FAQ
Software QA Tester FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a software QA tester.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a software QA tester: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about software QA testers
Do QA testers need to code?
Manual testers may not, but automation skills are increasingly expected.
Is QA a good way into tech?
Yes. Many testers move into automation or development.
What certification helps?
The ISTQB Foundation Level is widely recognized.
How much does a software QA tester make?
The median annual wage for software QA testers was $104,300 ($50.14 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $61,440 and the highest 10% earned more than $167,010.
How long does it take to become a software QA tester?
Most people need about 6 months–4 years of training. A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is typical, though bootcamps, certificates and support experience can lead to QA roles.
Do you need a degree to be a software QA tester?
Not always. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, but many testers enter from customer support, bootcamps or self-study and grow into automation roles.
Is software QA tester a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +5.7% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 10,700 openings each year. Upsides include entry point into software; a common challenge is that repetitive manual testing.
What skills does a software QA tester need?
Key technical skills include test case design, manual testing, test automation, and bug reporting. Employers also value attention to detail, curiosity, and clear communication.
What certifications are available for software QA testers?
Common credentials include ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level, ISTQB Test Automation Engineer, Certified Software Tester (CSTE), and Agile testing certification. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Software QA Tester fit quiz, compare with Software Developer, or explore Software QA Tester training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 15-1253 (Software quality assurance analysts and testers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Software quality assurance analysts and testers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.