Online CompTIA A+ Certification Training (220-1201 & 220-1202) in Waterloo, Ontario

CompTIA A+ is the most widely recognized entry-level IT certification, and it's the credential employers look for when hiring help desk and IT support staff. This self-paced online course prepares you for both current A+ exams, 220-1201 (Core 1) and 220-1202 (Core 2). Your exam vouchers, hands-on labs and a printed textbook are included. You can start any day, study on your own schedule, and get support from the Pathways team here in Kitchener-Waterloo.

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Course at a Glance

Exams Covered
CompTIA A+ 220-1201 (Core 1)
CompTIA A+ 220-1202 (Core 2)
Exam Vouchers
2 included, one for each exam
Course Hours
200 hours
Access
6 months
Start anytime
What's Included
Hands-on labs
Printed textbook
eBook
Instructor support
Prerequisites
None required.
Basic computer skills are recommended.
Tuition
$3,219.00 CAD
Delivered By
Ed2Go, with enrolment and learner support from Pathways Educational Services

Prepare for the CompTIA A+ Certification Exam in Waterloo

Prepare to pass the CompTIA A+ certification exams (220-1101 & 220-1102) to boost your resume and demonstrate your IT competence with a globally recognized credential. Obtaining your A+ certification will open doors to entry-level IT jobs in Waterloo region.

This CompTIA A+ course offers a thorough overview of the basic concepts around multiple operating systems, enabling you to efficiently maintain and troubleshoot various operating systems and corresponding issues. The CompTIA A+ certification is vendor-neutral and adaptable to different technology platforms, providing a solid foundation to pursue specialized certifications.

Upon successful completion of the lessons and exercises in this bundled certification program, you will be prepared to take CompTIA's A+ certification exams. You will receive an exam voucher for each certification exam, which covers the cost to sit for the certifying exams upon eligibility.

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CompTIA A+

Foundational Certification

This entry-level IT certification covers two core areas: hardware and networking fundamentals, and operating systems and security. It's one of the most widely requested credentials in tech support job listings, making it a strong starting point for a career in help desk and IT support roles.

CompTIA A+ Certification Training Waterloo

Job Outlook for CompTIA A+ Certified IT Professionals in Waterloo

As a CompTIA A+ certified professional, you can hold several job titles, depending on your experience. An IT support specialist, help desk technician, desktop support analyst, or field service technician are some of the top roles you could qualify for in Waterloo. According to federal Job Bank data, these roles earn between $26.50 to $30.26 an hour, depending on the position.

CompTIA A+ Certification FAQs

What is the CompTIA A+ certification?

The CompTIA A+ certification is designed for individuals interested in pursuing a career in information technology (IT). It is an entry-level qualification that is highly recognized in the industry. The certification requires performance testing to validate that professionals possess the necessary skills to solve critical IT support tasks efficiently.

Why should I get CompTIA A+ certified?

Acquiring the A+ certification demonstrates you possess the essential technical and soft skills required for a field service technician, making it an excellent starting point for individuals who wish to pursue entry-level to intermediate IT positions. Employers worldwide need these trained professionals for endpoint management and technical support roles.

What kinds of jobs can I get with a CompTIA A+ certification?

Earning your CompTIA A+ certification opens several job opportunities for you, although it cannot guarantee a specific position. With an A+ certification, you become eligible for several roles, such as an IT support specialist, a help desk technician, a desktop support analyst, a field service technician, and many others.

How much does CompTIA A+ cost in Canada?

Each exam has its own fee, and you need to pass two. This course includes both exam vouchers, so your tuition covers training and exam fees together.

How long does it take to get A+ certified?

The course includes 200 hours of content and six months of access. Many learners finish in three to six months, depending on their experience and weekly study time.

Does this course cover the current A+ exams?

Yes. It prepares you for 220-1201 and 220-1202, the current CompTIA A+ exams. The previous 220-1101/1102 series retired on September 25, 2025.

Can I write the CompTIA A+ exam in Kitchener?

Yes. Pathways is a Pearson VUE test centre at 248 Stirling Avenue South, Kitchener, with evening and weekend times available.

Do I need IT experience before taking A+?

No. There are no formal prerequisites. CompTIA recommends some hands-on experience, and the included labs are designed to give you that practice.

Does CompTIA A+ expire?

Yes. It's valid for three years and can be renewed through CompTIA's continuing education program.

Course Objectives

  • Explore a comprehensive video overview of the CompTIA A+ course
  • Master fundamental concepts of multiple operating systems to maintain and support them effectively
  • Develop troubleshooting skills for software, hardware, and connectivity issues
  • Acquire knowledge of network fundamentals, protocols, and troubleshooting techniques
  • Gain in-depth experience in assembling and disassembling computer parts to expand your IT expertise
  • Enhance and ensure your preparation for the CompTIA A+ certification exams (220-1101 and 220-1102)

Prerequisites and Certification Requirements

There are no prerequisites to enroll in this CompTIA A+ course. However, you should have a basic knowledge of computer hardware and operating systems. For example, how to power up and log on to a machine, use a mouse and keyboard, and basic Microsoft Windows navigation skills.

This course is for you if you are interested in pursuing a career in information technology, specifically related to PC technology— and will prepare you to obtain a CompTIA A+ Certification designation.

CompTIA recommends all A+ exam applicants have up to 12 months of hands-on experience in the lab or field before taking the certification exam.

Registration and Enrollment

This course is 100% online and available to Waterloo students at anytime.

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How CompTIA A+ Certification Works in Kitchener-Waterloo

To earn CompTIA A+, you need to pass two exams: Core 1 (220-1201) and Core 2 (220-1202). Each exam has up to 90 questions, a mix of multiple-choice and performance-based tasks, and a 90-minute time limit. Scores run on a 100–900 scale. You need 675 to pass Core 1 and 700 to pass Core 2.

Your certification is valid for three years. You can renew it through CompTIA's continuing education program, or by earning a higher-level CompTIA certification.

Note: CompTIA retired the older 220-1101 and 220-1102 exams on September 25, 2025. If you're comparing courses, check that the one you choose covers the 220-1201/1202 series.

What's on the exams

Core 1 (220-1201)

  • Mobile devices
  • Networking
  • Hardware
  • Virtualization and cloud computing
  • Hardware and network troubleshooting

Core 2 (220-1202)

  • Operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux)
  • Security
  • Software troubleshooting
  • Operational procedures

Where to Write Your CompTIA A+ Exam in Kitchener-Waterloo

CompTIA exams are delivered through Pearson VUE, and Pathways is an authorized Pearson VUE test centre at 248 Stirling Avenue South in Kitchener. [CONFIRM: CompTIA exams are available at this centre.] We offer evening and weekend testing times, so you can write your exam without taking time off work. You can also write online with remote proctoring if you prefer.

Pathways also has an office in Guelph, for learners in Wellington County.

What to Take After A+

Most IT professionals use A+ as a starting point. Common next steps are:

  • CompTIA Network+: networking fundamentals
  • CompTIA Security+: entry-level cybersecurity
  • CompTIA Cloud+: cloud infrastructure
  • Linux Foundation LFCS: Linux system administration