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How Many Questions Are on the CompTIA A+ Exam? Everything You Need to Know
The CompTIA A+ certification requires passing two separate exams — Core 1 and Core 2 — each containing up to 90 questions with a 90-minute time limit. This means you face a total of up to 180 questions across both exams, making A+ one of the most comprehensive entry-level IT certifications available. Understanding the format, question types, and domain weightings for each exam is essential for efficient preparation and first-attempt success.
Plan your next step
The CompTIA A+ exam contains Up to 90 per exam questions across 2 exams. You have 90 minutes per exam to complete the exam, and you need a score of 675-700/900 to pass. The exam includes multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs), testing your knowledge across all certification domains. Understanding the exact structure helps you plan your time and preparation strategy effectively.
Before scheduling your CompTIA A+ exam, knowing exactly what you'll face is half the battle. Here's the complete breakdown of questions, timing, and what it takes to pass the A+ certification.
The CompTIA A+ certification from CompTIA validates your expertise in this field. This guide covers Up to 90 per exam questions across 90 minutes per exam, the 675-700/900 passing threshold, and strategic approaches for each question type. Whether you're scheduling your first attempt or retaking the exam, understanding format details helps optimize your preparation.
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.
CompTIA uses scaled scores: Core 1 requires 675/900 and Core 2 requires 700/900. These thresholds do not give a fixed percentage or number of correct answers. CompTIA does not disclose the detailed scoring formula.
Checked September 8, 2026: Core 1 · Core 2 · Retake policy · Scoring policy · Renewal fees.
As the industry's most widely recognized entry-level IT certification, CompTIA A+ validates foundational technology skills across hardware, software, networking, and security. According to PrepForCerts analysis, over 1.3 million professionals hold the A+ certification, and it consistently appears in the top 3 most-requested certifications for IT help desk and desktop support positions.
A+ Exam Format: Two Exams, One Certification
Unlike most IT certifications that require a single exam, A+ requires passing both Core 1 and Core 2. Each exam is independent — you can take them in any order, on different days, and even use different testing centers. However, both must be passed within a reasonable timeframe (CompTIA does not enforce a strict window between exams, but recommends completing both within 6 months).
Core 1: Hardware, Networking, and Mobile
CompTIA uses scaled scores: Core 1 requires 675/900 and Core 2 requires 700/900. These thresholds do not give a fixed percentage or number of correct answers. CompTIA does not disclose the detailed scoring formula.
| Domain | % of Exam | ~Questions | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mobile Devices | 13% | ~14 | Laptop hardware, mobile device configuration, connectivity |
| Networking | 23% | ~18 | TCP/IP, ports, protocols, Wi-Fi, network troubleshooting |
| Hardware | 25% | ~23 | Motherboards, CPUs, RAM, storage, peripherals, power supplies |
| Virtualization & Cloud | 11% | ~10 | Cloud models, virtualization concepts, cloud storage |
| Hardware & Network Troubleshooting | 28% | ~26 | Troubleshooting methodology, hardware/network issues |
Core 2: Software, Security, and Operations
CompTIA uses scaled scores: Core 1 requires 675/900 and Core 2 requires 700/900. These thresholds do not give a fixed percentage or number of correct answers. CompTIA does not disclose the detailed scoring formula.
| Domain | % of Exam | ~Questions | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating Systems | 28% | ~20 | Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS installation and features |
| Security | 28% | ~22 | Malware, social engineering, encryption, authentication, physical security |
| Software Troubleshooting | 23% | ~20 | OS issues, application problems, browser troubleshooting |
| Operational Procedures | 21% | ~29 | Documentation, change management, disaster recovery, professionalism |
CompTIA A+ Exam Structure Overview
The CompTIA A+ exam is designed to thoroughly assess your knowledge and skills. Here's the complete breakdown of what you'll face:
Total Questions: Up to 90 per exam Time Allowed: 90 minutes per exam Passing Score: 675-700/900 Number of Exams: 2 (you must pass all 2 exams to earn the certification)
The exam is administered by CompTIA and can be taken at authorized testing centers or online with live proctoring. The questions are designed to test both theoretical knowledge and practical application of concepts.
Multiple Exam Requirements
Since CompTIA A+ requires passing 2 separate exams, you'll need to prepare for each one individually. Each exam focuses on different domains and competencies. Many candidates choose to study for and take the exams sequentially, allowing time between exams to focus on specific content areas.
Question Types on Both A+ Exams
Both Core 1 and Core 2 use the same question format mix:
Multiple-Choice Questions (70-80% of exam)
Single-answer questions present four options with one correct answer. These are straightforward knowledge tests. Multiple-answer questions explicitly state how many options to select (e.g., "Choose TWO") — you must select exactly the right number for full credit. No partial credit is awarded.
Performance-Based Questions (PBQs)
PBQs are simulated environments where you must complete tasks hands-on. Typically 3-5 PBQs per exam, appearing at the beginning. Common PBQ scenarios include:
- Core 1: Configure a wireless router, set up a SOHO network, identify hardware components, troubleshoot connectivity issues
- Core 2: Configure Windows firewall, set up user accounts and permissions, troubleshoot OS boot issues, configure email clients
PBQs typically take 5-10 minutes each. The recommended strategy is to flag them and return later after completing the multiple-choice questions. This ensures you answer the maximum number of questions even if you run short on time for PBQs.
Drag-and-Drop Questions
These require matching items or placing them in the correct order. Examples include matching port numbers to protocols, ordering troubleshooting steps, or classifying hardware components by category. They test organizational knowledge and systematic thinking.
Types of Questions You Will See
The CompTIA A+ exam includes multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs). Understanding each question type helps you prepare effectively:
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQ) The majority of questions are traditional multiple-choice with four answer options. Some questions may have multiple correct answers, which will be clearly indicated (e.g., "Select TWO answers").
Performance-Based Questions (PBQs) PBQs require you to complete tasks in a simulated environment. You might configure settings, troubleshoot issues, or demonstrate hands-on skills. Review the task instructions carefully. CompTIA does not publish detailed question weighting.
Question Distribution by Domain
Questions are distributed across all exam domains based on their weight in the exam objectives. Higher-weighted domains have more questions. Review the official exam objectives to understand the percentage breakdown for each domain.
Time Management: 90 Questions in 90 Minutes
With approximately 1 minute per question, time management is critical on A+ exams. Here is a proven approach:
Two-Pass Strategy
- First pass (55-60 minutes): Skip all PBQs by flagging them. Work through multiple-choice and drag-and-drop questions at 40-50 seconds each. Answer confidently, flag uncertainties, never leave blanks.
- Second pass (25-30 minutes): Return to flagged PBQs and difficult questions. With standard questions completed, you can focus entirely on complex scenarios without anxiety.
- Final review (5 minutes): Check for unanswered questions. CompTIA does not penalize for guessing — always answer everything.
Common Time Traps
- PBQ rabbit holes: Spending 15+ minutes on a single PBQ. Set a mental limit of 8-10 minutes per PBQ and move on.
- Second-guessing: Your first instinct is usually correct. Only change answers if you find clear evidence the original answer is wrong.
- Over-reading: Some questions have lengthy scenarios. Focus on the actual question being asked, not the narrative padding.
Time Management Strategy
With Up to 90 per exam questions in 90 minutes per exam, time management is critical. Here's how to approach it:
Calculate Your Average Time Per Question Divide your total time by the number of questions to get your baseline pace. For CompTIA A+, this works out to approximately 60 seconds per question on average.
Strategy for Maximum Efficiency: 1. First Pass (60% of time): Answer all questions you're confident about. Mark difficult questions for review. 2. Second Pass (30% of time): Return to marked questions and work through them carefully. 3. Final Review (10% of time): Check your answers, especially on questions you marked for review.
PBQ Time Allocation Performance-based questions take longer than multiple-choice. Budget 5-10 minutes per PBQ. Many experts recommend flagging PBQs initially, completing multiple-choice questions first, then returning to PBQs with remaining time.
Don't Get Stuck
If you spend more than 2 minutes on any single multiple-choice question without progress, mark it and move on. Spending too much time on difficult questions can prevent you from answering easier questions you know well.
A+ vs. Other Entry-Level IT Certifications
| Certification | Questions | Time | Passing Score | Cost | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CompTIA A+ (2 exams) | Up to 90 each | 90 min each | 675-700/900 | Current booking price | Hardware, OS, networking, security |
| CompTIA ITF+ | Up to 75 | 60 min | 650/900 | $139 | IT fundamentals (pre-A+) |
| Google IT Support | Coursework | Self-paced | 80% per course | $49/month | IT support foundations |
| Microsoft MD-102 | 40-60 | 120 min | 700/1000 | $165 | Windows endpoint management |
| Cisco CCT | 60-70 | 90 min | Variable | $165 | Cisco hardware support |
A+ covers hardware, operating systems, networking, and support tasks across two exams. Compare its two-exam cost and topic breadth with the alternatives in the table and the requirements of your target role; no certification guarantees a salary increase.
Study Strategy: Preparing for Both Exams
Recommended Study Timeline
| Experience Level | Core 1 Prep | Core 2 Prep | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Complete beginner | 6-8 weeks | 6-8 weeks | 12-16 weeks |
| Some IT exposure | 4-5 weeks | 4-5 weeks | 8-10 weeks |
| Help desk experience | 3-4 weeks | 3-4 weeks | 6-8 weeks |
Which Exam Should I Take First?
Most candidates take Core 1 first because hardware and networking concepts provide the foundation for Core 2's software and security topics. However, if you have strong software skills but limited hardware experience, you could start with Core 2 to build confidence with a first-attempt pass.
High-Impact Study Areas
Focus your study time on the highest-weighted domains:
- Core 1 — Hardware & Network Troubleshooting (28%): Master the CompTIA troubleshooting methodology (identify, theory, test, establish plan, verify, document). Know common hardware failures and their symptoms.
- Core 1 — Hardware (25%): Know motherboard form factors, CPU socket types, RAM types (DDR4/DDR5), storage interfaces (SATA, NVMe), and power supply specifications.
- Core 2 — Operational Procedures (21%): Understand documentation best practices, change management processes, incident response procedures, and professional communication standards.
- Core 2 — Security (28%): Know malware types, social engineering techniques, encryption methods, authentication factors, and physical security measures.
How to Prepare for Up to 90 per exam Questions
Preparing for Up to 90 per exam questions across all domains requires a strategic approach:
1. Master the Exam Objectives Every question is tied to the official exam objectives. Get the current objectives from CompTIA and use them as your study checklist.
2. Practice with Realistic Questions Complete at least 500+ practice questions before your exam. Focus on questions that match the exam format, including multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs).
3. Time Your Practice Exams Take full-length practice exams under timed conditions. This builds stamina and helps you calibrate your pacing for the real exam.
4. Focus on Weak Domains Use practice test results to identify domains where you score below 80%. Concentrate additional study time on these areas.
5. Understand, Don't Memorize With Up to 90 per exam questions covering diverse scenarios, memorization alone won't work. Focus on understanding concepts so you can apply them to novel situations.
Key Differences Between Core 1 and Core 2
| Aspect | Core 1 | Core 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Hardware, networking, mobile | Software, security, operations |
| Passing Score | 675/900 | 700/900 |
| Difficulty Perception | Easier (more concrete topics) | Harder (more abstract concepts) |
| PBQ Types | Network config, hardware ID | OS config, security setup |
| Study Approach | Visual + hands-on labs | Scenario practice + memorization |
Scoring and Passing Requirements
Understanding how CompTIA A+ scoring works helps you set realistic goals:
Scaled Scoring CompTIA uses scaled scores: Core 1 requires 675/900 and Core 2 requires 700/900. These thresholds do not give a fixed percentage or number of correct answers. CompTIA does not disclose the detailed scoring formula. Some questions may be unscored "beta" questions being tested for future exams, but you won't know which ones—answer all questions as if they count.
Required Correct Answers: There is no published fixed count or percentage of correct answers needed to pass. Use the scaled thresholds for the official result and practice questions to identify learning gaps.
Score Report
After the exam, your score report lists objectives to review. If you don't pass, this report helps identify weak areas for focused study before your retake. Use those objectives and your practice notes to guide further learning.
Facts and planning estimates
- Questions
- Up to 90 per exam
- Time Limit
- 90 minutes per exam
- Passing Score
- 675-700/900
- Question Types
- multiple-choice
Study tips
CompTIA exams often front-load Performance-Based Questions—consider flagging them initially and returning after completing multiple-choice sections.
Focus on the official CompTIA exam objectives as your study checklist—every question ties directly to these objectives.
CompTIA scenario questions often include irrelevant details. Identify what they're actually asking before reading answer choices.
Use CompTIA CertMaster Labs or similar environments to get hands-on practice that mirrors PBQ scenarios.
CompTIA exams test both theoretical knowledge and practical application—balance your study between concepts and labs.
Review CompTIA's official acronym list—you'll encounter many during the exam without explanation.
Common mistakes to avoid
Underestimating the exam because it's "entry-level"—these certifications still require serious preparation.
Relying solely on work experience without structured study of exam objectives.
Skipping hands-on practice and focusing only on theory and memorization.
Not taking enough practice tests under realistic, timed conditions.
Rushing through the exam and missing key details in question wording.
Changing answers without a specific reason—second-guessing often leads to errors.
Ready to Practice CompTIA A+ Questions?
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam?
The CompTIA A+ Core 1 exam contains up to 90 questions to be completed in 90 minutes. Questions include multiple-choice, multiple-select, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions (PBQs).
How long do I have to complete each A+ exam?
You have 90 minutes per exam for both Core 1 and Core 2. This gives you approximately 1 minute per question, making time management critical — especially with PBQs that can take 5-10 minutes each.
What is the passing score for CompTIA A+?
CompTIA uses scaled scores: Core 1 requires 675/900 and Core 2 requires 700/900. These thresholds do not give a fixed percentage or number of correct answers. CompTIA does not disclose the detailed scoring formula.
Are performance-based questions harder than multiple choice?
PBQs are generally more challenging because they require hands-on problem-solving in simulated environments rather than simple recall. They test real-world skills like configuring networks and troubleshooting hardware.
Can I take Core 2 before Core 1?
Yes, CompTIA allows you to take the exams in any order. Most candidates start with Core 1 since hardware topics provide foundational context for Core 2's software and security content.
How much does the CompTIA A+ exam cost total?
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.
How many PBQs are on the A+ exam?
Typically 3-5 PBQs appear per exam, usually at the beginning. They cover hands-on scenarios like configuring wireless networks, setting up email clients, partitioning drives, and troubleshooting connectivity.
How long should I study for A+?
Most candidates need 8-12 weeks total (4-6 weeks per core exam) studying 1-2 hours daily. Those with help desk experience may prepare faster, while complete beginners should allow 12-16 weeks.
How many questions are on the CompTIA A+ exam?
The CompTIA A+ exam features Up to 90 per exam questions across 2 exams. You have 90 minutes per exam to complete all questions. Note that some exams include unscored beta questions being tested for future use.
Are all A+ exam questions scored?
CompTIA may include unscored "beta" or "pilot" questions for future exam development. Since you can't identify which questions are unscored, treat every question as if it counts toward your final A+ score.
What types of questions are on A+?
The CompTIA A+ exam includes multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs). Multiple-choice questions form the majority of the exam. Some questions require selecting multiple correct answers, which will be clearly indicated.
How much time do I have for the CompTIA A+ exam?
With Up to 90 per exam questions in 90 minutes per exam, you have approximately 60 seconds per question on average. Some questions require more time than others, so pace yourself strategically.
Can I skip questions and come back later on A+?
Yes, CompTIA A+ allows marking questions for review and returning to them later. Many successful candidates answer confident questions first, then revisit challenging ones.
What score do I need to pass CompTIA A+?
CompTIA A+ requires 675-700/900 to pass. CompTIA does not disclose its detailed scoring formula. Target 85%+ on practice exams before scheduling your attempt.
How many questions can I miss on A+?
Based on the 675-700/900 passing score, you need roughly 68% correct answers. This allows missing approximately 29 questions, though this varies with question weighting.
Are A+ questions randomized?
Yes, CompTIA A+ draws questions from a large pool and randomizes order. No two exam experiences are identical. This prevents memorization of specific question sequences.
Practice A+ Questions
Test your knowledge with adaptive practice questions covering all domains for both Core 1 and Core 2 exams.
Start Free Practice Test →Practice & quick reference
- Free CompTIA A+ Practice Test 2026: 90+ Questions with Explanations Free practice test
Study tools & plans
- A+ Study Guide
- What Is CompTIA A+? Complete certification overview and career benefits.
- How to Pass CompTIA A+ Study strategies and exam tips.
- CompTIA A+ Exam Objectives Explained (2026 Domain Guide) Exam objectives
- CompTIA A+ Weekend Study Plan: Certification for Busy Professionals 2026 Study plan
Exam facts & renewal
- What If I Fail A+?
- Does A+ Expire? Does it expire?
- Is A+ Hard? Difficulty
- Network+ Question Count
- Security+ Question Count
- CompTIA A+ Renewal: CEUs, Costs & Deadlines (2026) Renewal & CE
Career & comparisons
- Is CompTIA A+ Worth It in 2026? Complete ROI Analysis Worth it?
- A+ Without Experience: 2026 Guide Without experience