If you are competing in the national contest, and you have considered scheduling (or have already scheduled) A+ exams on your own time, we recommend that you do not. Instead, take the free A+ exams at the National Contest. The reason being is that the A+ exams at the national contest are provided free of…
FAQ Category: National Contest
Can I use my own software during the contest?
In general, using diagnostic software is not encouraged during the contest. If you do want to use diagnostic software, the contestant must bring inform the contest chair prior to the contest starting, and they must provide proof that the software is released as “Open Source”. A list of permitted “Open Source” licenses can be found…
What materials do I need to bring to the contest?
There are only two required material for the national contest Pencils/writing utensils A one-page résumé (submitted during the contest briefing)
What is the best way to prepare for the contest?
Be knowledgeable the SkillsUSA ITS Skills Standards Be knowledgeable with the content in the CompTIA A+ Practice getting help from inside the tool or program (ex ipconfig /?) Talk to your advisor or past contestants Check this website for good resources
Am I required to be at the pre-briefing session?
Yes. Roll call will be taken at the briefing session. If there is an extenuating circumstance (such as travel delays), please see the contest chair on the contest floor as soon as possible.
What happens if I already have an A+ certification?
If you have an A+ certification, you will still take the exam on the contest floor. The national contest always takes the latest published A+ exam (as of 2022, it’s the 1101/1102). All students are required to take the exam on the contest floor, as it is a component of the final contest score. If…
Do I need to bring my own computer to the contest?
For the national contest: No – all computers will be provided For state, local, and regional contest: Please check with your contest leadership for guidance. Every contest is run slightly different. Some contests do require contestants to bring a computer.
What version of the CompTIA A+ test is the contest based on?
The ITS contest is always based on the latest publicly available CompTIA A+ exam. In the year 2022, that version is the 220‑1101 and 220‑1102 exams. Please note: The ITS Skills Standards may not reflect the proper A+ version due to publishing deadlines. The national contests in 2021 was the last year that the contest…
When is the national ITS contest debriefing?
The debriefing is held on Friday mornings. It’s typically held across the street at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.