CSAvsCTA
Compare ServiceNow Certified System Administrator and Certified Technical Architect 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.
CTA
expertCertified Technical Architect
The ServiceNow Certified Technical Architect (CTA) certification is an advanced certification for technical architects designing enterprise ServiceNow solutions. This expert-level certification validates comprehensive platform knowledge and solution architecture skills.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare exam details, costs, and requirements.
| Comparison | CSA | CTA |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Questions | 60 | 60 |
| Duration | 90 minutes | 120 minutes |
| Cut Score | Not published | Not published |
| Exam Cost | $300 | See ServiceNow University |
| Level | Entry | Expert |
| Format | Multiple choice and multiple select | Scenario-based questions and architecture review |
| Blueprint Updated | January 2026 | See Now Learning |
| 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, ServiceNow CAD certification, 3+ years of ServiceNow architecture experience, Multiple implementation certifications recommended |
Which Should You Choose?
Start with CSA if you're new to ServiceNow. It provides the foundational knowledge needed before pursuing CTA.
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 CTA if:
- •You work primarily with architect functions
- •Your role requires certified technical architect expertise
- •You want to demonstrate expert-level ServiceNow skills
Ready to Start Preparing?
Try our free practice questions to see which certification fits your current knowledge.