The exam consists of 65 multiple-choice and multiple-response questions, with 90 minutes to complete it and a passing score of 700 out of 1000. Questions test your knowledge across four main domains: cloud concepts and AWS basics (26%), security and compliance (25%), technology and services (33%), and billing and pricing (16%). Understanding the exam's structure and time allocation helps you develop an effective study strategy—many test-takers benefit from practicing with sample questions to familiarize themselves with AWS's question formats and terminology.

Most candidates need 4-6 weeks of focused study to feel confident taking the exam, though this varies based on your prior cloud or IT experience. If you're new to cloud computing, you may benefit from 8-10 weeks of preparation. A structured study plan that includes reviewing official AWS documentation, taking practice exams, and getting personalized guidance on weak areas can significantly accelerate your readiness and help you identify knowledge gaps early.

Many candidates struggle with AWS's pricing and billing concepts—understanding cost models, reserved instances, and savings plans requires focused study. Others find the breadth of services overwhelming, especially distinguishing between similar services like EC2, Lightsail, and Lambda. Test anxiety around time management is also common; practicing with full-length practice exams under timed conditions helps you build confidence and learn to pace yourself through all 65 questions without rushing.

Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows a tutor to identify your specific weak areas—whether that's security concepts, pricing models, or service architecture—and create a customized study plan instead of generic prep. Tutors can explain complex topics in ways that stick, walk you through practice exam questions to clarify your misunderstandings, and teach you test-taking strategies tailored to your learning style. For students in El Paso preparing for this certification, working with an expert tutor accelerates your progress and boosts your confidence before exam day.

Your first session typically involves an assessment of your current cloud knowledge, your IT background, and your exam timeline. The tutor will identify your strongest areas and knowledge gaps, then work with you to build a personalized study roadmap. You'll likely review some foundational concepts and discuss which topics need the most focus, so your remaining sessions can be highly targeted and efficient.

Practice tests are essential—they familiarize you with question formats, reveal knowledge gaps, and build test-day confidence. AWS offers free practice exams, and many third-party providers offer additional full-length simulations. Taking multiple practice exams under timed conditions helps you identify which domains need more study and teaches you pacing strategies. A tutor can review your practice test results with you, explain why you missed questions, and reinforce the concepts you're struggling with.

Tutoring rates vary based on the tutor's experience and your location, but personalized 1-on-1 instruction for certification prep typically ranges from $30-$100+ per hour. Many students find that working with a tutor for 4-8 sessions over their study period provides strong ROI—you prepare more efficiently, avoid costly exam retakes, and gain confidence. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors in El Paso, and you can discuss pricing and session frequency to fit your budget and timeline.