Resolving the “Cannot Load Underlying Module for XCTest” Error in Xcode

Resolving the "Cannot Load Underlying Module for XCTest" Error in Xcode

28 February 2025 Stephan Petzl Leave a comment Xcode

Developers working with Swift in Xcode often encounter the error: “Cannot load underlying module for XCTest” when they inadvertently set the target membership of a test file to the main project. This guide will help you troubleshoot and resolve this issue effectively.

Understanding the Error

This error typically arises when a test file is mistakenly included in the main target instead of the test target. The XCTest framework is specifically designed for testing purposes and should only be imported within a test target.

Solution Steps

1. Verify Target Membership

  • Ensure that the test file is not included in the main target. It should only belong to the test target.

2. Correct Target Configuration

If you haven’t already created a separate testing target, follow these steps:

  1. Select your project in the Project Navigator to open the project settings.
  2. Click the “+” button at the bottom of the column listing your Targets.
  3. For iOS projects, select iOS > Test > iOS Unit Testing Bundle.
  4. For macOS projects, select OS X > Test > OS X Unit Testing Bundle.

3. Adjust Build Phases

To ensure proper configuration:

  • Remove the test file from the “Compile Sources” list under the “Build Phases” tab for the main target.
  • Add the same file to the “Compile Sources” list under the “Build Phases” tab for the test target.

4. CocoaPods Configuration

If your project uses CocoaPods, ensure your Podfile includes the test target nested within the main application’s target:

target 'YourApp' do
    target 'YourAppTests' do
        inherit! :search_paths
        # Pods for testing
    end
end

Save the Podfile and run pod install to apply changes.

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