What is ISTQB? ISTQB is the International Software Testing Qualifications Board. Working groups within ISTQB are responsible for developing and maintaining the ISTQB software testing certification syllabi. ISTQB is composed of representatives from national boards such as ASTQB, the American Software Testing Qualifications Board, the official representative of ISTQB in the United States. As is true for ASTQB, all ISTQB governance members are volunteers. ASTQB is responsible for creating and administering its ISTQB exams that can be taken throughout the world through its global exam provider AT*SQA. See the top 5 reasons why to take your ISTQB exam through ASTQB. Also see the “What is ISTQB?” video. What is an ISTQB Certification? An ISTQB Certification is a credential that shows you have specific knowledge and/or skills in software testing. A given ISTQB Certification is based on a globally-accepted syllabus (body of knowledge) that is created by software QA experts on a specific set of information. Examples include the introductory ISTQB Foundation Level Certification, advanced topics based on roles such as ISTQB Test Analyst certification, and specialty topics such as ISTQB Performance Testing and ISTQB Acceptance Testing. See the full list of ISTQB Certifications. What is the ISTQB full form? The full form of ISTQB is “International Software Testing Qualifications Board”. How did ISTQB certification start? At both the Foundation Level and the Advanced Level, the programs supporting the ISTQB Certified Tester bridge the gap between research, standard training, and industry practice. In Europe, industry demand pushed the development of this certification program. The program has been introduced in the U.S. to truly internationalize it and to satisfy industry demand for an internationally recognized certification, which now is an industry-standard globally. The success of ISTQB certification can certainly be attributed to its transparent structure, volunteer and non-profit character, and the representation of national interests through national boards. What is the ISTQB Certified Tester program? The ISTQB Certified Tester program provides certification for software testers internationally. There are currently two levels of certification: The Foundation Level and the Advanced Level certificates. For both levels, international working parties develop and maintain internationally uniform curricula and exams. One of the core principles of the program is a strict separation between the administration of exams and the training to those who would like to prepare for the exam in ISTQB compliant courses. What does an ISTQB certificate tell me about the skills of a software tester? The Foundation Level exam tests for knowledge, not skill. It provides information about the certificate holder’s level of familiarity with the most common concepts of software testing and the associated terminology. It does not require work experience. The Foundation Level exam is a stepping stone toward the Advanced Level, which is more in-depth and much more practice-oriented. Foundation Level: Knowledge. Advanced Level: Skill. Trademark Information ISTQB® is a registered trademark of the International Software Testing Qualifications Board.
