Not sure whether to take your exam at an on-line testing centre or through the ANZTB?

1. On successful completion you will be automatically endorsed on the ANZTB website of certified testers. This is where employers check your credentials so make sure you don’t miss out! Taking an examination online through a foreign board will not receive prompt and automated acknowledgement on this region’s prominent test centric website.
2. Through the ANZTB you can find out about our free networking opportunities at regular special interest groups.
3. Foundation results will be emailed to you within one week and successful candidates will receive their certificate within three weeks.
4. The ANZTB is a non-profit organisation, when you take your examination through the ANZTB we reinvest in the testing community by supporting your profession in your region.

What is the ISTQB Foundation Exam based on?

The exam is based on the ISTQB Software Testing Foundation Syllabus Version 2011.

Click here to download the Foundation Level Syllabus 2011 (PDF 1117KB)

What is the ISTQB?

The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) is a governing body for software testing. Their purpose is to support a single, universally accepted, international qualification scheme for software and system testing professionals, by providing the core syllabi and by setting guidelines for the exams which are set by the regional/national boards. The certificate is called "ISTQB Certified Tester".  The contents of each syllabus are taught as courses by training providers that have been accredited by regional/national boards. Guidelines for accreditation are set by the ISTQB so each accredited course is recognised by every regional/national board.  The ISTQB is composed of representatives from each existing national board, such as the ANZTB and ISEB. Working parties within the ISTQB are responsible for developing and maintaining the Foundation and Advanced Level syllabi. As with the ANZTB, all members are volunteers. www.istqb.org

How many testers are ISTQB certified?

The ISTQB have certified over 200,000 testers worldwide and through the ANZTB over 5,000.

How does ISEB relate to ISTQB?

The Information Systems Examining Board (ISEB) is the national examining board for the UK and is part of the British Computer Society.  ISEB created and managed a professional certification scheme for software testers several years before ISTQB was formed. 

How do I postpone or cancel my exam?

Please email info@anztb.org to arrange. Postponements within 14 days before the scheduled exam incur a $30 administration fee. Changes cannot be made 48 hours or less before the exam. Cancellations incur a $30 administration fee.

How can my name appear on ANZTB's Certified Testers List with an ISEB certificate?

To save the 22 pound fee that ISEB require to verify your results, we suggest posting your original certificate to us with a cardboard backing or posting us a certified copy. We will then issue your ANZTB certificate and add your name website's Certified Testers List for a fee of AUD33.00 (incl. GST) if you live in Australia and NZD30.00 if you live in New Zealand.  Your ISEB certificate will also be returned with your ANZTB certificate.

What does an ISTQB Foundation certificate tell me about the skills of a software tester?

The Foundation Level exam tests for knowledge, not skill. It provides information about the certificate holder's level of familiarity with the most common concepts of software testing and the associated terminology. It does not require work experience. The Foundation Level exam is a stepping stone toward the Advanced Level, which is more in-depth and practice-oriented.

How long is the certification valid for?

The certification is valid for life, however, both the Syllabus and Glossary will be amended from time to time and it is prudent to keep up to date by visiting www.istqb.org.  

Who are the ISTQB Accredited Training Providers in our region?

Please go to Accredited Training Providers

Do I have to undertake a course?

Many testers choose to self-study, however, investing in a course ensures a higher pass mark and a greater understanding of testing.

How much do the exams cost?

Foundation exam AUD330 (in Australia) or NZD300 (in New Zealand) Advanced exam AUD385 (in Australia) or NZD350 (in New Zealand)

What is the format of the exams?

Foundation Exam: The exam is 1 hour, closed book and paper based. You will be given 40 multiple choice questions of which there is one mark for each question. 
Advanced Exam: The exam is 3 hours, closed book and paper based. You will be given 65 multiple choice questions of are worth 1, 2 or 3 marks. Some questions may ask you to indicate more than one answer for a question.

What are the pass marks?

Foundation Exam 26 out of 40
Advanced Exam 65 out of 100

Do the questions relate to the glossary as well as the syllabus, or do I only need to learn the syllabus?

Questions relate to the syllabus but the candidate will also need to study the glossary. 

When and how can I expect to receive my results?

Results are emailed within one week of the exam date. Certificates and letters are then posted from our office in New Zealand on the following week. n.b. Advanced exam results take three weeks.

Who do I contact if I do not receive my result?

Please email info@anztb.org

If I fail, will ANZTB provide feedback on the areas that need work?

Currently we do not have a policy or procedures in place to enable any feedback.

Does ANZTB supply sample exam papers to enable me to prepare?

Sample Foundation questions are available here. At present there are no sample Advanced questions available.

When will the Advanced Technical Test Analyst exam be available?

The examination has been available since February 2011.