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 recognized as a prerequisite to all other ISTQB® certifications where Foundation Level is required.
Audience
The CTFL 4.0 certification is suitable for anyone who needs to demonstrate practical knowledge of the fundamental concepts of software testing. It is relevant for individuals in roles such as testers, test analysts, test engineers, test consultants, test managers, user acceptance testers, and software developers. Additionally, it is appropriate for those who require a basic understanding of software testing, including project managers, quality managers, software development managers, business analysts, IT directors, and management consultants.
With the ISTQB® Certified Tester Scheme, testing professionals at all stages of their careers can benefit from the breadth and depth of knowledge offered, with the opportunity to pursue higher-level software testing qualifications such as the Core Advanced Levels, Specialist, and Expert Level certifications.
Foundation Level v4.0 professional know how to:
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
Foundation Level v4.0 Exam Content
What is Testing?
Why is Testing Necessary?
Testing Principles
Test Activities, Testware and Test Roles
Essential Skills and Good Practices in Testing
Testing in the Context of a Software Development Lifecycle
Test Levels and Test Types
Maintenance Testing
Static Testing Basics
Feedback and Review Process
Test Techniques Overview
Black-box Test Techniques
White-box Test Techniques
Experience-based Test Techniques
Collaboration-based Test Approaches
Test Planning
Risk Management
Test Monitoring, Test Control and Test Completion
Configuration Management
Defect Management
Tool Support for Testing
Benefits and Risks of Test Automation
Foundation Level v4.0 Exam Structure
The Foundation Level v4.0 certification exam is held in a digital form, as well as remotely(online) in English. Exam takers have to answer a total of 40 multiple-choice questions; each question has only one correct answer. Passing score sits at 65% and exam duration is 60 minutes, extended by 25% for non-native speakers, i.e. 75 minutes.
