FAQ: Micro-Credentials for Software Testing

Below are the answers to questions about micro-credentials for software testing and testing QA.

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What is a micro-credential?

A micro-credential is a recognized proof of your knowledge in a focused area.

What is a software testing micro-credential?

A software testing micro-credential is a recognized proof of your knowledge in a focused area of software testing. See additional information on "What is a software testing micro-credential?"

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Why do testers get software testing micro-credentials?

Software testing micro-credentials are a quick way to show employers that you have basic knowledge of a software testing area. Micro-credentials are also a good way to explore new testing topics and prove to yourself - and others - that are staying on cutting edge.

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Do AT*SQA's AT*Micro™ software testing micro-credentials count toward my Testing Tiers® software tester ranking?

Yes, AT*SQA micro-credentials give you points toward your Testing Tiers® software tester rankings in the Official U.S. List of Certified & Credentialed Software Testers™.

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How do I prepare for a software testing micro-credential exam?

All of the AT*SQA micro-credentials offer a free body of knowledge that will help you prepare for the exam. Download the micro-credential body of knowledge here. AT*SQA also offers an optional - and very affordable - AT*Learn™ software testing training course that will help you prepare for all of the micro-credential exams.

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How do I take a software testing micro-credential exam?

You can register for your software testing micro-credential exam on the AT*SQA website.

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What is the difference between an AT*Micro™ micro-credential and an AT*SQA or ISTQB certification?

Micro-credentials are very focused and designed to ensure you have basic knowledge of a specialized area. As such, they offer very short exams that you can study for relatively quickly. Certifications are designed to ensure you have a broader and deeper knowledge of a topic, so they have longer, more comprehensive exams. Both micro-credentials and certifications are valued by employers, as they realize they demonstrate different levels and types of knowledge.

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Can I take the micro-credentialexam online?

Yes, all AT*SQA micro-credential exams are taken from home or work. You just need a computer or laptop.

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Will I receive a hard copy certificate in the mail?

Upon earning your software testing micro-credential you will have your software testing badge added to your listing on the Official U.S. List of Certified & Credentialed Software Testers™.

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Will I appear on the Official U.S. List of Certified Testers if I pass an AT*Micro micro-credential?

Yes. Go into your AT*SQA account and update your Preferences to have your name appear on the list. If this is your first credential from AT*SQA or ASTQB, you will also be asked to set your "Name on Certificate." You will then appear within 24 hours.

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If I fail my software testing micro-credential exam, may I retake it?

Yes, each micro-credential exam purchase includes two attempts. If you fail both attempts, you may retake the exam by paying for another exam at the same cost.

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Is the micro-credential exam open book / open note?

Yes, the micro-credential exam allows you to use notes of any type. It is intended to ensure you have basic knowledge and know where to find information on that topic.

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Who was the first to develop software testing micro-credentials?

AT*SQA was the first organization in the world to develop software testing micro-credentials and continues to be the industry leader in micro-credentials in the area of software testing and software quality assurance (QA).

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What is AT*SQA's role for software testing micro-credentials?

AT*SQA is a non-profit organization that software testing certifications that support professionalism in testing and software quality assurance. AT*SQA the authoritative source for the Official U.S. List of Certified & Credentialed Software Testers™ and provides official exams for ISTQB globally in American English.

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Are software testing micro-credentials the same as software QA micro-credentials?

Yes, software testing micro-credentials an also be called software QA micro-credentials, software tester micro-credentials, test analyst micro-credentials, or testing micro-credentials.

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Is the proper term micro-credential, micro credential or microcredential?

All three of the terms micro-credential, micro credential or microcredential mean the same thing and are interchangeable. The most common version is micro-credential.

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I have more questions about micro-credentials.

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