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.
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 (they seem to be adding more benefits all of the time):
- 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 you 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 ISTQB exams. Learn more about the exclusive AT*SQA benefits for ISTQB exams, or register for your ISTQB exam.

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’s 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 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/time using your voucher (valid up to 365 days).
Confirm exam-day requirements; request the 25% time extension if eligible.