The ISTQB FL Certificate for a novice tester – facts and myths

Most testers sooner or later have to face the decision whether or not to sit for one of the most renowned examinations in the world - that is, of course, ISTQB FL. There are many myths concerning the real impact of this certification on an IT career. As experienced professionals, we are going to show You how much truth there is to such claims.

Keep in mind - not only novice testers can find the following information valuable!

1. Most employers do not require ISTQB FL

   A fact. Very few testing job offers actually include the certificate in their requirements. It is, obviously, welcome, however it does not determine the employer’s ultimate decision. Having the certificate is a great asset but it often does not have any real impact on whether or not its owner will be employed.

2. The certificate is for everyone

   A myth. ISTQB FL is for people who already know something about testing. To prepare for the examination You need to put in a lot of effort and pass certain professional courses. It is no good paying 800 PLN for a single try if You do not consider it a great investment in Your future.

3. It is easier to pass if You already have practical experience

   A fact. The syllabus of ISTQB FL is just a set of unfamiliar terms for an IT novice. It is easier to comprehend if You already use such terms in Your everyday work rather than learn them by heart after hours. Many testers decide to sit for the examination no sooner than with a few months’ worth of experience - it makes the whole process much easier. But it does not mean others do not have a chance to pass as well!

4. ISTQB FL can be passed without a course

   A fact and a myth. You can pass the exam on Your own, because the Internet abounds in preparation materials - tutorials, articles, and many others. A course does not guarantee a positive outcome and, besides, not all of them are of high quality. Experience has taught us to value the ones that focus on case testing most. There is so much theoretical knowledge on the Internet, however, that You can try to gather it on Your own.

5. Having the certificate makes You a tester

   A myth. This internationally recognised document does indeed certify Your abilities, but it does not make You a qualified professional yet! We ourselves know some people who did pass the examination but have nothing to do with testing anymore. The certificate validates Your knowledge of established norms of software testing, not Your actual qualifications as a tester.

   Coming back to our initial question - should a novice tester invest in the ISTQB FL certificate? Of course, there is no ultimate answer, but we are going to show You two possible scenarios.

   No. The certificate is not necessary to find employment, costs a lot of effort and money, and is difficult for a beginner. And even if You do have it - during recruitment other candidates can gain the upper hand with their enthusiasm or personality, which will ultimately render Your certificate useless.

   Yes. If You have time and already know that testing is just the thing for You - invest in it. Prepare accordingly and pay 800 PLN to get a formal confirmation of Your abilities. And even if You fail the first time, You can always include the knowledge of ISTQB FL syllabus in Your CV. Employers do not value only documents, but also engagement, self-development, self-reliance, and always being prepared for new challenges. It is sometimes more important than mere papers! If You hesitate, though, sit for the exam some other time!