CompTia A+ Independent Study

CompTia A+ Independent Study
Monday, Juun 15, 2026 to Monday, Juun 29, 2026
Self-paced program information
Independent Study is a great option for learners who prefer to work on their own. It is best for students who are self-motivated, organized, and committed to completing their goals on time.
The course must be finished within three months of the activation date. After finishing the course, the exam must be taken within one month. If a retake is needed, it must be completed within two months of the first exam.
Please note that course materials and exam vouchers have expiration dates. These expiration dates cannot be extended.

​Students will receive access codes for all of the course materials.
This virtual program, provided through CompTIA, includes:​
Strengths and Weaknesses Assessment​
Lessons​
Performance-Based Questions (PBQs)​
Labs​
Practice Assessments​
Flashcards​
Game Center​
Additional Resources​
Instructor support ​

One to two exam vouchers are included where you will complete the exam through Pearson Vue onsite or virtual.

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. 

Pre-Assessment

If you want to check if you’re ready for the CompTIA A+ course, you can take the pre-assessment here. If you don’t pass the pre-assessment, it’s a good idea to start with CompTIA Tech+ first to build your basic skills.

Course is offered as a virtual independent study or virtual independent study on demand (includes a CompTIA instructor). 

For our independent study and on-demand CompTIA courses, there is no set start date. These courses are offered all year long. Students can begin as soon as their enrollment is complete.

When we post these courses on CareerForce, we are required to enter a start date. This date is only for the posting and does not mean the class starts on that day.

Course must be completed within three months of receiving materials and the exam is to be completed a month after completing the course. If an exam retake is needed, it must be taken within two months of the previous exam. Both the course materials and exam vouchers have expiration dates with no extensions.

Certification renewal every three years from date of the exam.

Must have a minimum CompTIA Tech+ certification to take this course.

Level: Intermediate 

After you complete our 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.
How to Participate

For more information about Minnesota Tech for Success, please visit our information session here

For our independent study and on-demand CompTIA courses, there is no set start date. These courses are offered all year long. Students can begin as soon as their enrollment is complete.

When we post these courses on CareerForce, we are required to enter a start date. This date is only for the posting and does not mean the class starts on that day.

The first step is to complete our application here.

In addition to the application, you can take the CompTIA A+ pre-assessment here to see if you are ready for the CompTIA A+ course. If you do not pass the pre-assessment, you will be required to start with CompTIA Tech+ first to build your basic skills.

In addition to the application, please complete this assessment to see if independent study is a good fit and learning style for you here.

Once the application is complete, we will contact you directly via e-mail to proceed with the enrollment steps. Please check your spam/junk mail Please allow up to five business days for a response. 

Office visits are by appointment only. 

Visit our website here.

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

A combination of public and private grants through our employment service providers partners enables most MTFS students to enroll in training at no cost. Grant eligibility is determined by various criteria, including being an individual of color, lacking a high school diploma, experiencing unstable housing, being unemployed for 15 or more weeks within the past 52 weeks, or having a criminal record. Additional eligibility factors include having an income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), living with disabilities, or possessing limited skills proficiency. Other qualifying conditions include receiving unemployment benefits (UI), TANF/MFIP/DWP, SNAP, free or reduced lunch, or SSI/SSDI benefits. Students may also qualify if they have a basic skills deficiency, are qualified military spouses, or are affected by non-work-related injuries or illnesses.​

​For students currently enrolled in MN WIOA workforce development programs, Minnesota Tech for Success is licensed by the Minnesota Office of Higher Education, WIOA-approved, and can be found on the Eligible Training Provider List (ETPL). Speak with your employment counselor about co-enrolling to support this MTFS training.

Who to Contact for More Information

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Minnesota Tech for Success

504 Malcolm Ave SE Suite 100
Minneapolis , MN 55414
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