The A4Q AI Foundation Level certification is a globally recognized qualification in artificial intelligence. It equips professionals and organizations with the knowledge needed to understand how AI works, where it can be applied in business, and how to introduce it responsibly.

The official syllabus covers the fundamentals of AI, including machine learning, neural networks, natural language processing, computer vision, and the data lifecycle. It explores practical use cases such as customer analysis, marketing automation, pricing, supply chain management, and customer service.

A distinctive feature of this certification is its focus on generative AI, with examples of how tools like ChatGPT and Gemini can support real-world business activities. It also addresses the regulatory and ethical framework for adoption, with special emphasis on the EU AI Act and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

By achieving this certification, you demonstrate your ability to recognize, understand, and apply artificial intelligence concepts in organizational contexts, thereby supporting both innovation and compliance.

How do I obtain the A4Q AI Foundation Level certification?

To earn the certification, you must pass the A4Q AI Foundation exam:

• 40 multiple-choice questions
• 60 minutes duration (plus 15 minutes for non-native speakers)
• Pass mark: 65 percent (26 correct answers)
• Based on the official syllabus (excluding appendices)

Preparation is available through A4Q-accredited training providers, who deliver at least 14 hours of instruction worldwide in classroom, online, or blended formats. The certification is awarded when the exam is successfully passed.

You can also test your knowledge without obligation and free of charge before taking the live exam by A4Q AI-Foundation online sample exam.

Who should take the A4Q AI Foundation Level certification?

The A4Q AI Foundation certification is designed for a very broad audience:

• Business leaders and consultants
• IT and compliance professionals
• Employees in marketing, sales, operations, and many other areas

Since AI is becoming part of everyday business, this certification is valuable for almost everyone in an organization who wants to:

• Understand AI
• Apply AI in practice
• Benefit from AI responsibly

What are the entry requirements for the certification?

There are no formal prerequisites. Candidates will benefit from:

• General familiarity with IT or business processes
• Interest in digital transformation and data-driven decision-making

The syllabus is designed to be accessible to professionals from any background and does not require coding or data science knowledge.

What are the benefits of the A4Q AI Foundation Level certification?

For individuals:

• Gain an internationally recognized certification in artificial intelligence
• Demonstrate the ability to understand and apply AI concepts in business-relevant contexts
• Explore how generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini can support tasks like reporting, analysis, and communication
• Build awareness of the compliance environment, including the EU AI Act and GDPR
• Strengthen career opportunities in IT, business analysis, governance, and transformation

For organizations:

• Develop teams with a shared understanding of AI and its business value
• Ensure compliance with major frameworks such as the EU AI Act and GDPR
• Support responsible adoption of artificial intelligence across departments
• Reduce dependency on external consultants by building internal knowledge
• Prepare staff to contribute to AI change management and strategy development

Which topics are covered in the A4Q AI Foundation Level syllabus?

The syllabus is structured into eight chapters:

• Introduction to Artificial Intelligence – history, milestones, and economic impact
• Technology Overview – machine learning, neural networks, natural language processing, computer vision, training methods, and the data lifecycle
• Practical Applications – examples from customer analysis, pricing, supply chain, marketing, and customer service
• Prompts – how to design, refine, and reuse prompts for generative AI tools
• Assistance Systems – business applications, benefits, limitations, and integration strategies
• Regulation and Ethics – the EU AI Act, GDPR, fairness, transparency, and human oversight
• Change Management – employee engagement, organizational readiness, and cultural transformation
• Developing an AI Roadmap – adoption phases, best practices, and governance frameworks

What other certifications can you recommend?

• A4Q AI Essentials
• A4Q AI Compliance - Coming soon
• ISTQB® Certified Tester - AI Testing (CT-AI)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester - Testing with Generative AI (CT-GenAI)