COMPTIA A+ / EXAM COST Budget for both exams.
Plan the whole journey.
Look at the exam fees together, then account for preparation and available discounts before you choose what to buy.
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CompTIA A+ Exam Cost 2026: Complete Pricing Guide
Understanding the full cost of CompTIA A+ certification is essential for budgeting your IT career launch. Unlike many professional certifications that charge a single fee, CompTIA A+ requires passing two separate exams—Core 1 and Core 2—each with its own voucher purchase. This guide breaks down every cost you'll encounter, from exam vouchers and study materials to renewal fees and hidden expenses, along with proven strategies to reduce your total investment in 2026.
Plan your next step
Check the current regional voucher price on CompTIA’s booking site. A+ requires two exam purchases; include study materials and any retake in your budget. Study-material ranges on this page are illustrative; check current prices and your chosen package.
Understanding the true cost of CompTIA A+ certification is essential for planning your IT career investment. Beyond the base exam fees, you'll need to budget for study materials, practice tests, and potentially retakes. This comprehensive guide breaks down every cost component to help you budget effectively and find legitimate ways to save money on your certification journey.
Current A+ exam and policy guidance
A+ V15 uses 220-1201 and 220-1202. Both exams must be from the same version. Each allows up to 90 questions in 90 minutes; Core 1 requires 675/900 and Core 2 requires 700/900. Study schedules and preparation budgets on this page are planning examples, not guaranteed outcomes or current price quotes.
There is no required waiting period between the first and second attempts at the same exam. Before a third or later attempt, wait at least 14 calendar days from the last attempt. Each new attempt requires payment or an applicable prepaid retake voucher.
A+ CE requires 20 CEUs during the 3-year cycle. When renewing by uploading CEUs, the CE fee is US$75 total for the cycle, not an annual fee. Eligible higher certifications, the latest exam release, or CertMaster CE can renew A+ without a separate CE fee; check which route fully renews your credential.
Checked September 8, 2026: Core 1 · Core 2 · Retake policy · Scoring policy · Renewal fees.
CompTIA A+ Exam Fees at a Glance
The CompTIA A+ certification consists of two exams that must both be passed to earn the credential. You can take them in any order, though most candidates start with Core 1 since it covers hardware and networking fundamentals that provide context for Core 2's software and security topics. Each exam is purchased separately, giving you flexibility to space them out financially if needed.
Core 1
Mobile devices, networking, hardware, virtualization, cloud computing
Current regional price USDCore 2
Operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, operational procedures
Current regional price USDTotal Exam Voucher Cost
Current regional price USDOfficial Exam Fees Breakdown
CompTIA A+ requires two exams, each with its own registration fee. Core 1 covers mobile devices, networking, hardware, virtualization, and cloud computing. Core 2 covers operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. Prices vary by region and purchase package; check the current CompTIA booking price. You can register through CompTIA and its testing partner Pearson VUE.
Current Pricing Structure
CompTIA typically adjusts prices annually, so verify current rates before purchasing vouchers. Both online proctored and in-person testing center options are available at the same price.
Complete Cost Breakdown: What You'll Actually Spend
The exam vouchers are just part of the equation. Most candidates invest in additional resources to maximize their chances of passing on the first attempt. Here's what a realistic budget looks like depending on your study approach:
| Expense | Self-Study | Guided Study | Bootcamp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exam vouchers (2 exams) | Current booking price | Current booking price | Included |
| Study guide / textbook | $40-$60 | $40-$60 | Included |
| Video course (Udemy, etc.) | $15-$50 | $30-$300 | Included |
| Practice tests | $0-$50 | $30-$100 | Included |
| Lab equipment (optional) | $0-$100 | $0-$100 | Provided |
| Total estimate | $560-$766 | $606-$1,066 | $1,500-$3,000 |
Total Certification Investment
The complete cost extends beyond two exam fees. Add the current regional voucher prices to your chosen study resources and any retake allowance. Free resources include Professor Messer videos, library books, and the official exam objectives. For an illustrative materials budget, allow $30–$300 for a premium video course and $30–$100 for practice materials, then check current product prices. Paid resources are optional; the amount you need depends on your preparation approach.
ROI Perspective
Compare the complete certification budget with the requirements in local job advertisements. A+ can support applications for entry-level IT work, but it does not guarantee employment, a salary increase, or a payback period.
7 Proven Ways to Save Money on CompTIA A+
The sticker price doesn't have to be what you pay. Smart candidates regularly save 20-50% on their total certification cost using these strategies:
1. Academic / student discounts. Check CompTIA’s current academic purchase rules and your school’s approved program. Eligibility, discounts, and voucher restrictions vary; verify them before paying.
2. CertMaster bundle packages. Compare packages that combine exam vouchers with CertMaster Learn, Labs, or Practice. Check the included exam version, access period, and any prepaid retake terms against the prices of the products you need separately.
Check the current DoD 8140 requirements for your target work role and employer. A certification does not establish eligibility for every government role.
4. Military and veteran programs. Active-duty military, veterans, and military spouses can often obtain free exam vouchers through programs like the DoD's Credentialing Opportunities On-Line (COOL) program, the GI Bill, and VET TEC. These programs cover 100% of exam costs for qualifying certifications.
5. Third-party voucher discounts. Authorized training providers like Dion Training, Total Seminars, and others occasionally offer discounted vouchers as part of course packages. Watch for seasonal sales around Black Friday, New Year, and back-to-school periods when discounts of 10-20% are common.
6. Free study resources. You don't need to spend hundreds on study materials. Professor Messer's free video courses, CompTIA's own exam objectives document, and community resources like r/CompTIA on Reddit provide substantial preparation at zero cost. Pair free resources with affordable practice tests for an effective low-budget study plan.
7. Prepare before booking. A further attempt requires payment or a prepaid retake voucher. Review all objectives and practical tasks, then use several practice sets to check your progress. A target such as 85% can guide review but does not guarantee a pass.
Discount and Voucher Options
Several legitimate options exist to reduce your certification costs significantly. Students and faculty at accredited institutions can access CompTIA Academic Store pricing, subject to current eligibility and voucher terms. Many employers reimburse certification costs or provide vouchers directly. CompTIA offers CertMaster bundles that include training materials and exam vouchers at a reduced total price.
Academic Discounts
You'll need a valid .edu email address or student ID for verification. This is one of the best discounts available for students.
CompTIA A+ vs Other Certification Costs
How does A+ pricing compare to other entry-level and mid-level IT certifications? Understanding the competitive landscape helps you evaluate your investment:
| Certification | Exam Cost | Exams Required | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| CompTIA A+ | Current booking price | 2 | Current booking price |
| CompTIA Network+ | Current booking price | 1 | Current booking price |
| CompTIA Security+ | $404 | 1 | $404 |
| Cisco CCNA | $330 | 1 | $330 |
| AWS Cloud Practitioner | $100 | 1 | $100 |
A+ covers both hardware and software across two exams. Compare the full two-exam budget with the skills and credentials requested for your target role. The broader coverage may be useful, but a certification does not guarantee employment or a specific return.
Ongoing Costs: Renewal and Continuing Education
CompTIA A+ is valid for three years from the date you earn the certification by passing both exams. After that, you must renew to keep the certification active. The renewal process offers two paths:
A+ CE requires 20 CEUs during the 3-year cycle. When renewing by uploading CEUs, the CE fee is US$75 total for the cycle, not an annual fee. Eligible higher certifications, the latest exam release, or CertMaster CE can renew A+ without a separate CE fee; check which route fully renews your credential.
Option 2: Pass a higher-level CompTIA certification. Earning Network+, Security+, Cloud+, CySA+, PenTest+, CASP+, or any certification higher on the CompTIA pathway automatically renews A+ (and all lower certifications). This is the recommended approach because you gain an additional credential while satisfying the renewal requirement—effectively getting double value for one exam fee.
Is CompTIA A+ Worth the Investment?
For aspiring IT professionals, A+ can support entry-level applications for help desk, desktop support, and IT technician roles. Further experience and training can support progression toward system administrator or network technician positions. Compare your local job requirements and complete preparation budget. Certification signals foundational knowledge but does not guarantee a role, salary, or fixed return on investment.
Practice Free Before You Pay
Make sure you're ready before spending on exam vouchers.
Start Free Practice Test →Facts and planning estimates
- Per Exam Cost
- Check current regional price
- Total (Both Exams)
- Check current regional price
- Voucher Discount
- Check eligibility and current offer
- Retake Wait Period
- 14 Days
Retake Policy and Costs
There is no required waiting period between the first and second attempts at the same exam. Before a third or later attempt, wait at least 14 calendar days from the last attempt. Each new attempt requires payment or an applicable prepaid retake voucher. There's no limit on the number of retakes, but each attempt requires a new voucher at full price unless you purchased a retake bundle. CompTIA offers exam bundles that include one retake at a reduced total cost, providing peace of mind if you don't pass on the first attempt.
Retake Bundles
Consider your confidence level and study preparation when deciding whether to purchase a retake bundle upfront.
Put the guide into practice
Assess Available Discounts
Check if you qualify for academic, military, or employer discounts before purchasing anything.
Even if you're not a student, check if local community colleges offer CompTIA prep courses with discounted vouchers included.
Create Your Study Plan Timeline
Decide how long you'll study (typically 2-4 months) and schedule your exam dates.
Most vouchers are valid for 12 months, giving you flexibility.
Select Study Materials
Choose a combination of free and paid resources that fit your budget and learning style.
Wait for Udemy sales to purchase courses at 80-90% off regular prices.
Purchase Exam Vouchers
Buy vouchers through official channels or authorized partners.
Some third-party voucher resellers offer legitimate discounts, but verify authenticity.
Study tips
Never pay full price—there's almost always a discount available through academic programs, employers, or promotional periods.
Purchase exam vouchers only when you're within 2-3 weeks of being exam-ready to avoid expiration concerns.
Use free resources first (Professor Messer, exam objectives) before investing in premium materials.
Consider the retake bundle if you're new to IT or standardized testing—it provides valuable peace of mind.
Check if your local library offers free access to LinkedIn Learning or other IT training platforms.
Common mistakes to avoid
Buying vouchers too early before you're ready to test, risking expiration stress.
Skipping practice exams to save money—they're crucial for success and cheaper than a retake.
Not checking for employer reimbursement before paying out-of-pocket.
Purchasing from unauthorized voucher sellers that may be invalid or stolen.
Over-investing in study materials when free resources are often sufficient.
Study perspective
Compare the complete certification budget with the requirements in local job advertisements. A+ can support applications for entry-level IT work, but it does not guarantee employment, a salary increase, or a payback period.
Start Your A+ Certification Journey
Our practice tests help you prepare efficiently, potentially saving money on retakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does the CompTIA A+ exam cost in 2026?
Check the current regional voucher price on CompTIA’s booking site. A+ requires two exam purchases; include study materials and any retake in your budget. Study-material ranges on this page are illustrative; check current prices and your chosen package.
Can I get a discount on CompTIA A+ exams?
Yes, several discounts are available: eligible student purchase programs, CertMaster bundle packages, employer sponsorship programs, and military/veteran free vouchers through DoD programs. Third-party training providers also offer seasonal voucher offers; check the current terms.
Yes! Eligible students can check current academic purchase offers. Military personnel, IT professionals through employers, and those purchasing training bundles also have discount options.
What happens if I fail the CompTIA A+ exam?
There is no required waiting period between the first and second attempts at the same exam. Before a third or later attempt, wait at least 14 calendar days from the last attempt. Each new attempt requires payment or an applicable prepaid retake voucher.
Are CompTIA A+ renewal fees worth it?
A+ CE requires 20 CEUs during the 3-year cycle. When renewing by uploading CEUs, the CE fee is US$75 total for the cycle, not an annual fee. Eligible higher certifications, the latest exam release, or CertMaster CE can renew A+ without a separate CE fee; check which route fully renews your credential.
Is CompTIA A+ worth the money?
Compare the complete certification budget with the requirements in local job advertisements. A+ can support applications for entry-level IT work, but it does not guarantee employment, a salary increase, or a payback period.
Can my employer pay for CompTIA A+ certification?
Many employers offer tuition reimbursement or professional development budgets that cover certification costs. Government contractors and DoD employers frequently cover CompTIA certifications as part of compliance requirements. Even companies without formal programs often approve one-time education expenses when asked.
What is the total cost including study materials?
Build your total from two current exam vouchers, chosen study materials, and any retake provision. As a planning example, study materials might receive a $50–$300 allowance and practice tests $30–$100; check actual prices before purchase.
How much does it cost to retake the CompTIA A+ exam?
Check the current regional voucher price on CompTIA’s booking site. A+ requires two exam purchases; include study materials and any retake in your budget. No waiting period is required after the first failure. Before a third or later attempt, wait at least 14 calendar days from the last attempt.
Do exam vouchers expire?
Yes, most CompTIA exam vouchers expire 12 months from purchase date.
Is the CompTIA A+ worth the investment?
Compare the complete certification budget with the requirements in local job advertisements. A+ can support applications for entry-level IT work, but it does not guarantee employment, a salary increase, or a payback period.
Practice & quick reference
- Free Practice Test Free practice test
Study tools & plans
- How to Pass
- CompTIA A+ Exam Objectives Explained (2026 Domain Guide) Exam objectives
- CompTIA A+ Weekend Study Plan: Certification for Busy Professionals 2026 Study plan
- CompTIA A+ Study Guide Complete preparation roadmap for both exams
- CompTIA A+ Exam Tips Expert strategies to pass on your first attempt
- What is CompTIA A+? Complete overview of the certification
Exam facts & renewal
- Passing Score
- A+ Renewal Requirements What it costs to keep A+ activeRenewal & CE
- Is CompTIA A+ Hard? Difficulty Analysis & Pass Rate in 2026 Difficulty
- A+ Exam: Up to 90 per exam Questions (2026) How many questions
- Does A+ Expire? 2026 Renewal Guide Does it expire?
- Network+ Cost
- Security+ Cost