Gulf Software Testing Board

General

What is the ISTQB International Software Testing Qualifications Board?
The ISTQB is composed of representatives from each existing national board all over the world. The ISTQB decides on the standards for certification and accreditation as an ISTQB accredited training provider. Working parties within the ISTQB are responsible for developing and maintaining the Foundation and Advanced Level syllabi and exams. All members are volunteers.

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.

How many ISTQB certified testers are there?
Approximately 90,000 software testers currently hold ISTQB compliant certificates.

How did ISTQB certification start?
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 in internationally recognized certification, which now is an industry standard in many other countries already. The success of the program can certainly be attributed to its transparent structure, volunteer and non-profit character, and the representation of national interests through national boards.

Exam

What is the exam format?
The Foundation Level exam consists of 40 multiple choice questions designed to evaluate a candidate's knowledge and understanding of the entire Foundation syllabus. They are weighted according to difficulty (1 to 3 points per question). An exam amounts to approximately 65 points total, of which at least 60% (25 or more correct answers) must be attained in order to pass. The exam is a closed book exam. You have 60 minutes to finish.

Does everybody take the exact same exam?
No. The questions come from an international pool of questions and are being combined differently so that the exam itself changes constantly while the level of difficulty remains comparable. New questions are constantly being developed by the members of all national boards and the various working parties.

Where can I take the exam?
You can register to take the exam at any of the locations published on the Gulf Software Testing Board website. The exam is offered at the conclusion of ISTQB-compliant courses provided by ISTQB-accredited training companies.

Can I take the exam online?
No. The format of the exam does not allow for taking it online.

Are there requirements I must fulfill before taking an ISTQB Certified Tester exam?
There are no requirements for the Foundation Level exam.

When is payment of the exam fee due?
Upon registration.

Education

Do I have to take a course in order to take the exam?
No. The Gulf Software Testing Board will administer the exam independent of any courses. You may take the exam at any of the locations published on the Gulf Software Testing Board website. Courses can be taken to prepare for the exam, and ISTQB compliant courses are being offered by ISTQB accredited training providers. In this case, the Gulf Software Testing Board will send a representative to administer the exam directly following the course per an agreement it has with ISTQB accredited training companies.

What is an ISTQB accredited training provider?
Training companies that offer ISTQB compliant courses must first undergo an application process. Three members of the Gulf Software Testing Board review their course materials regarding coverage of the ISTQB syllabus. This ensures that someone taking a course with this company has a reasonable chance to pass the exam. The Gulf Software Testing Board also requires that courses be taught by an ISTQB Certified Tester. Other factors, such as experience in training of software professionals and experience in testing, the provision of adequate facilities, and documentation of quality assurance procedures within the applicant's company, also influence the Gulf Software Testing Board s decision on accreditation.

Are all the courses offered identical?
No. Although the syllabus outlines the areas to be covered, it neither prescribes depth nor a specific ordering of the material. The Gulf Software Testing Board does not offer courses or sell course materials to training companies. One major principle of the program, the separation of exam/certification administration from teaching, ensures choice and competition on the training level.

How long does an ISTQB-compliant course take?
An ISTQB-compliant course is designed to take three days.

How much does an ISTQB-compliant course cost?
That depends on the training company you choose. Since all accredited training companies operate independently, their pricing will vary. One of the core principles of the ISTQB certification program is to ensure competition at the training level, so please shop around.

Where can I find information on courses offered by ISTQB accredited training providers?
ISTQB accredited training providers may submit the dates and locations of their ISTQB compliant courses to the Gulf Software Testing Board, which publishes them on its website.