Linux Foundation

Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate

KCNA

An Associate-level exam on the Kubernetes track, covering Kubernetes Fundamentals, Container Orchestration, Cloud Native Architecture, and more, rated medium in difficulty, recommended for candidates with at least 3 months of hands-on experience, with a 90-minute time limit. Prepare with professionally curated practice questions and walk into exam day with confidence.

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Exam Details

Time Limit
90 min
Exam Fee
$250
Format
multiple-choice
Difficulty
Medium
Exp. Needed
3 months
Cert Valid
2 yr
Free Questions
20
Languages
English

What the KCNA Exam Covers

5 official domains

1

Kubernetes Fundamentals

2

Container Orchestration

3

Cloud Native Architecture

4

Observability

5

Application Delivery

Who Should Take This

KCNA target roles

Kubernetes Administrator
Cloud Engineer
DevOps Engineer

Certification Path

Associate · Kubernetes

PrerequisitesNone
Current ExamKCNA
Next Step
CKA

KCNA exam guide

How hard is the KCNA exam?

The KCNA is rated medium in difficulty, most candidates prepare with at least 3 months of hands-on experience. Difficulty varies with your existing hands-on practice, so use the sample questions on this page to gauge where you stand before booking the real test.

How long should you study for the KCNA?

A practical plan for this difficulty level is 8–12 weeks of focused study at one to two hours a day. Split the time across the official domains below, finish each domain with practice questions, and reserve the final two weeks for full-length timed practice and review of missed questions.

What is the KCNA exam format?

Expect 90 minutes to complete, formats include multiple-choice, the official exam fee is $250 USD. It is offered in English. Check your local testing provider for delivery options and any regional pricing differences.

Who should take the KCNA exam?

This is a associate-level certification, typical target roles include kubernetes administrator, cloud engineer, devops engineer. If the role you are aiming for appears on that list, the credential is a direct investment in your next job move rather than a general-purpose certificate.

What comes after the KCNA?

Candidates who pass usually continue with CKA, this exam sits on the Kubernetes track. Map the whole path before you start studying so each certificate builds on the previous one instead of repeating the same ground.

How do you renew the KCNA certification?

The certification remains valid for 2 years, renewal is possible via retake exam. Plan the renewal before the expiry date so the credential never lapses on your CV or job application.


Certification FAQ

Other ways to test for KCNA

20 free questions available — two ways to use them.

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