The CSDA credential is intended for graduating software engineers and entry-level software professionals and serves to bridge the gap between your educational experience and real-world work requirements. The CSDA is the first step towards becoming a Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP).
CSDA Eligibility
While there are no formal requirements for the CSDA, the following are recommended guidelines for candidates:
- Recent software or computer engineering graduates
- Under-graduates in their final year of a bachelor's degree program in software or computer engineering
- Non-degree professionals with more than 2 years of programming experience
Get Certified in 3 Easy Steps
1 | Register for the Exam
Exam fees are affordable and in many cases paid for by your employer. See the Fees and Testing Information section below. |
| REGISTER |
2 | Prepare for the Exam
Exam preparation options include the CSDA e-learning, an on-line, self-paced course containing 4 modules and 500 practice questions. |
| PREPARE |
3 | Take the Exam
Locate and schedule your exam from at most Prometric test centers world-wide. |
| TEST |
Fees and Testing Information
The CSDA e-learning system includes six (6) months of access for a candidate. The CSDA examination fee includes a $50 processing fee, which is nonrefundable and nontransferable. We accept payment by Visa, MasterCard, American Express, check and wire transfer. Checks should be made payable to the Computer Society and drawn on a US Bank. All fees must be paid in US dollars. For wire transfer information, please refer to the Certification FAQ.
| | IEEE or IEEE Computer
Society Members | Non-Members |
| CSDA e-learning course | $245* | $345* |
| Total Examination Fee | $295* | $395* |
| Bundle package (e-learning and exam) | $495* | $645* |
* Prices subject to tax charges. Click here for more information.
Testing windows and the application deadlines:
Testing Window
4 January - 3 July 2010
16 August – 17 December 2010 | Application Deadline
3 June 2010
17 November 2010 |
