ISTQB CT-AI Exam Alert: Version 2.0 Released – Key Updates, Sunset Dates & What Testers Must Know

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.