Not all Six Sigma certifications are equal. Understand what sets ISSAB apart from other certification bodies — and why choosing the right credential matters.
The Certification Bodies
There are several organizations offering Six Sigma certifications globally. Here is what each one represents and how they differ in approach, focus, and value.
Professional certification platform with comprehensive curriculum, a real-world project requirement for senior belts, and lifetime certification validity.
Established council offering lifetime certifications with free training materials and certification standards for providers worldwide.
Professional society offering rigorous certifications with strong industry recognition. Black Belt requires project experience and periodic recertification.
Independent certification body focused on standardized exam-based validation. Certifications require renewal every three years.
Side-by-Side Comparison
A clear look at the key features that matter most when choosing your Six Sigma certification.
| Feature | ISSAB | CSSC | ASQ | IASSC |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lifetime Certification Validity | ✓ | ✓ | Partial | ✗ |
| No Recertification Fees | ✓ | ✓ | Partial | ✗ |
| Free Entry-Level Certification | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Standards-Aligned Curriculum | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Digital Certificate with Verification | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| E-mail Support | ✓ | Varies | Varies | Varies |
| Project Requirement for Senior Belts | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Designed for Real-World Application | ✓ | Partial | ✓ | Partial |
| No Prerequisites Required | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Multiple Exam Attempts Included | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Integrated Course + Certification | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Video Lessons Included | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
Comparison based on publicly available information as of 2026. Features may change. We encourage you to research each provider to find the best fit for your needs.
ISSAB Advantage
These are the features that make ISSAB uniquely valuable to professionals and the organizations that hire them.
ISSAB certifications emphasize real-world application. Black Belt and MBB candidates declare completed improvement projects, and ISSAB may audit a random sample of certificate holders.
Your ISSAB certification is valid for life. No recertification exams, no continuing education requirements, no renewal fees — ever. Unlike ASQ which requires renewal every 3 years.
ISSAB offers a completely free White Belt certification — no credit card, no hidden fees. Start your Six Sigma journey with zero financial risk.
ISSAB examinations assess your ability to apply Lean Six Sigma, not to memorise it. 30 questions, 60 minutes, 80% passing standard, up to 5 attempts per belt level.
Every ISSAB candidate can reach our support team by e-mail for questions about their account, access or certificates.
ISSAB certifications are applicable across industries worldwide. Our Standards-aligned curriculum ensures your credential meets the global standard of Six Sigma practice.
Universal Application
Six Sigma principles are universal. ISSAB's standards-aligned curriculum prepares you to apply process improvement in any professional environment.
Healthcare
Manufacturing
Banking & Finance
Oil & Gas
Construction
IT & Technology
Government
Service & Operations
Target Audience
ISSAB is the right choice for professionals who want a credential that reflects real-world expertise — not just theoretical knowledge.
Professionals seeking career advancement in their industry
Managers responsible for process improvement projects
Quality specialists and operations consultants
Organizations building internal improvement capabilities
Professionals in specialized industries (healthcare, finance, etc.)
Anyone who wants lifetime value with no renewal fees
Choose a credential that proves your expertise where it matters most — your industry.
Industry Expertise. Lifetime Recognition. Real Business Impact.