Overview
ISTQB (International Software Testing Qualifications Board) runs a worldwide certification scheme for software testers. Its best-known qualification is the Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL). Other levels build on it: Advanced Level, Specialist and Expert Level.
ISTQB does not run one single exam. Exams are taken through Exam Providers listed on the ISTQB website, and ISTQB points candidates to its Member Boards for local details.
Who can apply
The Foundation Level is the entry point. The official page lists no formal prerequisite for it, and ISTQB says training is optional.
The Advanced Level needs the Foundation Level first. For the Test Management module, ISTQB names the Foundation Level (v4.0 or an earlier version) as required, along with enough practical experience. Check the exact experience rule with your local Member Board or Exam Provider.
Levels or stages
Foundation Level (CTFL)
Entry-level certification covering the basic concepts of software testing. ISTQB describes it as the base of the whole scheme and as a prerequisite for the other certifications that need a Foundation Level.
The current syllabus on the official page is version 4.0.1.
Exam: 40 questions, 60 minutes. You need 26 out of 40 points to pass.
Candidates who are not native English speakers get 25% extra time.
Advanced Level
Requires the Foundation Level. ISTQB lists these modules:
Agile Tester (CTAL-AT) v2.0, for experienced testers working in Agile settings.
Test Analyst (CTAL-TA) v4.0, on structured software testing across the development life cycle.
Test Automation Engineering (CTAL-TAE) v2.0, for people who implement or improve test automation.
Test Management (CTAL-TM) v3.0, for those responsible for managing testing activities.
Technical Test Analyst (CTAL-TTA), on the technical testing skills used in development.
For Test Management v3.0 the exam has 50 questions worth 88 points in total, runs for 120 minutes, and needs 58 points to pass. Non-native English speakers get 25% extra time. Details for the other modules are on their own certification pages.
Specialist and Expert Level
Specialist certifications cover particular technologies, approaches, quality characteristics and domains. Expert Level certifications focus on test process improvement and strategic test management, aimed at experienced test leaders and managers.
Syllabus
The Foundation Level syllabus has six chapters:
Fundamentals of testing
Testing throughout the software development lifecycle
Static testing
Test analysis and design
Managing the test activities
Test tools
How to apply
Choose an Exam Provider from the list on the ISTQB website and book through them. Training is optional and is offered by Accredited Training Providers as classroom, virtual or e-learning courses.
Preparation tips
Download the official syllabus for the level you are sitting and make sure it is the version your exam uses.
Work through all six Foundation chapters.
Consider an accredited course if you want guided study, though it is not required.
If English is not your first language, ask your provider about the 25% extra time.