About
The ISTQB® Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) v4.0 is the essential certification for software testing professionals, providing foundational knowledge applicable to a range of software delivery practices such as Waterfall, Agile, DevOps, and Continuous Delivery. This certification offers an in-depth understanding of global testing terminology, principles, and practices, preparing individuals for success in diverse software testing environments.
CTFL is a prerequisite for all subsequent ISTQB® certifications, making it a critical step in a testing professional’s career progression.
Certification Body : The ISTQB® (International Software Testing Qualifications Board)
Learning Objective
The primary objective of the CTFL certification is to equip individuals with the fundamental principles and practices of software testing. Upon completing the certification, candidates will be able to:
- Understand the core concepts of software testing.
- Identify the most appropriate test approaches and activities for different testing contexts.
- Enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of testing within the Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
- Contribute to test management activities and improve documentation.
- Work within cross-functional teams and contribute to quality assurance processes.
Exam Information
- Number of Questions: 40
- Passing Score: 26 out of 40
- Total Points: 40
- Duration: 60 minutes (+25% additional time for non-native language speakers)
- Exam Format: Multiple choice
- Test Delivery: Available through accredited exam providers.
The CTFL exam evaluates candidates’ understanding of key testing concepts, test planning, and effective communication of test results, among other areas.
Recertification
- The CTFL certification does not require recertification.
- Individuals are encouraged to pursue higher-level ISTQB® certifications to further advance their expertise.
- Recommended higher-level certifications include:
- Test Analyst
- Technical Test Analyst
- Test Management
- Advancing to these certifications allows professionals to deepen their knowledge and expand career opportunities in software testing.
Eligibility
- There are no formal eligibility requirements to take the CTFL certification exam.
- It is suitable for professionals starting or progressing in their careers in software testing.
- The certification is especially relevant for individuals with practical experience in:
- Software development
- Quality assurance
Curriculum
The CTFL v4.0 curriculum covers a broad range of topics essential to software testing. Key areas include:
- Fundamentals of Testing: Definition, importance, and principles of software testing.
- Test Analysis and Design: Test techniques, including black-box, white-box, and experience-based techniques.
- Testing Throughout the SDLC: Test levels, test types, and maintenance testing.
- Static Testing: Basics of static testing, feedback, and review processes.
- Managing Test Activities: Test planning, risk management, and defect management.
- Test Tools: Tool support for testing and automation benefits.
This comprehensive coverage ensures candidates are well-prepared for practical testing scenarios in various development environments.
For additional training, accredited training providers offer various options, including classroom, virtual, and e-learning courses. Alternatively, candidates can prepare independently using the syllabus and recommended reading materials.
Target audiences
- The CTFL certification is ideal for individuals in roles such as:
- Testers
- Test Analysts
- Test Engineers
- Test Consultants
- Test Managers
- User Acceptance Testers
- Software Developers
- Additionally, the certification is valuable for project managers, quality managers, IT directors, and business analysts seeking to gain a foundational understanding of software testing principles.