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ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level (v4.0)
- Apply structured testing techniques confidently across any software delivery approach.
- For new and practising testers needing recognised foundational software testing knowledge.
- Your course textbook is included so you arrive fully prepared.
- Categories:
- Product Discovery and Design Software and DevOps
- Level:
- Fundamentals
- Code:
- CTFL-4
- Exam:
- Yes - Included
Overview
The ISTQB® Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) certification is the cornerstone of essential testing knowledge that can be applied to real-world scenarios. The syllabus provides a comprehensive understanding of the terminology and concepts used in the testing domain worldwide, making it relevant for all software delivery approaches and practices, including Waterfall, Agile, DevOps, and Continuous Delivery. CTFL certification is recognised as a prerequisite to all other ISTQB® certifications where Foundation Level is required.
Prerequisites
The course requires no prerequisites to attend, however the CTFL 4.0 certification is suitable for anyone who needs to demonstrate practical knowledge of the fundamental concepts of software testing.
What's included
Select your preferred way to learn:
What is Virtual?
Live, instructor-led training delivered online
Interactive online sessions led by subject matter experts. Learners join live classes, take part in discussions, and complete practical exercises from any location, making it easy to fit collaborative learning into busy schedules.
If you prefer to connect to a course that is taking place in a physical classroom, you can choose our Remote Access option. .
Best for: Teams and individuals who want expert guidance, real-time collaboration, and flexible access.
What's included?
3 Days instructor led course
Exam: Yes - Included
Online exam voucher
6 month free access to QA learning platform
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Best for: Organisations and teams looking to target specific business priorities and capabilities with QA subject matter expertise.
Find out more about the course:
Learning outcomes
The Learning Outcomes expected of a candidate who has achieved the new Foundation Level certification are as follows:
- Understand what testing is and why it is beneficial.
- Understand fundamental concepts of software testing.
- Identify the test approach and activities to be implemented depending on the context of testing.
- Assess and improve the quality of documentation.
- Increase the effectiveness and efficiency of testing.
- Align the test process with the software development lifecycle.
- Understand test management principles.
- Write and communicate clear and understandable defect reports.
- Understand the factors that influence the priorities and efforts related to testing.
- Work as part of a cross-functional team
- Know risks and benefits related to test automation.
- Identify essential skills required for testing.
- Understand the impact of risk on testing.
- Effectively report on test progress and quality
Course outline
This syllabus forms the basis for the International Software Testing Qualification at the Foundation Level.
Its content is not a description of the entire knowledge area of software testing.

Exams and Assessments
Exam Information
- The examination consists of a one-hour exam with 40 multiple choice questions.
- It will be a 'closed book' examination i.e. no notes or books will be allowed.
- Duration of 60 minutes (or 75 minutes for candidates taking examinations that are not in their native language)
- No study material or electronic devices (including mobile phones) may be used during the examination Candidates are allowed to use simple non-programmable calculators (to be provided by the candidate)
- An official translation of terms (not their definitions) from the ISTQB® Glossary to the local language is allowed. Candidates taking exams that are not in their native language may use a paper-based translation dictionary.
- The pass mark is 65% (26 out of 40).
More Information
Holders of this certification will be eligible to proceed to the next stage of the Core stream and take Test Analyst, Technical Test Analyst, or Test Management Advanced Level certifications. They may also choose to follow the Agile or Specialist streams to develop specific skills.
Good to know
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What our customers are saying
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Portfolio Director – Product Discovery, Design & Agile
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How do QA’s online courses work?
QA online courses, also commonly known as distance learning courses or elearning courses, take the form of interactive software designed for individual learning, but you will also have access to full support from our subject-matter experts for the duration of your course.
Once you have purchased the Online course and have completed your registration, you will receive the necessary details to enable you to immediately access it through our e-learning platform and you can start to learn straight away, from any compatible device. Access to the online learning platform is valid for one year from the booking date.
All courses are built around case studies and presented in an engaging format, which includes storytelling elements, video, audio and humour. Every case study is supported by sample documents and a collection of Knowledge Nuggets that provide more in-depth detail on the wider processes.
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When will I receive my certificate?
Certificates of Achievement are issued at the end the course, either as a hard copy or via email. Read more here.
