Press Release

Pearson VUE to deliver computer-based exams for Japan Software Testing Qualifications Board (JSTQB)


Tokyo, Japan — August 19, 2022

Pearson VUE, the global leader in computer-based certification and licensure testing, has entered into a new agreement with the Association of Software Test EngineeRing (ASTER) to transition the Japan Software Testing Qualifications Board’s (JSTQB) exams from pen and paper to computer-based later this year. ASTER, a Japanese non-profit organization, was established in 2006 with the mission of improving quality and standards in software testing techniques.

Central to this is its participation in JSTQB certification program that is operated by ASTER, and which Pearson VUE will be delivering via its extensive testing network across Japan.

Candidates will be able to take the following certifications at Pearson VUE Authorized Test Centers:

  • CTFL (Foundation Level Exam) - Starting in October 2022
  • CTAL-TM (Advanced Level Exam - Test Manager) - Starting in October 2022
  • CTAL-TA (Advanced Level Exam - Test Analyst)- Starting in February 2023

*Other exams will be delivered with CBT after 2023.

Japan has a long-standing reputation for driving innovation in high-quality software that’s used in many consumer products all around the world. JSTQB’s investment in developing the technical capabilities of highly skilled software engineers, through these certifications, ensure standards in quality, reliability, and safety are met.

Candidates will be able to book their Pearson VUE test center appointments throughout the year and can schedule their exams at a number of different locations in Japan, benefiting from greater convenience and flexibility when pursuing their software certifications.

Mr. Masaki Sasaki, Director of JSTQB, Association of Software Test EngineeRing (ASTER) explained: “The number of candidates for JSTQB tests has exceeded 40,000 and we have certified more than 20,000 professionals. With CBT, we will be able to offer candidates more opportunity to learn software testing techniques and validate their abilities. We hope that it will also generate interest in software testing techniques more broadly.”

Tetsu Ikeda, Vice President, Pearson VUE Japan, said: “ASTER supports wider industry growth and innovation through pioneering quality and standards in software testing techniques. We are honored to be partnering with the association in its important mission and playing our part in further developing the skillset of Japan’s excellent software engineers.”


About Pearson VUE

Pearson VUE has been a pioneer in the computer-based testing industry for decades, delivering more than 16 million certification and licensure exams annually in every industry from academia and admissions to IT and healthcare. We are the global leader in developing and delivering high-stakes exams via the world's most comprehensive network of nearly 20,000 highly secure test centers as well as online testing in over 180 countries. Our leadership in the assessment industry is a result of our collaborative partnerships with a broad range of clients, from leading technology firms to government and regulatory agencies. For more information, please visit PearsonVUE.com.

About the Association of Software Test EngineeRing (ASTER)

The Association of Software Test EngineeRing (ASTER) was established in April 2006, in Tokyo, Japan. ASTER is organizing a Japan Symposium on Software Testing (JaSST) as well as research and education projects on software testing techniques, with the goal of improving quality and promotion. Its mission is to support the ICT industry through the distribution and utilization of high-quality software through its activities. Find out more on www.aster.or.jp

About the Japan Software Testing Qualifications Board (JSTQB)

JSTQB is an administration organization for the certification of software testing engineers in Japan, and has been a member of the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB), in which testing member boards worldwide participate, since April 2005.

The Japan Software Testing Qualifications Board (JSTQB) certification program, which is operated by JSTQB, is mutually mutual recognition through ISTQB, and the certification operated by JSTQB are valid overseas as well. Find out more on jstqb.jp/index.html.

Media contact

Greg Forbes, Global PR & Communications Manager
+44 (0) 7824 313448
greg.forbes@pearson.com