Step-by-Step Guide on How to Pass the iSAQB CPSA-F Certification
If you're a software engineer looking to transition into a software architect role, the Certified Professional for Software Architecture – Foundation Level (CPSA-F) certification by iSAQB is an excellent way to acquire the relevant skills and also earn an internationally recognized certification.
But how exactly do you pass the iSAQB CPSA-F exam, and what should you expect from the process?
In this guide, I'll walk you through each step to get CPSA-F certified, from understanding how to prepare for the CPSA-F exam, how much the exam costs, how to register for the exam, and so on.
What is the iSAQB CPSA-F Certification?
Before jumping into study materials, it’s important to know what the CPSA-F certification is all about so you can decide if it’s right for you.
The CPSA-F (Certified Professional for Software Architecture – Foundation Level) is an internationally recognized certification program that validates and certifies your understanding of fundamental software architecture.
Unlike college programs, this is a very practical certification relevant to the daily work of a software architect.
The CPSA-F certification is designed by iSAQB - The International Software Architecture Qualification Board (iSAQB), which is a non-profit organization made up of independent software architecture experts from industry and academia.
iSAQB was established in 2008 to address the lack of standardization in the training and certification of software architects.
Since its inspection, iSAQB has facilitated the training and certification of over 40,000 software engineers and software architects worldwide.
However, iSAQB does not conduct training for this certification.
Instead, it works with an independent network of accredited training providers and accredited trainers to teach software architecture and prepare software engineers for the CPSA-F exam.
iSAQB ensures that accredited trainers are qualified and that the accredited training provider adheres to strict quality standards.
Step 1: Understand CPSA-F Curriculum and Prerequisites
The Certified Professional for Software Architecture - Foundation Level (CPSA-F) certification is primarily intended for:
Mid-to senior-level software developers (with at least 18 months of experience)
Technical leads and software architects
Engineering managers
The curriculum encompasses many topics that every software architect needs to know to perform their daily work.
Some of the topics include:
The understanding of the Software Architect’s roles, responsibilities, and terminology
Designing software systems based on complex requirements and making correct tradeoffs
Applying Industry-proven principles, design patterns, architecture styles, and best practices
Effectively documenting and communicating the software architecture to stakeholders
Systematically evaluating and improving the software architecture
Step 2: Prepare for the CPSA-F Certification Exam
The CPSA-F exam is a multiple-choice, timed test that can be taken either online or in person at a testing center. Most candidates choose the flexibility of taking it from home with an online proctor.
The cost of the CPSA-F exam varies among the exam providers, but generally falls between $200 and $350 USD. Since the exam is not cheap, it’s highly recommended to prepare for it thoroughly before scheduling.
You can prepare for the CPSA-F certification through self-study by using publicly available materials, such as the official curriculum and official mock exam (questions and answers).
The CPSA-F exam is challenging, covering many architectural principles, design patterns, cross-cutting concerns, quality attributes, documentation approaches, evaluation techniques, and more.
Additionally, the exam doesn’t require any memorization. Instead, it expects the candidate to have a deep understanding of the software architecture concepts. In fact, the scoring system in the exam punishes (incorrect) guessing by deducting points.
So, without proper guidance from an accredited CPSA-F trainer, it’s easy to miss critical concepts, misunderstand the exam’s expectations, and fail the exam, even if you have years of experience.
Therefore, self-studying is not the recommended route for most candidates.
It’s also important to reinforce the learning with practical examples of real software architectures, demonstrated by an experienced software architect and software architecture trainer.
That’s why many professionals choose to enroll in an accredited training program led by a qualified, accredited CPSA-F trainer.
Step 3: Enroll in an Accredited CPSA-F Training Course
If you're serious about passing the CPSA-F exam on your first attempt and want to truly gain the practical skills of a software architect, then enrolling in an accredited CPSA-F training course is the best decision you can make.
At Top Developer Academy, you can get trained by Michael Pogrebinsky, an officially iSAQB-accredited CPSA-F trainer with decades of experience in software architecture, backend development, distributed systems, and training software engineers.
Top Developer Academy is the only accredited training provider offering a fully self-paced, on-demand CPSA-F training course, allowing you to study anytime, anywhere, without disrupting your work or project deadlines. This makes it ideal for working professionals who want flexibility without compromising on quality.
This training is designed to:
Give you a deep understanding of all CPSA-F curriculum topics
Provide quizzes, mock exams, and practical examples to reinforce learning
Help you pass your iSAQB CPSA-F certification exam with ease on the first try
More importantly, by the end of the training, you will be able to
Apply architecture principles to real-world systems and projects
Get promoted, or hired as a technical lead or software architect
Prepare you for a successful career with solid skills in software architecture
Step 4: Register and Take the CPSA-F Exam
Once you feel confident in your knowledge, whether from self-study or (ideally) an accredited training course, you can register for the exam through an iSAQB-accredited certification provider such as Certible, ISQI, or Bightest.
The exam typically consists of:
Multiple-choice and multiple-answer questions
75 minutes to complete the exam
Approximately 60 questions, with a passing score of 60% or higher
Step 5: Receive your CPSA-F Certification Diploma
After you pass your CPSA-F exam, you will receive the results from the exam provider, typically immediately after the exam.
Most exam providers will issue you a digital (and sometimes physical) certification diploma shortly after.
The digital certificate can be displayed on your LinkedIn profile. This way, potential employers and recruiters can search for engineers with this certificate on LinkedIn.
The CPSA-F certificate does not need to be renewed, and just like a university degree, it stays with you throughout your career.
Is the CPSA-F Certification Worth It?
Yes. The CPSA-F certification is designed to teach practical, industry-relevant software architecture skills and is increasingly recognized worldwide as a foundational credential for software architects. It demonstrates that you not only understand architectural concepts and patterns but can also apply them to real-world projects in a professional setting.
Regardless of the state of the IT job market, companies are always looking for software engineers who can step up and take ownership of system design, communication with stakeholders, and technical leadership beyond coding. The CPSA-F certification proves you’re ready for this role.
Many engineers who have completed the training report:
Improved confidence in architectural decision-making
Better communication with cross-functional teams
Increased job opportunities and salary growth
A clearer path toward senior engineering or architecture leadership roles
Increased salaries as a result of being hired or promoted to a technical leader’s role
Freelancers and consultants also find it easier to secure clients with a world-class credential like the CPSA-F certificate.
Final Thoughts
If you're ready to level up your career and transition into a software architect role, the iSAQB CPSA-F certification is one of the most practical and valuable investments you can make.
And while self-study is an option, most professionals find that it’s much more effective to enroll in an accredited course led by an expert.
That’s why Top Developer Academy offers a comprehensive, self-paced CPSA-F training program, designed and taught by Michael Pogrebinsky, an accredited trainer who has helped thousands of engineers gain deep architecture skills and pass their exams.
