Exam Structure and Rules
Understand the requirements, format and rules that apply when writing a certification examination through SASTQB.
All candidates are responsible for reading the examination rules, confirming the structure of their selected examination and ensuring that they meet the applicable entry requirements before registering.
Examination Formats
Availability depends on the certification, examination date and location.
Visit the Exam Schedule page to view upcoming public and remote-proctored examination sessions.
SASTQB examinations may be available in one or more of the following formats:
Pass Marks
Pass marks are determined by the relevant certification owner. Always confirm the pass mark on the relevant certification page before registering.
Identification Requirements
Every candidate must present acceptable original identification before being permitted to write an examination.
Accepted identification may include:
The name and surname used during examination registration must match the details on the candidate’s identification document.
Candidates may be refused admission if:
Remote-proctored candidates may also be required to show their identification to the proctor and complete additional identity and system checks.
Registration Information
Candidates are responsible for ensuring that all information submitted during registration is accurate.
Before submitting your registration, confirm that your:
SASTQB cannot accept responsibility for incorrect information supplied by a candidate.
All examination-related communication will be sent to the email address provided during registration. Candidates are responsible for receiving, reading and completing all required instructions on time.
Certification Entry Requirements
Entry requirements differ between certifications. Candidates must review the relevant certification page before registering.
ISTQB Foundation Level Certification
The ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level generally has no formal prerequisites.
Software testing knowledge or practical experience is recommended but is not required.
ISTQB Specialist Certifications
For all specialist certification the ISTQB Foundation (CTFL) Certificate is required.
Refer to the relevant certification page for the exact requirements.
ISTQB Advanced Level Certification
For all advanced certification the ISTQB Foundation (CTFL) Certificate is required. Relevant practical experience is strongly recommended.
Refer to the relevant certification page for the exact requirements.
ISTQB Expert Level Certification
Expert Level certifications may require:
- A valid ISTQB Foundation Level certification
- A relevant ISTQB Advanced Level certification
- Several years of practical software testing experience
- Relevant experience in the Expert Level subject
- Completion of specified modules or examinations
IREB, A4Q, TMMi and Other Certifications
Entry requirements are determined by the certification owner and the specific certification product.
Review the applicable certification page and official examination regulations before registering.
Arriving and Logging In on Time
Candidates are responsible for being ready before the scheduled examination time.
For in-person examinations
Arrive early enough to complete registration, identification checks and the candidate briefing before the examination begins.
No late arrivals will be accepted once the examination session has started.
For remote-proctored examinations
Log in early enough to complete the system, identity, room and security checks before the scheduled starting time.
Technical preparation should be completed before the examination day. Problems caused by unsupported devices, insufficient internet access or failure to perform the required system checks may be treated in accordance with the SASTQB Exam Terms and Conditions.
Permitted and Prohibited Items
Unless expressly permitted in the instructions for a particular examination, candidates may not access or use any unauthorised material or equipment during the exam session.
Items that may be permitted include:
The invigilator or proctor has the final authority to determine whether an item may remain in the examination area.
Prohibited items include:
All mobile phones and other electronic devices must be switched off and stored as instructed by the invigilator or proctor.
Examination Conduct
Candidates must behave professionally and follow all instructions throughout the examination.
Candidates may not:
Suspected misconduct may result in:
Candidate Responsibilities
Before beginning an examination, candidates must confirm that they have received or opened the correct examination.
Check the following carefully:
Candidates writing paper-based examinations must:
Notify the invigilator or proctor immediately if you believe that:
Do not wait until after the examination to report an issue that could have been addressed during the session.
Examination Structure
The structure of each examination is determined by the certification owner and applicable syllabus version.
Depending on the certification, the examination may include:
ISTQB Foundation, Advanced and Specialist examinations are generally multiple-choice examinations based on the learning objectives in the applicable syllabus. The number of questions and examination duration vary between certifications.
Candidates should review the individual certification page for:
Questions About Your Examination?
Contact SASTQB before your examination if you are uncertain about:
Email info@sastqb.org.za or visit our Contact page for assistance.
