IT Fundamentals Free Beta Exam

As part of CompTIAs development process to ensure a statistically validated certification, CompTIA is offering a free IT Fundamentals beta for the first 200 people that register and take the exam.

IT Fundamentals was previously known as Strata IT Fundamentals.

IT Fundamentals Beta Registration

Beta registration and test administration both start next Monday August 11, 2014 (and restarted on August 13, 2014).  Here are the details:

• Where: https://wsr.pearsonvue.com/testtaker/registration/selectexampage/comptia/993372 (this link might not work after the beta period ends, or after 200 people have taken the exam)
  Note: while this is the link I was given, it never worked for me. Leave a comment if it worked for you.
• Beta exam no: FC1-U51
• Cost: Free
• Promo Code: ITFU51beta

Update: CompTIA personnel just passed on some additional information. This process works.

1.  If you don’t have a test candidate username and password for VUE exams I recommend that you set one up before registration.
2. AFTER signing in with your VUE account –  Follow the instructions below to get to the screen where you can select the beta exam
3.  https://wsr.pearsonvue.com/comptia/
4. Look for the button along the right edge of the screen called “View Available Exams”
5. Click the button, then scroll down until you see CompTIA Strata IT Fundamentals
6. Click that section and then you will see a link for FC1-U51 CompTIA IT Fundamentals Certification Beta Exam
7. Click that link, then proceed with the other registration steps.   The BETA code is ITFU51beta

If you’re interested, don’t wait. This will be a limited beta so you need to register and test as soon as possible.   The beta period may close without notice.  In other words, as soon as they hit 200 people taking the test, the beta period ends.

Internet Based Testing for IT Fundamentals

This is new. The exam uses Internet based testing (IBT) for delivery. You don’t have to go to a test center but can instead take it from the comfort of your home or office.

For the beta, it might not be proctored.  However, the live exam is proctored remotely. I attended a presentation on this and it looks good. They verify your computer meets certain requirements, and they then monitor your screen, keyboard, and you via a webcam.

I can hear the question. “What if I don’t have a webcam?” Answer: Your computer doesn’t meet the requirements, so you can’t use IBT.

IT Fundamentals Beta Score

The purpose of this beta exam is to determine the cut score.  Your exam will not provide a score right after the test and it may be 4-6 weeks before you see any feedback.   If your score exceeds the cut score, you’ll be IT Fundamentals certified.

IT Fundamentals Overview

Here is a little information on the IT Fundamentals exam. You can download the full objectives from the CompTIA site.

The CompTIA IT Fundamentals Certification exam is designed to show that the successful candidate has the knowledge to identify and explain basic computer components, set up a basic workstation, conduct basic software installation, establish basic network connectivity, identify compatibility issues and identify/prevent basic security risks. Further this exam will assess the candidate’s knowledge in the areas of safety and preventative maintenance of computers. This exam is intended for candidates who are users that are considering a career in IT and later considering the pursuit of a CompTIA A+ or similar certification.