CSAvsCAD
Compare ServiceNow Certified System Administrator and Certified Application Developer certifications to find the right path for your career.
CSA
entryCertified System Administrator
The ServiceNow Certified System Administrator (CSA) certification validates your ability to configure, implement, and maintain ServiceNow instances. This entry-level certification is the foundation for all other ServiceNow certifications.
CAD
professionalCertified Application Developer
The ServiceNow Certified Application Developer (CAD) certification demonstrates your ability to build, customize, and extend applications on the ServiceNow platform using scripting and development tools.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare exam details, costs, and requirements.
| Comparison | CSA | CAD |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Questions | 60 | 60 |
| Duration | 90 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Cut Score | Not published | Not published |
| Exam Cost | $300 | $300 |
| Level | Entry | Professional |
| Format | Multiple choice and multiple select | Multiple choice and multiple select |
| Blueprint Updated | January 2026 | January 2026 |
| Prerequisites | 6-12 months hands-on ServiceNow experience, ServiceNow Administration Fundamentals course (recommended, not required), Access to a Personal Developer Instance (PDI) | ServiceNow CSA certification (recommended), 1+ years of ServiceNow development experience, Strong JavaScript knowledge |
Which Should You Choose?
Start with CSA if you're new to ServiceNow. It provides the foundational knowledge needed before pursuing CAD.
Choose CSA if:
- •You work primarily with foundation functions
- •Your role requires certified system administrator expertise
- •You want to demonstrate entry-level ServiceNow skills
Choose CAD if:
- •You work primarily with developer functions
- •Your role requires certified application developer expertise
- •You want to demonstrate professional-level ServiceNow skills
Ready to Start Preparing?
Try our free practice questions to see which certification fits your current knowledge.