On August 31, 2013, CompTIA will retire A+ certification exams 220–701 and 220–702. Since the 800 exams are available now, why bother with the 700s? The best reason: You’ve taken exam 220–701 but haven’t taken the second exam (220–702) to complete your A+ certification process.
Starting September 1, 2013, even if you have completed Exam 220–701 but you haven’t taken Exam 220–702, you will need to take both 800 series exams to earn your CompTIA A+ certification. You cannot combine the 700 series and 800 series exams to earn A+ certification.
About the 800 Series Exams
CompTIA A+ 220–801 covers the fundamentals of computer technology, basic networking, and installing and configuring PCs, laptops, and related hardware.
CompTIA A+ 220–802 covers the skills required to install and configure PC operating systems as well as configuring common features, such as network connectivity and e-mail, for Android and Apple iOS mobile operating systems.
Each has a max of 90 multiple-choice and performance-based questions, and you’ll have 90 minutes to complete each exam. A passing score on CompTIA A+ 220–801 is 675 out of 900. For CompTIA A+ 220–802, it’s 700 out of 900.
About the 700 Series Exams
Exam 220–701 (CompTIA A+ Essentials), tests an entry-level IT professional’s technical understanding of computer technology, networking and security, and communication skills and professionalism.
Exam 220–702 (CompTIA A+ Practical Application) covers the same knowledge and skills with a hands-on focus that includes scenarios that require you to troubleshoot and use tools to resolve problems.
Each 90-minute exam has 100 multiple-choice questions. As with the 800 exams, a passing score on CompTIA A+ Essentials (220–701) is 675 out of 900, and it’s 700 out of 900 on CompTIA A+ Practical Application ( 220–702).
Related Course
A+ Certification Prep Course