Top 11 QA Analyst Certifications

Certifications are an important way for QA Analysts to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the job market. By holding a certification, potential employers can be sure that the individual has been tested and certified on certain aspects of quality assurance. Additionally, having a certification can show employers that the individual is dedicated to their profession and willing to invest time into advancing their skills. Certifications also act as a benchmark for employers to compare candidates when making hiring decisions.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for QA Analysts and explain how they can help advance a qa analyst's career.

What are QA Analyst Certifications?

QA analyst certification is a professional certification program designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to become successful quality assurance analysts. Quality assurance analysts are responsible for ensuring that products, services, and processes meet specific standards of quality. By obtaining this certification, individuals can demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of software testing principles, best practices, and techniques.

The certification program covers topics such as software testing methods, test planning, test design techniques, defect management, automation tools and techniques, as well as risk-based testing. The program also includes a comprehensive review of industry standards related to software testing. Upon completion of the coursework and exams associated with the certification program, candidates will have an in-depth understanding of how to effectively test products or services for quality assurance purposes.

Obtaining QA analyst certification can help individuals advance their career in the field of quality assurance by demonstrating their expertise to employers. It can also open up new opportunities for employment or advancement within the organization they currently work for. Additionally, having this certification may give individuals a competitive edge over other job applicants who do not have it.

Pro Tip: When considering a QA Analyst certification, make sure to research the certifying body and their standards. Ensure that the certification is recognized by employers in your field and will give you the skills needed to succeed in your current or future job roles.

Related: What does a QA Analyst do?

Top 11 QA Analyst Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to QA Analysts today.

1. ASTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level

ASTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level is a certification program designed to provide software testers with the skills and knowledge required to perform basic software testing. This certification is offered by the American Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB). The ASTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level exam covers topics such as test design, test execution, defect management, and other related topics.

The ASTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level certification typically takes about 20 hours of study time to prepare for the exam. It is recommended that candidates have at least two years of experience in software testing prior to taking this exam.

To get certified, you must pass the ASTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and can be taken online or in person at an accredited testing center. After passing the exam, you will receive your certificate from ASTQB.

The cost of the ASTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level certification varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $300 USD for the online version and around $400 USD for the in-person version.

2. ISTQB Certified Tester Advanced Level

ISTQB Certified Tester Advanced Level is an advanced certification program for software testers and quality assurance professionals. This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of competency in the field of software testing. The ISTQB Certified Tester Advanced Level (CTAL) is the second-highest level of certification provided by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB).

It typically takes about two years to complete all the requirements for the CTAL certification. To become certified, you must first pass an exam that covers topics such as test design techniques, static and dynamic analysis, test management, and risk-based testing. After passing this exam, you must then complete a project or portfolio demonstrating your mastery of these topics. This project or portfolio should include evidence of your knowledge, skills, and experience in software testing.

In order to take the ISTQB Certified Tester Advanced Level exam, you must first register with the ISTQB website and pay a fee of approximately $250 USD. Once registered, you will have access to study materials and practice exams that can help prepare you for the actual exam.

Once you have passed both the exam and portfolio requirements, you will be awarded your CTAL certificate from the ISTQB. The cost of obtaining this certification varies depending on where you live and how long it takes to complete all requirements; however, it generally costs around $500 USD.

3. American Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB) Mobile Application Testing Certification

The American Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB) Mobile Application Testing Certification is a professional certification program designed to help software testers demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in mobile application testing. It is an internationally recognized certification that validates the tester’s ability to create, execute, and report on mobile application tests.

The certification requires the successful completion of an online exam, which consists of 50 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as mobile app development lifecycle, mobile app testing principles, and mobile test automation. The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and must be taken at an ASTQB-approved testing center.

To get certified, applicants must first register for the exam through the ASTQB website. The cost of the exam varies depending on the country in which it is taken; in the US, it costs $250 USD. After passing the exam with a score of 70% or higher, applicants will receive their official ASTQB Mobile Application Testing Certification within 4 weeks.

4. International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Agile Tester Certification

The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Agile Tester Certification is a certification program for software testers who wish to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in agile testing. It is designed to help testers gain the skills and knowledge needed to effectively test software applications using agile techniques. The certification is based on the ISTQB Agile Tester syllabus, which covers topics such as agile principles, project management, testing strategies, and automation.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that consists of multiple-choice questions. The exam typically takes around three hours to complete and can be taken at any approved ISTQB training center or online through an approved provider.

The cost of the ISTQB Agile Tester Certification varies depending on the provider and location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

5. International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Test Automation Engineer Certification

The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Test Automation Engineer Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide software testers with the skills and knowledge necessary to design, develop, and maintain automated test scripts. This certification is intended for professionals who are responsible for designing, developing, executing and maintaining automated tests.

The ISTQB Test Automation Engineer Certification consists of two parts: the Foundation Level exam and the Advanced Level exam. The Foundation Level exam covers topics such as automation basics, scripting techniques, testing tools and frameworks, automation best practices and more. The Advanced Level exam focuses on advanced topics such as automation architecture design, debugging techniques, performance testing and more.

It usually takes around 6-12 months to complete the ISTQB Test Automation Engineer Certification depending on your experience level. You can prepare for the exams by attending courses or studying independently using materials from the ISTQB website or other sources.

To get certified you will need to pass both exams with a minimum score of 65%. Once you have passed both exams you will receive your certificate from ISTQB.

The cost of getting certified depends on where you take your exams but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD per exam.

6. ASTQB Certified Mobile Tester Professional Level

ASTQB Certified Mobile Tester Professional Level is an internationally recognized certification for mobile application testers. It is designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of professionals who have experience in testing mobile applications. This certification is offered by the American Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB), a non-profit organization dedicated to providing quality assurance standards and certifications for software testers.

The ASTQB Certified Mobile Tester Professional Level requires applicants to pass two exams: the ISTQB Foundation Level exam and the Advanced Level Mobile Tester exam. The former covers topics such as test design, test management, and software development life cycle; while the latter focuses on mobile application testing techniques, tools, and best practices.

To become certified, applicants must first register with ASTQB and pay a fee of $250 USD. After registration, applicants will be given access to study materials for both exams. Once they are ready to take the exams, they can register for them through ASTQB's online portal. Each exam costs $150 USD and takes approximately 3 hours to complete.

Once applicants pass both exams, they will receive their certification from ASTQB within 4-6 weeks after completion of all requirements. The certification is valid for three years from the date of issuance and can be renewed by successfully passing either one of the two exams again or completing continuing education credits.

7. ASTQB Certified Usability Analyst

ASTQB Certified Usability Analyst (CUA) is an internationally recognized certification program for professionals in the field of usability engineering. The CUA certification is designed to validate a professional's knowledge and skills in the areas of user experience, usability, and human-computer interaction. It is based on the ASTQB Usability Engineering Body of Knowledge (UEBoK).

The certification process involves passing an online exam that covers topics such as user research, usability testing, interface design, and more. The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in the field of usability engineering or related disciplines.

To get certified as an ASTQB Certified Usability Analyst (CUA), you must first register with ASTQB and pay a fee of $275 USD. Once registered, you will be able to access study materials for the exam and schedule your test date. After passing the exam, you will be awarded your CUA certificate from ASTQB.

Overall, it typically takes about three months to become certified as an ASTQB Certified Usability Analyst (CUA). This includes studying for the exam, registering with ASTQB, scheduling your test date, taking the exam, and receiving your certificate from ASTQB.

8. ASTQB Certified Security Tester

ASTQB Certified Security Tester (CTST) is a certification program designed to ensure that testers have the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively test the security of software applications. This certification is offered by the American Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB).

The ASTQB Certified Security Tester exam consists of 80 multiple-choice questions, which must be completed within two hours. The exam covers topics such as security testing techniques, security risk assessment, vulnerability analysis, secure coding principles, and penetration testing.

In order to become an ASTQB Certified Security Tester, applicants must first pass the CTST exam with a score of 70% or higher. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official ASTQB Certified Security Tester certificate.

The cost of taking the CTST exam is $250 USD. The fee includes access to practice exams and study materials. Additionally, there are several online courses available for those who wish to prepare for the exam in advance.

Overall, becoming an ASTQB Certified Security Tester is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and experience in software security testing. It can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or contracts related to software security testing.

9. HP Unified Functional Testing (UFT) Certification

HP Unified Functional Testing (UFT) is a software testing tool used to automate the regression, functional, and system integration tests of an application. It is designed to provide comprehensive automation for a wide variety of testing types such as GUI, API, database, web services, and more. UFT Certification is a professional certification program that provides validation of your knowledge and skills in using HP UFT.

The duration of the HP UFT certification exam depends on the type of exam you are taking. The certification exams are typically 60 minutes long and include multiple-choice questions and hands-on lab exercises.

To get certified in HP UFT you must first register for the exam at Pearson VUE or Prometric website. You will be required to pay a fee before taking the exam. Once you have registered for the exam you can prepare by studying materials provided by HP or attending training classes offered by authorized training partners.

The cost of the HP UFT certification exam varies depending on where you take it and which version of UFT you are certifying in. Generally speaking, it costs around $200 USD per exam attempt plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with registering for the exam.

10. HP LoadRunner Certification

HP LoadRunner Certification is a certification program offered by HP that validates an individual’s expertise in using the LoadRunner performance testing tool. It is designed to measure and demonstrate an individual’s ability to use LoadRunner to design, develop, and execute performance tests.

The certification process consists of two exams: HP0-M102: LoadRunner 12.x Software and HP2-E59: Using HP LoadRunner 12.x Software. The first exam is a multiple-choice exam that covers the fundamentals of using the LoadRunner software. The second exam is a practical exam that requires candidates to apply their knowledge of the software to solve real-world problems.

The entire certification process typically takes between 4–6 weeks depending on how quickly you are able to complete each exam. To get certified, you will need to register for both exams with Pearson VUE, pay for each exam separately, and then take them at an authorized testing center or online through Pearson VUE's website. The cost for each exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $150–200 USD per exam.

11. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA): Software Testing Fundamentals

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) Software Testing Fundamentals is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the fundamental knowledge and skills required for software testing. It is intended for those who are new to software testing, or those who have some experience but need to learn more about the fundamentals.

The MTA Software Testing Fundamentals certification consists of one exam, Exam 98-381: Introduction to Programming Using Python. The exam covers topics such as the principles of software testing, different types of tests, test design techniques, and test execution strategies.

The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and costs $127 USD. To get the MTA Software Testing Fundamentals certification, you must pass Exam 98-381 with a score of 700 or higher out of 1000 points. You can register for the exam through Microsoft’s Learning website or through an authorized training center. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your MTA Software Testing Fundamentals certificate within two weeks.

Do You Really Need a QA Analyst Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual. For some, a QA Analyst certificate may be necessary in order to secure a job or advance in their career. For others, a certificate may not be required but could prove beneficial as it demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in the field.

For those considering pursuing a QA Analyst certification, it is important to understand what the certification entails and how it can benefit them. A QA Analyst certification typically requires completion of several courses that focus on quality assurance techniques and best practices. This includes topics such as testing processes, defect management, software development life cycle (SDLC), coding standards, and more. By completing these courses, individuals gain an understanding of how to create effective test plans and execute tests correctly in order to ensure product quality. Additionally, earning a QA Analyst certification can demonstrate one’s commitment to quality assurance and dedication to the field, which can make them more attractive job candidates for employers seeking experienced professionals in this area.

Ultimately, whether or not an individual needs a QA Analyst certificate will depend on their goals and career aspirations. If they are looking for work as a QA Analyst or want to advance their career within the field, then obtaining a certification could prove useful in gaining employment or achieving promotions. However, if they are content with their current position or do not plan on entering into this line of work anytime soon then pursuing a certification may not be necessary at this time.

Related: QA Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About QA Analyst Certifications

Q1. What is a QA Analyst Certification?

Answer: A QA Analyst Certification is a professional certification that validates an individual's knowledge and skills in the field of software quality assurance and testing. The certification indicates that the holder has sufficient experience and expertise to evaluate, analyze, and test software applications.

Q2. What are the benefits of getting a QA Analyst Certification?

Answer: A QA Analyst Certification can help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and skills to potential employers or clients, increase their job prospects, and gain recognition in the industry. It can also help them stay up-to-date with current trends in software quality assurance and testing.

Q3. What are the requirements for obtaining a QA Analyst Certification?

Answer: Requirements vary by organization but typically include passing an exam, having a certain amount of work experience, completing relevant coursework, or having other certifications related to software quality assurance and testing.

Q4. How long does it take to get a QA Analyst Certification?

Answer: It depends on the organization offering the certification as well as your background in software quality assurance and testing. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several months to over a year to complete all of the requirements for obtaining a QA Analyst Certification.

Q5. Are there any cost associated with getting a QA Analyst Certification?

Answer: Yes, there are usually costs associated with obtaining a certification such as registration fees, exam fees, and/or course fees depending on which organization is offering the certification program.