Levels of ISTQB certification

International software testing qualification board (ISQBT) is an internationally recognized examining body which conducts most of its course work online. It has three different level of certification some of which are pre requisites, these levels are:

  • ISQBT foundation level (CTFL)

  • ISQBT advanced level (CTAL)

  • ISQBT expert level

As previous stated each level is a pre-requisite of the other except for the foundation level which is the entry level. This means that first you enroll and start with level one which is the foundation level, for you to carry on to the next level ensure you pass all the papers in level one, if so proceed to the next level which you should also pass all its papers to proceed to level three and then the final level.

The three levels of ISQBT certification

1) ISTQB foundation level-this is the initial/entry level certification. It is more theoretical than other levels since it entails mostly the basics of software development specifically in the field of software testing. It is designed for starters and experienced practitioners with interest on the basics of software testing. Its syllabus contains five main topics which include:

  • Fundamentals of testing-this focuses on the following; basics such as explanations on various terminologies used in software testing, code of ethics, testing principles, psychology of testing among others.

  • Testing in the software lifecycle-this basically revolves around the various phases of software testing.

  • Static techniques- these are technique whereby the software tested is not used in the testing process, such techniques are mostly carried out by the software developers. This topic revolves around; review process, static analysis tools among others.

  • Behavioral (black box) and structural (white box) test design- black box testing focuses on the external functionality of a software while white box testing focuses on the skills of the programmer required in designing test cases plus the internal structure of the system

  • Test management and testing tools-places emphasis on; test organization, test planning and estimation, risk assessment and management, type of tools and their efficiency

Requirement

Experience required may vary in different countries for instance in some countries no experience is required while in other at least 6 months of experience in a testing profession. Has no pre requisite certification, basically anyone from any field can enroll for the foundation level

Goals

Foundation certification ensures that an individual has a broader understanding of the fundamentals and major concepts in software testing and provides a foundation for career growth.

2) ISQBT advanced level certification-this is the mid level certification. It more practical than the previous one and requires in-depth knowledge in specific area. Its syllabus covers three major topics that is

  • Advanced Test manager –deals with planning , monitoring and control of test process

  • Advanced Test analyst- this deals with indentifying and defining the required test, monitoring the test scope and evaluating the overall quality experienced while testing the test items. Certification in this module equips one with advanced test analysis skills

  • Advanced Technical test analyst- focuses on knowledge and skill required to see to it that the test strategies are formulated into actions.

Requirement

  • It require at least five years of verified experience as software tester

  • Requires one individual adherence to the code of ethics as stated in its syllabus

  • Requires certification of the foundation level (CTFL)

Goals

  • Ensure consistency by seasoned test professional in carrying out the practical techniques and their understanding

  • To provide support to learners on going career growth

  • Ensure the learner are proficient in software testing profession

3) ISTQB expert level- mostly referred to as ‘a certification for leaders in software testing.' Its course work is practical in nature and focuses on specialization on certain practices and techniques, basically it course work seeks to capitalize on knowledge gained in the advanced level which include;

  • Improving the test process

  • Test management

  • Test automation

  • Security testing

Requirement

  • One should have a pre requisite certification that is pass all the modules in the advanced level

  • Should have at least eight or more years of experience in a software testing profession

  • Adherence to the code of ethics provided in the syllabus

Goals

This level seeks to ensure consistency in carrying out proven cutting- edge practices and the understanding of such practices by software testing professionals. It also ensures that candidate in this level acquire a higher degree of testing skill set and attain an undisputable level of professional competence.

More about Management Certifications