Is CompTIA A+ Worth It in 2026?

Yes, CompTIA A+ remains worth it in 2026 for anyone entering IT without experience. It is the most widely recognized entry-level IT certification, appearing in more help desk and desktop support job postings than any other credential. Over 1.3 million professionals hold A+ worldwide.

The ROI calculation is straightforward. The certification costs $716 for both exam vouchers (plus study materials). Entry-level IT support roles pay $40,000-$65,000 depending on location. A+ holders often earn $5,000-$10,000 more annually than non-certified candidates in the same roles, according to CompTIA salary surveys.

A+ is less valuable if you already have 2+ years of IT experience or hold higher certifications like Security+ or CCNA. In those cases, the entry-level focus will not add much to your resume. But for career changers, recent graduates, and self-taught technicians, A+ remains the fastest path to proving technical competency to employers.