Six Sigma Certification Exam Options

The Pros and Cons of Popular Six Sigma Exam Offerings

Six Sigma is more than a methodology—it’s a career accelerator. By earning a Six Sigma Green Belt or Black Belt certification, professionals demonstrate the ability to solve problems, improve processes, and lead organizational change. But with several different certifying bodies, which exam should you choose?

This article breaks down the most popular Six Sigma exam providers—ASQ, IASSC, and CSSC—highlighting costs, exam formats, and scoring requirements. We’ll also weigh the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed choice.

Comparison Table: Six Sigma Exam Options (Green & Black Belt)

ASQ (American Society for Quality)

Overview:

ASQ is the oldest and most recognized certifying body in Six Sigma. Their exams are comprehensive, rigorous, and valued highly by employers in industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and supply chain.

Green Belt: Candidates sit for 110 multiple-choice questions in just over 4 hours. It’s an open-book exam, but candidates must provide documentation of at least two to three years of relevant work experience.

Black Belt: More extensive at 165 questions across 4.5 hours. ASQ requires candidates to have led or participated in projects, with supporting affidavits.

Pros:

• Highest level of employer recognition.

• Open-book format mirrors workplace practice.

• Professional networking benefits through ASQ membership.

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to other options.

• Retake fees add up.

• Requires prior work experience.

If you’re aiming for top-tier credibility, ASQ is the gold standard.

IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification)

Overview:

IASSC’s exams are standardized and strictly closed-book, making them knowledge-intensive. They’re delivered online through PeopleCert, with global recognition across many industries.

Green Belt: 100 questions in 3 hours with a 70% minimum passing score. No prerequisites or project work required.

Black Belt: 150 questions in 4 hours. Also closed book, with the same 70% passing threshold.

Pros:

• Lower cost than ASQ.

• Globally recognized, especially in Europe and Asia.

• Accessible with no prerequisites.

Cons:

• Closed-book format is more challenging.

• Less emphasis on project application.

• Full fee required for retakes.

For professionals seeking a purely exam-based credential without project requirements, IASSC is a strong option.

CSSC (Council for Six Sigma Certification)

Overview:

CSSC emphasizes affordability and flexibility. It offers both standard exams and self-paced modular pathways, making it appealing to self-funded professionals and organizations with budget-conscious training programs.

Green Belt: The $159 Standard Exam includes 100 questions in 2 hours, with up to three attempts included. The $349 Self-Paced program allows candidates to progress through smaller, untimed module exams.

Black Belt: At $229, the Standard Exam is the most affordable Black Belt option. The $449 Self-Paced version is designed for flexible, incremental mastery.

Pros:

• Most affordable Six Sigma exams.

• Open-book and online.

• Multiple attempts included, no expiration.

• No prerequisites required.

Cons:

• Not as widely recognized as ASQ.

• Some employers see it as less rigorous.

• Online, open-book format may be perceived as less challenging.

For professionals who want flexibility and low cost, CSSC is the best fit.

Which Certification Should You Choose?

• Choose ASQ if your career is in industries where recognition and credibility are critical. It’s the most demanding, but also the most respected.

• Choose IASSC if you want a globally recognized, standardized exam without prerequisites. Ideal for consultants or those in international roles.

• Choose CSSC if you’re looking for an affordable, flexible option that you can pursue at your own pace.

Next Steps

When you’re ready to pursue your Six Sigma certification, explore your training and exam prep options at Certification Academy.

• Learn more about the Six Sigma Green Belt Certification.

• Explore the Six Sigma Black Belt Certification.

By choosing the right path, you’ll set yourself up to build stronger problem-solving skills, lead projects, and accelerate your career with a credential that employers trust.