ISTQB® has released the Certified Tester Advanced Level Agile Tester (CTAL-AT) v2.0, marking a significant step forward in Agile testing certification. The new version elevates Agile tester certification from foundation-level awareness to advanced-level professional capability.
This is not a routine update. It represents a significant evolution of the former Certified Tester Foundation Level Agile Tester (CTFL-AT) syllabus, originally released in 2014, and reflects how the industry has changed. Agile is now the dominant approach to software development, and Agile testing is no longer treated as a specialist add-on at the Foundation Level. Instead, it is recognized as a discipline that requires deeper expertise and broader organizational impact.
The new CTAL-AT reflects this shift. Rather than covering Agile basics, now addressed in the Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) v4.0, it focuses on how professionals apply testing in complex environments. The emphasis is on shaping test strategy, improving processes, and working effectively across teams.
“Agile testing has matured significantly over the past decade. With CTAL-AT v2.0, we are recognizing that maturity by shifting the focus from understanding Agile to applying it effectively in real-world contexts,” said Michaël Pilaeten. “This syllabus supports professionals in making better decisions, strengthening quality practices, and contributing more strategically within Agile teams.”
The syllabus introduces a set of targeted, modern updates that reflect contemporary Agile practice. Key changes include the introduction of techniques such as heuristics, mnemonics, test tours, and example mapping; expanded coverage of exploratory and collaborative testing approaches, including mob testing, vibe testing, and tissue testing; a stronger focus on cognitive bias and holistic quality thinking; and enhanced reporting and improvement practices through the use of coverage metrics and continuous improvement.
Agile Certification Portfolio Changes
As part of this transition, ISTQB® is streamlining its Agile certification portfolio. The Certified Tester Foundation Level Agile Tester (CTFL-AT) v1.0 (2014) certification has entered its sunset phase.
- English exams (including retakes) and training will be available until 6 May 2027
- Non-English exams (including retakes) and training will be available until 6 November 2027
During this period, candidates may continue to take CTFL-AT exams, and accredited training may be available through training providers. After these dates, the certification will no longer be available.
In parallel, the Certified Tester Advanced Level Agile Technical Tester (CTAL-ATT) certification has also entered its sunset phase and follows the same timeline, as its content overlaps with CTAL-AT v2.0 and with other ISTQB® syllabi, including Test Automation Engineering (CT-TAE).
Impact on Training Providers and Candidates
For training providers, this transition requires full accreditation. Existing CTFL-AT and CTAL-ATT courseware cannot be reused. Providers must develop or license new CTAL-AT v2.0 training materials and apply for accreditation in line with ISTQB® requirements, ensuring alignment with the updated syllabus and its advanced-level expectations. Trainers will need to hold the CTAL-AT v2.0 certification. Contact your Local Member Board for more information.
Existing CTFL-AT and CTAL-ATT certificates remain valid. However, there is no automatic transition to CTAL-AT.
Candidates who wish to achieve the new certification will need to take the CTAL-AT v2.0 exam.
A Clear Evolution in Agile Testing
Agile testing concepts introduced in the ISTQB® Foundation Level Agile Tester are now addressed in the Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) v4.0. CTAL-AT v2.0 reflects the level of expertise expected in modern Agile environments, where testing plays a central role in strategy, collaboration, and continuous improvement across the organization.
Released on 6 May 2026, the CTAL-AT v2.0 syllabus reinforces ISTQB®’s role in setting global standards for software testing and quality assurance in Agile delivery.
Learn more at CTAL-AT v2.0
FAQs: CTAL-AT FAQ