Why did CompTIA create A+?

A+ was developed to: Set an industry-wide, nationally recognized standard of basic competency levels in the field of computer service Maximize efficiency in recruiting, hiring, training and promoting employees Meet the needs of today's information technology workforce by certifying individuals with in-demand skills Provide job seekers identifiable career paths, transferable skills and credentials that are industry recognized Produce the standards necessary for educators and trainers to better prepare individuals to meet today's job requirements. How the program was developed Developing the A+ service technician test modules is a rigorous, continuous and thorough process, resulting in statistically-proven validity and reliability. A long list of CompTIA member companies, including the world's largest technology vendors, distributors, resellers, and third-party maintenance organizations, joined together to develop the A+ test. Committees have developed a certification program that is relevant to the technology industry as a whole. They contributed enormous resources to ensure that all aspects of the A+ Certification examinations meet the highest quality standards. Hands-on service technicians used their real-world experience to define the test content. The questions were written by experts in the field of microcomputer service. A multi-level review process for all the questions ensures that they are accurate as well as psychometrically sound. Those who participate in writing the questions and reviewing them are confident that candidates will find the test tough but fair.

Who may take the tests?

A+ Certification is open to anyone. The A+ exam is targeted for entry-level computer service technicians with at least 6 months on-the-job experience. No specific requirements are necessary, except payment of the fee. The A+ test is available throughout the world in a variety of languages (Spanish, French, German, and Japanese,). If you have any questions, please call CompTIA Certification Customer Service at (630) 268-1818 . It is CompTIA's policy to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities who live in the United States. If you need special accommodations, please contact your test vendor 30 days before scheduling your exam.

Will the A+ exams covering the 2001 objectives include Linux?

Linux will not be included in the A+ exams covering the 2001 objectives.

What types of questions make up the A+ exams?

The A+® exams contain situational, and identification types of questions. All of the questions are multiple choice. There is either one answer for each question or the question identifies how many answers you should select.

Does CompTIA suggest any study materials for the certification tests?

Study materials are sold by third party vendors and a list of these training sources can be found on CompTIA's web site under Training Resources. These sources have paid to appear on the CompTIA web page. CompTIA has not reviewed or approved, and does not endorse any of the publications listed. CompTIA makes no representation or warranty with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the contents of any such publications, and specifically disclaims any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. CompTIA makes no guarantee concerning the success of persons using any of such publications in order to prepare for a Certification examination.

If I failed a portion of the test, will I have to pay to retake that portion?

Yes. Each time you take the test there will be a fee.