All authorized providers issue the same ISTQB certificate that is valid globally. The differences that can change your decision are how you can take the exam (online vs test center), languages offered, and whether the provider bundles extra prep and career benefits around the same credential. In this article, we provide a simple way to compare AT*SQA versus other exam providers. For a full breakdown of why these differences matter, see our guide on whether your ISTQB exam provider matters.
| Benefit | AT*SQA | Other authorized exam provider (general) |
|---|---|---|
| Official ISTQB certificate | Yes, official ISTQB certificate. | Yes, official ISTQB certificate. |
| Listed on the ISTQB Successful Candidate Register | Yes (opt-in), as part of normal exam processing. | Yes (opt-in), as part of normal exam processing. |
| Online exams from home | Yes, online proctored exams are available. | Often yes, many providers offer remote proctored exams. |
| Test centers around the world | Yes, supports testing centers globally (AT*SQA routes test-center delivery through a major global testing network). | Often yes, many providers use large global test-center networks. |
| Exam language options | Exam only available in English. | Multiple languages, depending on the specific ISTQB exam and availability. |
| Extra time for non-native exam language | Yes, ISTQB allows a 25% time extension when the exam language is not your first language. | Yes, ISTQB allows a 25% time extension when the exam language is not your first language. |
| Free micro-credential included with ISTQB purchase | Yes, each ISTQB exam purchase comes with a free micro-credential exam. | Not typical. Extras are often sold separately (prep tools, retake protection, or other add-ons). |
| Extra practice exams beyond the official ISTQB samples | Yes, AT*SQA and ASTQB publish additional free sample exams and practice resources beyond the official ISTQB samples. | Varies. Many providers rely on the official ISTQB sample exams and may sell an optional prep platform or bundle. |
| Free, exclusive job board that ISTQB exam takers can access | Yes, AT*SQA has AT*Work. | Not typical. |
Note: Availability varies by exam and country. This table reflects publicly stated features and common patterns across authorized providers.
To see why the sample exams AT*SQA provides are particularly valuable for preparation, see our page on why ASTQB and AT*SQA sample exams match the real ISTQB exams better. To understand how the free micro-credential fits into a broader career path, see our overview of software testing micro-credentials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the ISTQB certificate the same regardless of which provider I use?
Yes. All authorized providers issue the same official ISTQB certificate that is valid globally. The certification title and recognition do not change with the provider.
What makes AT*SQA different from other ISTQB exam providers?
AT*SQA bundles free career benefits with each ISTQB exam purchase that other providers do not typically include: a free micro-credential exam, additional sample exams created by ASTQB, dual directory listings, and access to AT*Work, a job board for certified testers. Other providers generally rely on official ISTQB samples and sell extras separately.
Does AT*SQA offer exams in languages other than English?
No. AT*SQA exams are only available in English. However, ISTQB allows a 25% time extension for candidates whose first language is not English, which is available through AT*SQA. Other providers may offer exams in multiple languages depending on the specific exam and country.
Can I take an ISTQB exam online through AT*SQA?
Yes. AT*SQA offers online proctored exams as well as in-person testing at global Kryterion test centers. Vouchers are valid for up to 365 days from purchase, giving you flexibility to schedule when ready.