CompTia A+ Independent Study

CompTia A+ Independent Study
Thursday, Octubre 15, 2026 to Friday, Octubre 16, 2026
Self-paced program information
Self-Paced Program
Independent study is a good option if you prefer to work on your own. You will complete the course on your own schedule. This option works best for students who are able to work independently and stay on track with their goals.

Course and Exam Deadlines
Complete the course: Within three months of the date your course access begins.
Take the exam: Within one month after completing the course.
Retake the exam, if needed: Within two months of your first exam.
Your course materials and exam vouchers have expiration dates. These dates cannot be extended.

What Is Included
You will receive access codes for all of your course materials.

The virtual program is provided through CompTIA and includes:
Skills assessment
Lessons
Performance-Based Questions (PBQs): Practice questions that simulate real-world tasks
Labs
Practice assessments
Flashcards
Game Center
Additional resources
Instructor support
Exam Vouchers

The program includes one or two exam vouchers. You will take the exam through Pearson VUE, either at a testing center or online.

CompTIA A+ is the industry standard for establishing a career in Information Technology (IT) and is the preferred qualifying credential for technical support and IT operational roles.  It is about much more than PC repair.  Candidates are better prepared to troubleshoot and problem solve, and technicians better understand a wide variety of issues ranging from networking and operating systems to mobile devices and security.  A+ supports the ability to connect users to the data they need to do their jobs regardless of the devices being used.
 
A+ Core 1 & 2 Course includes:

  • 20 days of hands-on, instructor-led online training
  • Classes are held Monday-Friday, times vary
  • A+ Core 1 & Core 2 exam vouchers (includes free retakes)
  • CertMaster Labs for A+ Core 2
  • CertMaster Practice for A+ Core 1 & 2
  • CertMaster Learn for Instructor-Led Training for A+

Recommended Level of Digital Fluency

Students should be able to:

  • Confidently navigate and use the Windows operating system
  • Understand basic computer hardware, like the CPU, RAM, and storage
  • Install and uninstall software applications
  • Configure basic system settings and preferences
  • Perform basic troubleshooting, such as restarting the computer or checking connections

Other Recommended Prior Learning

  • High school–level math and reading skills
  • Basic understanding of computer parts and peripherals
  • Experience with building, upgrading, or repairing computers (as a hobby or in class)
  • Interest in technical support and helping others with technology
  • Basic knowledge of networking, such as connecting to Wi-Fi and understanding the internet

Recommended Prerequisite CompTIA Certifications (or Similar Learning)

  • Tech+ is strongly recommended for students with limited technology experience
  • Similar learning can come from hands-on experience in computer labs, tech clubs, or personal projects
  • Structured IT training, such as CompTIA Academy courses, is also helpful. 

Course Level: Intermediate

Pre-Assessment

If you want to check if you are ready for the CompTIA A+ course, you can take a pre-assessment here.

This assessment is optional. You do not need to complete it.

If you do not pass the pre-assessment, we recommend starting with CompTIA Tech+ first to build your basic computer skills.

Course Options

This course is offered in one of two ways:

  • Virtual independent study: You complete the course online on your own schedule.
  • Virtual independent study on demand: You complete the course online on your own schedule with support from a CompTIA instructor.
Online Learning

This course is delivered through the CompTIA virtual learning platform.

Course Start Date

This course is available all year. You can start your course when your enrollment is complete.

When this course is posted on CareerForce, we are required to enter a start date. The date shown on CareerForce is only for the job posting. It is not the date your course starts.

Course and Exam Deadlines
  • Complete the course: Within three months of receiving your course materials.
  • Take the exam: Within one month after completing the course.
  • Retake the exam, if needed: Within two months of your last exam.

Your course materials and exam vouchers have expiration dates. These dates cannot be extended.

Skills You Need

You must have a CompTIA Tech+ certification before taking this course.

Certification Renewal

Your certification must be renewed every three years from the date you take the exam.

Career and Job Support

After you complete the course and pass the exam, we offer career exploration and job support through our MTFS Gather Program.

Online or Virtual Information
CompTIA virtual learning platform.
Industry
All Industries
Information Technology
How to Participate

Minnesota Tech for Success (MTFS), a CareerForce partner, offers independent study and on-demand CompTIA courses year-round. You can begin once your enrollment process is complete.

Please note: The start date listed on CareerForce is for the job posting only and does not determine when your course begins.

Education and Basic Skills
  • A high school diploma or GED is generally preferred by employers for related positions but is not required to enroll in these courses.
  • Participants should have basic math and reading skills at approximately an 8th-grade level, along with sufficient English proficiency to understand instructions and complete course activities.
How to Enroll

1. Complete the Application

Submit the Minnesota Tech for Success application.

2. Watch for an Email

We will email you with next steps. Please allow up to five business days for a response, and check your spam or junk folder if you don't see our email.

Is Independent Study Right for You?

You can complete our optional independent study assessment to see if this learning format is a good fit. The assessment is not required.

Office Visits

Office visits are by appointment only. Please contact us before visiting.

Learn More
Outcomes

Students will receive a certification in CompTIA A+.

Students with CompTIA A+ training and certification can pursue IT careers such as Help Desk Technician, IT Specialist, Field Service Technician, IT Support Manager, Business Analyst, Data Support Technician, Technical Support Specialist, MSP Personnel, IT Server Technician 

Program Costs

100% of your training costs will be covered through grants.

To qualify, you must meet at least one of the following requirements:

  • Be a person of color.
  • Have a household income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).

Who to Contact for More Information

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Minnesota Tech for Success

504 Malcolm Ave SE Suite 100
Minneapolis , MN 55414
Phone
612-383-2400

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