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The ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) v4.0 course is your gateway to advancing your software testing career. This fully accredited programme provides a solid foundation in software testing principles, preparing you for the globally recognised ISTQB CTFL certification.
Tailored for professionals in the UK and beyond, it covers best practices aligned with modern methodologies, including waterfall, Agile, DevOps, and continuous delivery.
Format: available in virtual, classroom and e-learning
Online pre-course: approximately 4ā5 hours to complete
Exam Simulator: our simulator is designed to prepare you for success in the CTFL exam
Content: covers the latest ISTQB syllabus, exam preparation, and revision.
Accreditation: fully accredited by UKITB on behalf of ISTQB
SFIAplus Level: rated at level 3 by the BCS.
Why you should attend
Globally recognised qualification: achieve the ISTQB CTFL certification, a benchmark in software testing excellence.
Career advancement: enhance your prospects in the UK and international markets.
Comprehensive curriculum: gain in-depth knowledge of software testing concepts and terminology.
Versatile application: apply learned skills across multiple software development approaches.
Who should attend
The CTFL 4.0 certification is designed for professionals who want to validate their practical understanding of the core principles of software testing. It is especially relevant for individuals in the following roles:
Software testers and test analysts
Test engineers and consultants
Test leads and managers
User acceptance testers
Software developers
Project and quality managers
IT directors and management consultants
The ISTQBĀ® Certified Tester Scheme supports testing professionals at every stage of their careers, providing both breadth and depth of knowledge. It also offers clear progression opportunities through advanced qualifications, including the Core Advanced, Specialist, and Expert Levels.
Next steps in your testing career
Earning this certification opens the pathway to the next stage of the Core stream, including Advanced Level options such as Test Analyst, Technical Test Analyst, or Test Manager. Alternatively, candidates can pursue the Agile or Specialist streams to build expertise in specific areas of software testing.
Watch our latest webinar
The Certified Tester Foundation Level v4.0 Uncovered” webinar. Tailored for both aspiring ISTQB candidates and seasoned testers, the session dove into the updated CTFL v4.0 exam syllabus, highlighting key revisions and enhancements. Attendees gained insight into whatās new, whatās changed, and crucially why these updates matter in modern testing environments. Click here to view the webinar
There is mandatory online pre-course work that must be undertaken prior to attending this course. It is expected that it will take approximately four to five hours to complete. You will be sent full instructions with a link to the online pre-course three weeks prior to course commencement.
On arrival at the course candidates should have read the provided syllabus in preparation for the course. The course is intensive and those delegates who have prepared achieve a higher exam success rate.
Exam
To qualify as an internationally recognised Certified Foundation Level Tester and be issued with an ISTQBĀ® Foundation Level Certificate, delegates must successfully pass the exam:
The examination consists of a one-hour exam with 40 multiple choice questions.
It will be a āclosed bookā examination i.e. no notes or books will be allowed into the examination room.
Duration of 60 minutes (or 75 minutes for candidates taking examinations that are not in their native language)
The pass mark is 65% (26 out of 40).
Learning objectives
The Business 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
ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level syllabus
Fundamentals of Testing
Testing Throughout the Software Development Lifecycle
Static Testing
Test Analysis and Design
Managing the Test Activities
Test Tools
E-learning ā key points
Fundamentals of testing
Test activites, testware and roles
Essential skills and good practices
Testing in context of software development lifecycles
Test levels, test types and maintenance testing
Static testing basics
Feedback and review process
Test techniques overview
Black box testing
White box testing
Experienced based testing
Collaboration-based test approaches
Test planning
Risk Management
Test monitoring, control and completion
Configuration and defect management
Test tools
Exam hints and tips
FAQs
What is the Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) course?
The Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) course is a foundational certification program designed for individuals seeking to advance their knowledge and skills in software testing. It covers the fundamentals of software testing, including test design, management, and understanding the software lifecycle.
Who should consider enrolling in the Certified Tester Foundation Level course?
The course is ideal for professionals who are new to the software testing field, including test analysts, test engineers, test consultants, test managers, user acceptance testers, and software developers. It is also beneficial for individuals seeking a career change into software testing.
What are the prerequisites for the Certified Tester Foundation Level course?
There are no formal prerequisites for the CTFL course. However, a basic understanding of IT and software development concepts is recommended to grasp the course content effectively.
Important note regarding pre-course
There is mandatory online pre-course work that must be undertaken prior to attending this course. It is expected that it will take approximately four to five hours to complete. You will be sent full instructions with a link to the online pre course three weeks prior to course commencement.
How long does the course take to complete?
The duration of the Certified Tester Level Foundation course can vary depending on the training provider. Typically, it involves approximately 3 days of instructor-led training, which can be conducted in-person or online.
What topics are covered in the Certified Tester Level Foundation (CTFL) course?
The course covers a wide range of topics, including:
Fundamentals of testing
Testing throughout the software development lifecycle
Static testing
Test design techniques
Test management
Tool support for testing
How is the Certified Tester Level Foundation certification exam structured?
The Certified Tester Level Foundation certification exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. Candidates have 60 minutes to complete the exam (or 75 minutes for non-native English speakers in some countries), and a score of 65% or higher is required to pass.
What are the benefits of obtaining the Certified Tester Level Foundation certification?
Obtaining the Certified Tester Level Foundation certification demonstrates a foundational understanding of software testing principles and practices. It can enhance an individual's credibility and marketability in the software testing job market, leading to potential career advancement opportunities.
Can I take the Certified Tester Level Foundation course without taking the exam?
Yes, individuals can attend the Certified Tester Level Foundation course for personal or professional development without taking the certification exam. However, taking and passing the exam will result in obtaining the CTFL certification, which can be beneficial for career progression.
How can I register for the Certified Tester Level Foundation course and exam?
Decide on the delivery method: begin by selecting your preferred mode of learning. You have the option to choose between virtual (online) courses or traditional, in-person classroom courses. Consider your learning preferences, schedule, and location to make the best decision for your needs.
Select the exam format: After deciding on your course delivery method, choose the format of the exam you wish to take. The CTFL exam is typically available in both online and paper-based formats. Your choice might depend on the availability, convenience, or your comfort with test-taking environments.
Complete the payment: Once you have made your selections, proceed to payment. You can pay for the course and the examination fee using various methods, including credit card, bank transfer, or a purchase order. Ensure that you have all the necessary information and authorisation if using a purchase order or bank transfer.
What is the cost of the Certified Tester Level Foundation (CTFL) course and the certification exam?
The cost of the ISTQB Foundation Level Certification (ISTQB CTFL) is from Ā£1195 +VAT
What are the follow-on courses after passing my CTFL exam?
The Certified Tester Foundation Level certification is the prerequisite to the other modules within the Certified Tester Scheme.
The āCoreā stream modules are valid for any technology, methodology or application domain, and build on the Foundation Level
Advanced Test Manager
Advanced Test Analyst
Advanced Technical Test Analyst
The “Agile” stream focuses on testing practices specifically for the Agile methodology:
Advanced Agile Technical Tester
The “Specialist” stream provides a deep dive into areas which may be based on quality characteristics, specific test approaches and test activities, or which cluster testing know-how for certain industry domains:
Acceptance Testing
AI Testing • Mobile Application Testing
Model-Based Tester
Security Tester
Test Automation Engineer
587 reviews for ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) v4.0
Rated 5 out of 5
Alex Borg| Senior System Administrator| BOV –
Very good with a very good instructor and also the tools he used especially for test questions. He was very prepared on the subject.
Both very knowledgable instructors. Some of the exercises could be a bit better, plus some inconsistencies with the slides given and the slides shown but overall alot of great explanations and work very helpful in awnsering questions.
Rated 5 out of 5
Dan Baird| Associate QA Consultant| tiQtoQ –
Richard was very detailed and clear in his explanations of the syllabus as well as the slides presented to us throughout the course duration. He also presented the information in a way that was easy to understand for newcomers to the industry, which made the information all-the-more digestible.
The course itself was great at explaining the details of the ISTQB syllabus that were otherwise only briefly covered within the syllabus itself. I would gladly take another course again from TSG.
Rated 5 out of 5
Blair McManus| QVT Technical Leader| Almacgroup –
Course was informative and gives a foundation. Disruptive changing trainer, although appreciate it couldn’t be helped. Additional breaks given when requested helped (trainer responsive to trainees needs). Breakout rooms were not helpful. Preference would be to go through the question with trainer, rather than going down the wrong path with other trainees.
Rated 5 out of 5
Niall Coyle| Senior Systems Analyst| Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust –
Both John & Richard were excellent trainers. Both had an obvious natural enthusiasm to the content they were teaching, and I really enjoyed a lot of the content. Some of the more technical content will require further independent revision to get right, but the training was structured very well and everything was absolutely explained in the best possible way. Thank you.
Both very knowledgable instructors. Some of the exercises could be a bit better, plus some inconsistencies with the slides given and the slides shown but overall alot of great explanations and work very helpful in awnsering questions.
ā ā ā ā ā
Dan Baird| Associate QA Consultant| tiQtoQ
Richard was very detailed and clear in his explanations of the syllabus as well as the slides presented to us throughout the course duration. He also presented the information in a way that was easy to understand for newcomers to the industry, which made the information all-the-more digestible.
The course itself was great at explaining the details of the ISTQB syllabus that were otherwise only briefly covered within the syllabus itself. I would gladly take another course again from TSG.
ā ā ā ā ā
Blair McManus| QVT Technical Leader| Almacgroup
Course was informative and gives a foundation. Disruptive changing trainer, although appreciate it couldn't be helped. Additional breaks given when requested helped (trainer responsive to trainees needs). Breakout rooms were not helpful. Preference would be to go through the question with trainer, rather than going down the wrong path with other trainees.
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Niall Coyle| Senior Systems Analyst| Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
Both John & Richard were excellent trainers. Both had an obvious natural enthusiasm to the content they were teaching, and I really enjoyed a lot of the content. Some of the more technical content will require further independent revision to get right, but the training was structured very well and everything was absolutely explained in the best possible way. Thank you.
Angelina did a great job maintaining engagement and adapting the course based on the participants.
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Mandy Leonard| Test Analyst| Oxford University
Angelina was brilliant. Made a very long detailed course enjoyable. I loved the interaction and the break up of the learning with challenging the knowledge of the group on what is being taught. The breakout rooms were great way of learning and it was nice to talk to people on the course.
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Lubna Khan| Tester| BAE
It was strictly my own company, I would have preferred other companies to attend. Also, I feel the trainer should have reviewed material before the course as there mistakes found during delivery. Otherwise, very knowledgable and enthusiastic. Thank you.
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Anthony Edward Yellop| Technical Development Advisor| MPS
5/5 - The trainer clearly was experienced and knowledgable, not everyone likes being on camera - I would encourage people to try and get on camera to help keep the course positive.
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Liam Molyneux| QA Analyst| Jagex
I went alright, felt very rushed sometimes and very slow at other times, found Angelina to be extremely passionate but I'd say the actual course should be split into 6 days rather than 3, as 3 felt too rushed, learning about a topic and then immediately moving on with no time to digest it
The breaks were also very random, having no set amount of time for breaks or lunch was not good (e.g. go have a 7 minute break at 10:53) or (e.g. go have lunch from 13:05 to 13:55)
I also struggled to apply a lot of it to my own work, often having to use e.g. chatgpt to explain a question in the context of game development / live service games - which was super useful!
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Daniel Raineri| Developer| capgemini
My facilitator was very clear and knowledgeable. and so it easy to understand and follow the content.
“Angelina was brilliant. Made a very long detailed course enjoyable. I loved the interaction and the break up of the learning with challenging the knowledge of the group on what is being taught. The breakout rooms were great way of learning and it was nice to talk to people on the course.”
Mandy Leonard, Test Analyst, Oxford University
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E-learning is s training, learning, or education delivered online through a computer or any other digital device, where you can work through the course at your own pace.
If you are attending a classroom course, then this will be taken at our many training centres within the UK. Our London location isĀ MinoriesĀ London EC3N 1BJ
Virtual classroom is like being in a classroom where students gather, except you will be in your home, office, or other place of your choice.
Pass Protect, offered by TSG Training, is a valuable option for those concerned about the possibility of not passing their exam on the first attempt. It acts like an insurance policy, allowing you to resit your exam at a significantly reduced rate. Pass Protect covers one resit per exam purchased, so you donāt have to worry about the cost of an additional attempt if you don’t pass initially.
Alex Borg| Senior System Administrator| BOV –
Very good with a very good instructor and also the tools he used especially for test questions. He was very prepared on the subject.
Zoe Rosina Nicholas| Product Analyst| Trace Solutions –
Very good, covered lots
Henry Low| | Hoptroff LTD –
Both very knowledgable instructors. Some of the exercises could be a bit better, plus some inconsistencies with the slides given and the slides shown but overall alot of great explanations and work very helpful in awnsering questions.
Dan Baird| Associate QA Consultant| tiQtoQ –
Richard was very detailed and clear in his explanations of the syllabus as well as the slides presented to us throughout the course duration. He also presented the information in a way that was easy to understand for newcomers to the industry, which made the information all-the-more digestible.
The course itself was great at explaining the details of the ISTQB syllabus that were otherwise only briefly covered within the syllabus itself. I would gladly take another course again from TSG.
Blair McManus| QVT Technical Leader| Almacgroup –
Course was informative and gives a foundation. Disruptive changing trainer, although appreciate it couldn’t be helped. Additional breaks given when requested helped (trainer responsive to trainees needs). Breakout rooms were not helpful. Preference would be to go through the question with trainer, rather than going down the wrong path with other trainees.
Niall Coyle| Senior Systems Analyst| Liverpool University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust –
Both John & Richard were excellent trainers. Both had an obvious natural enthusiasm to the content they were teaching, and I really enjoyed a lot of the content. Some of the more technical content will require further independent revision to get right, but the training was structured very well and everything was absolutely explained in the best possible way. Thank you.
Albin Nilsson| Consultant| Nexer Enterprise Applications –
Angelina did a great job maintaining engagement and adapting the course based on the participants.