This training walks you through the five domains tested in the Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate exam: Kubernetes fundamentals, container orchestration, cloud native architecture, observability, and application delivery. You'll get comfortable with pods, deployments, services, and the CNCF landscape while practicing on real clusters, so you walk into the exam with both the vocabulary and the working knowledge it expects.
There are no mandatory prerequisites for the KCNA exam - it's built as an entry point into Kubernetes and cloud native technologies, so complete beginners can register directly. A basic comfort with command-line tools and general IT concepts helps, but this course does not assume any prior Kubernetes or container experience. If you've never used Docker or a terminal before, spending an hour or two on basic Linux commands beforehand will make the early sessions easier to follow.
This training is built for anyone starting their Kubernetes journey and wanting a recognized, vendor-neutral credential to show for it. It's a strong fit for:
By the end of this course, you'll be comfortable with:
KCNA certification gives employers a clear, CNCF-backed signal that you understand Kubernetes and cloud native fundamentals, which supports roles such as:
igmGuru's KCNA Certification Training is structured around the current exam blueprint and beginner-friendly pacing. Here's why learners choose us:
The Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA) exam is administered by the Linux Foundation on behalf of CNCF. Here's what to expect
| Format | 60 multiple-choice questions |
| Duration | 90 minutes |
| Passing Score | 75% |
| Delivery | Online, remotely proctored |
| Cost | USD 250 (includes one free retake) |
| Validity | 2 years from the date you pass |
| Prerequisites | None mandatory (beginner-friendly, entry-level exam) |
On completing igmGuru's KCNA Certification Training, you'll receive a Course Completion Certificate from igmGuru, which you can add to your resume and LinkedIn profile alongside your official CNCF/Linux Foundation KCNA badge once you clear the exam.
KCNA (Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate) is an entry-level, pre-professional certification from CNCF and the Linux Foundation that validates foundational knowledge of Kubernetes and the broader cloud native ecosystem.
No formal prerequisites are required. It's designed as a starting point, so complete beginners can register and take the exam directly.
The exam has 60 multiple-choice questions, to be completed in 90 minutes.
The exam costs USD 250 and includes one free retake if you don't pass on your first attempt.
Yes. It's built specifically as a beginner-friendly, conceptual certification and is the recommended first step before attempting hands-on exams like CKA or CKAD.
KCNA is a multiple-choice exam testing conceptual knowledge across Kubernetes and cloud native topics, while CKA (Certified Kubernetes Administrator) is an advanced, hands-on exam performed on a live cluster. Most learners take KCNA before attempting CKA.
The certification is valid for 2 years from the date you pass the exam.
You need to score 75% or higher to pass.
Yes. You'll receive an igmGuru Course Completion Certificate after finishing the training and hands-on labs, separate from the official CNCF/Linux Foundation KCNA credential you earn after passing the exam.
Work through each of the five exam domains in order of weight, starting with Kubernetes Fundamentals since it carries the most marks, practice with hands-on labs, and use timed mock exams in your final week to build speed and confidence.
