Please note:

The CTFL Syllabus 4.0 is the latest released version of the ISTQB® Certified Tester Foundation Level certification.

Syllabus version 3.1 (2018) in English will only be valid until 9th May 2024.Non-English syllabuses for the 3.1 version will only be valid until 9th November 2024.

Training courses and exams (inlcuding re-takes) may continue for the 3.1 syllabus in English until 9th May 2024 and in other languages until 9th November 2024.

Holders of the CTFL 3.1 and any previous versions continue to hold a valid certification. It is possible to take the CTFL 4.0 exam should you wish to update your qualification.

Software testers are tasked with testing software for its operational capability and quality. The information gained is used to remedy potential software faults and serves to continually improve the software quality. As a software tester you will be knowledgable with a range of software tests. The internationally recognised ISTQB® Certified Tester - Foundation Level (CTFL) certification attests to your comprehensive knowledge in this field.

How do I obtain the ISTQB® certification?

To be certified you must pass the ISTQB® Certified Tester Foundation Level exam.You can prepare for the exam by attending an accredited training course for ISTQB® Certified Tester − Foundation Level; participants will have relevant content and topics clearly explained and taught to them. The syllabus covers important topics in the field of software testing, starting with the basics of software testing, testing during the software’s lifecycle and static tests, through to test design procedures, management and tools.

The exam is available via remote proctor or via Pearson Vue for anyone wishing to self-study.

What are the entry requirements?

There are no specific requirements or required pre-certifications. Programming knowledge is an advantage.

How does this certification benefit me?

With the ISTQB® Certified Tester Foundation Level qualification:

• You will have an independent, internationally recognised certification as proof of expertise in the field of software testing
• You will learn about all the steps involved in the software testing process, from planning through to implementation and the evaluation of software tests
• You will have the opportunity to gain further certificates (Advanced and Expert level)

Who is this certification for?

This certification is aimed at anyone interested in the topic of software testing. It is particularly suitable for:

• Software testers
• Test analysts, test developers, test managers
• Software developers
• Product managers, quality managers, development managers
• Managers who want to develop a deeper understanding of the work of their team

ISTQB® Certified Tester Foundation Level certification is relevant for all fields, e.g. in the automotive industry, in the finance sector, in medical technology, telecommunications, the public sector and many more.

What other certifications can you recommend?

The ISTQB® Certified Tester Foundation Level qualification is a prerequisite for going on to study the following ISTQB® certificates:

ISTQB® Specialist Certifications:

• ISTQB® Certified Tester - Acceptance Testing (CT-AcT)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester - AI Testing (CT-AI)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester - Automotive Software Tester (CT-AuT)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester - Game Testing (CT-GaMe)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester - Gambling Industry Tester (CT-GT)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester - Mobile Application Testing (CT-MAT)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester - Model-Based Testing (CT-MBT)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester - Performance Testing (CT-PT)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester - Security Tester (CT-ST)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester - Test Automation Engineer (CT-TAE)

ISTQB® Agile Certifications:

• ISTQB® Agile Tester
• ISTQB® Agile Technical Tester (CTAL-ATT)
• ISTQB Agile Test Leadership at Scale

ISTQB® Advanced Level:

• ISTQB® Certified Tester Advanced Level - Test Analyst (CTAL-TA)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester Advanced Level - Test Manager (CTAL-TM)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester Advanced Level - Technical Test Analyst (CTAL-TTA)

ISTQB® Expert Level:

• ISTQB® Certified Tester Expert Level - Assessing the Test Process (CTEL-ITP-ATP)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester Expert Level - Implementing Test Process Improvements (CTEL-ITP-ITPI)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester Expert Level Test Management Strategic Test Management (CTEL-TM-SM)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester Expert Level Test Management Operational Test Management (CTEL-TM-OTM)
• ISTQB® Certified Tester Expert Level Test Management Managing the Test Team (CTEL-TM-MTT)