Complete CompTIA A+ Course Online
Prepare for the Core 1 and Core 2 Exams
Jump into CompTIA A+ certification training: fully online, self‑paced, and focused on the 220‑1201 (Core 1) and 220‑1102 (Core 2) exams. Gain hands‑on practice with labs, exam simulators, and realistic help desk scenarios. Whether you're targeting roles like IT support specialist, help desk tech, or desktop support, you’ll master hardware, networking, operating systems, mobile devices, security basics, and cloud/virtualization.
Exams towards the A+ certification
Why the A+ Is the Starting Point for IT Careers
CompTIA A+ is the most widely referenced entry-level IT credential in tech support job listings. As of August 6th, 2025, Indeed.com turns up over 8,000 job openings explicitly seeking candidates with A+ certification. With tech employment growing 1.2% in 2024 (this means about 72,500 new IT jobs across the U.S.) the demand for certified talent continues to expand.
CompTIA A+ opens access to high-demand roles such as Help Desk Technician, IT Support Specialist, Field Service Technician, Desktop Support Analyst. It also serves as the foundational credential for more advanced certifications like Network+ and Security+.
New Exam Versions: What’s Changed in 220-1201 & 220-1202?
CompTIA’s V15 exams (Core 1 → 220‑1201, Core 2 → 220‑1202) include updated content on cloud and IoT, enhanced Wi‑Fi/mobile device labs, and deeper operating system support, software diagnostics, and cybersecurity procedures. These updates reflect modern job requirements.
Who Should Take A+ Training?
Career Starters: Students, Career Changers, and Help Desk Roles
CompTIA A+ equips you with practical skills in troubleshooting, hardware, networking, and OS diagnostics, and requires no prior experience or degree According to industry data, A+ is one of the top certifications recruiters look for in help desk and entry-level support roles.
Experienced Techs: Validate and Boost Your Skills
Already working in IT? A+ certification provides vendor-neutral validation of your core hardware, software, and networking expertise and signals commitment to professional growth.
Employers & Teams: Upskill Your IT Staff Effectively
Over 87% of organizations are actively reskilling their workforce. Offering certification training like A+ helps close skills gaps, boost morale, and reduce turnover. It provides scalable team training solutions that align with evolving tech roles and cybersecurity demands.
Keith Barker
CBT Nuggets’ “OG of IT” trainer since 2012, and 2x CCIE with nearly 30 years of experience.
Simona Millham
Project management expert and Microsoft Office specialist. Certifications include PMI CAPM and Project+.
James Conrad
Microsoft-certified IT pro with 30+ years of experience in Microsoft system administration and CompTIA training.
Frequently Asked CompTIA A+ Questions
Curious about the A+ exam? Start here with the most frequently asked questions.
How much does it cost to take the CompTIA A+ exams?
The cost to take the CompTIA A+ certification exams in 2025 is typically $265 USD per exam. Since the certification requires passing two exams, Core 1 and Core 2, you can expect to pay around $530 USD total. CBT Nuggets offers unlimited A+ practice exams included with our expert-led training, to reduce the likelihood of expensive exam re-takes.
How long does it take to get A+ certified?
The time it takes to earn your CompTIA A+ certification depends on your background. For those new to IT, it generally takes 3 to 6 months of study and hands-on practice. If you already have some technical experience, you may prepare in as little as 4 to 8 weeks using focused online training programs or bootcamps. According to CBT Nuggets learner data, about half of learners studied for the A+ for less than 6 weeks.
What jobs can I get with CompTIA A+ certification?
CompTIA A+ certification qualifies you for a range of entry-level IT roles, such as IT Support Specialist, Help Desk Technician, Desktop Support Technician, Field Service Technician, and Technical Support Specialist. Many employers view the A+ as a foundational credential for launching a career in information technology.
What is the difference between CompTIA A+ Core 1 and Core 2?
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam focuses on hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization, and cloud computing, while the Core 2 exam emphasizes operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. Together, they assess a well-rounded skill set needed for real-world IT support roles.
Is CompTIA A+ worth it?
Yes, CompTIA A+ remains a valuable certification, especially for those entering the IT field. It's vendor-neutral, widely recognized by employers, and provides a strong foundation in IT skills. With the growing demand for tech professionals and IT pros, A+ certification can boost your job prospects and earning potential, making it a smart investment in your career.