Understand the ISTQB Foundation Level exam and how to pass it.
A plain reference for beginners who want to understand what the ISTQB Foundation Level certification covers, how the exam is structured, what score is needed to pass, what the syllabus includes, and how to prepare without guessing.
ISTQB Foundation Level at a glance
The core ISTQB Foundation Level facts in one place, with the full guide organized around the exam format, syllabus, learning objectives, glossary, and beginner study path.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Full name | ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level |
| Certification | ISTQB Foundation Level |
| Exam format | 40 multiple-choice questions |
| Passing score | 26 out of 40 |
| Total points | 40 |
| Exam time | 60 minutes |
| Current syllabus source | ISTQB Certified Tester Foundation Level Syllabus v4.0.1 |
| Examinable syllabus chapters | Chapters 1 through 6 |
| Best for | People involved in software testing and people who want a basic understanding of software testing |
Official ISTQB Foundation Level materials. Last reviewed: June 2026.
New to software testing?
Start with the basic definition, then move to the exam format, syllabus, and study plan. Keep the glossary nearby because many ISTQB Foundation Level questions depend on exact testing terms.
About this site
This is a personal resource based on official ISTQB materials. It is written to make the Foundation Level exam easier to understand without replacing the syllabus, glossary, or official sample exams.
Start here
- What ISTQB Foundation Level is
What the certification covers, who it is for, and how the Foundation Level fits into software testing.
- Exam format and passing score
Questions, time limit, scoring, extra-time note, and the basic exam structure.
- Syllabus overview
The six examinable chapters, topic weighting signals, and how to read the syllabus.
- Study plan for beginners
A focused sequence for vocabulary, applied techniques, sample questions, and final review.
Syllabus guide
Popular reference guides
Ready to take the exam?
When you are ready, use the registration link below to continue to exam registration.
Registration is available through the linked registration page.
Beginner perspective
Beginners often benefit from two kinds of preparation: vocabulary work and practice applying test design ideas. K1 and K2 topics can often be handled with careful reading. K3 topics may need worked examples because they ask you to apply a procedure to a familiar task.