Reasons not to pass ISTQB certification

 In my previous article I presented my top 5 reasons to pass the ISTQB exam. In this article I would like to write my thoughts about reasons not to pass the exam.

So what were the reasons to pass the exam - you'd expand your testing theory knowledge, you will use "the same language" in your team, you will structure your knowledge and you would gain that knowledge even in case you'd just read the exam papers and last - you'd be allowed for the next, advanced ISTQB exams, like Test Managers or Test Analyst.

Ok, but these pros mainly applicable for junior/trainee testers and what about senior QAs? In case you have a lot of knowledge and was working on a multiple of projects as a QA or tester than you, should, already got most of the knowledge that ISTQB Foundation Level can provide you. Then, you will not, probably, expand your knowledge and in most cases you'd know all the terms and definitions that ISTQB FL provides. Sure, last item - allowance to pass advanced level exams could be relevant to you only in case you are about to pass it or want to go to QA management role, but in case you are not interested in obtaining this advanced level certificate, then you don't need it at all and it's no more an advantage.

In any case, if you a true Senior QA, know the difference between QA, QC and testing, apply QA practices and provides quality assurance then, of course, you already know more than ISTQB FL can provide. 

As you can see in this short article there is two category of quality specialists - experienced and those who need to became one. Last one would benefit from passing ISTQB, so in case you're in that category, I'd recommend to think about passing the exam or at least just read the papers.