Choosing the right software testing certification can improve your career and open new opportunities. If you’re wondering how certifications like CSTE, CAST, CMSQ, and others compare to CTFL and other ISTQB certifications, read our analysis below.

Based on our analysis, ISTQB software testing certification stands out as the best choice for software testers worldwide, especially when taking it through the official ISTQB exam provider AT*SQA, which gives you free, extra benefits below.

Take this 2-minute career quiz to learn how to get a job
or get promoted to the next level in software testing.

How Do Other Software Testing Certifications Compare to ISTQB?

Many software testing certifications are available, including:

  • Certified Associate in Software Quality (CASQ)
  • Certified Software Quality Analyst (CSQA)
  • Certified Manager of Software Quality (CMSQ)
  • Certified Software Quality Manager (CSQM)
  • Certified Associate in Software Testing (CAST)
  • Certified Software Tester (CSTE)
  • Certified Manager of Software Testing (CMST)
  • Certified Software Tester – Foundation Level (CSTFL)
  • Certified Software Tester – Intermediate Level (CSTIL)
  • Certified Software Testing Manager (CSTM)
  • Certified Software Testing Analyst (CSTA)
  • Certified Software Testing Engineer (CSTE)

However, ISTQB offers significant advantages that others cannot match.

Why is ISTQB the Best Software Testing Certification?

1. Non-Profit Organization

  • ISTQB operates as a global non-profit, ensuring its focus remains on advancing the software testing profession.
  • The American Software Testing Qualifications Board (ASTQB), ISTQB’s official U.S. board, is also non-profit. Its official ISTQB exam registrar, AT*SQA, is also a non-profit organization.
  • In contrast, most other certifications are managed by for-profit companies. This affects transparency, priorities, and long-term value.

2. Global Popularity and Industry Recognition

  • ISTQB’s Foundation Level (CTFL) certification is recognized as the most popular software testing certification globally. Its widespread adoption by leading organizations ensures that ISTQB-certified professionals are highly valued.
  • For comparison, other certifications are estimated to be far less common. Most importantly, employers ask for ISTQB in their job postings more than any other software testing certification. See some of the companies asking for ISTQB Learn more about why employers want ISTQB through ASTQB and AT*SQA.

3. Flexibility: Self-Study or Choose Your Training Provider

  • ISTQB (through ASTQB and AT*SQA) provides the freedom to choose your learning path
    • Self-study using ISTQB’s free resources like the official syllabus, glossary, and sample exam questions.
    • Any training provider that suits your needs and budget.
    • Accredited training providers who have proven that their courses align with the ISTQB syllabi.
  • By contrast, the for-profit certifications often require you to purchase courses, leading to additional costs.

4. No Recertification Requirements

  • Virtually all ISTQB certifications, including ISTQB Foundation Level (CTFL), do not expire. Once you’re certified, the credential is yours for life.
  • Other certifications like CSTE require recertification every three years, which involves time and additional financial costs.

5. Exclusive Free Extras with ISTQB through ASTQB and AT*SQA

When you take your ISTQB exams through ASTQB and AT*SQA, you unlock additional free benefits that other certifications don’t offer:

For-profit software testing certification options like CSTE or others don’t offer all of these added, career-enhancing tools.

Make the Smart Choice: Choose ISTQB

ISTQB software testing certification stands out for its global recognition, cost efficiency, and unmatched free benefits when you take your ISTQB exam through ASTQB and AT*SQA.

By registering for your ISTQB certification through ASTQB‘s official ISTQB exam provider AT*SQA, you gain lifelong credentials that position you as a trusted software testing professional.

Get Started Today: Earn Your ISTQB Certification. If you have an old CSTE or other QAI certification, contact us about a special discount when you move to ISTQB.