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Software Testing

Best QA Conferences in 2025

Katie Sanders
By
Katie Sanders
Katie Sanders Senior Editor

As a data-driven content strategist, editor, writer, and community steward, Katie helps technical leaders win at work. Her 14 years of experience in the tech space makes her well-rounded to provide technical audiences with expert insights and practical advice through Q&As, Thought Leadership, Ebooks, etc.

More about Katie
Last updated on Feb 1, 2025
QUICK SUMMARY

Uncover the must-attend QA conferences in 2025 that promise to equip you with cutting-edge insights, connect you with industry leaders, and address your biggest QA challenges.

Qa conferences generic best of

QA conferences are your gateway to staying relevant in a fast-changing industry. They’re where you learn from peers, address challenges in quality assurance, and connect with others tackling the same issues. Whether it’s sharpening your skills, finding new tools, or hearing about emerging trends, these events offer a lot for professional development.

This article covers the top QA conferences in 2025, focusing on the needs of tech experts. You’ll find options to match your goals, including knowledge sharing, problem-solving, and expanding your network. Let’s get started!

Best QA Conferences in 2025 Shortlist

Here's my shortlist of the best QA conferences in 2025:

  1. ICSTM 2025: International Conference on Software Testing and Methods - Multiple locations & dates
  2. Pacific Northwest Software Quality Conference (PNSQC) - Portland, OR (January 2025)
  3. Agile Testing & Test Automation Day - Dallas, TX (February 2025)
  4. Test Automation Days - Rotterdam, Netherlands (March 2025)
  5. Testing Peers Conference - Lenton, Nottingham, UK (March 2025)
  6. The QA Financial Forum - Toronto, Canada (March 2025)
  7. ICST 2025 - Naples, Italy (March-April 2025)
  8. TAPOST 2025 - Theory and Practice of Software Testing - Rīga, Latvia (April 2025)
  9. STAREAST Software Testing Conference - Orlando, FL (April-May 2025)
  10. Nordic Testing Days (NTD) - Tallinn, Estonia (May 2025)
  11. Testμ Conference 2025 - Remote (August 2025)
  12. ICSM 2025: International Conference on Software Maintenance - Rome, Italy (September 2025)
  13. Star West - Anaheim, CA (September 2025)
  14. TestBash Brighton 2025 - Brighton, UK (October 2025)
  15. Hungarian Software Testing Forum (HUSTEF) - Budapest, Hungary (October 2025)
  16. TestCon Europe - Software Testing and QA Conference - Vilnius, LT (October 2025)
  17. AutomationSTAR - Amsterdam, Netherlands (November 2025)
  18. Agile Testing Days - Potsdam, Germany (November 2025)

Find more details about each conference below.

Best QA Conferences of 2025

Below are my summaries of the best QA conferences that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a look at each event’s dates, location, pricing, and unique offerings.

1. ICSTM 2025: International Conference on Software Testing and Methods - Multiple locations & dates

ICSTM 2025 website screenshot
The International Conference on Software Testing and Methods (Source)
  • Dates: Multiple dates (see table below)
  • Location: Multiple locations (see table below)
  • Pricing:
    • Non-Student Oral/Poster Presenter: €450 (Early bird ticket); €500 (Registration ticket)
    • Student Oral/Poster Presenter: €350 (Early bird ticket); €400 (Registration ticket)
    • Listener: €250 (Early bird ticket); €300 (Registration ticket)
  • Website: ICSTM 2025: International Conference on Software Testing and Methods

Overview:
ICSTM 2025 is a global platform for software testing researchers and practitioners. It is a venue for sharing advanced research and methods. The conference has featured renowned speakers, enhancing knowledge exchange in QA.

ICSTM 2025: International Conference on Software Testing and Methods Locations and Dates:

LocationDate
Bali, IndonesiaJanuary 9-10, 2025
New York, USAOctober 7-8, 2025

Why you should attend:
ICSTM offers a diverse agenda of topics crucial to software testing. It's an excellent chance for your team to learn about the latest methodologies and tools in the field. Networking with global experts can also provide insights into best practices and innovative solutions.

2. Pacific Northwest Software Quality Conference (PNSQC) - Portland, OR (January 2025)

Screenshot of the PNSQC web page, a QA conference
The Pacific Northwest Software Quality Conference (Source)

Overview:
The Pacific Northwest Software Quality Conference (PNSQC) is a hybrid event bringing tech experts together to explore advancements in software quality. Known for its engaging lightning talks and networking opportunities, it provides a platform for sharing ideas and fostering innovation. The conference has a long history of connecting professionals passionate about software excellence.

Why you should attend:
PNSQC combines in-person and virtual participation, making it accessible to a broad audience. You can also benefit from lightning talks covering creative software quality approaches and collaborative sessions to spark innovation. It’s a must-attend event for tech experts looking to engage with a vibrant community and gain fresh insights into quality assurance.

3. Agile Testing & Test Automation Day - Dallas, TX (February 2025)

Agile Testing & Test Automation Day Conference landing page screenshot
The Agile Testing & Test Automation Day Conference (Source)

Overview:
The Agile Testing & Test Automation Day brings together tech experts and professionals in software development, testing, and automation. It has a history of hosting thought leaders and practitioners who discuss emerging tools and strategies in agile testing. Participants gain insights into how testing integrates into modern software pipelines.

Why you should attend:
The summit focuses on agile methodologies, testing frameworks, and automation solutions tailored for software development teams. It also offers expert-led sessions, real-world case studies, and practical workshops. This is an ideal space for tech experts to explore the latest tools and share ideas with peers collaboratively.

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4. Test Automation Days - Rotterdam, Netherlands (March 2025)

Screenshot of the Test Automation Days website
The Test Automation Days Conference (Source)

Overview:
Test Automation Days is a prominent conference focused on innovations and trends in software testing and automation. It attracts tech experts, including CTOs, test managers, and project managers, to exchange knowledge and best practices. The event has a strong track record of delivering expert-led sessions featuring keynote speakers like Fiona Charles and Gil Zilberfeld and networking opportunities.

Why you should attend:
This event is perfect for exploring the integration of AI and RPA in test automation. You and your team can engage in workshops and talks that tackle the challenges of maintaining legacy systems. Networking with peers and industry experts also provides valuable insights and inspiration for advancing your test strategies.

5. Testing Peers Conference - Nottingham, UK (March 2025)

Screenshot of the Testing Peers Conference website
The Testing Peers Conference (Source)

Overview:
The Testing Peers Conference is a community-focused event for software testers and quality professionals. Through peer-driven discussions and sessions, it emphasizes leadership, testing, and quality practices. The conference is designed to be inclusive, low-cost, and accessible to both newcomers and seasoned professionals.

Why you should attend:
This conference offers a collaborative environment to explore topics like leadership in testing, quality improvement, and community-driven learning. With affordable pricing and a focus on peer-to-peer interaction, it’s an ideal event for connecting with other testers, sharing experiences, and learning practical approaches to modern testing challenges. Moreover, its not-for-profit approach ensures accessibility and a welcoming atmosphere for all participants.

6. The QA Financial Forum - Toronto, Canada (March 2025)

Screenshot of the landing page of QA Financial Forum
The QA Financial Forum Toronto 2025 (Source)

Overview:
The QA Financial Forum is a dedicated conference for professionals in quality assurance, financial technology, and software testing. It has connected tech experts and industry leaders, fostering discussions on innovation in QA for financial services. Past events have featured prominent speakers from global financial institutions and technology firms.

Why you should attend:
This forum addresses QA challenges specific to the financial services industry, offering insights into the latest testing tools and methodologies. It’s a unique opportunity to network with QA specialists and fintech innovators. The event also features panels and case studies highlighting regulatory compliance, automation strategies, and emerging technologies in financial QA.

7. ICST 2025 - Naples, Italy (March-April 2025)

ICST 2025 web page screenshot
The IEEE International Conference on Software Testing, Verification and Validation (Source)

Overview:
ICST 2025 is a leading event for software testers and researchers. It brings together experts to share advancements in testing, verification, and validation practices. The event also offers tutorials and keynotes that bridge theory and application.

Why you should attend:
This in-person conference offers an opportunity to explore innovative software testing and validation approaches. It combines research insights with hands-on learning experiences through talks and interactive sessions. Additionally, you can engage with global experts to discuss challenges and discover new tools and techniques.

8. TAPOST 2025 - Theory and Practice of Software Testing - Rīga, Latvia (April 2025)

Screenshot of TAPOST 2025, a QA conference
The Theory and Practice of Software Testing (TAPOST) Conference (Source)

Overview:
TAPOST 2025 is geared toward software testing professionals, offering hands-on workshops and expert talks. Since its inception, it has attracted notable speakers who are leaders in DevOps and test automation, such as Szilárd Szell, a DevOps transformation lead; Nikita Milka, a test automation architect; and Jan Sabak, a software quality assurance expert.

Why you should attend:
TAPOST provides an immersive experience with practical workshops that enhance your testing skills. You can also connect with industry experts and peers, gaining insights into effective QA strategies. The event's focus on continuous quality assurance and test automation makes it a valuable learning opportunity for your team.

9. STAREAST Software Testing Conference - Orlando, FL (April-May 2025)

The STAREAST Software Testing Conference landing page screenshot
The STAREAST Software Testing Conference (Source)

Overview:
The STAREAST Software Testing Conference is a premier event for software testers. It offers a mix of training, tutorials, and an expo focused on the latest advancements in software quality. The conference also includes expert-led sessions on testing techniques, tools, and methodologies, providing actionable insights for industry professionals.

Why you should attend:
STAREAST brings together software testers for an interactive experience featuring talks, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities. The expo showcases cutting-edge tools and solutions to help teams enhance their testing strategies. This event is perfect for advancing their skills and staying updated on testing and quality assurance trends.

10. Nordic Testing Days (NTD) - Tallinn, Estonia (May 2025)

Screenshot of the Nordic Testing Days landing page
The Nordic Testing Days (NTD) Conference (Source)

Overview:
Nordic Testing Days (NTD) is a conference for testers and quality assurance professionals. It also features sessions and workshops designed to address real-world challenges and innovations in testing and foster collaboration and knowledge-sharing among industry practitioners.

Why you should attend:
Nordic Testing Days is known for its practical, hands-on sessions on diverse testing topics, from exploratory testing to automation. It offers a supportive environment for connecting with peers, exchanging ideas, and learning from industry leaders. Whether you’re an experienced tester or new to the field, this event provides actionable insights to enhance your skills.

11. Testμ Conference 2025 - Virtual (August 2025)

Screenshot of the The Testμ Conference 2025 website
The Testμ Conference 2025 (Source)

Overview:
The Testμ Conference 2025 virtual QA conference connects testers and developers from over 120 countries. Organized by LambdaTest, it offers hands-on workshops, live tool demos, and interactive challenges like test-a-thons and certificate marathons. The conference is a global platform for learning, competing, and sharing insights in testing and QA.

Why you should attend:
This conference combines expert sessions, fireside chats, and live Q&As to deliver actionable insights for testers of all experience levels. You can also explore the latest tools and trends through workshops, tutorials, and live demos. With global networking opportunities and interactive challenges, it’s an engaging and practical way to enhance testing expertise.

12. ICSM 2025: International Conference on Software Maintenance - Rome, Italy (September 2025)

ICSM 2025 landing page screenshot
The International Conference on Software Maintenance (Source)

Overview:
ICSM 2025 is a global gathering of software maintenance professionals and researchers. It provides a platform for sharing insights on maintaining, evolving, and testing software systems. The conference also connects testing community members with industry leaders to explore advancements in software maintenance.

Why you should attend:
This conference is essential for exploring the latest software maintenance and evolution practices. It provides opportunities to collaborate with researchers and professionals tackling real-world maintenance challenges. Moreover, the event features talks and sessions focused on the unique demands of maintaining and improving software systems over time.

13. Star West - Anaheim, California (September 2025)

Screenshot of the Star West landing page, a QA conference
The Star West Conference (Source)

Overview:
STARWEST is a premier conference for software testing professionals, offering insights into quality assurance and testing trends. Established as one of the longest-running events in the industry, it features notable speakers and experts from various fields. Attendees learn from sessions on AI, test automation, and DevOps.

Why you should attend:
This conference offers a comprehensive lineup of sessions that can significantly benefit your team's testing strategies. You'll also gain access to valuable networking opportunities and learn from industry leaders and peers. With its focus on the latest trends and technologies, STARWEST is perfect for staying ahead in the QA field.

14. TestBash Brighton 2025 - Brighton, UK (October 2025)

TestBash Brighton 2025 conference landing page screenshot
The TestBash Brighton 2025 Conference (Source)

Overview:

TestBash Brighton 2025 is a globally recognized software testing conference that brings testers together for three days of learning, networking, and collaboration. The conference also features a mix of technical talks, interactive sessions, and discussions. It is ideal for professionals passionate about advancing their skills in software testing.

Why you should attend:
This conference creates an inclusive space for software testers to explore cutting-edge topics like automation, AI, and security testing. You’ll have opportunities to engage in knowledge-sharing activities and connect with a global community of peers. The event also includes workshops and hands-on sessions, making it a valuable experience for testers at all career levels.

15. Hungarian Software Testing Forum (HUSTEF) - Budapest, Hungary (October 2025)

Screenshot of the HUSTEF landing page
The Hungarian Software Testing Forum (Source)

Overview:
HUSTEF is a prominent European conference dedicated to software testing. It brings together international speakers and participants and is known for its focus on practical knowledge-sharing. The conference covers emerging trends, challenges, and solutions in software quality assurance and has built a strong reputation as a meeting point for professionals passionate about innovation in testing.

Why you should attend:

HUSTEF provides insights into real-world testing applications through technical talks, case studies, and interactive discussions. Its program is designed to connect you with thought leaders and peers in the industry and offer actionable ideas for tackling complex QA challenges. It also addresses many topics relevant to today’s testers, from automation to new methodologies.

16. TestCon Europe - Software Testing and QA Conference - Vilnius, Lithuania (October 2025)

TestCon Europe 2025 web page screenshot
The TestCon Europe 2025 (Source)
  • Dates: October 21-25, 2025
  • Location: Vilnius, Lithuania
  • Pricing:
    • 4-Day Full Conference Ticket: €730 excl. VAT
    • 3-Day Online Conference Ticket: €550 excl. VAT
    • 3-Day Onsite Conference Ticket: €550 excl. VAT
  • Website: TestCon Europe
  • Social Media: Facebook, X , LinkedIn

Overview:
TestCon Europe is one of Europe's largest software testing and QA conferences. It provides a platform for tech experts to explore the latest trends and practices in testing. The event includes workshops, keynotes, and interactive sessions addressing challenges like AI-powered testing, Agile integration, and security testing. It’s designed for professionals who aim to refine their skills and expand their expertise.

Why you should attend:
TestCon Europe offers hands-on workshops and engaging sessions to enhance your understanding of critical topics like test environment automation, exploratory testing, and compliance. Moreover, the conference fosters a collaborative environment where tech experts can connect and exchange ideas. Whether focused on scaling automation or exploring AI-driven tools, this event provides actionable insights for tackling modern testing challenges.

17. AutomationSTAR - Amsterdam, Netherlands (November 2025)

Screenshot of the AutomationSTAR website, a QA conference
The AutomationSTAR Amsterdam 2025 Conference (Source)
  • Dates: November 10-11, 2025
  • Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Pricing: Free
  • Website: AutomationSTAR
  • Social Media: LinkedIn, X

Overview:
AutomationSTAR, organized by EuroSTAR Conferences, focuses on test automation and software quality. It connects test managers, automation engineers, and developers through discussions on APIs, frameworks, and testing strategies. The conference also delivers insights from global experts and emphasizes collaborative learning within the automation community.

Why you should attend:
AutomationSTAR offers a chance to engage with an international community of test managers and automation professionals. It explores advanced topics like API testing, automation frameworks, and emerging tools while fostering knowledge-sharing and innovation. With sessions tailored for practical learning, this event also helps teams optimize their processes and tackle real-world testing challenges.

18. Agile Testing Days - Potsdam, Germany (November 2025)

Agile Testing Days conference web page screenshot
The Agile Testing Days Conference (Source)

Overview:
Agile Testing Days is a conference dedicated to software testers and agile practitioners. It features many sessions, including keynotes, tutorials, and workshops. The program also covers cutting-edge testing and agile development topics, and speakers such as Ashley Hunsberger, Chris Stone, and Dr. Rochelle Carr are scheduled to present.

Why you should attend:
Agile Testing Days offers a comprehensive agenda for learning and networking, with content designed for all levels of agile testing expertise. Additionally, it covers test automation, agile workflows, and team collaboration, providing actionable insights for improving practices. This event is an excellent opportunity to connect with global experts and gain fresh perspectives on testing in agile environments.

How to Get Buy-In to Attend a QA Conference

Convincing your boss or other decision-makers to approve your attendance at a QA conference can feel like a challenge. They might see it as an unnecessary expense or question the value it brings to the team. However, with the right approach, you can show how attending a QA conference will benefit your work, your team, and the company. Here are some tips to help you make your case:

  • Focus on company benefits: Highlight how the conference will help you find solutions to current challenges your team is facing. For example, mention specific sessions on automation tools or methodologies that align with your team’s goals.
  • Create a learning plan: Share how you’ll bring back what you learn. Offer to present a summary or host a training session for your team after the event. This shows that the knowledge won’t stop with you.
  • Connect it to company goals: Tie the conference agenda to broader company objectives, like improving software quality or reducing testing cycle times. Explain how attending can help you meet those goals faster.
  • Show cost-effectiveness: Break down the costs and compare them to the potential value, such as avoiding delays or improving processes. Include early-bird discounts or bundled deals if you can find early-bird discounts or bundled deals.
  • Use real examples. Point out success stories from peers or companies in your industry that have benefited from attending similar conferences. This helps justify the investment with proven results.
  • Highlight networking opportunities: Explain how meeting industry leaders and peers at the conference could lead to new tools, ideas, or partnerships. Networking can benefit the company in ways that aren’t immediately obvious.
  • Offer to track ROI: Commit to documenting takeaways and how you apply them to your work. Share examples like adopting a new tool you learn about or improving a workflow after attending a session.
  • Be flexible with scheduling: If necessary, suggest taking care of high-priority tasks before you leave or attending only key days of the conference. This shows you’re being mindful of the team’s needs.

By framing your request in terms of tangible value, you’ll make a strong case for why attending a QA conference is worth the investment.

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Katie Sanders
By Katie Sanders

As a data-driven content strategist, editor, writer, and community steward, Katie helps technical leaders win at work. Her 14 years of experience in the tech space makes her well-rounded to provide technical audiences with expert insights and practical advice through Q&As, Thought Leadership, Ebooks, etc.

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