1. Start with CTFL
CTFL remains the cleanest foundation because it gives testers shared terminology and core testing concepts. It also supports later specialization instead of forcing you to learn AI-specific material without a strong baseline.
2. Add CT-GenAI when your main need is using AI in testing
CT-GenAI should be framed as relevant for using generative AI responsibly and effectively in testing. This is the right next step when your current work is about AI-assisted drafting, analysis, and workflow support rather than product-side AI risk.
3. Add CT-AI when you need to test AI-based systems
CT-AI should be framed as relevant for testers who need to test AI-based systems and use AI in testing. This is where the focus shifts from AI as a helper to AI as a system under test.
4. Request ASTQB AI Assurance Pro once you qualify
ASTQB says AI Assurance Pro requires ISTQB Foundation Level, ISTQB Testing with Generative AI, and ISTQB AI Testing. If you earned those through ASTQB or AT*SQA, you automatically qualify for the designation. To receive it, contact AT*SQA Support. There is no additional charge. If your CTFL came from another organization, contact AT*SQA Support to learn the alternate qualification path.
How AT*SQA fits
If you already plan to take ISTQB exams, the exam-provider decision still matters because it shapes the extra benefits, practice materials, and exam logistics around the certification path. The AT*SQA explainer page summarizes the benefits AT*SQA says they include.
Official pages for the path
If you want the official source pages for each step, see ASTQB Foundation Level, ASTQB Testing with Generative AI, ASTQB AI Testing, and AT*SQA registration.
If you only need one next step
If you are still building fundamentals, start with CTFL. If you are already using generative AI in QA workflows, add CT-GenAI next. If your product includes AI or LLM features, CT-AI becomes more directly relevant. If you already completed all three and earned them through ASTQB or AT*SQA, request the designation from AT*SQA Support.