Software Testing Certifications – Eligibility, Exam Patterns and How to Apply

Quality control and software testing are crucial stages in any software development cycle, ensuring product compliance, performance dependability, and defect-free product delivery to the client.

Incrementing need for the tester role puts a spotlight onto skilled testing professionals.

Consequently, it’s the perfect opportunity to gain certification and obtain the skills requisite for this high-demand role. However, finding universally recognized standard certifications can be a challenge.

This tutorial intends to guide readers about the recognized certifications currently on offer in the market.

Software Testing Certifications

This is part one – I in the certification series for testing. In this tutorial, we will touch upon the following four significant software testing certifications.

1. CSTE
2. CSTP
3. CTM
4. HP QTP Certification

Let’s examine each in turn!!

#1) CSTE

CSTE abbreviates “Certified Software Test Engineer”. CSTE is a standard certification scheme for all Testers and Managers that reinforces professional competence and industry best practices in Quality Control.

Prerequisites and criteria to undertake CSTE certification include one of the following:

• 4-year recognized degree+2 years of experience
• 3-year recognized degree+3 years of experience
• 2-year recognized degree+4 years of experience
• 6 years of IT industry experience

Application Process:

Submit your application on the Customer Portal, along with the payment of $350 (PDF+initial examination) or $420 (PDF+Book+CD+initial examination).

You can apply for this certification via the Software Testing Certifications Customer Portal. You can send your questions or concerns to [email protected].

Examination Format:

Examination is bifurcated as follows:

• Two parts of multiple-choice questions encompassing fifty objective type questions.
• Two parts of ten subjective type questions like Short answers or essays.
• The examination duration is 4 hours 30 minutes, with passing marks being 75%. The fee for retaking the examination is $100.

Find more CSTE exam questions here.

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#2) CSTP

CSTP stands for “Certified Software Test Professional”. Initiated by the International Institute for Software Testing (IIST) in 1991, it has since helped enhance the careers of thousands of aspirants by offering a professional skill set for Software Application Testing.

This certification can be pursued by any new entrant in the testing field, as well as by field managers and leaders.

The prerequisites for this examination include a minimum of 10 days of formal training or education covering the following topics:

• Software Testing Principles
• Test Design
• Management of Testing Process
• Test Execution and Defect Tracking
• Requirement Definitions, Refinement, and Verification.
• Test Automation
• Static Testing

In addition, the candidate should have at least one year of experience in testing-related roles. Formal approval from the candidate’s supervisor is also required in order to apply for this certification.

The exam must be passed with a minimum of 80% marks. The cost is $120, which is non-refundable. Upon successful completion, this certification will remain valid for 3 years.

Application Process:

Visit: International Institute for Software Testing for the application form or Call at (763)546-0072 or send your questions to [email protected].

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#3) CTM

CTM stands for “Certified Test Manager”. The goal of this certification is to assist test managers and Senior Testers in effectively managing test projects and enhancing their management skills. Test Management Body of Knowledge (TMBK) is the basis for CTM certification.

This program is aimed at managers, senior testers, or any individual with more than 3 years of industry experience. It is also suited for anyone who has already completed the CSTP certification.

The formal education requirements for this examination include the following obligatory topics:

• Management of Test Processes
• Management of Test Projects
• Test Process Measurement and Improvement
• Management of Test Organizations
• Risk Management
• Test Automation Strategies and Architecture
• Software Quality Assurance

Eligibility Criteria:

As aforementioned, a minimum of three years of experience is required to be eligible to take this examination.

Application Process:

Application forms are available at the IIST office and should be submitted to the IIST chairperson, along with a non-refundable fee of $120. Upon awarding, the CTM certification will remain active for 3 years. A minimum of 80% marks is required to secure CTM certification.

The application form can be directly accessed at IIST. You can relay your queries to [email protected] or call them at (763)546-0072.

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#4) HP QTP Certification

HP’s QTP certification is designed for QuickTest professionals who wish to master QuickTest tools by HP. Since August 1^st, 2010, HP introduced the HP QTP Certification v10.0.

The AIS examination is a beginner-tier certification, while the ASE is an advanced-level certification.

The following are the popular names of these examinations:

• Exam HPO-M31 – HP Quality Center 10.0 Software
• Exam HPO-M39 – HP QuickTest Professional 10.0 Software

HP provides an examination preparation guide at HP QTP certification preparation, which covers the examination subject matter concisely. The cost of the HP QTP certification is $150.

Note: All HP certifications are now under Microfocus. Visit this page to verify all related certifications and other information.

In Part II of this tutorial, we will delve in detail into ISEB & ISTQB, CMST, CASQ, CSQA, and CMSQ certifications.

Until then, if you have any questions about any of the testing certifications, feel free to post them in the comment section below.