How much does CompTIA A+ certification cost?
CompTIA A+ takes two exams, Core 1 and Core 2. Each exam voucher costs $274 in the US, so the exams cost $548 in all. A voucher with Retake Assurance costs $359 per exam ($718 for both) and gives you one free retake of that exam if you fail, taken before the voucher expires. Training costs from very little if you study on your own to several thousand dollars for a class. WIOA can pay for an approved program, often with both vouchers included, if you qualify.
See also WIOA IT support training and the IT support resume.
The federal list of approved training shows 2,857 IT support programs across 49 states and DC. The table below shows how many your state has, how long they run, and the best job result, so you can ask the right schools for a price.
IT support programs by state
IT support programs on each state's approved training list, mostly CompTIA A+ preparation and longer IT certificates. Lengths are as schools report them to the federal list: some are short exam courses and some are degree programs, so confirm the length with each school. From the federal Eligible Training Provider data (U.S. Department of Labor, September 2026). "Best result" is the highest share working in the second quarter after leaving, among programs with at least 10 people finished. The federal list does not carry a reliable price per student, so ask each school for its price in writing. Oklahoma does not send its list to the federal index. Tap a state for its approved schools and how to apply there.
What the price covers
Usually included: Tuition and books, often the exam vouchers (two for A+; ask whether both are in the price), and a laptop when the program requires one and the board allows it.
Exam and license fees: CompTIA A+ two exams at $274 each ($548 for both); Network+ $399.
How long it takes: 8 to 24 weeks.
Ask each school for its full price in writing, including books, uniforms, background checks, and exam fees, so you compare the same thing.
How to get IT support training for free
- WIOA. If you qualify, a WIOA training account pays an approved IT support school directly. Ask whether the program includes both A+ exam vouchers. The free Navigator checks your eligibility in about a minute.
- Free IT training programs. Per Scholas runs free IT training that includes A+ in many cities. NPower and Year Up also run free IT training in select cities; each has its own rules on who can join, such as age limits. Ask whether the exam vouchers are included.
- The GI Bill. If you are covered by the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Montgomery GI Bill (Active Duty or Selected Reserve) or Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (Chapter 35), VA pays you back for an approved certification test, up to $2,000 per test, even if you fail and take it again. It uses part of your entitlement. With the Post-9/11 GI Bill or Chapter 35, VA can also pay for an approved prep course. Check that the test is approved, keep your receipt and score report, and file VA Form 22-0803.
WIOA is a grant, not a loan. You apply at your local American Job Center. The WIOA IT support guide covers what boards pay for, and how to apply for WIOA walks through the steps.
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Sources
- U.S. Department of Labor: Training Provider Results (Eligible Training Provider data)
- CompTIA: A+ Core 1 and Core 2 (V15) exam details and voucher price
- CompTIA certification retake policy
- CompTIA exam voucher terms (expiration, refunds, retake vouchers)
- CompTIA continuing education renewal fees
- VA: GI Bill payment for licensing and certification tests