ISTQB Certified Tester Advanced Level Test Analyst (CTAL-TA) v4.0

About the course

The ISTQB Certified Tester Advanced Level Test Analyst (CTAL-TA) course provides experienced testers with the specialist analytical capabilities required to design, implement, and optimise high-value testing activities across complex software environments. This advanced-level programme strengthens your ability to evaluate quality risks, engineer effective test conditions, and apply structured, evidence-based testing techniques aligned with industry best practice.

The course integrates the depth of the TSG programme with the proven ILX training methodology, ensuring complete alignment with the official ISTQB Advanced Level Test Analyst syllabus. Delegates develop mastery in defect classification, risk-based testing, requirements evaluation, behavioural testing approaches, and test design techniques that improve coverage and reduce rework. Throughout the training, learners work through realistic scenarios, structured exercises, and exam-style questions to reinforce application in real-world contexts.

By completing this course, professionals elevate their capability to support complex test strategies, contribute effectively to Agile, DevOps, and traditional project environments, and influence software quality decisions across teams. The certification is internationally recognised and forms a key milestone in the ISTQB Advanced career pathway. Delegates finish fully prepared to sit the ISTQB CTAL-TA exam and demonstrate advanced analytical testing expertise to employers worldwide.

What’s Included

Accredited training manual
Official ISTQB CTAL-TA syllabus reference
TSG and ILX combined course materials
Exam simulator with sample questions
Scenario-based test design exercises
Expert tutor support during training
Full revision and exam preparation sessions
ISTQB CTAL-TA exam voucher
Accredited certificate upon passing the exam
Course completion confirmation for CPD records

Delivery Options & Pricing

eLearning – Delivered by ILX-TSG with DrTutor support
Self-paced, approximately 30–35 hours of study, with 12-month access period, exam included. Price: £1210 + VAT

Live Virtual Classroom – Delivered by ILX
Immersive learning experience, 3-day accredited course delivered online, 7 hours per day, including interactive workshops, practical exercises, and exam preparation. Exam included. Price: £2100 + VAT

(Classroom delivery not available for this qualification under ILX or TSG at this time.)

What you'll learn

Delegates will be able to analyse software quality risks and design targeted test conditions using advanced risk-based testing methods.
Delegates will apply behavioural test design techniques such as decision tables, state transition testing, and boundary value analysis to improve coverage and defect detection.
Delegates will conduct structured requirements reviews using analytical techniques to identify ambiguities, gaps, inconsistencies, and defects prior to testing.
Delegates will classify, prioritise, and track defects effectively using industry-standard classification models and reporting practices.
Delegates will contribute to integration, system, acceptance, and usability testing through well-engineered test scenarios and end-to-end coverage design.
Delegates will support Agile and iterative delivery models by analysing user stories, evaluating acceptance criteria, and contributing to collaborative test activities.
Delegates will measure, monitor, and communicate test progress, quality indicators, and risk exposure to stakeholders using structured reporting approaches.
Delegates will contribute to process improvement by evaluating test efficiency, analysing defect trends, and recommending optimisation strategies.
Delegates will design comprehensive test documentation that aligns with organisational policies, quality standards, and ISTQB best practice.
Delegates will apply advanced analytical reasoning to determine the most effective test design technique for given project constraints and risk profiles.

Key facts

Key Facts

Course Level: Advanced Level
Certification: ISTQB Certified Tester Advanced Level Test Analyst (CTAL-TA)
Duration: eLearning 30–35 hours, Virtual Classroom 3 days
Exam Duration: 120 minutes (150 minutes for non-native English speakers)
Pass Mark: 65%
Prerequisites: ISTQB Foundation Level (CTFL)
Delivery Methods: eLearning 30–35 hours, Live Virtual Classroom 3 days

Who It’s For

This course is designed for experienced software testers, test analysts, test engineers, quality assurance professionals, and test consultants who are responsible for designing and executing complex test scenarios, analysing software behaviour, and contributing to structured test strategies. It is also suitable for professionals preparing for advanced roles in test analysis, Agile testing, and quality risk assessment. Individuals seeking internationally recognised ISTQB Advanced certification will find this course an essential progression in their testing career.

Exam Information

Exam Duration: 120 minutes (150 minutes for non-native English speakers)
Number of Questions: 40
Question Type: Multiple choice, scenario-based, closed book
Pass Mark: 65%
Delivery Method: Online remote-proctored exam

Pre-Course Requirements

Delegates must hold the ISTQB Foundation Level Certificate (CTFL) before enrolling. It is strongly recommended that participants have a minimum of two to three years of practical software testing experience, including exposure to test design and defect reporting. Learners should be familiar with basic testing principles and comfortable analysing functional specifications prior to attending the course.

FAQ

What is the ISTQB Advanced Level Test Analyst certification?
It is an advanced-level qualification that validates a tester’s ability to design, implement, and analyse test conditions using structured, risk-based and behavioural techniques aligned with international best practice.

Is the course accredited?
Yes, the course is fully accredited by UKITB on behalf of ISTQB.

What are the prerequisites for the CTAL-TA course?
Candidates must hold the ISTQB Foundation Level Certificate (CTFL) and ideally have two to three years of practical testing experience.

How long is the course?
The virtual classroom course runs for 3 days at 7 hours per day. The eLearning course requires approximately 30–35 hours of self-paced study.

Is the exam included in the course price?
Yes, the exam voucher is included with both eLearning and Virtual delivery options.

What is the format of the exam?
The exam contains 40 multiple-choice questions, lasts 120 minutes, and requires a 65% pass mark.

Can I take the course without taking the exam?
Yes, you may take the course for learning only, although certification requires passing the formal exam.

What practical skills will I develop?
You will learn to analyse requirements, classify defects, design advanced test conditions, apply behavioural test techniques, and support risk-based testing approaches.

Does the course cover Agile environments?
Yes, the programme includes coverage of Agile testing practices, including user story analysis and iterative test design.

What industries recognise this certification?
The certification is widely recognised across technology, finance, government, telecommunications, healthcare, engineering, and consultancy sectors.

Will this certification help my career progression?
Yes, it provides advanced analytical testing capabilities that support progression to Test Lead, Senior Test Analyst, Test Consultant, or further ISTQB Advanced certifications.

What materials are provided?
Delegates receive accredited course manuals, practice questions, test design exercises, revision materials, and exam preparation support.

What is the difficulty level of the exam?
It is an advanced-level exam requiring strong analytical reasoning, structured test design, and deep understanding of testing techniques.

Is prior automation knowledge required?
No, CTAL-TA focuses on analysis and test design, not automation engineering.

Can I study using eLearning only?
Yes, the ILX eLearning package provides full coverage with tutor support and exam access.

What support is available if I struggle with certain topics?
Both ILX and DrTutor provide tutor assistance, revision guidance, and exam preparation resources.

Does the certificate expire?
No, ISTQB certificates do not expire once achieved.

Enrolment options

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