How Does a TOGAF® Training Work and What Does It Involve?

Hubert Brooks · 27 Oct 2026

A TOGAF® training teaches you how to approach enterprise architecture in a structured way using an internationally recognised framework. The training covers the TOGAF Standard, the Architecture Development Method (ADM) and the associated artefacts, deliverables and concepts. Depending on the level you are aiming for, you prepare for the Foundation or Practitioner certification. The sections below answer the most frequently asked questions about content, exams, training formats and preparation.

What do you learn during a TOGAF training?

During a TOGAF training you learn how to apply the TOGAF Standard to develop and manage enterprise architecture. The core of the course is the Architecture Development Method, also known as the TOGAF ADM. This method describes a cyclical process of architecture development, divided into multiple phases, from the Preliminary phase through to the Architecture Change Management phase. In addition to the TOGAF ADM phases, the training covers a range of supporting concepts, including:

TOGAF artefacts and deliverables: the concrete products delivered in each phase
TOGAF building blocks: reusable components used when designing architectures
The TOGAF Enterprise Continuum: a framework for classifying and reusing architecture solutions
The TOGAF architecture repository: the structure within which architecture information is stored and managed
The architecture function within an organisation: how to set up and embed an architecture practice

The training connects theory directly to practice. Trainers work themselves as architects or consultants, so examples relate to situations that participants recognise from their own working environment. A good introduction to the TOGAF Standard helps you quickly get to grips with the relationships between all these components.

What is the difference between TOGAF Foundation and Practitioner?

TOGAF Foundation and TOGAF Practitioner are two successive certification levels within the TOGAF Standard. Foundation tests understanding of the core concepts and terminology. Practitioner goes a step further and tests whether you can apply that knowledge in realistic architecture scenarios. The distinction lies in the depth and level of application:

TOGAF Foundation focuses on understanding what the TOGAF method entails: the ADM phases, the core concepts, the structure of the framework and the associated terminology. This level is suitable for anyone who wants to demonstrate that they have mastered the fundamentals of the architecture methodology.
TOGAF Practitioner requires you to also be able to analyse and apply the method. You work with scenarios and must demonstrate that you can assess and address architecture challenges from within the framework.

Most participants follow a combined Foundation and Practitioner training of four to five days. Those who already hold a Foundation certificate can also progress directly to the Practitioner level. For a comprehensive overview of both levels, see the page on TOGAF Foundation and Practitioner training.

What does the TOGAF exam look like?

The TOGAF exam consists of two separate parts, each corresponding to a certification level. The Foundation exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge of the core concepts. The Practitioner exam uses more complex questions in which you analyse a scenario and select the most appropriate architecture choice. Both exams are administered by The Open Group and are available through accredited test centres or online proctoring. The exams are in English. Participants who follow a combined training typically sit both exams at the end of the course or shortly afterwards using an exam voucher. To prepare, you can make use of TOGAF practice exams and official exam questions. This not only helps you to review the material, but also to become familiar with the question format and the pace of the real exam. Take a TOGAF knowledge test to see where you currently stand.

Which training format suits your situation best?

The best training format depends on your learning style, schedule and the context in which you work. TOGAF training is available as classroom training, live online training and eLearning. Each format has its own advantages, depending on what you need.

Classroom training offers direct interaction with the trainer and fellow participants. Suitable if you benefit from group discussions and immediate feedback.
Live online training provides the same structure as a classroom session, but remotely. Flexible for participants who cannot be physically present.
eLearning lets you learn at your own pace, without fixed time slots. Convenient if you have a busy schedule or want to combine the material with your daily work.
TOGAF in house training is a tailored option for organisations that want to train multiple employees. The training is aligned with the organisation’s own architecture practice and context.

For teams working together on an architecture transformation, a TOGAF in house training is often the most effective choice, as the content can be directly linked to their own situation.

Who delivers the TOGAF training and what makes a trainer qualified?

A qualified TOGAF trainer has both subject matter expertise and practical experience as an architect or consultant. A good trainer does not limit themselves to conveying theory, but connects the course material to recognisable situations from architecture practice. Trainers at accredited providers are typically certified at Practitioner level or higher and are actively working in the field. This distinguishes an effective TOGAF course from a purely theoretical one. Accreditation of the training provider by The Open Group is an indication that the quality of both the content and the trainers meets established requirements. When choosing a training, check whether the provider offers an accredited TOGAF training, whether the trainers have demonstrable practical experience, and whether the course is aligned with the current version of the TOGAF Standard.

How do you best prepare for TOGAF certification?

The best preparation for TOGAF certification combines active studying, practising with exam questions and making connections between the different components of the framework. Those who only passively read through the material without practising risk stumbling over the application questions during the exam. An effective preparation consists of the following steps:

Follow an accredited training. This gives you a structured foundation and ensures you receive the correct interpretation of the material.
Work with official study material. The TOGAF Standard itself is available through The Open Group and forms the basis of the exam.
Practise with TOGAF practice exams. By practising exam questions you become familiar with the question format and discover where your knowledge still falls short.
Review the ADM phases and the associated artefacts. These are recurring topics in the exam, at both Foundation and Practitioner level.
Make use of a quick-start guide. A clear reference work helps you quickly find the core concepts.

The TOGAF quick-start guide provides a compact overview of the most important concepts and structures. If you have specific questions about the exam or preparation, you will find answers to frequently asked questions in the TOGAF FAQ.

How The Unit Company helps with your TOGAF training

The Unit Company offers accredited TOGAF training for both individual professionals and organisations. The training courses are based on the current TOGAF Standard and are delivered by trainers who are actively working as architects or consultants. This makes the connection between theory and practice concrete and recognisable.

Choice of classroom training, live online training and eLearning
Combined Foundation and Practitioner programmes of four to five days
TOGAF in house training, tailored to the architecture context of your organisation
More than 98% of participants pass on their first attempt
Average course score of 9.1 out of 10
Actively involved in the development of the TOGAF Standard through The Open Group

Would you like to know which training format best suits your situation or that of your team? View the full offering on the TOGAF Foundation and Practitioner training page or get in touch directly for personal advice.