Updates as of August 31, 2026
ISTQB released Certified Tester AI Testing (CT-AI) Syllabus Version 2.0 on April 21, 2026, the first major rewrite since 2021. It narrows scope to testing AI-based systems only, moving "using AI to help test" into a separate CT-GenAI certification, and adds dedicated large language model coverage including exploratory testing and red teaming.
ISTQB official announcementThe v2.0 syllabus restructures content around the AI system lifecycle: input data testing, machine learning model testing, and system-level testing aligned to ISO/IEC 25059 quality characteristics. Recommended training duration was cut from four days to three days while the accompanying exercises were expanded.
ISTQB CT-AI v2.0 release PDFCT-AI v1.0 is being phased out: exams and training based on v1.0 will no longer be offered in English after April 21, 2027, and in non-English languages after October 21, 2027. Candidates planning to sit CT-AI soon should check with their local board whether v1.0 or v2.0 is currently being examined.
ISTQB CT-AI certification pageISTQB CT-AI Exam Alert: Version 2.0 Released – Key Updates & Important Notifications
The ISTQB® Certified Tester AI Testing (CT-AI) is the specialist certification focused on testing AI-based systems, including machine learning models and generative AI systems such as large language models (LLMs). In April 2026, ISTQB released a major upgrade — CT-AI Version 2.0. This is the most important update for anyone preparing for or currently holding the AI Testing certification.
Major Announcement: CT-AI Version 2.0 is Live
ISTQB officially released the Certified Tester AI Testing Syllabus Version 2.0 on 17 April 2026. This is not a minor revision. Version 2.0 significantly modernises the certification to address current industry needs around Generative AI, large language models, red teaming, Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), statistical evaluation of ML models, and testing in production/deployment environments. CT-AI v2.0 is now the recommended and primary version of the certification.
What Changed in Version 2.0?
Key updates in CT-AI v2.0 include: • Stronger and dedicated coverage of Generative AI systems and Large Language Models (LLMs) • Introduction of red teaming and adversarial testing concepts for AI systems • Enhanced focus on statistical foundations for evaluating Machine Learning models • Clearer separation of Input Data Testing and Model Testing levels • New content on deployment testing and monitoring of AI systems in production • Streamlined structure (typically delivered as a 3-day course instead of the earlier longer format) • Removal of some older “Testing with AI” content (now covered under the separate CT-GenAI certification) Anyone still using v1.0 study material should switch to the new syllabus immediately.
Important Sunset Dates for CT-AI Version 1.0
ISTQB has announced clear retirement timelines for the older version: • English language exams and training for CT-AI v1.0: Available until 21 April 2027 • Non-English language exams and training for CT-AI v1.0: Available until 21 October 2027 After these dates, only CT-AI Version 2.0 will be offered. Candidates currently preparing with v1.0 materials have a limited window to take the older exam if they prefer, but new learners are strongly advised to prepare for Version 2.0.
CT-AI Version 2.0 Exam Structure
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Questions | 40 multiple-choice questions |
| Total Points | 44 |
| Passing Score | 29 points |
| Exam Duration | 60 minutes |
| Extra Time (Non-native language) | +25% (75 minutes total) |
| Prerequisite | ISTQB Foundation Level (CTFL) |
| Validity | Lifetime (no renewal required) |
Who Should Take the CT-AI Certification?
The certification is designed for: • Software Testers and QA Engineers working on AI/ML projects • Test Analysts and Test Managers dealing with AI-based systems • Developers and Data Scientists involved in quality assurance of ML models • Professionals testing Generative AI applications and large language models • Anyone responsible for the quality, reliability, safety or ethical behaviour of AI systems It is particularly relevant in 2026 as more organisations move AI systems into production and regulators increase scrutiny on AI quality and risk.
Action Points for Candidates
1. Download the official CT-AI Syllabus Version 2.0 from the ISTQB website. 2. If you were preparing with Version 1.0 material, stop and switch to the new syllabus immediately. 3. Check the sunset deadlines if you still prefer to take the v1.0 exam (available only until April/October 2027). 4. Look for Accredited Training Providers offering CT-AI v2.0 courses (classroom, virtual or e-learning). 5. Ensure you already hold (or plan to take) the ISTQB Foundation Level (CTFL) certification. 6. Practice with the official sample exam questions released for Version 2.0.
Official Sources to Monitor
• Official ISTQB CT-AI page: https://istqb.org/certifications/certified-tester-ai-testing-ct-ai/ • Download Syllabus v2.0, Sample Exams and Exam Structures from the same page • Local ISTQB Member Board or accredited exam providers for booking and fees • Accredited Training Provider directory on the ISTQB website All official updates, syllabus documents and sample papers are published only on the ISTQB website and by recognised Member Boards.
ISTQB CT-AI – Frequently Asked Questions (Current Status)
1. Which version should I prepare for right now?
CT-AI Version 2.0 is the current and recommended version. New candidates should study only the v2.0 syllabus.
2. Until when can I still take the old CT-AI v1.0 exam?
English exams are available until 21 April 2027. Non-English language exams are available until 21 October 2027.
3. Does CT-AI v2.0 cover Generative AI and LLMs?
Yes. Version 2.0 significantly expands coverage of Generative AI systems, large language models, red teaming and related testing challenges.
4. Is ISTQB Foundation Level mandatory?
Yes. CTFL is the required prerequisite for the CT-AI certification.
5. What is the exam format for Version 2.0?
40 multiple-choice questions, 44 total points, passing score of 29, duration of 60 minutes (75 minutes for non-native language speakers).
6. Is there a separate certification for using Generative AI in testing?
Yes. ISTQB has introduced the Certified Tester Testing with Generative AI (CT-GenAI) for professionals who want to focus on using GenAI tools to support the testing process itself.
This page will be updated whenever ISTQB releases further notifications regarding CT-AI Version 2.0, sample papers, or changes to the sunset schedule. Software testing professionals planning to specialise in AI quality should prioritise the new Version 2.0 syllabus.
