How Long Is The ITIL 4 exam?

by Sneha Naskar

The ITIL 4 Foundation exam typically lasts 60 minutes. It is a multiple-choice test consisting of 40 questions, and you need to score at least 65% (26 out of 40 questions) to pass. This time limit applies to native English speakers. If the exam is taken in a non-native language, an additional 15 minutes is granted, making the total time 75 minutes. 

How Long Is The ITIL 4 exam?

Overview Of The ITIL 4 Exam

The ITIL 4 exam is part of the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) certification series, a globally recognized framework designed to help organizations and IT professionals deliver high-quality IT services. ITIL 4 introduces modern methodologies, focusing on the integration of IT service management (ITSM) with business needs and digital transformation. The Foundation level is the entry point into the ITIL certification path and provides a solid understanding of key concepts and principles.

Structure Of The ITIL 4 Exam

The exam has a clear and straightforward format. Here's a breakdown:

  • Number of Questions: 40
  • Type of Questions: Multiple-choice, with four options per question
  • Passing Score: 65%, which means answering 26 out of 40 questions correctly
  • Time Limit: 60 minutes for native speakers, 75 minutes for non-native speakers
  • Question Difficulty: The questions range from easy to moderately difficult, focusing on testing the candidate’s understanding of core ITIL 4 concepts.

The exam is designed to assess your ability to apply ITIL 4’s best practices in real-world scenarios. You are not expected to have extensive practical experience but rather a clear understanding of key terminologies and foundational concepts.

Who Should Take The ITIL 4 Exam?

The ITIL 4 Foundation exam is suitable for a wide range of professionals, from IT staff to business managers. Specifically, it’s ideal for:

  • IT Professionals: Anyone working in IT or related fields, looking to improve service management.
  • Business Managers: Those who want to understand how ITSM can support business goals.
  • Project Managers: ITIL provides insights into aligning IT projects with organizational needs.
  • Consultants and Service Providers: Understanding ITIL 4 is essential for delivering better IT services and improving client satisfaction.

It is also the first step for anyone looking to pursue higher-level ITIL certifications, such as ITIL Managing Professional or ITIL Strategic Leader.

ITIL® 4 Foundation (online with exam)

Tips For Passing The ITIL 4 Exam

Preparation is key to succeeding in the ITIL 4 exam. Here are some tips to help you:

  • Use Official Study Materials: Stick to official ITIL 4 study guides and resources from accredited providers. These materials are specifically designed to cover the content needed for the exam.
  • Practice with Mock Exams: Many accredited training organizations offer mock exams that simulate the actual exam environment. Taking these practice tests helps you get familiar with the question format and time constraints.
  • Understand Key Concepts: Rather than memorizing terms, focus on understanding how the concepts apply in real-world IT service management.
  • Join Study Groups or Forums: Engage with online communities or study groups to exchange ideas and gain insights from other candidates.
  • Manage Your Time During the Exam: Time management is crucial. Don’t spend too long on any single question. If unsure, mark it and move on, then return to it later.
  • Focus on ITIL Practices: A significant portion of the exam focuses on ITIL practices, such as incident management, problem management, and change enablement. Be sure to understand these thoroughly.

Conclusion

The ITIL 4 exam lasts 60 minutes and tests your foundational knowledge of IT service management. With 40 multiple-choice questions and a 65% passing score, it provides a solid entry point for those looking to advance their careers in ITSM. By focusing on key concepts, practicing with mock exams, and managing your time wisely, you can successfully pass the exam and earn your certification, paving the way for future career advancements.

ITIL® 4 Foundation (online with exam)