iSAQB Certification Process
1. Start with CPSA-F (Foundation Level)
CPSA-F is the first mandatory step for everyone.
You attend a Foundation training course, where you learn core architecture concepts, roles, quality attributes, documentation, and design methods.
After the training, you take the Foundation exam (multiple-choice).
When you pass, you receive the CPSA-F certificate, which proves your basic knowledge and makes you eligible for the Advanced path.
2. Move to CPSA-A (Advanced Level)
To qualify for the Advanced Level, you must meet three requirements:
Hold a CPSA-F certificate
Have at least 3 years of IT experience (including involvement in design or development of two systems)
Collect 70 credit points by attending iSAQB-approved Advanced modules
The Advanced modules cover three competence areas:
Methodical competence
Technical competence
Communicative competence
You must earn at least 10 points in each area, and together they must total 70 points.
3. Take the CPSA-A Exam
Once you have your credit points and experience, you can register for the Advanced examination. The CPSA-A exam has two parts:
1. Written Architecture Assignment
You receive a real architecture task
You design a solution and document it
You have up to 3 months to complete it
2. Oral Defense
If both parts pass, you receive the CPSA-A certificate.
Summary in One Line
CPSA-F exam → collect 70 credit points (min 10 points for each area) → CPSA-A written assignment → CPSA-A oral defense → Advanced certification
