ISTQB® (International Software Testing Qualifications Board) has announced the retirement of three certifications, effective 1 January 2027, as part of its ongoing commitment to maintaining a relevant, focused, and sustainable certification portfolio.
The certifications being retired are:
- ISTQB® Certified Tester Model-Based Tester (CT-MBT)
- ISTQB® Certified Tester Gambling Industry Tester (CT-GT)
- ISTQB® Certified Tester Agile Test Leadership at Scale (CT-ATLaS)
Supporting a Focused and Relevant Certification Portfolio
ISTQB® regularly evaluates its certification portfolio to ensure that it continues to serve the evolving needs of the global software testing community.
As part of this process, ISTQB® makes decisions not only about introducing and updating certifications but also about retiring certifications where appropriate.
These decisions support the long-term quality, clarity, and sustainability of the ISTQB® certification portfolio, allowing the organization to maintain a coherent range of qualifications for software testing professionals worldwide.
There are no direct replacement or successor ISTQB® certifications planned for the three certifications being retired.
An ISTQB® Member Board may choose to adopt a retired certification scheme under its own arrangements. From 1 January 2027, these retired schemes will no longer be recognized as ISTQB® certification modules, and any Member Board-adopted schemes would operate independently of ISTQB®.
No Member Board adoption arrangements have been confirmed at this stage. Further information will be published as it becomes available.
Key Dates and Transition Arrangements
The retirement of all three certifications will take effect on 1 January 2027.
- 31 December 2026: Final date for certification examinations, including retakes, and ISTQB®-accredited training courses.
- From 1 January 2027: No further ISTQB® certification examinations, retakes, or ISTQB®-accredited training courses for these modules will be permitted.
Candidates currently preparing for these certifications are encouraged to plan accordingly and complete any required examinations, including retakes, by 31 December 2026.
Accredited Training Providers should ensure that all affected ISTQB®-accredited courses are completed by 31 December 2026 and that their promotional materials clearly communicate the retirement deadline.
Certificates previously awarded under these certifications will remain valid after retirement.
Looking Ahead
ISTQB® remains committed to supporting software testing professionals through its internationally recognized certification portfolio.
Further Information
For further information, including enquiries about scheduled examinations or examination vouchers, candidates should contact their Examination Provider, Training Provider, or local ISTQB® Member Board, as appropriate.
Accredited Training Providers should contact their accrediting ISTQB® Member Board for guidance on accreditation and training arrangements.
Please also refer to the ISTQB® Retired Certifications FAQs for further guidance.