.png&w=3840&q=75)
Exam format
CompTIA A+ (Core 1) Exam Format
Everything the official exam blueprint specifies: question count, time limit, scoring and the weight each domain carries. CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1101) is the first exam in the CompTIA A+ certification series. It verifies that candidates can support modern IT environments by installing, configuring, and maintaining hardware, laptops, mobile devices, and networks. The exam also covers essential cloud computing and virtualization concepts, as well as practical troubleshooting skills for hardware and network failures. Certification candidates must complete Core 1 and Core 2 (220-1102) to earn the full CompTIA A+ credential. The exam uses multiple-choice questions and performance-based simulations to measure real-world problem solving. Updating system drivers, selecting replacement power supplies, configuring a SOHO router, and following a structured troubleshooting process are examples of everyday tasks covered in this exam. The objectives reflect increasing workplace reliance on hybrid work environments, cloud services, and mobile connectivity. Passing this exam demonstrates readiness for entry-level IT support roles.
- 90 questions
- 90 min
- 75% to pass
- 5 domains
Exam facts at a glance
What we know about this exam, and where the information comes from.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Questions | 90 |
| Time limit | 90 minutes (60s per question) |
| Passing score | 75% |
| Domains | 5 |
| Level | Foundation |
| Question bank here | 90 questions |
| Source | Certilum's own record — the vendor does not publish this figure |
Official domain weights
The percentage of the exam each domain carries. Weight your revision by these numbers, not by what you find hardest.
| Domain | Weight | Topics | Practice Qs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardware | 25% |
| 22 |
| Networking | 23% |
| 21 |
| Mobile Devices | 13% |
| 12 |
| Virtualization and Cloud Computing | 11% |
| 10 |
| Hardware and Network Troubleshooting | 28% |
| 25 |
The heaviest domain is Hardware at 25%, and that is where lost points cost you the most. Certilum scores you per domain so you can see the difference between a knowledge gap and a formatting problem.
Note from the vendor record: Official price from the 'Buy Now' tab (Exam products) of the CompTIA A+ Core 1 V15 page, US/en-US market, USD pricing: 'A+ Voucher' = 274 USD. A single-use voucher works for either 220-1201 or 220-1202 (valid for 12 months); with Retake Assurance 359 USD. The full certification requires 2 vouchers (548 USD). Price may vary by country/region. Official exam page
More about the CompTIA A+ (Core 1) exam
Explore the rest of this page series: format, cost, difficulty, requirements and how to prepare.
Related certifications
Explore other certifications in the same category and see how they stack up.
Guides and articles
More context about this certification, straight from our blog.
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about the CompTIA A+ (Core 1) exam.



.png&w=3840&q=75)