A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification demonstrates competence as an entry-level IT Technician.

CompTIA A+ certification validates entry-level skills in today's essential IT domains, including computer repair, software & operating systems, network administration, information security, cloud computing, and troubleshooting of both desktops and mobile devices. A+ certified technicians also learn customer service & communication skills in order to effectively interact with technical and non-technical employees.

CompTIA A+ certification is an ideal starting point in the learning plan of a new IT professional because:

The A+ certification exam demands no prerequisites.
A+ certification introduces candidates to the essential IT domains.
A+ certification is globally recognized as the mark of a skilled entry-level technician.
A+ certification is a mandatory hiring requirement for a variety of entry-level tech jobs.
A+ certification is a requirement or elective in the advanced certification paths of leading technology vendors, including Microsoft, Cisco, Novell, HP, and IBM.

There are numerous accredited degrees, professional certificates and self-paced online training programs featuring A+ certification exam prep and related coursework. Research and compare A+ training programs in the U.S. and online below.

A+ Training

Skills Measured by A+ Certification
CompTIA A+ Certification Exams
CompTIA A+ Certification Prerequisites
CompTIA A+ Certification Training
CompTIA A+ Certification Jobs
A+ Certification Salaries
A+ Related Certifications
A+ Certified Career Paths

Skills Measured by CompTIA A+ Certification

Here are the key skills and knowledge areas measured by the A+ certification exam. A+ certified professionals:

understand the basics of computer and mobile device hardware, software, networking and security.
can identify PC hardware, peripherals and network components in a business environment.
know how to configure and support mobile devices, PCs & Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
can categorize and explain multiple types of data storage devices and backup media.
can describe in detail the types and features of motherboard components.
know how to follow proper computer safety procedures and best practices.
have interpersonal communication skills to better interact with peers and customers.
can setup and manage popular operating systems inc. Windows, iOS, Android, Mac OS and Linux.
can install and configure input devices, e.g., keyboards, mice, bio-metric scanners and touch screens.
can implement a variety of troubleshooting techniques to fix system errors and connectivity issues.

Download the CompTIA A Plus Exam Objectives below for a more thorough curriculum.

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CompTIA A+ Certification Exams

You must pass two exams to become A+ certified. The current A+ exam versions were launched in January 2019:

CompTIA A+ Essentials - Exam # 220-1001
CompTIA A+ Practical Application - Exam # 220-1002

	CompTIA A+ Essentials Exam Objectives \| 220-1001
	CompTIA A+ Practical Application Exam Objectives \| 220-1002

A+ Exam Format: Multiple choice, Drag & drops, and Performance-based questions
Duration: The time-limit for each A+ exam is 90 minutes.
Length: Exams 220-1001 and 220-1002 contain a maximum of 90 questions each.
Exam Cost: A+ test vouchers cost $226 USD per exam.
Passing Grade: 675 out of 900 for A+ Essentials | 700 out of 900 for the Practical Application

The life-cycle of CompTIA A+ exams usually lasts around 3 years from launch. Here are the [past and upcoming] retirement dates of recent A+ certification exams:

A+ Essentials (220-701) and A+ Practical Exam (220-702) | Retirement date: August 2013
A+ Essentials (220-801) and A+ Practical Exam (220-802) | Retirement date: June 2016
A+ Essentials (220-901) and A+ Practical Exam (220-902) | Retirement date: July 2019

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CompTIA A+ Certification Prerequisites

Required: No required prerequisites for A+ certification exam
Recommended: No recommended prerequisites for A+ certification exam

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A+ Certification Training, Online Degrees & Certificates

Browse the top-rated undergrad & graduate degree programs, professional certificates, and self-paced online courses matching the CompTIA A+ Certification and related career tracks.

Admissions advisors can provide more info about A+ programs and curriculum, admissions & start dates, career placement, tuition costs and personalized financial aid options.