Test Types

The ISTO Tests focus not only on the requirements of the respective international standards requirements, but also ensures that those who pass the tests have demonstrated a knowledge of the underlying principles of the subject matter are outlined in the Body of Knowledge. The emphasis is on demonstrated understanding of the different organizational situations where the standards can be applied, and ensuring that candidates are aware of the practical implications of the management system that is effectiveness and results-focused, and not the creation of excessive bureaucracy.

In line with the launch of the Annex SL series of ISO management system standards, ISTO has decided to extend the range of tests to be offered. The TEST OF FUNDAMENTALS will be offered to supplement the TEST OF UNDERSTANDING to popular ISO management system standards. Their relative positioning are tabulated below,

Test Type No of questions Focus Target Passing Mark Time
TEST OF FUNDAMENTALS 50 Fundamentals and relevance General staff 60% 90 min
TEST OF UNDERSTANDING 90 Requirements and implementation Professional and implementation auditors 70% 180 min
Test Structure
Test of Fundamentals

The examination is divided into 2 (two) sections, and candidates are advised to spend no more than 45 minutes on each section.

Section 1 : 25 multiple choice questions on basic principles and requirements
Section 2 : 25 multiple choice questions on implementations

Test of Understanding

The examination is divided into 4 (four) sections, and candidates are advised to spend no more than 45 minutes on each section.

Section 1 : 30 multiple choice questions on principles, definitions and requirements
Section 2 : 30 multiple choice questions on implementation
Section 3 : 30 multiple choice questions based on six mini cases
Section 3 : Any one essay question to be chosen from three questions

International Standards
Discipline Standard
Quality ISO 9001:2015
Environmental ISO 14001:2015
Occupational health and safety ISO 45001:2018

Based on market demand, ISTO will consider launching tests of other ISO management system standards as needed.

Disclaimer: The International Standardized Testing Organization (ISTO) is a commercially - run organization. It fully supports and embraces the international standards published by standards bodies. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is a world-wide federation of National standards bodies based in Geneva, Switzerland. Being independent and impartial, ISTO has no formal links with any standard bodies.