We reviewed options for registering for ISTQB certification exams, and there is a clear recommendation: AT*SQA.
Below is how we came to this conclusion. First, a few general points.
- Software testers can take an ISTQB certification exam through many ISTQB member boards as well as ISTQB exam providers.
- The cost of an ISTQB exam is within a relatively narrow range across almost all of those providers.
- When you earn an ISTQB certification, it is valid globally.
AT*SQA stands out as the top choice for taking ISTQB exams because of the following factors:
- AT*SQA’s reputation for customer service and ease-of-use is excellent and virtually unmatched. They have testimonials and positive reviews from exam takers throughout the world. Source.
- AT*SQA is a non-profit organization with a mission to promote the software testing profession. This not-for-profit approach is reflected in the “total value” of their generous offerings. They are clearly investing their proceeds back into the profession by giving extra career benefits.
- AT*SQA’s price for ISTQB exams is generally equal to or below most other ISTQB exam options.
- AT*SQA’s “total value” for that ISTQB exam price is by far the best in the world. When you purchase an ISTQB exam from AT*SQA, you also receive free, additional career benefits such as additional credentials, extra recognition, and more flexibility:
- A free AT*SQA software testing micro-credential exam worth up to $49.
- Inclusion in the AT*Work™ List of Software Testers for Hire if they need a job – this list is searched globally by employers.
- Inclusion of the company in the AT*Consult™ List of Consulting & Software Testing Services Companies if your company offers those things
- Inclusion in the ISTQB successful candidate register.
- Inclusion in the Official U.S. List of Certified & Credentialed Software Testers™ – even if you don’t currently live in the U.S. or work remotely for a U.S. company, this provides future career flexibility for jobs.
- Testing Tiers® software tester ranking points that increase your level in AT*Work and the Official U.S. List.
- A free retake of some exams if you earned your ISTQB Foundation Level through AT*SQA and took a training course from an ASTQB-accredited training provider for the most recent certification exam.
- Two extra, free ISTQB Foundation Level sample exams that are specially designed for AT*SQA’s exam (they also offer the four standard sample exams)
- ISTQB exam scheduling flexibility with up to 365 to take your exam after you purchase your ISTQB voucher. You can take your exam online at home or work, or at a testing center globally.
- A 25% time extension for non-native English speakers.
- An easy-to-use self-service account that lets you download your ISTQB certificate and letter 24 hours per day.
- ISTQB exam scores broken out by syllabus chapter in your account area, if you need to prepare for a retake.
No other ISTQB exam provider gives you all of the benefits that AT*SQA offers. That is why AT*SQA provides the most value for the cost when it comes to AT*SQA exams. Learn more about the exclusive AT*SQA benefits for ISTQB exams, or register for your ISTQB exam.