Update: ASTQB now offers ISTQB electronic exams in testing centers around the world, as well as global access to online ISTQB exams so individuals can take their ISTQB exams at home. See the ISTQB exam registration information. TAMPA, Fla. (February 6, 2008) – The American Software Testing Qualifications Board, Inc. (ASTQB) has significantly expanded its exam testing to more than 300 locations throughout the United States. ASTQB President Patricia McQuaid said the electronic program will make the ISTQB global tester certification program more accessible for employees and employers. “If America is to continue toward excellence in software development, it must commit itself to competently testing the software it develops in a systematic and consistent manner,” explained McQuaid, who leads the non-profit U.S. national board of the international organization in which over 60,000 software testers worldwide currently hold ISTQB certifications. “In addition to its global nature, ISTQB’s certification strength is found in its credibility. We freely offer the ISTQB certification syllabi (body of knowledge) and glossary, and let you choose your own form of education,” continued McQuaid. McQuaid said offering the new electronic certification exams at select test centers across the country makes the ASTQB more available to those who seek certification as an aid to their professional development and career opportunities. “This new program also makes it easier for companies to get their employees certified,” added McQuaid. “Through a network of accredited training providers listed on ASTQB’s website, organizations and individuals have the option of taking a training course to prepare for the examinations. This option has been popular as it allows individuals to learn about a wide range of testing terminology and best practices,” said ASTQB Executive Director Lois Kostroski. “But if that is not an option, or if the exam opportunity does not coincide with your schedule after training, now you have the ability to go to one of more than 300 select test centers around the country to take the Foundation Level exam at your convenience.” Advanced Level exams are expected to come online later in 2008. The 300+ test centers are located at community colleges, universities, MicroTek stores, and other similarly convenient locations throughout North America. The entire list of locations along with a schedule of time blocks available at each location can be found at www.astqb.org. In addition to the electronic certification exams at test centers, ASTQB will continue to offer the exam at the conclusion of public certification training offered by ASTQB’s accredited training providers. “Those certification exams are available on a limited basis to anyone who has taken the training or has not taken the training and wishes to take the exam,” explained Kostroski. Training opportunities and exams are also available at software industry trade shows and other venues throughout the year. ASTQB can also offer the exam at an employer’s premises if requested. “We are committed to providing as many different and convenient opportunities as possible for participants to take the certification exam,” said Kostroski, who added that the free syllabi and glossary offered by ASTQB at its Web site are considered tremendous values by themselves by many software testers, regardless of whether they take the certification exam. About ASTQB: ASTQB is a non-profit organization whose members comprise a group of highly experienced experts in software testing who volunteer their time to the development, maintenance, and promotion of the ISTQB Certified Tester program in the U.S. They also represent U.S. interests internationally as the national board for the U.S. within the ISTQB. Exam and accreditation fees are charged to cover the cost connected with the administration of exams, applications for accreditation, the maintenance of a physical office, exhibits at leading software testing conventions, and the employment of administrative staff. About ISTQB Software Tester Certification: The ISTQB Certified Tester program provides certification for software testers internationally. There are currently two levels of certification: The Foundation Level and three separate 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. Contact: Lois Kostroski, Executive Director American Software Testing Qualifications Board, Inc. 15619 Premiere Drive, Suite 101 Tampa, FL 33624 USA Phone 813.319.089 Fax 813.968.3597 Email info@astqb.org Web www.astqb.org Dave Stevens Stevens & Stevens LLC Phone 317.726.0788 Email dstevens@stevens-stevens.com
