Certification Program (Beta)
Be among the first to shape the future of software certification.
About the Certifications
We’re excited to launch the beta phase of our new Certified Software Professional Certification Program and invite you to take part. Early test takers help us validate our exams—and get the chance to earn the credential before the official launch.
Certified Software Professional Level 1: Designed for those in the early stages of their software development career.
Certified Software Professional Level 2: Geared toward experienced professionals ready to lead or deliver complex software projects independently.
There are no required prerequisites. We offer recommended guidelines to help you choose the level that best matches your experience and goals.
Become a Pioneer: Join the IEEE Computer Society Certification Beta
Help shape the future of software certification. Be among the first to prove your skills, earn recognition, and strengthen your career—all while helping us refine and launch our new certification program.
Which Certification Level is Right for Me?
Level 1 (Entry Level)
Level 2 (Experienced)
Still not sure which level fits you? You can review the detailed descriptions below, or contact us for help deciding.
Exam Descriptions
Level 1: Perfect for students, recent graduates, or self-taught developers ready to prove they’re job-ready for an entry-level role.
“An individual who has obtained Level 1 certification is expected to be capable of performing as an entry-level software developer who can join a multi-person team and contribute as long as they have appropriate technology stack knowledge and are given guidance by others on that team.”
Level 2: Ideal for professionals ready to lead, mentor, or independently deliver complex projects. Show you’re ready for senior or leadership roles.
“An individual who has obtained Level 2 certification is expected to be capable of successfully delivering non-trivial software (e.g., 3–6 months of effort) by themselves and/or is able to be the technical lead on a small team (e.g., 4–6 developers)…”
What to Expect on Exam Day
Format, Scoring, and Timing Overview
Level 1 Certification
- Exam Format: 80 multiple-choice and scenario-based questions
- Question Types: Applied knowledge, logic, debugging, basic architecture
- Exam Duration: 100 minutes
- Delivery: Online, Remotely proctored
- Passing Score: 70%
- Results: Available within 2 weeks
Level 2 Certification
- Exam Format: 180 multiple-choice, case studies, and design-based questions
- Question Types: Deep analysis, system design, leadership decisions
- Exam Duration: 210 minutes
- Delivery: Online, Remotely proctored
- Passing Score: 75%
- Results: Available within 2 weeks
NOTE
As a beta exam, scoring will also help inform adjustments before the public launch. You'll still receive a valid certification if you pass.
How to Register
- Choose Your Level Use the comparison above to determine whether Level 1 or Level 2 is right for you.
- Register Online Registration opens in August for the September beta exam window. Sign up here to receive a notification when registration is live.
- Prepare for the Exam
- Take the Exam (Beta Version)
- Date: September 2025
- Format: Online and proctored
- Cost: FREE for beta
- Get Certified If you pass the beta exam, you will receive an official certification — identical in status to future production certifications.
Why Participate in the Beta?
- Be among the first certified professionals
- Influence the final version of the exam
- Receive a discounted exam rate
- Add a career-boosting credential to your resume
Contact Us
Have questions? Not sure which exam level fits your background?
Email us at certification@computer.org
Beta exam sign ups have now closed
Direct further inquiries via email to certification@computer.org.
For more materials related to Software Engineering, you can also visit the official SWEBOK page or download the SWEBOK guide.
