How to Get CompTIA A+ Certified: Step-by-Step (Free & Low-Cost Options Included)

CompTIA A+ stands as the most preferred qualification for technical support and IT operational roles.

Want to kickstart your IT career but worried about certification costs? The CompTIA A+ certification requires two exams that cost approximately $500 total. But here's the good news - organizations like Climb Hire provide free exam preparation and cover your certification costs. This makes the valuable credential more available to aspiring IT professionals.

CompTIA A+ ranks among the most widely recognized entry-level IT credentials worldwide. The certification proves your expertise with hardware, networks, and computer systems. You'll need to pass two Core Series exams - Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202) that test your basic IT knowledge and skills.

Your certification remains valid for three years. This gives you enough time to build your career in IT or progress toward advanced certifications.

This step-by-step guide will help you get CompTIA A+ certified through standard and free options. We'll explore exam preparation strategies and testing choices that will help you earn this valuable industry credential, whether you're new to IT or want to certify your current skills.

What is CompTIA A+ Certification?

CompTIA A+ is the starting point for IT careers and shows up in more tech support job listings than any other IT credential. This popular, vendor-neutral certification shows you know how to work with hardware, software, networking, troubleshooting, and security. Let's look at what makes this certification worth getting, who benefits most from it, and how the exam works.

Overview of the A+ credential

The CompTIA A+ certification gives you a complete introduction to IT support. Most certifications focus on one area, but A+ covers all the knowledge modern technicians need. This industry-standard certification proves your skills in:

• Installing and configuring hardware components and devices
• Diagnosing issues with PCs, mobile devices, and software applications
• Setting up and maintaining wired/wireless networks
• Applying simple cybersecurity methods
• Supporting multiple operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
• Understanding virtualization and cloud computing concepts
• Following operational best practices

CompTIA A+ goes beyond PC repair, you'll learn to troubleshoot and solve problems with technology of all types. Companies and industries value this credential highly, making it your ticket into the IT field.

Who should take it

The CompTIA A+ certification might be right for you if you're:

1. Ready to start your IT career trip
2. Looking to make your technical knowledge official
3. Wanting to switch careers into IT

The certification works best if you have 9-12 months of hands-on experience in the lab or field (or equivalent training). Many big tech companies require this certification, and the U.S. Department of Defense sees it as essential for technicians.

The International Data Corporation (IDC) reports that 96% of HR managers use IT certifications to screen candidates during recruitment. This certification helps you land roles like:

• IT support specialist
• Helpdesk technician
• Field technician
• Desktop support specialist
• Associate network engineer
• Systems support technician
• Junior systems administrator

Companies like Intel, Dell, Ricoh, Nissan, Blue Cross and Blue Shield, and HP actively look for candidates with CompTIA A+ certification.

Core 1 and Core 2 exam structure

Getting your CompTIA A+ certification means passing two exams, Core 1 and Core 2. You can take these in any order, but they must be from the same version (no mixing allowed).

The latest version (V15) includes:

• Exam codes: 220-1201 (Core 1) and 220-1202 (Core 2)
• Launched: March 25, 2025
• Format: Maximum 90 questions per exam, including multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions
• Time limit: 90 minutes per exam
• Passing scores: 675 (on a scale of 900) for Core 1 and 700 for Core 2
• Expected retirement: Approximately three years after launch (estimated 2028)

Core 1 covers hardware and networking:

• Mobile devices (13%)
• Networking (23%)
• Hardware (25%)
• Virtualization and Cloud Computing (11%)
• Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (28%)

Core 2 focuses on software and operations:

• Operating Systems (28%)
• Security (28%)
• Software Troubleshooting (23%)
• Operational Procedures (21%)

These exams test your practical skills in installing and configuring end-user devices, connecting equipment to networks, implementing cybersecurity measures, fixing common problems, and showing your knowledge of scripting, cloud computing, and virtualization.

How Much Does It Cost to Get Certified?

You need proper financial planning to get your CompTIA A+ certification. The total cost has exam fees, study materials, and training courses. A clear picture of these expenses helps you plan your budget and find ways to save money.

Standard exam fees

The CompTIA A+ certification needs you to pass two separate exams: Core 1 and Core 2. Each exam costs $246-$253, based on where you buy it. So, you'll spend between $492 and $506 for both required tests. These are standard retail rates when you buy directly from CompTIA.

Note that failing either exam means buying another voucher at the same price. A full picture of the material becomes crucial, not just to learn better, but to protect your wallet too.

The current version uses exam codes 220-1201 (Core 1) and 220-1202 (Core 2), which took over from the previous 220-1101/1102 series. You must pass both exams to earn your complete certification.

Training and material costs

The exam fees are just the start. Getting ready the right way often means investing in study materials. Your costs will change based on how you like to learn:

Self-study books usually cost between $30-$60 each:

• CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide by Mike Meyers: $40-$60
• CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide by Docter and Buhagiar: $30-$40
• CompTIA A+ Exam Cram by David Prowse: $30-$50

Official CompTIA study guides cost more at around $128 each, while detailed study materials range from $60-$497.

Online courses add another potential cost. To name just one example, many schools offer CompTIA A+ certification programs with exam vouchers included in the price. The cost of classroom training through public schools, academic programs, or private centers varies widely, from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

Discounts and bundled options

You can cut down certification costs in several ways:

Bundle packages are a great way to get savings compared to buying items separately:

• Basic Bundle: You get an exam voucher, retake voucher, and self-paced study guide for $359 per exam
• Exam Prep Bundle: Adds practice tests for $462 per exam
• Complete Bundle: You get two exam vouchers with retakes, practice labs, and study materials for $1,485

Academic discounts cut costs significantly for eligible students:

• College students who are currently enrolled can get 40% off vouchers and 65% off learning products through the CompTIA Academic Store

Additional cost-saving strategies include:

1. Financing options that split payments over 3-12 months with rates as low as 0%
2. Government or nonprofit programs that offer free IT training including certification costs
3. Employer reimbursement programs for professional development
4. Discounted vouchers through authorized CompTIA partners (about 10% savings)
5. Community college programs that include exam costs in tuition

Dion Training and similar companies sell CompTIA vouchers at lower rates than direct purchases. On top of that, bundled certification packages like the "CompTIA Trifecta" (A+, Network+, Security+) save you over $175 compared to separate purchases.

Your certification budget should include possible retake costs. Some bundles come with a "Take2" option for a second exam attempt if you don't pass the first time. This gives you peace of mind and protects your investment.

Free and Low-Cost Ways to Get CompTIA A+ Certification

The CompTIA A+ certification costs about $500 for both exams. You don't need to let these costs stop you from getting certified. There are several ways to get this credential without spending much money.

How to get CompTIA A+ certification for free

The total cost of CompTIA A+ certification can add up to $1,000 or more when you count exam fees, training programs, and study materials. But don't worry - you have options that can cut down these costs or even make them disappear.

Start by looking at nonprofit training programs that pay for your preparation and exam costs. These programs often help underserved groups like low-income individuals, people without jobs, SNAP recipients, minorities, and military veterans.

Some organizations let you try their training materials for free. ITU Online gives you 30 days to access their CompTIA A+ course without asking for a credit card. Government agencies and nonprofits also run free IT training programs that include certification.

Nonprofit programs like Climb Hire

Climb Hire runs a free IT Support program to help you get CompTIA A+ certified. You'll get:

• Complete coverage of exam costs (worth over $500)
• Six months of remote training with expert teachers
• Google IT Support Professional certificate training
• Help with career growth and soft skills

Climb Hire's program needs you to have:

1. A computer with webcam and microphone
2. Time for 20 hours each week (9 hours in class plus 11 hours of homework)

You'll learn IT basics, mobile devices, networking, hardware, cloud computing, operating systems, and security.

Per Scholas gives you another nonprofit option with free in-person or hybrid CompTIA A+ training at more than 20 U.S. locations. You need to:

• Live close enough to a Per Scholas site
• Know basic digital skills
• Meet their income guidelines
• Be available for full-time classes
• Have a high school diploma or equivalent
• Be authorized to work in the U.S.
• Speak English well

Other regional nonprofits can help too. Tech 901 in Memphis offers courses at $180, much less than usual costs. Minnesota Tech for Success trains Minnesota residents for free.

Government and corporate-sponsored options

Local governments and companies sometimes fund free IT education programs. These chances come and go depending on where you live:

Workforce Boulder County teamed up with CompTIA in late 2023 to train under-employed Boulder residents for the A+ certification exams. The CUNY Upskilling Scholarship Program paid for free CompTIA A+ training at Bronx Community College for New Yorkers.

JobWorks Education and Training joined forces with Capital Workforce Partners of Hartford, CT to give full scholarships for their 12-week TechWorks IT training boot camp. The program gives you:

• Training for CompTIA A+ and ITF+ certifications
• Live virtual classes with instructors
• Help finding a job
• Career coaching

Companies sometimes create programs with CompTIA. These programs often target specific communities to fill technology job gaps.

Community college and scholarship programs

Many community colleges help you prepare for CompTIA A+ certification at lower costs, and some even throw in exam vouchers.

Southern State Community College's Short-Term Technical Certificate Scholarship works with Ohio's Department of Higher Education. This scholarship:

• Gives up to $1,000 for CompTIA A+ certification
• Pays your tuition for qualifying programs
• Works with federal financial aid
• Lets you get up to three awards worth $6,000 total

These programs usually need you to:

• Join the college and meet their requirements
• Submit your FAFSA and show you need financial help
• Live in the right state
• Have finished high school or equivalent

Check what your local community colleges offer - many have similar programs with different rules and benefits.

How to Prepare for the A+ Exams

Getting ready for CompTIA A+ exams needs smart study planning. You'll need to pick a prep method that lines up with your learning style, time, and budget.

Self-study vs instructor-led training

The way you choose between studying alone or joining a class will shape your certification experience.

Self-study comes with clear benefits:

• You control your schedule
• You learn at your speed and spend extra time on tough topics
• It's usually cheaper, with costs from free to a few hundred dollars
• You pick study materials that work best for you

But self-study has its challenges:

• You need good self-discipline
• It takes longer (about three months of steady studying)
• You must find and organize your study materials
• Nobody's there to answer your questions right away

Instructor-led training gives you different advantages:

• A well-laid-out course that builds step by step
• Quick help from experts who've passed the exam
• Ground examples from seasoned pros
• Classes keep you on track
• You finish faster (usually 40 hours over one week or several weeks)

The biggest drawback? Cost. You'll pay about $2,060 for a detailed program. These courses also need you to stick to set times, which might mean taking time off work unless your company pays for it.

Recommended study hours

Your background and study method determine how long you'll need to prepare:

Most people studying alone need 10-15 hours weekly for 3-4 months. This includes:

• Reading exam materials
• Watching videos
• Taking practice tests
• Doing hands-on labs

Students in online courses might do fine with 30 minutes daily for 3 months. More study time means faster progress.

Your experience makes a big difference. CompTIA suggests having 9-12 months of hands-on work before taking the exams. Help desk veterans should take a practice test first to spot weak areas before making their study plan.

Choosing the right learning style

Everyone learns differently. Some people do great with self-paced online tools and books. Others need classroom structure. Knowing how you learn best helps you pick the right prep method.

Visual learners often do best with video courses and demos. Hands-on learners should look for labs where they can work with real hardware and software. Reading-oriented learners might like detailed study guides and textbooks.

Using different methods often works best. Here's what you can do:

1. Set up regular study times to build a habit and avoid putting things off
2. Use practice tests to find what you need to work on
3. Mix your study materials (books, videos, practice tests) to learn things from different angles
4. Get your practice test scores above 85% before booking your exams

CompTIA's CertMaster suite offers official prep tools, including e-learning, live server labs, and tailored practice tests. You can also check out Professor Messer's free videos, but add some hands-on practice too.

Pick an approach that fits your IT knowledge, learning style, and daily schedule. IT pros might just need to brush up on exam topics, while beginners need full training in all areas.

Practice tests are key to passing. They show what you need to learn and help you get used to the test format and timing.

Best Online Courses and Practice Tests

Getting quality preparation resources makes passing the CompTIA A+ exams nowhere near as difficult. You should pick specific materials that line up with your priorities and budget after choosing your study approach.

Google IT Support Certificate

The Google IT Support Professional Certificate stands out as a complete training option that covers more than 85% of CompTIA A+ exam topics. This program has:

• A curriculum perfect for beginners
• Hands-on virtual labs and assessments
• Troubleshooting scenarios that mirror real-life situations
• A price tag of $59 monthly through Coursera Plus
• A completion timeline of 3-6 months

Certificate graduates get a 30% discount on the CompTIA A+ exam fees. Many employers value this credential on its own, and pairing it with CompTIA A+ certification creates a powerful resume combination.

A graduate shared: "The Google IT Support Professional Certificate helped give me the confidence to apply for IT roles. My hands-on learning propelled me forward despite lacking traditional background".

CompTIA CertMaster Learn + Labs

CompTIA CertMaster Learn + Labs provides a direct path to certification readiness for those wanting official preparation materials:

• Full coverage of all exam objectives
• Interactive lessons packaged as 15-30 minute presentations
• Graded virtual workbench labs to develop hands-on skills
• Virtual machine labs that simulate real-life server networks
• A completion time of 40-50 hours

The price of $916 (exam not included) makes this a premium but thorough preparation option. Students can start over if they need more review.

CertMaster excels at spotting your strengths and weaknesses to guide efficient study, though some users note practice exam questions differ from real exams.

IBM Specialization on Coursera

IBM's Preparation for CompTIA A+ Certification Specialization offers a structured path through three complete courses:

1. Core 1: Hardware and Network Troubleshooting (15 hours)
2. Core 2: OS, Software, Security and Operational Procedures (24 hours)
3. Practice Exams for CompTIA A+ Certification (9 hours)

Students pay $59 monthly through Coursera Plus and usually finish in about a month. The curriculum has:

• Expert instruction with guidance
• Hands-on exercises and projects
• Mock certification exams
• Preparation for both IBM and CompTIA credentials

Both beginners and experienced IT professionals can boost their skills through this program.

Crucial Exams 220-1201 Practice Test

Practice tests are a great way to get ready once you've studied the material. Crucial Exams CompTIA A+ 220-1201 practice test offers:

• 1,000 expert-written practice questions for Core 1
• 12 performance-based questions (PBQs) matching the exam's hands-on parts
• Custom practice test creation options
• Domain-based organization for focused study
• A free demo on their website

These tools help you experience the actual exam environment beforehand. The practice tests cover all five official CompTIA A+ 220-1201 domains: Mobile Devices, Networking, Hardware, Virtualization & Cloud Computing, and Hardware & Network Troubleshooting.

Crucial Exams 220-1202 Practice Test

Crucial Exams’ CompTIA A+ 220-1202 practice test provides these Core 2 preparation resources:

• 1,000 practice questions aligned with V15 exam objectives
• 7 performance-based questions as hands-on exercises
• Question banks sorted by domains: Operating Systems, Security, Software Troubleshooting, and Operational Procedures
• Exam simulation matching the real format and timing
• PBQ preview before purchase

The practice tests match the actual exam's 90-minute, 90-question format. This tool helps you find knowledge gaps and focus your remaining study time effectively.

How to Take the CompTIA A+ Exam

The next step after completing your studies is to take the CompTIA A+ exams. You can choose between online proctoring at home or going to a physical testing center.

How to get CompTIA A+ certification online

Start your certification journey by creating a CompTIA account with a valid email address. This account will store your exam results and certification details. Buy an exam voucher to schedule and take the test.

Online testing requires you to:

• Create a Pearson VUE account
• Download and run the OnVUE system test on your computer
• Schedule your exam through your account
• Set up a private, enclosed space to take the test

Online testing lets you schedule exams 24/7. You'll get a confirmation email with your appointment details after booking.

Online vs in-person testing

Each testing method has its advantages based on your situation.
Online testing suits you best if you:

• Want flexible scheduling (available 24/7)
• Have a quiet, private space
• Own a reliable computer with webcam and stable internet
• Feel comfortable testing from home

In-person testing at Pearson VUE centers works better if you:

• Can't find a distraction-free space
• Have unreliable internet
• Need language support (online proctoring only works in English)
• Feel more comfortable in a structured environment

Keep in mind that online testing isn't available in China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, South Korea, Slovenia, Sudan, and Syria.

System requirements and ID policies

Your system must meet these technical requirements for online exams:

• Operating system: Windows 11/10 (64-bit) or macOS 10.15+
• Internet speed: Minimum 6 Mbps download, 3 Mbps upload
• Webcam: 640x480 @ 10 fps minimum resolution
• Audio: Working microphone (no headsets allowed)
• Display: Single monitor only (no tablets unless with physical keyboard)

Both testing methods require proper identification:

• Primary ID: Government-issued with photo, name, and signature
• Secondary ID: Must show your name and signature or name and photo
• Your name must match exactly on all IDs and registration details

Students under 18 can use a school ID with guardian approval.

What to expect on exam day

Get to the testing center 30 minutes early for in-person exams. This gives you time for security checks and check-in. Personal items like phones, bags, notes, and smart devices must stay outside the testing room.

Set up your space 15 minutes before online exams:

• Keep only your ID on your desk
• Put away books, notes, and extra electronics
• Prepare for webcam photos of your testing area
• Have your ID ready

Both exam formats share the same structure. Each exam takes about 90 minutes, plus 15 minutes for the CompTIA Candidate Agreement and 15 minutes for the post-exam survey.

During your exam:

• Read each question carefully and watch your time
• Don't take photos or videos of the screen
• Stay quiet (even mumbling can trigger warnings)
• Close all background programs

You'll see your results right after finishing. Passing candidates get instructions to access their digital certificate through their CompTIA account. If you don't pass, you can retake the exam immediately. After two attempts, you'll need to wait 14 days between retakes.

What Happens After You Pass?

Congratulations on passing your CompTIA A+ exams! The "Pass" result on your screen marks a significant milestone, but a few key steps remain to maximize your new credential's value.

Getting your digital certificate

CompTIA will issue your digital certificate through your certification account once they verify your exam results. You should receive this within a few days after passing both required exams. Here's how to access your new credential:

1. Log in to your CompTIA certification account
2. Visit the "Certification" section to check your status
3. Download your digital certificate (provided in PDF format)
4. Save and print copies as needed for your records

Your digital certificate makes sharing your achievement with potential employers simple and quick. Remember to keep your login credentials secure since you'll need this account throughout your certification's active period.

Adding it to your resume and LinkedIn

A strong resume needs proper display of your new certification. Place the certification in either the education or certification section of your resume. Make sure to include:

• The full certification name (CompTIA A+)
• Your certification ID number
• The date you earned it

LinkedIn offers a streamlined process to showcase your credentials and connect with other IT professionals. Follow these steps:

1. Look for CompTIA's email containing the certification link
2. Click the link and sign in to LinkedIn if needed
3. Enter any required information (auto-filling might not be available)
4. Click "Save" to add it to your "Licenses and Certifications" section

Your certifications will appear in chronological order on LinkedIn, with recent ones at the top. Certifications without dates show up at the bottom of the list.

How long the certification lasts

Your CompTIA A+ certification stays valid for three years from your exam completion date. This gives you enough time to establish your IT career or progress to advanced certifications.

CompTIA launched the Continuing Education (CE) Renewal Program on January 1, 2011, which aligns with International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards. The program helps professionals stay current in the faster-moving IT industry.

You have three options to maintain your certification after three years:

• Complete approved activities to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
• Pass higher-level CompTIA certifications
• Retake the current A+ exams

An expired certification means you'll need to pass the latest exam version to regain your credentials. The program allows a 30-day grace period to pay outstanding CE fees or submit CEUs earned during your original renewal cycle.

Jobs You Can Get with CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ certification opens doors to several entry-level IT positions. Here are some career paths that can kickstart your technology journey.

Help desk technician

Help desk technicians work as the primary contact for users who face technical issues. Their daily work includes fixing computer problems, setting up new technologies, helping users remotely, backing up files, and configuring software. This role needs both technical knowledge and people skills since explaining complex ideas to non-technical users is crucial. The pay starts well - median salaries range from $53,383 to $63,000 per year, with room to earn more as your experience grows.

IT support specialist

IT support specialists keep computer networks and systems running smoothly. Their tasks include hardware/software installation, network monitoring, handling service requests, creating user accounts, and fixing equipment. These professionals earn around $70,000 as a median salary. Entry-level positions start near $62,000, and salaries can reach $79,000 after 10-14 years of experience.

System support roles

System support technicians connect users with complex IT infrastructure. They handle technical requests, fix hardware/software problems, set up workstations, and track IT equipment. Similar roles come with varying pay scales - desktop support specialists earn $61,165, field service technicians make between $49,743-$71,000, and associate network engineers can earn up to $98,097.

Average salaries and job outlook

Your location, experience, and specific role affect your salary significantly. IT specialists in California earn about $96,774 yearly, while those in Minnesota make around $76,000. Major companies like Dell, Intel, HP, Nissan, and Blue Cross Blue Shield actively seek CompTIA A+ certified professionals. The tech sector looks promising - the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts computer and IT jobs will grow faster than average through 2033. This growth means excellent career prospects in the long run.

Conclusion

CompTIA A+ certification opens up many IT career opportunities. This piece covers the structure of Core 1 and Core 2 exams and preparation paths that suit different budgets and learning styles. The certification's versatility makes it valuable. You can find an approach that works for you - from free nonprofit programs to traditional self-study options.

Money should not stop you from getting this credential. Organizations like Climb Hire and Per Scholas offer free paths to certification. Government programs and community colleges provide more affordable options. These choices make the $500 certification available whatever your economic situation.

Your preparation approach will substantially affect your success. Self-study works best for self-motivated learners. Students who prefer guidance benefit from instructor-led training. On top of that, practice tests from resources like Crucial Exams help strengthen your knowledge before the exam.

The digital certificate you get after passing both exams leads to roles like help desk technician, IT support specialist, and system support - all offering competitive starting salaries and strong growth potential. You get three years to build experience before choosing recertification or moving to higher-level credentials.

Note that getting certified is just the start. Your resume and LinkedIn profile should showcase your credential to catch employers' attention. Regular continuing education keeps your skills sharp in the ever-changing technology field.

CompTIA A+ certification shows employers worldwide that you understand IT fundamentals. This credential verifies your abilities and builds a foundation for career growth - whether you're starting your first tech job or formalizing existing skills. Start today by reviewing preparation options, pick a path matching your style and budget, and begin your path toward IT certification success.