Key Takeaways:
- Pass the A+ with Proper Prep: While the CompTIA A+ exam covers a wide range of material, it’s absolutely passable with consistent study, practical labs, and the right training resources.
- Know the Format to Ease Test Stress: Familiarizing yourself with the exam structure, question types, and topic breakdown can significantly reduce anxiety and improve overall test performance.
- Succeed with Dion’s Hands-On Training: Dion Training’s expert-led courses and interactive CompTIA labs give you the real-world skills and confidence needed to tackle both exams successfully.
Are you wondering how hard the CompTIA A+ exam is? You're not alone. For many new IT professionals, the A+ feels like the first major milestone—and with good reason. It’s more than just a test; it’s a rite of passage into the tech industry.
At Dion Training, we’ve guided thousands of students through this very exam. As a CompTIA Authorized Partner, we specialize in breaking down complex concepts into clear, hands-on training. Our students don’t just memorize terms—they master the skills behind them using industry-aligned tools and CompTIA labs.
In this piece, we’ll answer the big question—how hard is the CompTIA A+ exam?—and walk you through everything from question types to common challenges, plus real strategies that will help you pass with confidence.
Is CompTIA A+ Hard? Let’s Be Honest.
The A+ certification is designed as an entry-level exam, but that doesn’t mean it’s a breeze. It’s broad in scope and covers two separate tests. Students often underestimate just how much material is involved.
When people ask, "Is CompTIA A+ hard?"—they’re usually surprised to hear that it tests both theory and practical skills. You’ll need to know how to troubleshoot devices, work with hardware, configure software, and apply cybersecurity fundamentals. It's not just memorization. You'll also need to think critically under time pressure.
But here’s the good news: most people who study the right way pass on the first try.
Ready to tackle A+ with confidence? Enroll in Dion Training’s CompTIA courses today and practice with real-world CompTIA labs to boost your readiness.
How Many Questions Are on the CompTIA A+ Exam?
Each part of the CompTIA A+ exam—220-1101 and 220-1102—includes up to 90 questions. That’s potentially 180 questions across both exams.
Question types include:
- Multiple choice (single and multiple response)
- Drag and drop
- Performance-based simulations
You get 90 minutes per exam, so time management is critical. Practice exams and CompTIA labs can help you get comfortable with the pace and format.
CompTIA A+ Difficulty: What Makes It Challenging?
There are three things that typically trip up test-takers:
- Volume of Material: You're covering networking, mobile devices, operating systems, hardware, and security—all in one cert.
- Performance-Based Questions: These simulations test your ability to apply what you’ve learned, not just regurgitate facts.
- Two-Exam Format: You need to pass both 220-1101 and 220-1102 to get certified, which doubles your study load.
Students who don’t follow a structured plan—or who skip hands-on practice—often find the exam overwhelming. That’s why we include both CompTIA courses and practice with CompTIA labs in our training packages.
What Topics Are Covered in A+?
Here’s what each exam includes:
220-1101 (Core 1)
- Mobile Devices
- Networking
- Hardware
- Virtualization and Cloud Computing
- Hardware and Network Troubleshooting
220-1102 (Core 2)
- Operating Systems
- Security
- Software Troubleshooting
- Operational Procedures
These exams reflect real-world IT scenarios. If you’re hands-on, CompTIA labs and our Core 2 Lab can reinforce your skills.
Tips to Make the A+ Exam Easier
Worried about how hard the A+ exam is? The right approach makes all the difference. Here’s what we recommend:
- Use a structured video course like CompTIA A+ 220-1101 and 220-1102.
- Review the exam objectives line-by-line.
- Don’t cram—study a little each day.
- Reinforce your learning with CompTIA labs.
- Take multiple practice exams to get used to timing.
We also have a blog with more CompTIA A+ tips if you’re just starting out.
What Do Past Students Say About the Exam?
Students who use Dion Training often tell us the A+ exam is “fair but intense.” Most say the performance-based questions caught them off guard—but were manageable with enough practice.
Others comment that the course’s ability to break down complex concepts into simple, digestible lessons is what helped them pass. One student said, “I passed both exams in 4 weeks thanks to the course structure and hands-on labs.”
How Much Does The A+ Certification Cost?
We get this question all the time. The CompTIA cost for each A+ exam is around $246—so $492 total. But there are ways to save.
Dion Training offers bundle deals that include both courses, labs, and exam vouchers. This gives you everything you need in one package and often at a lower cost than paying separately.
Can You Take A+ Without IT Experience?
Yes, absolutely. The A+ is designed for beginners. While it helps to have some experience, our CompTIA courses walk you through each topic from the ground up. If you put in the time, you can pass even if you’re switching careers or starting from scratch.
That said, the more you practice, the better you’ll do. Our CompTIA labs provide real-world scenarios to bridge the gap between theory and application.
What Comes After A+?
Once you're A+ certified, you're ready for your next move. Many students go on to earn their CompTIA Network+ certification to strengthen their understanding of networking and infrastructure.
Others might branch into Security+, Linux+, or even cloud certifications. Your A+ foundation sets the tone for success in any direction.
How Exam Anxiety Can Affect Your Performance
Even if you’ve studied hard, test anxiety can derail your performance. Many students report that nervousness, not lack of knowledge, is what leads to mistakes on the CompTIA A+ exam. The good news is that confidence comes from preparation.
Taking practice exams, simulating testing conditions, and becoming familiar with performance-based questions can significantly reduce stress on exam day. Dion Training helps students prepare not just academically but mentally by offering realistic simulations and coaching that build confidence.
How The CompTIA A+ Exam Compares To Other Entry-Level Certs
If you're comparing A+ to other entry-level certifications like Google IT Support or Microsoft Fundamentals, you’ll find that A+ stands out for its breadth. While others may focus on one area—like cloud or tech support—A+ covers a wide range of essential skills across hardware, networking, security, and operating systems. This makes it slightly more demanding but also more valuable in the long term. Employers recognize it as the gold standard for entry-level IT roles.
Study Techniques That Actually Work for A+
Not all study methods are equally effective. Passive reading rarely sticks. Instead, active techniques like flashcards, spaced repetition, and teaching the material to someone else are proven to improve retention. For hands-on learners, using Dion Training’s CompTIA labs is one of the best ways to build real-world familiarity. Pairing labs with frequent low-stakes quizzes helps lock in the knowledge you'll need on test day.
How Long Should You Study Before Taking the Exam?
The amount of time you’ll need to study depends on your background, but most students spend 8 to 12 weeks preparing. Those with no IT experience may want to budget extra time for labs and foundational concepts.
Dion Training’s structured study plans offer daily and weekly guidance to keep you on track. Staying consistent—even if you only study an hour a day—often leads to better results than last-minute cramming.
What If You Don’t Pass On The First Try?
Failing one part of the exam can feel discouraging, but it's not the end of the road. Many successful IT pros didn’t pass on the first attempt. The important thing is to review what went wrong and adjust your strategy. Focus on weak topics, retake practice tests, and revisit simulations. Dion Training offers targeted review paths and bonus resources to help you bounce back stronger and pass on your next attempt.
At Dion Training, we also offer the Take2 feature—so if you don’t pass your exam on the first try, you can retake it within six months without paying full price for a new exam voucher.
How To Know When You’re Ready To Take The Exam
A common mistake students make is scheduling the exam before they’re truly prepared. So, how do you know when you're ready? When you can consistently score 85% or higher on timed practice exams, and you’re confident in answering performance-based questions without second-guessing. Dion Training provides exam-readiness assessments that mirror real test conditions, helping you make an informed decision about when to test.
Why Hands-On Experience Makes A Difference
Theory alone won’t carry you through the CompTIA A+ exam. Real understanding comes from doing. Hands-on experience helps reinforce your memory and makes troubleshooting feel second nature. If you don’t have access to real hardware or systems, Dion Training’s CompTIA labs are the next best thing. They simulate authentic scenarios and guide you step-by-step through tasks you'll see on the job—and on the exam.
How To Structure Your Study Plan Efficiently
It’s not just about how much you study, but how you structure your time. Break your study into logical phases: first, build foundational knowledge with video lessons. Then, reinforce concepts with lab work. Next, test your understanding with quizzes. Finally, ramp up with full practice exams. Dion Training offers guided schedules based on your availability—whether you're studying full-time or squeezing it in after work.
The Long-Term Benefits Of Passing A+
Passing the A+ exam isn’t just a one-time win. It’s the key that unlocks your IT career. It qualifies you for jobs like help desk technician, IT support specialist, and field technician. Many employers list A+ as a requirement or strong preference. Even better? It lays the groundwork for higher certifications and greater earning potential down the line. It’s more than a credential—it’s your launchpad.
Final Thoughts
So—how hard is the CompTIA A+ exam? It’s as hard as your preparation makes it. Yes, the exam covers a lot, and yes, it includes performance-based challenges. But with the right tools, mindset, and guidance, you can pass and launch your IT career with confidence.
At Dion Training, we’ve helped thousands of students just like you go from overwhelmed to certified. With our CompTIA A+ 220-1101, 220-1102, and Core 2 Lab, you get everything you need in one place.
Read also:
- How to Study for CompTIA A+
- What You Need to Know About the CompTIA Network+
- How Much Does A+ Certification Really Cost?
Frequently Asked Questions About How Hard The CompTIA A+ Exam Is
How hard is CompTIA A+ for beginners?
It can feel overwhelming at first because of the wide range of topics covered, but it’s very manageable with the right approach. Structured study and practical labs—like those offered by Dion Training—can help beginners build confidence and pass the exam.
How many questions are on the CompTIA A+ exam?
Each of the two exams—220-1101 and 220-1102—includes up to 90 questions. You’ll have 90 minutes per exam, so practicing under timed conditions is important for success.
Is CompTIA A+ hard without experience?
It can be challenging, especially when facing performance-based questions that test real-world problem-solving. However, guided courses with hands-on labs can help bridge the gap for those without on-the-job experience.
How much time should I prepare for the A+ exam?
Most students need about 6–10 weeks of part-time study to prepare thoroughly. Consistent daily practice and spaced repetition are more effective than last-minute cramming.
What happens if I fail one part of the exam?
You can retake only the section you didn’t pass—either 220-1101 or 220-1102—without having to redo both. It's common to need a second try, and there’s no penalty beyond the retake fee.
Is the CompTIA A+ certification worth it?
Yes, it's one of the most respected entry-level IT certifications in the industry. Many employers list it as a requirement for help desk, technical support, and IT technician roles.
Can I use practice exams to prepare?
Absolutely—practice exams are one of the best ways to prepare for the real thing. They familiarize you with the exam format and help identify areas where you need more review.
What makes the A+ exam difficult for most people?
The broad scope of topics, the performance-based simulations, and the need to pass two separate exams can make it feel intense. But with solid preparation, especially using hands-on tools and structured content, it’s entirely doable.
