ITIL® Foundation (Version 5) - Elite

ITIL® Elite Foundation FAQs

• What is new in ITIL (Version 5)?

  TIL (Version 5) introduces major evolutions that make the framework more

  practical, flexible, and relevant for everyone working with digital products and

  services, across roles, teams, and organizations of all sizes.

  Key innovations include:

  Modern, Integrated and Comprehensive Approach

  ITIL (Version 5) provides guidance that works across the entire organization - from

  leadership and strategy through to day-to-day operations - helping teams

  collaborate, align priorities, and consistently create value in both stable and fast-

  changing environments.

  AI-Native and Complexity-Ready

  ITIL (Version 5) helps professionals work effectively in complex, AI-enabled

  environments by providing practical guidance on how to adapt, make informed

  decisions, and manage change as technology, business needs, and customer

  expectations evolve.

  Integration of Products and Services

  ITIL provides end-to-end lifecycle guidance for digital products and services,

  integrating both for holistic management and value.

  Emphasis on Digital Experience

  Digital experience is a core focus in ITIL (Version 5), helping professionals design,

  deliver, and improve digital products and services with greater visibility,

  collaboration, and understanding of how different stakeholders experience value.

  Continuity with Previous Versions

  ITIL (Version 5) incorporates proven concepts and models from ITIL 4 and earlier,

  including the value system and guiding principles.

• Are there any extension modules in ITIL (Version 5)?

  AI Governance is the only extension module in the ITIL (Version 5) qualification

  scheme. It focuses on establishing frameworks, policies, and controls to ensure AI is

  used responsibly, ethically, and in alignment with organizational and regulatory

  standards.

  The ITIL 4 extension modules are no longer part of the ITIL (Version 5) qualification

  scheme, as their content has been absorbed into the broader ITIL guidance and

  future learning offerings, reflecting how the framework has evolved.

• What do the examinations look like within the ITIL (Version 5) qualification Scheme?

  ITIL Foundation (Version 5) certification and ITIL Practice certifications will remain

  as closed book MCQ examinations. ITIL AI Governance will also be a closed book

  MCQ examination.

  For the ITIL Product, ITIL Service, ITIL Experience, ITIL Strategy, and ITIL

  Transformation certifications, open book examinations are planned, allowing

  candidates to focus on understanding, applying concepts, and making informed

  decisions rather than memorization.

• Why did ITIL evolve? Why now?

  A new version is needed because the digital landscape has changed dramatically.

  Organizations today must operate faster, smarter, and more flexibly, especially with

  AI transforming how work gets done.

  ITIL (Version 5) arrives now to address these realities:

  Digital-first, product-centric enterprises require updated guidance.

  Previous versions focused mainly on services; modern organizations manage

  integrated products and services.

  AI and automation are reshaping operations.

  ITIL (Version 5) provides an AI-native approach that helps organizations adapt and

  innovate confidently.

  Businesses need models that support agility and rapid change.

  ITIL (Version 5) evolves to ensure adaptive, outcome-focused practices aligned with

  real-world needs.

  Organizations must continually demonstrate measurable value.

  The new framework strengthens the link between people, practices, and technology

  to drive sustainable business results.

  In short: ITIL (Version 5) evolves to match today’s AI-driven, fast-changing

  environment, providing practical guidance that supports people across all roles and

  organizations in delivering and improving digital products and services.