing 20 hours of continuing education every three years.

3. Certified Software Tester (CSTE)

Certified Software Tester (CSTE) is a professional certification program offered by the Quality Assurance Institute (QAI). It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate competency in software testing and quality assurance. The CSTE certification is an internationally recognized credential that validates a tester’s ability to identify, analyze, and solve complex software problems.

The CSTE certification program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam tests knowledge of software testing principles, processes, and techniques. The practical exam tests the candidate’s ability to apply these concepts in real-world scenarios.

To be eligible for the CSTE certification, candidates must have at least two years of professional experience in software testing or quality assurance. Candidates must also complete an approved training course prior to taking the exams.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for the CSTE exams and obtain certification. To get started, candidates should register with QAI and purchase the required materials from their website. Once registered, candidates can take practice exams online or attend an approved training course to gain additional knowledge and skills needed for the exams.

The cost of the CSTE certification program varies depending on which materials are purchased and how many practice exams are taken. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD for all required materials plus any additional fees associated with attending a training course or taking practice exams.

4. Certified Usability Analyst (CUA)

A Certified Usability Analyst (CUA) is an individual who has been certified by the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society (HFES) as having the knowledge, skills, and abilities to design and evaluate user interfaces for maximum usability. The certification is designed to recognize those who have demonstrated a mastery of the principles of human-computer interaction, interface design, and usability engineering.

In order to become a CUA, individuals must first meet the minimum requirements set forth by HFES. These include having at least three years of professional experience in user interface design or evaluation, or a master’s degree in human-computer interaction or related field. Additionally, individuals must pass an exam administered by HFES that covers topics such as usability engineering principles and methods; task analysis; user interface design; usability testing; accessibility considerations; internationalization/localization considerations; and more.

The exam typically takes four hours to complete and costs $200 USD. Once the exam has been passed successfully, applicants will receive their Certified Usability Analyst certificate from HFES. It should be noted that this certification does not expire but it is recommended that holders take continuing education courses every two years in order to maintain their certification status.

5. Microsoft Technology Associate: Gaming Development Fundamentals

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) Gaming Development Fundamentals is a certification program designed to help IT professionals and developers gain the knowledge and skills necessary to create, develop, and maintain gaming applications. The MTA Gaming Development Fundamentals certification validates the understanding of core concepts in game development, including game design principles, game mechanics, game programming languages, game engines, and other related technologies.

The MTA Gaming Development Fundamentals certification consists of one exam that must be taken at an authorized testing center. The exam takes approximately 45 minutes to complete and costs $127 USD. To obtain the certification, you must pass the exam with a score of 700 or higher on a scale of 1000.

To prepare for the exam, Microsoft offers a variety of resources such as self-paced courses on Microsoft Virtual Academy (MVA), instructor-led training courses through Microsoft Learning Partners (MLPs), and online practice tests through MeasureUp.

In addition to passing the exam, you must also meet certain prerequisites before taking the exam. These include having basic knowledge of computer hardware components and software installation processes; being familiar with Windows operating systems; having experience with scripting languages such as HTML/CSS/JavaScript; understanding basic programming concepts such as variables and functions; being able to read code written in C# or JavaScript; having familiarity with gaming platforms such as Xbox Live Arcade; and having experience using Microsoft Visual Studio for developing games.

6. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills of entry-level IT professionals. It is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates competency in areas such as installation, preventative maintenance, networking, security, and troubleshooting.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification exam. To get certified, you must pass two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). The exams cover topics such as hardware, software, operating systems, security, cloud computing, mobile devices, and troubleshooting.

To get the CompTIA A+ certification, you must register for the exams through Pearson VUE or Prometric. The cost of the exams varies depending on your location but usually ranges from $200 to $300 USD.

To keep your certification up to date and maintain its value in the marketplace, you must renew it every three years by taking continuing education courses or passing a higher-level exam.

7. Certified Professional Game Tester (CPGT)

Certified Professional Game Tester (CPGT) is a certification program designed to recognize the expertise of game testers. It is offered through the International Game Developers Association (IGDA). The certification is meant to demonstrate a high level of knowledge and experience in game testing and quality assurance.

It takes approximately two years to become a Certified Professional Game Tester. This includes completing at least two years of game testing experience, passing an online exam, and submitting an application for review by the IGDA Certification Board. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as game testing methodology, bug reporting, test planning, and more.

To get certified as a CPGT, you must first meet the eligibility requirements outlined by the IGDA Certification Board. These include having at least two years of professional game testing experience, passing the online exam with a score of 70% or higher, and submitting an application for review. Once your application has been approved, you will be invited to take part in an online orientation session before taking the final exam.

The cost for becoming certified as a CPGT is $299 USD. This fee covers all aspects of the certification process including registration fees, exam fees, and other related costs.

8. International Game Developers Association (IGDA) Certifications

The International Game Developers Association (IGDA) is a professional organization that provides resources and support to game developers around the world. The IGDA also offers certifications for game developers, which are designed to demonstrate proficiency in various areas of game development.

The IGDA offers two types of certifications: Certified Game Developer (CGD) and Certified Professional Game Developer (CPGD). The CGD certification is an entry-level certification that requires applicants to have at least one year of experience in game development. The CPGD certification is a more advanced certification that requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in game development and must pass an exam.

It typically takes about six months to complete the process for both certifications, depending on the applicant’s experience level. To get certified, applicants must submit an application form with their resume, a portfolio of their work, and other relevant documents. After submitting the application, applicants will be required to take an online exam or attend a live workshop.

The cost for both certifications varies depending on the applicant’s location and type of certification they are applying for. For example, the CGD certification costs $150 USD for US residents and $200 USD for non-US residents; while the CPGD certification costs $300 USD for US residents and $400 USD for non-US residents.

9. International Software Testing Qualification Board (ISTQB) Certifications

The International Software Testing Qualification Board (ISTQB) is an independent, non-profit organization that provides global standards for software testing qualifications. It was founded in 2002 and has since grown to become the most widely accepted software testing certification program in the world.

The ISTQB offers three levels of certifications: Foundation, Advanced, and Expert. The Foundation level is the entry-level certification and is designed to give testers a basic understanding of software testing principles and processes. The Advanced level covers more advanced topics such as test automation, performance testing, risk management, and security testing. The Expert level requires a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience in order to be successful.

It typically takes about four months to complete the Foundation level certification. This includes studying for the exam, taking practice tests, attending webinars or courses on software testing topics, and completing a final exam. To get certified at the Advanced or Expert levels requires more time and effort as these exams are more difficult than the Foundation level exam.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on which country you are located in and which certification you are pursuing. Generally speaking, it costs around $300-$500 USD to get certified at the Foundation level; $400-$800 USD for Advanced; and $1000+ USD for Expert level certifications.

In addition to providing certifications, ISTQB also offers training materials such as books, e-learning courses, webinars, workshops, conferences and seminars that can help prepare individuals for their exams.

10. Quality Assurance Institute’s Certified Quality Analyst (CQA)

The Certified Quality Analyst (CQA) is a certification offered by the Quality Assurance Institute (QAI). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in quality assurance and quality control. The CQA certification provides recognition for those individuals who demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the principles, practices, tools, and techniques used in quality assurance and control.

The CQA exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as process improvement, problem solving, statistical analysis, design of experiments, sampling techniques, inspection methods, and auditing. Candidates must pass the exam with a score of at least 70% to earn the certification.

In order to become certified as a CQA, candidates must meet certain prerequisites. These include having at least two years of experience in quality assurance or related fields; completing an approved training program; or having completed an approved college or university course in quality assurance or related fields.

The cost for taking the CQA exam is $395 USD. This fee includes registration for the exam as well as access to study materials and practice tests. The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center around the world and results are typically available within two weeks after taking the exam.

11. American Society for Quality’s Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE)

The Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CSQE is designed to measure an individual’s knowledge and skills in software quality engineering. It is intended to demonstrate that the holder has the necessary expertise to evaluate and improve the quality of software products.

The certification process typically takes about six months, depending on the individual’s experience and preparation. To become certified, applicants must first pass a written exam that covers topics such as software development processes, quality assurance techniques, risk management, and software testing. After passing the exam, applicants must then submit a portfolio of their work experience related to software quality engineering.

The cost of obtaining the CSQE certification varies depending on how many exams are taken and whether or not an applicant opts for additional training courses. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Game Tester Certificate?

No, you do not need a game tester certificate to be a successful game tester. While having a certificate can be helpful and demonstrate your qualifications, it is not necessary. Many game testers have been successful without having any formal certification.

Game testing is mainly about understanding the game and being able to identify flaws or errors in its design and implementation. To become a successful game tester, you need to have an eye for detail and good problem-solving skills. You should also have experience playing video games, preferably those that are similar to the ones you will be testing. It helps if you are familiar with the different genres of video games so that you know what to look for when testing them.

In addition to these skills, it is also important to have good communication skills as well as being able to work well with others. You should be able to communicate effectively with developers and other team members in order to report any issues found during testing sessions. Having the ability to provide constructive feedback is also an important part of being a successful game tester.

Ultimately, having a certificate may give you an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs but it is not essential for success as a game tester. What matters most is that you possess the right skills and knowledge necessary to excel at the job.

Related: Game Tester Resume Examples

FAQs About Game Tester Certifications

1. What is a game tester certification?

Answer: A game tester certification is a professional credential that verifies an individual’s ability to test and evaluate video games for quality assurance and bug fixing. Game testers must have strong technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.

2. How do I become a certified game tester?

Answer: To become a certified game tester, you must complete the appropriate training program or coursework offered by a recognized institution or organization. After completing the program, you will then be eligible to take the certification exam.

3. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a certified game tester?

Answer: Yes, most organizations require applicants to have some experience in software testing or gaming development before they can apply for certification. Additionally, many certifying bodies may also require applicants to pass an exam in order to receive their credentials.

4. What are the benefits of becoming a certified game tester?

Answer: Certified game testers are more likely to receive higher pay rates since their qualifications are verified by an official organization. Additionally, having this credential can help individuals stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs in the gaming industry since employers will recognize their expertise and dedication.

5. How long does it take to become a certified game tester?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become a certified game tester varies depending on the individual’s experience level and the type of training they choose to pursue. Generally speaking, it could take anywhere from 2-6 months or longer depending on the complexity of the program and how much time one has available for study and practice before taking the certification exam.