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.
Why AT*SQA is the top choice for ISTQB exams
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.
- 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 investing their proceeds back into the software testing profession by giving exam takers extra career benefits.
- AT*SQA’s price for ISTQB exams is generally equal to or below most other ISTQB exam options.
- AT*SQA’s ISTQB exams can be taken from anywhere in the world, and are valid globally.
- 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. Here are some of the extra benefits that AT*SQA offers with an ISTQB exam:
- A free AT*SQA software testing micro-credential exam worth up to $49. Learn more about software testing micro-credentials.
- Inclusion in the AT*Work™ List of Software Testers for Hire if you need a job — this list is searched globally by employers. See how this helps with getting software testing jobs.
- 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 do not 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. See what is the best choice for ISTQB training courses.
- Two extra, free ISTQB Foundation Level sample exams that are specially designed for AT*SQA’s exam. See why AT*SQA sample exams match the real ISTQB exams better.
- ISTQB exam scheduling flexibility with up to 365 days 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 ISTQB exams. Learn more about the exclusive AT*SQA benefits for ISTQB exams, or register for your ISTQB exam. For a full comparison, see our page on whether your ISTQB exam provider matters.
Note: Sometimes, people mistakenly think that AT*SQA is just for the United States. While it does provide services to the non-profit US ISTQB Board ASTQB, AT*SQA is truly a global organization. It is even in their full, official name: Association for Testing and Software Quality Assurance Global Certification Body, Inc. (AT*SQA). So AT*SQA’s ISTQB exams can be taken anywhere in the world, and their ISTQB certifications are valid in every country. See why AT*SQA is a good choice even if you live outside the U.S. and see ISTQB exam locations.
How to register for an ISTQB exam via AT*SQA
- Go to the AT*SQA purchase page.
- Create or sign in to your AT*SQA account.
- Select your ISTQB exam and delivery method (online or test center).
- Schedule your date and time using your voucher (valid up to 365 days).
- Confirm exam-day requirements; request the 25% time extension if eligible.
Once registered, use the top 10 tips to pass the ISTQB Foundation Level exam to prepare, and read whether ISTQB is worth it if you still have questions about the investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to get ISTQB certification exams?
AT*SQA is the top choice for taking ISTQB exams. It is a non-profit organization with excellent customer service, competitive pricing, global availability, and the strongest total value of career benefits of any ISTQB exam provider. No other provider offers the same combination of extras.
What extra benefits does AT*SQA include with ISTQB exams?
AT*SQA includes a free software testing micro-credential exam worth up to $49, inclusion in AT*Work™ List of Software Testers for Hire, inclusion in the Official U.S. List of Certified and Credentialed Software Testers™, Testing Tiers® ranking points, two extra ISTQB Foundation Level sample exams, flexible scheduling with up to 365 days to use your voucher, a 25% time extension for non-native English speakers, and chapter-level score reports to guide retakes.
Is AT*SQA only for the United States?
No. AT*SQA is a global organization. Its full name is Association for Testing and Software Quality Assurance Global Certification Body, Inc. ISTQB exams taken through AT*SQA can be taken anywhere in the world and the certifications are valid in every country.
How long do I have to schedule my ISTQB exam after purchasing through AT*SQA?
You have up to 365 days to schedule and take your exam after purchasing your voucher through AT*SQA. You can take the exam online at home or at a testing center globally.
Is an ISTQB certification from AT*SQA valid globally?
Yes. When you earn an ISTQB certification through AT*SQA, it is valid globally. The credential is the same regardless of which ISTQB accredited provider you use to take the exam.