International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB)

ISTQB (International Software Testing Qualifications Board) is an international organization that defines standards for software testing processes and offers globally recognized software testing certifications. Established in 2002 in Belgium, ISTQB operates as a non-profit organization. Its mission is to provide a standardized terminology and methodology in the field of software testing, enhance the professional knowledge level, and establish a globally valid qualification system.

Organizational Structure and National Boards

ISTQB operates through a central governing board supported by multiple national boards. The Turkish representative, Turkish Testing Board (TTB), has been active since 2006 and is responsible for managing the Turkish translations and local implementation of ISTQB exams.

Certification Structure

The ISTQB certification program is structured across three main levels:

1. Foundation Level

Target Audience: Beginners in software testing, developers, test analysts, business analysts, quality assurance professionals, and project managers.

Objective: To teach the fundamental concepts of software testing, including testing types, techniques, and the general structure of testing processes.

Sub-Certifications:

• Foundation Level – Core
• Foundation Level – Agile Tester Extension
• Foundation Level – Automotive Software Tester
• Foundation Level – Mobile Application Testing
• Foundation Level – Performance Testing
• Foundation Level – Usability Testing

Exam Format:

• 40 multiple-choice questions
• Passing score: 65% (26 correct answers)
• Duration: 60 minutes (75 minutes if not in native language)

2. Advanced Level

Target Audience: Experienced testers, test managers, and professionals aiming to specialize in analysis or automation.

Objective: To provide advanced-level knowledge on test planning, execution, reporting, and management, along with the development of technical skills.

Sub-Certifications:

• Test Manager: Test strategy creation, resource planning, risk-based testing
• Test Analyst: Deriving test scenarios from requirements, test data design
• Technical Test Analyst: Performance and security testing, automation, structure-based techniques

Exam Format:

• Varies by module (combination of multiple-choice and scenario-based questions)
• Passing score: 65%

3. Expert Level

Target Audience: Senior test professionals involved in strategic decision-making, test process transformation, or managing large test teams.

Objective: To develop leadership and expert-level skills in defining testing strategies, improving processes, and designing enterprise-scale testing architecture.

Available Certifications:

• Improving the Testing Process
• Test Management
• Test Automation Engineering
• Security Testing
• Test Data Management (currently under development)

Exam Format:

• Written and practical exams
• Project presentation and case-based evaluations
• Training is usually mandatory

Global Recognition and Participation

ISTQB certifications are recognized in over 130 countries and have more than one million certificate holders, making it one of the most widely adopted software testing certification systems in the world. These certifications are globally accepted by employers and support professional development in the software testing field.

Turkish Resources and Examinations

The Turkish Testing Board translates the ISTQB syllabus into Turkish, making the certification process more accessible in Turkey. Their official website provides detailed information about sample exams, curriculum documents, and application procedures.