As ServiceNow keeps growing in the IT service management world, more people are looking to get certified to prove their skills and move up in their careers. Two of the most common entry-level certifications are the Certified System Administrator (CSA) and the Certified Application Developer (CAD).
But which one should come first?
This guide breaks down the key differences—like what each covers, the skills they test, career paths they support, and what to expect on the exam—so you can choose the right starting point.
What Is the CSA Certification?
The Certified System Administrator (CSA) is ServiceNow’s foundational certification. It shows that you know your way around the platform and can handle basic admin tasks such as:
- Navigating and customizing the interface
- Managing users, roles, and access
- Configuring tables, forms, and fields
- Working with the CMDB, import sets, and knowledge bases
- Creating workflows and catalog items
In short, CSA is the “ServiceNow 101” exam. It’s also a recommended step before most advanced certifications.
What Is the CAD Certification?
The Certified Application Developer (CAD) is all about building apps on the ServiceNow platform. It’s a better fit if you’re interested in development and automation, not just managing existing configurations.
CAD covers skills like:
- Designing data models for custom apps
- Building forms and UI policies
- Using Flow Designer and Business Rules for automation
- Working in Studio and using source control
- Testing, debugging, and publishing apps
If CSA is about running the platform, CAD is about building on top of it.
Prerequisites: What Should You Know First?
CSA:
- No formal prerequisites
- Some hands-on experience is helpful
- Taking the ServiceNow Fundamentals course is strongly recommended
CAD:
- No formal prerequisite, but CSA is highly recommended
- You should already understand tables, ACLs, and core platform configuration
Bottom line: You can take CAD without CSA, but starting with CSA gives you the foundation to succeed in CAD.
Skill Focus Comparison
| Area | CSA | CAD |
|---|---|---|
| User and Role Management | ✔ | ✖ |
| Form and Table Configuration | ✔ | ✔ |
| Workflows and Flow Designer | ✔ | ✔ |
| Script Development | ✖ | ✔ |
| Application Lifecycle | ✖ | ✔ |
| Studio and App Engine | ✖ | ✔ |
Think of it like this:
CSA = Admin/Platform Basics
CAD = Development and Automation
Career Path and Roles
CSA sets you up for roles like:
- ServiceNow Administrator
- Platform Support Specialist
- ITSM Analyst
- Technical Support
CAD is better suited for:
- ServiceNow Developer
- App Engine Developer
- Low-Code Application Builder
- Workflow Automation Specialist
If you’re planning to manage the platform and keep things running smoothly, CSA is your first step. If you’re more into creating apps and writing scripts, CAD is the next level after CSA (even if it’s not a strict requirement).
Exam Comparison
| Feature | CSA | CAD |
|---|---|---|
| Format | 60 multiple-choice questions | 60 multiple-choice questions |
| Duration | 90 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Passing Score | ~70% | ~70% |
| Cost | ~$150–300 | ~$150–300 |
| Hands-On Needed | Optional but helpful | Strongly recommended |
So, Which Should You Take First?
✔ Start with CSA if:
- You’re new to ServiceNow
- You want to build a solid foundation
- You’re aiming for admin, support, or ITSM roles
✖ Don’t skip CSA if:
- You want an easier path into CAD—it provides essential platform knowledge
Go for CAD after CSA if:
- You enjoy scripting and building things
- You want to create custom apps and workflows
- You’re heading toward a developer career path
Real-World Tip
Many professionals take CSA, then spend a few months building hands-on experience before jumping into CAD. Use a free developer instance to create mock apps, explore Studio, and practice scripting. It’s the best way to connect the dots between what you learned in theory and what you’ll actually build in a real job.
Final Thoughts
If you’re deciding between CSA and CAD, the most reliable path is to start with CSA. It gives you a solid understanding of how the platform works, which will make learning development easier later on.
Then, when you’re ready to dive deeper and start building apps or automating workflows, CAD is the next logical step.
Taking certifications in the right order helps you learn faster and gives you more confidence no matter which path you’re aiming for in the ServiceNow world.
