Top 10 Quality Assurance Tester Certifications

Certifications are important for a quality assurance tester in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has the knowledge and expertise necessary to perform quality assurance testing. Certifications provide evidence of a candidate’s skill set, which can help them stand out from other applicants. Furthermore, certifications often come with additional benefits such as discounts on software, access to industry events, and networking opportunities. In addition, employers may be more likely to invest in training and development for employees who have certified QA tester credentials.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Quality Assurance Testers and explain how they can help advance a Quality Assurance Tester's career.

What are Quality Assurance Tester Certifications?

Quality assurance tester certification is a type of professional credential that demonstrates a mastery of the skills and knowledge related to software testing. It is usually earned by completing an approved course or program in software testing, such as the ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level or the ASTQB Mobile Application Testing Professional.

By obtaining quality assurance tester certification, individuals demonstrate their commitment to their profession and gain recognition for their expertise. Quality assurance testers with certifications are often considered more valuable to employers than those without them. Certification also provides an opportunity for quality assurance testers to show potential employers that they have achieved a certain level of knowledge and experience in the field.

Certification can also help testers stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in software testing. By continuing to pursue certifications, testers can keep their skills sharp and ensure that they remain competitive in the job market. Quality assurance tester certification can also provide access to exclusive networks and resources, allowing them to stay informed about new tools and techniques available in the industry.

Pro Tip: If you are interested in becoming a quality assurance tester, consider getting certified. Quality assurance testing certifications can provide valuable insight and knowledge into the industry, as well as help you stand out from other applicants. Certification can also give you access to exclusive job opportunities and networking opportunities with other professionals in the field.

Related: What does a Quality Assurance Tester do?

Top 10 Quality Assurance Tester Certifications

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

1. ISTQB Foundation Level Certification

ISTQB Foundation Level Certification is an internationally-recognized qualification for software testers. It is designed to provide a basic understanding of the fundamental concepts of software testing and how it can be applied in practice. The certification covers topics such as test design techniques, test management, and the principles of testing.

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

To get certified, you must first register for the exam through an accredited training provider or via the ISTQB website. You will then need to attend a course that covers all of the topics listed in the syllabus. Once you have completed your training, you will be able to book your exam date and take the exam.

The cost of taking the ISTQB Foundation Level Certification exam varies depending on where you are taking it and who is providing it. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$300 USD (or equivalent) to take the exam.

2. ASTQB Mobile Tester Certification

ASTQB Mobile Tester Certification is an internationally recognized certification for mobile testers. It is designed to validate a tester’s knowledge and skills in mobile testing, including topics such as mobile device types, application types, test planning and execution, defect management, and more. The certification also covers the use of various tools and techniques used in mobile testing.

To get ASTQB Mobile Tester Certification, you must first complete the ISTQB Foundation Level exam with a passing score of 65%. After that, you will need to take the ASTQB Mobile Tester Extension exam and pass it with a score of 75%. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.

The cost of the ASTQB Mobile Tester Certification depends on where you are taking the exam. In most cases, it costs $250 USD for both exams combined. However, some training providers may offer discounts or special offers that can reduce the cost significantly.

Once you have successfully passed both exams, you will receive your official ASTQB Mobile Tester Certification which is valid for three years from the date of issue.

3. Certified Software Quality Analyst (CSQA)

Certified Software Quality Analyst (CSQA) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and skills in software quality assurance.

The CSQA certification requires passing an examination that covers topics such as software development life cycle, software testing principles, quality management systems, and risk management. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 4 hours to complete.

To become certified, applicants must have at least three years of experience in software quality assurance or related fields. Applicants must also submit a completed application form and fee to ASQ before they can take the exam.

The cost of the CSQA certification exam varies depending on where you take it. In the United States, the cost is $495 USD for members and $595 USD for non-members. Exam fees may vary outside of the United States.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate from ASQ within 6-8 weeks after completing all requirements.

4. Certified Software Tester (CSTE)

Certified Software Tester (CSTE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and experience necessary to test software effectively. It is offered by the Quality Assurance Institute (QAI), an organization dedicated to advancing the practice of quality assurance for software development and testing.

The CSTE certification requires applicants to pass a written exam that tests their knowledge of software testing techniques, processes, and principles. The exam is divided into two parts: one part covers general software testing topics, while the other focuses on specific areas such as database testing, web application testing, and mobile application testing. Applicants must also demonstrate their practical experience in software testing through a portfolio of work samples or interviews with experienced testers.

To become certified as a CSTE, applicants must first complete an online application form and pay the associated fee. Once accepted into the program, they will be required to attend an in-person training course that covers all aspects of software testing. After successful completion of the course, candidates will be eligible to take the CSTE exam.

The cost for taking the CSTE exam varies depending on location and whether it is taken online or at a physical test center. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 USD for U.S.-based applicants and $500 USD for international applicants. The entire process from start to finish can take up to six months if you are taking your time with studying for the exam and completing any additional requirements such as submitting your portfolio or attending interviews.

5. Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL)

Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) is a certification for software testers, developed by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB). It is designed to provide a basic understanding of the principles and processes of software testing. The CTFL certification is intended to be an entry-level qualification for those just starting out in software testing and provides the foundation for further certifications.

The CTFL exam consists of 40 multiple choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. The exam covers topics such as test design techniques, test management, static techniques, and tool support for testing. To pass the exam, candidates must score at least 65%.

To get the CTFL certification, you need to first register with ISTQB and select your nearest accredited training provider. You will then attend a two-day course that covers all aspects of the syllabus and prepares you for the exam. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate from ISTQB.

The cost of taking the CTFL course and exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 USD depending on your location.

6. Certified Agile Tester (CAT)

Certified Agile Tester (CAT) is a certification designed to validate the skills of testers working in an agile environment. It was created by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) and is based on the ISTQB Foundation Level syllabus. The CAT certification focuses on testing within an agile context, emphasizing collaboration, communication, and continuous improvement.

The CAT exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. To pass the exam, candidates must score at least 65%. The cost of the exam is $250 USD.

In order to become a Certified Agile Tester, candidates must have a minimum of two years’ experience in software testing or related fields. Candidates must also have completed an approved training course or have obtained a relevant degree from an accredited institution. Finally, they must pass the CAT exam with a score of at least 65%.

7. International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Advanced Level Certification

The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Advanced Level Certification is a globally recognized certification program for software testers. This certification is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become an expert in software testing. The ISTQB Advanced Level Certification covers topics such as test design techniques, test management, and automation. It also includes advanced concepts such as risk-based testing, security testing, and performance testing.

The ISTQB Advanced Level Certification typically takes between one to two years to complete depending on the individual's experience level. To get certified, individuals must first pass the Foundation Level exam before moving onto the Advanced Level exams. There are three different levels of certification: Foundation Level, Agile Tester Extension, and Test Manager.

The cost of the ISTQB Advanced Level Certification varies depending on which level you are pursuing. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 USD for each exam you take. However, some organizations may offer discounts or special offers on their courses or exams that can reduce this cost significantly. Additionally, some employers may cover part or all of the cost of obtaining this certification if they deem it beneficial for their organization.

8. ASQ Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE)

ASQ Certified Software Quality Engineer (CSQE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in software quality engineering. The CSQE certification validates an individual’s ability to apply principles, processes, and tools of software quality engineering in the development and maintenance of software products.

The CSQE exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as software quality assurance, software testing, process improvement, and project management. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

To become certified as a CSQE, you must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%. You must also have at least three years of experience in software quality engineering or related activities. You can take the exam either online or in person at an ASQ-approved testing center.

The cost for the CSQE exam is $399 USD for members of ASQ or $499 USD for non-members. You may also be eligible for discounts if you are part of certain organizations or if you are taking the exam as part of a group.

9. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Six Sigma Black Belt

American Society for Quality (ASQ) Six Sigma Black Belt is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of mastery in the field of quality management and process improvement. The Black Belt certification demonstrates an individual's expertise in leading and managing projects, as well as their ability to analyze data and develop solutions to improve processes.

The ASQ Six Sigma Black Belt certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in one or more areas of the Six Sigma Methodology, including project management, problem solving, process improvement, and data analysis. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as team dynamics, design of experiments, statistical analysis, and project management.

The ASQ Six Sigma Black Belt certification typically takes between 6-12 months to complete depending on the amount of time dedicated to studying and preparing for the exam. It is recommended that applicants spend at least 150 hours studying for the exam before taking it.

The cost of the ASQ Six Sigma Black Belt certification varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or not. For non-members, the cost is $1125 USD while members pay only $925 USD. This fee includes access to study materials and practice exams as well as the actual exam itself.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also submit evidence of their work experience in order to be certified as an ASQ Six Sigma Black Belt.

10. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

American Society for Quality (ASQ) Lean Six Sigma Green Belt is a certification program designed to help professionals gain an understanding of the principles of Lean Six Sigma and how to apply them in their organizations. The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt program provides participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead successful process improvement projects.

The duration of the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt program varies depending on the provider, but typically it takes around four weeks of study time to complete the coursework. During this time, participants will learn about the fundamentals of Lean Six Sigma, including process mapping, value stream analysis, root cause analysis, data collection and analysis techniques, and project management tools.

To get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, you must complete a training course offered by an accredited provider. Once you have completed your training course and passed the exam, you will receive your certification from ASQ.

The cost of obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification varies depending on the provider and type of course selected. Generally speaking, courses range from $500-$2000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Quality Assurance Tester Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's career goals and objectives. For some, a Quality Assurance Tester Certificate may be necessary in order to gain employment or advance their career. For others, it may not be as important, depending on their experience and skill level.

For those who are new to quality assurance testing, having a certificate can demonstrate that they have the knowledge and skills required for the job. It also serves as proof of completion of a formal course of study so employers know that they have taken the necessary steps to understand quality assurance testing principles and processes.

On the other hand, for those with extensive experience in the field, a Quality Assurance Tester Certificate may not be necessary because employers are more likely to trust their expertise rather than just looking at a piece of paper. In this case, it is important for them to be able to demonstrate their knowledge through previous work experience or through references from past employers or colleagues who can vouch for their abilities.

Overall, whether or not an individual needs a Quality Assurance Tester Certificate will depend largely on what they are hoping to achieve in terms of their career and personal objectives. However, it is clear that having one may help open doors and provide opportunities that would otherwise not be available without it.

Related: Quality Assurance Tester Resume Examples

FAQs About Quality Assurance Tester Certifications

1. What is a Quality Assurance Tester Certification?

Answer: A Quality Assurance Tester Certification is a professional certification that confirms an individual’s expertise in the field of software testing and quality assurance. It demonstrates their knowledge of the principles, processes, and techniques used to create high-quality software products.

2. What qualifications do I need to get certified as a Quality Assurance Tester?

Answer: To become certified as a Quality Assurance Tester, you will need to have at least two years of experience in software testing and quality assurance, as well as pass a certification exam.

3. How much does it cost to get certified as a Quality Assurance Tester?

Answer: The cost of getting certified varies depending on the certification program you choose. Generally, prices range from $200-$500 USD for online or classroom training courses and exams.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a Quality Assurance Tester?

Answer: The duration of the certification process depends on your level of experience and the type of certification program you choose. Generally, it takes between 4-12 weeks to complete the necessary coursework and exams to become certified.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Quality Assurance Tester?

Answer: Yes, most certifying organizations require applicants to have at least two years of experience in software testing and quality assurance before they can apply for certification. Additionally, some programs may require applicants to pass an entrance exam prior to enrolling in their program.