The CCNA exam pattern for 200-301 includes a 120-minute window with multiple-choice, multiple-response, and performance-based simulation items. Cisco does not publish the exact question count, passing score, or exact mix of item types; these vary between exam instances.
What Is the CCNA Exam Format?
The Cisco CCNA 200-301 exam uses a mixed-format approach that tests both breadth and hands-on skills. The exam runs for 120 minutes and includes multiple-choice questions, multiple-response questions, and performance-based items (simulations). This design reflects the real-world responsibilities of an entry-level network associate: you must understand concepts and be able to configure and troubleshoot equipment.
Cisco explicitly does not publish the total question count or passing score for the CCNA. Community estimates online come from candidate forums and discussions, not from Cisco's official documentation. Do not rely on unverified numbers posted in forums.
Question Types on the CCNA Exam
The exam includes three primary question types:
Multiple-Choice (Single Answer) — You select the single best response from four options (A, B, C, D). These test factual knowledge and decision-making in network scenarios.
Multiple-Response — You select all correct answers from a list. The question clearly states "Select all that apply" or similar language. You must identify every correct option; partial credit does not apply.
Performance-Based Items (Simulations) — You work in a simulated network lab environment. You might configure a router, verify a VLAN setup, or troubleshoot a connectivity issue using the Cisco IOS command line or device GUI. These items require hands-on skill, not just knowledge.
Drag-and-Drop — Some items ask you to match terms, place items in order, or link components. For example, you might drag protocol names to their functions or arrange steps in a configuration workflow.
Because of the performance-based items, the number of items on a real exam form can vary. Cisco adjusts the item mix and count to maintain consistent test difficulty across forms.
Timing
You have 120 minutes total for the exam. There is no separate break; time spent reading instructions, navigating items, or troubleshooting a simulation all counts against the 120 minutes. On average, that allows roughly 1–2 minutes per multiple-choice item and 3–5 minutes per simulation, depending on the exam's specific mix.
Time management is critical. If you get stuck on a simulation, flag it for later review (most exam platforms allow this) and move to the next item. Return to harder items only if you have time remaining.
Scoring
The CCNA uses a scaled scoring model. Your raw score (number of items answered correctly) is converted to a scaled score on a different range. Cisco does not publish the passing scaled score, so you cannot calculate whether you passed based on a raw count. After the exam, you receive a pass/fail result and a score report showing your performance in each domain.
If you fail, Cisco provides a breakdown by domain showing your performance in each area so you can target weak areas in a retake. This feedback is crucial for focused studying.
What This Mock Covers vs. What It Does Not
Our CCNA mock test contains 100 multiple-choice and multiple-response questions across all six domains at their official weights. The mock runs for 120 minutes, matching the real exam timing. You receive a detailed domain-by-domain report.
What the mock does not include: performance-based items (simulations) and drag-and-drop questions. The real exam includes these interactive formats, which test muscle memory and troubleshooting under time pressure. You should supplement this mock with hands-on lab work—either on real Cisco gear or using GNS3, Cisco Packet Tracer, or similar simulators—to build those skills.
Languages
The CCNA 200-301 is available in English and Japanese.
Exam Platforms and Delivery
Cisco exams for CCNA are delivered by Pearson VUE at testing centers worldwide. Pearson VUE scheduling is handled via Cisco's CertMetrics portal (https://cp.certmetrics.com/cisco/en/login). The availability of online proctoring for the CCNA specifically is not confirmed in Cisco's official documentation; you should check the Pearson VUE booking page or contact Cisco Learning Network to confirm the current delivery options for your region.
Related Pages
Learn more about the exam objectives and domain weights, the study plan for different timeframes, and the exam-day guide. Check the prerequisites if you are new to networking.
Exam facts on this page come from Cisco’s own pages (official exam page). Prices, versions and policies change — confirm there before you book.