New and updated certifications in usability testing, digital accessibility testing, game testing, security testing, and expert-level test management reflect ISTQB®’s continued commitment to advancing the software testing profession.
Brussels, 10 November 2026 – The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB®) is pleased to announce the release of five new and updated certifications, further strengthening its globally recognized certification portfolio and supporting the evolving needs of software testing professionals worldwide.
The releases include Certified Tester Usability Testing (CT-UT) v2.0, Certified Tester Digital Accessibility Testing (CT-DAT) v1.0, Certified Tester Security Test Analyst (CT-STA) v1.0, Certified Tester Game Testing (CT-GaMe) v2.0, and Certified Tester Expert Level Test Management (CTEL-TM) v2.0.
Together, these certifications reflect important developments across the software testing profession, from the growing importance of digital accessibility and security to advances in usability and game testing practices and the evolving responsibilities of test management professionals.
Five Certifications Supporting the Evolution of Software Testing
Certified Tester Usability Testing (CT-UT) v2.0 – Enhancing Usability Testing Practices
The updated CT-UT v2.0 certification reflects contemporary usability testing practices, introducing enhanced coverage of usability testing in Agile development environments, testing tools, and the opportunities and limitations of artificial intelligence (AI). The revised syllabus provides a stronger focus on usability testing, with digital accessibility now addressed through the new dedicated CT-DAT certification.
Certified Tester Digital Accessibility Testing (CT-DAT) v1.0 – Advancing Digital Inclusion
The introduction of CT-DAT v1.0 establishes digital accessibility testing as a dedicated ISTQB® certification. Reflecting the growing importance of inclusive digital products and services, the syllabus covers accessibility principles, standards and guidelines, testing activities, planning and execution, assistive technologies, and accessibility testing tools, including the opportunities and risks associated with AI. The certification supports professionals responsible for identifying and evaluating barriers that may prevent people with disabilities from accessing and using digital products and services.
Certified Tester Game Testing (CT-GaMe) v2.0 – Evolving Game Testing for Modern Gaming Environments
The updated CT-GaMe v2.0 certification reflects the evolving complexity of video game development and the growing importance of delivering high-quality player experiences. The revised syllabus introduces coverage of artificial intelligence and physics testing, expands game level testing, and strengthens testing practices across game mechanics and other key aspects of game quality. It also places greater emphasis on accessibility, usability, and fairness, supporting game testing professionals in identifying game-specific risks and delivering reliable, engaging, and inclusive gaming experiences.
Certified Tester Expert Level Test Management (CTEL-TM) v2.0 – A New Approach to Expert-Level Test Management
CTEL-TM v2.0 introduces a substantially revised and more integrated approach to Expert Level Test Management. Previously structured around three separate modules — Strategic Test Management, Operational Test Management, and Managing the Test Team — the certification has been redesigned as a single qualification.
The updated syllabus brings together strategic, organizational, and leadership aspects of expert test management, including test policy and strategy, team leadership, stakeholder relationships, project management, monitoring, control, and continuous improvement.
The revised certification introduces a multiple-choice examination format and removes the periodic renewal requirement for certificates issued under CTEL-TM v2.0.
This integrated structure provides a unified certification pathway for experienced testing professionals seeking to demonstrate expert-level test management knowledge and capability.
Certified Tester Security Test Analyst (CT-STA) v1.0 – Strengthening Security Testing Capabilities
The new CT-STA v1.0 certification expands ISTQB®’s security testing portfolio, complementing the previously released Certified Tester Security Test Engineer (CT-STE) certification. CT-STA focuses on analytical and strategic aspects of security testing, including identifying assets and associated risks, understanding attacker behavior, interpreting regulatory requirements, defining security test strategies, and evaluating security testing results.
While CT-STE focuses on the technical execution of security tests, CT-STA addresses the planning, risk assessment, and analysis activities that support effective security testing. Together, the two certifications provide more clearly defined professional development pathways, replacing the previous Certified Tester Security Tester (CT-SEC) certification.
Certification Transition and Sunset Dates
The introduction of these certifications will be accompanied by the retirement of the certifications and syllabus versions they replace. The following will enter their sunset periods on 10 November 2026:
- Certified Tester Usability Testing (CT-UT) v1.0, replaced by CT-UT v2.0, with digital accessibility testing now covered by CT-DAT v1.0.
- Certified Tester Game Testing (CT-GaMe) v1.0, replaced by CT-GaMe v2.0.
- The three existing CTEL-TM modules — Strategic Test Management, Operational Test Management, and Managing the Test Team — replaced by the single CTEL-TM v2.0 certification.
- Certified Tester Security Tester (CT-SEC), replaced by the security testing pathway comprising CT-STE and CT-STA.
The following sunset deadlines apply to examinations (including retakes) and ISTQB®-accredited training for these retiring certifications:
- 10 November 2027 – English-language examinations and associated ISTQB®-accredited training end (12 months after release).
- 10 May 2028 – Non-English-language examinations and associated ISTQB®-accredited training end (18 months after release).
Existing certificate holders retain their certifications under the applicable validity rules. For further information about certification validity and transition arrangements, including those applicable to existing CTEL-TM module holders, please refer to the FAQs in our Help Centre.
Supporting the Global Software Testing Community
“Software testing continues to evolve, bringing new technologies, responsibilities, and expectations for quality. At ISTQB®, we are committed to ensuring our certifications evolve alongside the profession.
These five releases represent an important step in that journey. By introducing new areas of specialization, updating established certifications, and strengthening certification pathways, we are supporting testing professionals in developing the knowledge and skills needed to meet today’s challenges and prepare for the future.
I would also like to thank our working groups, task forces, and the many contributors whose expertise and dedication have made these releases possible.”
Dr. Klaudia Dussa-Zieger
President of ISTQB®
Continuing the Evolution of ISTQB® Certifications
The release of these five certifications reflects ISTQB®’s ongoing commitment to maintaining a relevant, internationally recognized certification scheme that supports the professional development of software testers at different stages of their careers.
The new and updated syllabuses will be available through the ISTQB® website. Candidates, training providers, and certification bodies are encouraged to explore the updated certification pathways and the opportunities they provide.
Further Information
For more information about the new and updated certifications, including syllabuses and transition arrangements, please refer to the individual product pages:
For further information on availability of exams, sunset dates, and training provider accreditation, contact your local ISTQB® Member Board or ISTQB® Exam Provider for further information.