Understanding the ISTQB Foundation Level certification

In the rapidly evolving field of software testing, having a solid foundation is essential. But there is one major issue for QA engineers and testers: we do not have specific QA-oriented careers to study, and most universities only offer software testing as a subject or orientation.
That is why all software testers should be familiar with the ISTQB board. Official certifications are the best way to acquire the most important principles. So, let’s start with the basics.

What is the ISTQB?

ISTQB stands for the International Software Testing Qualifications Board, which is a software testing certification board that operates internationally. It was founded in Edinburgh in November 2002, and is a non-profit association.

ISTQB offers three exam levels: Foundation, Advanced and Expert. But also, there are different types of streams that you can choose from:

• Core. These certifications provide a broad overview of software testing principles applicable to any technology, methodology, or domain. They establish a common understanding of fundamental concepts.
• Agile. These modules focus on testing practices specific to Agile software development lifecycles
• Specialist. These certifications provide in-depth knowledge of specialized testing areas, such as:
  • Quality characteristics. Usability, security, performance testing, etc.
  • Technologies. Model-based testing, mobile application testing, etc.
  • Testing activities. Test automation, test metrics management, etc.

About the ISTQB Foundation Level exam

The Foundation Level qualification is suitable for anyone who needs to demonstrate practical knowledge of the fundamental concepts of software testing including people in other roles such as managers, or software developers!
The exam is a multiple choice test. It has a total of 40 questions and the passing score is 26. Once obtained, the certification is valid for life and there is no requirement for recertification.

About the syllabus

The syllabus is divided into 6 chapters and covers the following main topics, as shown in the chart below:

Advantages of taking the ISTQB Foundation Level exam

• Global recognition. The ISTQB certification is acknowledged worldwide, making it a valuable asset for professionals looking to work internationally or with global teams
• Enhanced skill set. Preparing for the exam equips you with essential skills and knowledge in testing principles, processes, and techniques, which are crucial for any software testing role.
• Career advancement. Many employers prefer candidates with formal testing qualifications. The ISTQB Foundation Level certification can help you stand out in a competitive job market and may lead to better job opportunities and promotions.
• Foundation for advanced certifications. Passing the Foundation Level exam is a prerequisite for more advanced ISTQB certifications. It lays the groundwork for further specialization in areas such as test management and automation.

Whether you are a new QA in the field or a seasoned professional looking to enhance your skills, this certification can significantly benefit your career in many different ways. You will have a deeper understanding of testing methodologies, which will enable you to contribute more effectively to your team’s quality assurance effort – leading to better software products!

5 Tips to pass the ISTQB Foundation Level exam

1. Understand the syllabus. Familiarize yourself with the official ISTQB syllabus for the Foundation Level. This document outlines all the topics covered in the exam, ensuring you know what to focus on during your study sessions.
2. Use official study materials. Invest in official study guides and recommended textbooks. These resources are aligned with the exam content and provide comprehensive coverage of the necessary concepts. You can find and download all the official material you will need on the ISTQB website.
3. Practice with sample questions. This is the most important tip you need to keep in mind! Practice exams and sample questions can significantly enhance your understanding of the exam format and types of questions. Try to simulate exam conditions when taking these practice tests to build your confidence.
4. Join study groups. Engaging with peers who are also preparing for the exam can be beneficial. Study groups provide an opportunity to discuss complex topics, share resources, and motivate each other.
5. Manage your study time. Create a study schedule that allows you to cover all topics adequately. Break your study sessions into manageable chunks, and set specific goals for each session to stay on track.

My personal experience taking the CTFL exam

I took the exam in 2022 because I had the amazing opportunity to be part of a study group.

We paired up and created a powerpoint presentation of each chapter of the syllabus. Then, we shared it with the rest of the group in a meeting as if we were teachers.

By applying that studying technique, we had a further understanding of the chapter we were dealing with, because we were able to explain the concepts and ideas to other people.

Those study sessions took almost two months to complete. After that, I downloaded every example exam I could find online, and practiced multiple times during the day for over a month.

It was a challenging experience but it was a huge accomplishment that was totally worth it!

Conclusion: The ISTQB Foundation Level certification matters for QA careers

With global recognition and a solid foundation for advanced studies, the ISTQB Foundation Level Certification offers numerous advantages. By following the tips outlined above, you can improve your chances of passing the exam and taking a significant step forward in your professional journey. Embrace the challenge and invest in your future as a software testing professional!