Top 11 QA Engineer Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a QA engineer's career. They provide proof that the engineer has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the job effectively. Certifications can also be used to demonstrate competency in specific areas, such as automation, testing methodologies, and software development lifecycles. This can help a QA engineer stand out from other applicants in the job market and increase their chances of being hired. Additionally, certifications may be required by employers in order to be considered for certain positions or promotions within a company.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for QA Engineers and explains how they can help to advance a qa engineer's career.

What are QA Engineer Certifications?

QA engineer certification is a type of professional certification that provides proof that an individual has achieved a certain level of expertise in quality assurance and software testing. The certification process typically includes passing an exam or completing a series of courses that cover topics such as software development life cycle, software development methodology, testing techniques, and project management.

Having QA engineer certification can help individuals stand out from the competition when applying for jobs or promotions. It proves to employers that the individual has a solid understanding of quality assurance principles and processes, as well as the necessary skills to perform the job successfully. Certification also helps develop credibility with customers and peers in the industry. It demonstrates commitment to excellence and furthers career advancement opportunities by providing knowledge and recognition in the field of QA engineering. Additionally, certified QA engineers often have access to exclusive resources such as conferences, workshops, webinars, and networking opportunities which can help them stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

Pro Tip: When choosing a QA Engineer Certification, make sure to research the certifying organization thoroughly to ensure that the program is accredited and provides up-to-date training that meets industry standards. Additionally, look for certifications that offer continuing education opportunities so you can stay current with the latest trends and technologies in the field.

Related: What does a QA Engineer do?

Top 11 QA Engineer Certifications

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

1. ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level

ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level is a certification program that provides an internationally recognized qualification for software testers. It is designed to provide a basic understanding of software testing and the principles, techniques, and processes used in the industry. The certification is based on the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) syllabus and covers topics such as fundamentals of testing, test design techniques, static testing, test management, tool support for testing, and defect management.

The Foundation Level certification typically takes around 40 hours to complete and can be obtained through self-study or by attending an accredited training course. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and must be taken at an approved examination center. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $150-$400 USD.

2. ASTQB Mobile Application Testing Certification

ASTQB Mobile Application Testing Certification is an internationally recognized certification program designed to assess the knowledge and skills of mobile application testers. The certification is offered by the American Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing software testing qualifications.

The ASTQB Mobile Application Testing Certification is a three-hour exam that consists of 60 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as mobile application architecture, mobile operating systems, mobile device management, mobile application development lifecycle, security and privacy considerations, and test automation. To get certified, applicants must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The ASTQB Mobile Application Testing Certification can be obtained by taking an online course or attending an in-person training session. Online courses typically take between 8–10 hours to complete and cost around $200 USD. In-person training sessions are usually held over two days and cost around $500 USD.

Once you have successfully completed your training or passed the online exam, you will receive an official certificate from ASTQB that is valid for three years from the date of issue.

3. ASQ Certified Software Quality Analyst (CSQA)

ASQ Certified Software Quality Analyst (CSQA) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in software quality assurance and testing. The CSQA certification demonstrates an individual's commitment to excellence in software quality assurance, testing, and related activities.

It typically takes between 6-12 months of study and preparation to become certified. To get the CSQA certification, you must pass two exams: an online multiple-choice exam and a proctored essay exam. The online multiple-choice exam covers topics such as software development life cycle, software quality assurance principles, software testing techniques, and software metrics. The proctored essay exam focuses on topics such as project management, risk management, process improvement, and customer satisfaction.

The cost of becoming ASQ Certified Software Quality Analyst (CSQA) varies depending on the country where you take the exams. In the United States, it costs approximately $500 for both exams combined.

4. American Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB) Advanced Level Test Automation Engineer Certification

The American Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB) Advanced Level Test Automation Engineer Certification is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field of test automation. This certification is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of test automation, including design, implementation, and maintenance.

In order to obtain this certification, individuals must first complete the ASTQB Foundation Level Test Automation Engineer Certification. This course takes approximately 20-25 hours to complete and covers topics such as test automation fundamentals, scripting languages, and testing tools. After completing the Foundation Level course, individuals can then choose to pursue the Advanced Level Test Automation Engineer Certification. This certification requires candidates to pass a two-hour exam consisting of 60 multiple-choice questions and costs $250 USD.

The Advanced Level Test Automation Engineer Certification focuses on more advanced topics such as test automation architecture and design patterns, debugging techniques, performance testing, and continuous integration/deployment processes. It also covers topics related to developing automated tests using popular frameworks such as Selenium WebDriver or Appium. Upon successful completion of the exam, individuals will receive their ASTQB Advanced Level Test Automation Engineer Certification which is valid for three years from the date of issue.

5. ISTQB Advanced Level Technical Test Analyst Certification

The ISTQB Advanced Level Technical Test Analyst Certification is an internationally recognized certification that validates a tester’s knowledge and expertise in software testing. It is designed to provide advanced level skills and knowledge in the areas of test analysis, test design, test execution and evaluation, as well as defect management.

It typically takes around 4-6 months to complete the ISTQB Advanced Level Technical Test Analyst Certification. This includes studying for the exam, taking practice tests, and completing the actual exam.

To obtain this certification, you must first pass the Foundation Level Exam (CTFL). After passing this exam, you can then take the Advanced Level Technical Test Analyst Exam (CTAL-TTA). You will need to pass both exams in order to receive your certification.

The cost of obtaining the ISTQB Advanced Level Technical Test Analyst Certification varies depending on where you are located. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 USD for both exams combined.

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

The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Agile Tester Extension Certification is an advanced-level certification that demonstrates a tester’s knowledge and understanding of agile software development processes. This certification is designed to help testers understand the principles and practices of agile testing, including test strategy, planning, execution, and reporting. It also provides guidance on how to apply these principles in different contexts.

The ISTQB Agile Tester Extension Certification consists of two levels: Foundation Level and Advanced Level. The Foundation Level covers topics such as agile methodologies, roles and responsibilities in an agile team, test automation strategies, and acceptance criteria. The Advanced Level focuses on more advanced topics such as risk-based testing, continuous integration/delivery (CI/CD), DevOps, and performance testing.

To obtain the ISTQB Agile Tester Extension Certification, you must first pass the Foundation Level exam with a minimum score of 60%. Once you have passed the Foundation Level exam, you may then take the Advanced Level exam. Both exams are administered by accredited training providers or through online proctored exams.

The cost of taking the ISTQB Agile Tester Extension Certification depends on which provider you choose to take it from. Generally speaking, it can range from around $200-$500 USD for both exams combined. The time required to complete the certification depends on your own study habits; however, it typically takes between 2-4 weeks to prepare for both exams if studied diligently.

7. Certified Professional for Requirements Engineering (CPRE) Foundation Level

Certified Professional for Requirements Engineering (CPRE) Foundation Level is an internationally recognized certification program that provides a comprehensive introduction to requirements engineering. It is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively define, analyze, and manage requirements in software development projects.

The CPRE Foundation Level consists of two modules: Fundamentals of Requirements Engineering and Advanced Concepts in Requirements Engineering. The Fundamentals module covers topics such as elicitation, analysis, modeling techniques, verification, validation, traceability and management of requirements. The Advanced Concepts module covers topics such as risk management, stakeholder analysis, requirements engineering processes and tools.

It typically takes up to 10 hours to complete the CPRE Foundation Level exam. To get certified at the Foundation level, you must pass both modules with a minimum score of 70%. You can take the exams online or at a local testing center.

The cost for taking the CPRE Foundation Level exam varies depending on where you take it. Online exams cost $195 (USD), while exams taken at a local testing center cost $250 (USD).

8. ISQI Certified Agile Test Manager

ISQI Certified Agile Test Manager (CATM) is an internationally recognized certification that recognizes individuals who have the knowledge and experience to effectively lead agile testing projects. The certification is offered by the International Software Quality Institute (ISQI), a leading provider of software quality assurance training and consulting services.

The CATM certification requires candidates to demonstrate their knowledge of agile testing principles, practices, and techniques. Candidates must also demonstrate their ability to apply these principles in a practical setting. The certification exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as agile test planning, execution, and reporting; risk management; test automation; test design and development; and agile project management.

The CATM certification process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete, depending on the candidate's experience level. To get certified, candidates must first submit an application form along with supporting documents such as proof of education or work experience in software testing or quality assurance. Once approved, candidates must then pass the CATM exam which is administered online through ISQI’s e-learning platform.

The cost for the CATM certification varies depending on the country where you take the exam but typically ranges from $1,000 - $2,000 USD.

9. ISQI Certified Usability Expert

ISQI Certified Usability Expert (CUE) is a certification program offered by the International Software Quality Institute (ISQI). It is designed to recognize professionals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to design, develop, evaluate, and improve user interfaces. The CUE certification is based on the ISO 9241-210 standard for usability engineering.

The CUE certification consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam covers topics such as usability principles, user experience design, user research methods, usability evaluation techniques, and accessibility standards. The practical assessment requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to apply these concepts in real-world scenarios.

The CUE certification process typically takes about 4 months from start to finish. Candidates must first register for the exam and pay an application fee of $200 USD. After registration, candidates will receive access to study materials and practice tests that they can use to prepare for the exam. Once they have completed all requirements, they can take the written exam at an approved testing center. Upon passing the written exam, candidates then complete a practical assessment with an approved assessor in order to obtain their CUE certification.

The cost of obtaining the CUE certification varies depending on where you live and how much preparation you need before taking the exams. In general, it costs around $1,000 USD for both parts of the certification process – including registration fees, study materials, practice tests, travel expenses (if applicable), and any other associated costs.

10. ISEB Foundation in Software Testing

ISEB Foundation in Software Testing is an internationally recognised qualification that provides a comprehensive introduction to software testing. It is designed for those who want to develop their knowledge and understanding of the principles, methods and techniques of software testing.

The ISEB Foundation in Software Testing is a two-day course, which can be taken in a classroom environment or online. The course covers topics such as test strategy, risk analysis and test design techniques. It also includes practical exercises and case studies to help students gain a better understanding of the concepts covered.

To get the ISEB Foundation in Software Testing qualification, you must pass an exam at the end of the course. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. You must achieve at least 65% in order to pass the exam and receive your certificate.

The cost of taking the ISEB Foundation in Software Testing depends on where you take it. In-person courses typically cost between £500 - £700, while online courses can range from £200 - £400 depending on provider.

11. HP Quality Center 11 Certification

HP Quality Center 11 Certification is an industry-recognized certification program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in the use of HP Quality Center 11. It is a comprehensive software testing solution that provides end-to-end traceability, test execution, defect tracking and reporting capabilities.

The certification exam consists of multiple choice questions and covers topics such as installation, configuration, administration, customization and integration of HP Quality Center 11. The exam also includes topics related to creating projects, users, requirements and tests; running tests; analyzing results; tracking defects; and reporting on quality metrics.

It typically takes about two hours to complete the exam. To get certified, you need to pass the exam with a score of at least 70%. You can take the exam online or at a Pearson VUE testing center.

The cost for taking the HP Quality Center 11 Certification Exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $150 to $200 USD.

Do You Really Need a QA Engineer Certificate?

No, you do not need a QA Engineer Certificate to be a successful Quality Assurance (QA) Engineer. However, having one can certainly help you stand out from the competition when applying for jobs and other opportunities. A QA Engineer Certificate can demonstrate that you have taken the time to learn more about the field and have been formally trained in the fundamentals of software testing. It also shows that you are serious about your career and are willing to invest in yourself to become better at your job.

That being said, it is important to note that there is no specific certification or degree required to become a QA Engineer. Many employers will accept candidates with experience in related fields such as software development or IT support who have worked on quality assurance projects. While having a certificate may help boost your resume, ultimately employers will be more interested in seeing evidence of your knowledge and abilities through practical experience and examples of past work.

In summary, while having a QA Engineer Certificate can give you an edge over other applicants, it is not essential for success in this field. Ultimately what matters most is that you have the right skillset and attitude to excel at quality assurance engineering tasks.

Related: QA Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About QA Engineer Certifications

1. What certifications are available for QA Engineers?

Answer: There are several certifications available for QA Engineers, including the Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE) from the American Society for Quality, ISTQB Foundation Level certification, and Certified Tester Foundation Level from the International Software Testing Qualifications Board.

2. How much does a QA Engineer Certification cost?

Answer: The cost of a QA Engineer Certification varies depending on which certification you choose to pursue. Generally, the CSQE costs around $595 USD, while the ISTQB Foundation Level and Certified Tester Foundation Level both cost around $250 USD.

3. What is required to obtain a QA Engineer Certification?

Answer: To obtain a QA Engineer Certification, you must complete an accredited training program or course in software quality assurance and pass an exam to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in this field.

4. How long does it take to get a QA Engineer Certification?

Answer: Depending on the type of certification you choose to pursue, it can take anywhere from one day to several months to obtain a QA Engineer Certification. The time required also depends on how much experience you have in quality assurance and how quickly you can prepare for the exam.

5. Is there any support available when pursuing a QA Engineer Certification?

Answer: Yes! Many organizations offer online resources or study groups that can help guide you through the process of obtaining your certification and prepare for the exam. Additionally, many accredited training programs provide additional support throughout your studies and exam preparation process.