What is the CompTIA A+ Passing Score? Must-Know Infomation

What is the CompTIA A+ passing score? A simple question with a surprisingly complex answer. If you think it’s just about getting 70% of the questions right, think again. CompTIA uses a scaled scoring system that turns raw results into a number, leaving many test-takers scratching their heads. So, how do you know if you’ve done enough? In this guide, we’ll break down the exact scores you need to pass Core 1 and Core 2, explain how the scoring works behind the scenes, and give you smart strategies to walk into exam day with confidence.

CompTIA A+ passing score

What is the CompTIA A+ passing score?

The CompTIA A+ certification consists of two separate exams, each with its own passing score:

• The CompTIA A+ Core 1 passing score is 675 out of 900
• The CompTIA A+ Core 2 passing score is 700 out of 900

It’s important to understand that these scores are not based on the percentage of correct answers. So, scoring 675 or 700 does not mean you must get 75% or 78% of the questions right to pass the exam. 

Instead, the score you receive on the exam is a scaled score to make sure that results are fair and consistent for all test-takers.

CompTIA A+ scaled scoring system

CompTIA uses a mathematical formula to convert a candidate’s raw score into a scaled score.  Although CompTIA does not publicly share the exact scoring algorithm, the score conversion process can generally be understood as follows:

Step 1: Analyze the difficulty of the exam

The scoring system will consider:

• The difficulty level of each question
• The version of the exam (form)
• How well each question differentiates between higher- and lower-performing candidates (based on statistical analysis)

Therefore, two candidates could answer the same number of questions correctly but receive different scaled scores based on the mix and difficulty of questions presented to them.

Step 2: Convert to a scaled score

After reviewing these factors, CompTIA uses a mathematical formula to calculate your scaled score. This score will fall between 100 and 900. Your scaled score is your official exam result.

How CompTIA A+ questions are scored

CompTIA doesn’t publicly disclose how much each question is worth, but certain types of questions carry more weight than others. Understanding these types will help you maximize your score:

• Harder questions (usually PBQ questions) may be worth more points. 
• Easier questions (usually MCQ questions) may contribute fewer points.
• Unscored pilot questions may appear in the test without being identified, and they do not impact the final score.

Tips to achieve the CompTIA A+ passing score

Tips to achieve the CompTIA A+ passing score

Start with the exam objectives

The CompTIA A+ objectives provide an itemized list of everything you’re expected to know. It is highly recommended to print this list and check off each topic once you’ve mastered it, so that you don’t overlook any subject area.

Practice with realistic exams and PBQs

Taking multiple practice exams not only improves recall but also familiarizes you with the CompTIA question style, which can be tricky. 

Test takers should take practice exams, which closely resemble the actual test in both format and difficulty, such as:

• CompTIA A+ 220-1101 (Core 1) Test
• CompTIA A+ 220-1102 (Core 2) Test

Aim to consistently score 85–90% on practice tests before scheduling your CompTIA A+ exam.

In addition to multiple-choice questions, you should focus on PBQ questions that simulate real-world IT tasks. These often carry significant weight on the exam and are best prepared for through repeated exposure.

Combine and reinforce learning methods

Mixing different methods strengthens retention. For example, you can watch a video, take notes, convert those notes into flashcards, and then test yourself later. This approach ensures you understand the material from multiple angles and retain it longer. The key is not just to learn passively but to engage actively with the content.

Gain hands-on experience

Hands-on practice is essential. Set up a virtual lab using tools like VirtualBox or VMware and experiment with installing operating systems, creating user accounts, troubleshooting issues, and configuring settings. 

If you have access to physical hardware, disassembling and reassembling components is excellent preparation for hardware-related questions. CertMaster Labs and other lab simulators can help if you lack physical access.

FAQs

1. What is a perfect score on the CompTIA A+ exam?

The perfect score on CompTIA A+ is 900 for each of the two exams: Core 1 and Core 2.

2. How to score high on the CompTIA A+ exam?

To score high on the CompTIA A+ exam, you need to: 

• Study seriously and consistently.
• Apply effective learning strategies.
• Maintain a calm, focused mindset. 
• Use diverse resources (books, videos, practice tests, and hands-on labs)
• Focus on both theory and practical application. 
• Prepare yourself mentally by avoiding stress and building confidence before exam day.

Final thoughts

Understanding the CompTIA A+ passing score is just the first step toward earning your certification. While you’ll need a minimum of 675 for Core 1 and 700 for Core 2 on a scale of 100 to 900, aiming higher will better prepare you for real-world IT challenges. With the right study plan, hands-on practice, and consistent test prep, you can not only pass the exam but also build a strong foundation for a successful career in information technology.