KCNA exam guide: format, domains, cost, and a free practice quiz covering Kubernetes fundamentals, orchestration, cloud native architecture, observability, and delivery.
The Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA) is the CNCF's entry-level, knowledge-based certification. It validates a foundational understanding of Kubernetes and the broader cloud native ecosystem.
Unlike the hands-on CKA, KCNA is multiple-choice, making it an accessible first step for anyone entering cloud native.
▶ Start the free KCNA practice quiz| Certification | Kubernetes and Cloud Native Associate (KCNA) |
|---|---|
| Exam code | KCNA |
| Level | Foundational |
| Format | Multiple choice |
| Questions | 60 questions |
| Duration | 90 minutes |
| Passing score | 75% |
| Cost (USD) | $250 (often bundled with training) |
| Validity | 3 years |
| Prerequisites | None |
Exam details change over time — always confirm the current specifics on the official exam page before you book.
The official exam is organized into these domains. Our practice bank mirrors them so you can drill each area:
| Domain | Exam weight | Practice questions |
|---|---|---|
| Kubernetes Fundamentals | 46% | 10 |
| Container Orchestration | 22% | 5 |
| Cloud Native Architecture | 16% | 5 |
| Observability | 8% | 3 |
| Cloud Native Application Delivery | 8% | 3 |
Understand Kubernetes fundamentals: Pods, Deployments, Services, ConfigMaps/Secrets, and the control plane (etcd, scheduler, kubelet).
Know cloud native concepts: CNCF projects, microservices, GitOps, service mesh, observability (Prometheus), and delivery (Helm, CI/CD).
The free quiz below covers all five KCNA domains with explanations.
Our free KCNA practice quiz has 26 scenario-based questions covering every exam domain. Each question includes the correct answer, a plain-English explanation of why it is right (and why the alternatives are wrong), and a reference to the relevant topic — so you learn as you go, not just test yourself.
▶ Practice KCNA now — 26 questions, freeNo — it's multiple-choice and knowledge-based, unlike the performance-based CKA/CKAD.
It's a good foundation, but not required. Many use KCNA to build confidence first.
60 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes; 75% to pass.
The Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF), which also stewards Kubernetes.