IC3 Practice Test
Updated for November 2026
The IC3 Exam is a globally recognized credential that validates digital literacy skills across seven domains (Technology Basics, Digital Citizenship, Information Management, Content Creation, Communication, Collaboration, and Safety and Security) at three stackable levels: GS6 Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3. Whether you are a student or a professional, the IC3 Digital Literacy Certification proves your competency in essential computer and internet technologies.
Our IC3 certification practice test free resources are designed to help you master the material found in the current GS6 exams (Level 1, 2 and 3) as well as the legacy GS5 modules. From understanding hardware and software to navigating the internet safely, our comprehensive IC3 Test Prep will guide you toward passing your test with confidence.
- Each IC3 Digital Literacy GS5 SR exam (Living Online, Computing Fundamentals, Key Applications) has 45-50 questions and a 50-minute time limit. (Certiport, a Pearson VUE business)
- Each IC3 Digital Literacy GS6 exam (Levels 1, 2 and 3) has 45-50 questions and a 50-minute time limit. (Certiport, a Pearson VUE business)
- Certiport reports the passing score for its exams, including IC3 Digital Literacy, on a 1 to 1000 scale where the passing value is always equated to 700. (Certiport, a Pearson VUE business)
- For IC3 Digital Literacy, a candidate must wait 24 hours after the first failed attempt and 2 days after the second, and there is no annual limit on attempts at the same exam. (Certiport, a Pearson VUE business)
- A retake voucher for IC3 Digital Literacy must be used within 60 days of the failed exam and only for the same exam that was failed. (store.certiport.com)
- IC3 Digital Literacy exam vouchers are valid only at a Certiport Authorized Testing Center, not at Pearson VUE test centers or through OnVUE, and are valid in the United States only. (store.certiport.com)
Facts verified Oct 17, 2026 against Certiport, a Pearson VUE business. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
IC3 Exam at a Glance
| Item | Detail | Official source |
|---|
| Number of questions (IC3 GS5 SR) | 45-50 questions, 50 minutes each | Certiport, a Pearson VUE business |
| Number of questions (IC3 GS6 Level 1, 2, 3) | 45-50 questions, 50 minutes each | Certiport, a Pearson VUE business |
| Number of questions (IC3 Spark) | 30-35 questions, 50 minutes | Certiport, a Pearson VUE business |
| Passing score | 700 on a 1-1000 scale | Certiport, a Pearson VUE business |
| Retake policy (IC3 Digital Literacy) | 24 hours after first fail; 2 days for each later retake; no annual limit | Certiport, a Pearson VUE business |
| Retake policy (Retake voucher validity) | Retake voucher must be used within 60 days | store.certiport.com |
| Delivery | Certiport Authorized Testing Center (in-person or remote proctoring), US only | store.certiport.com |
Facts verified Oct 17, 2026 against Certiport, a Pearson VUE business. Dates that have passed are removed automatically.
IC3 Practice Test Questions
Prepare for the IC3 - Digital Literacy Certification exam with our free practice test modules. Each quiz covers key topics to help you pass on your first try.
The IC3 Test (IC3 Digital Literacy Certification, formerly known as the Internet and Computing Core Certification) is Certiport's global standard for digital literacy, accepted by academic institutions and employers worldwide. The current version is IC3 Global Standard 6 (GS6). Practice with the free IC3 - Digital Literacy Certification practice test on PracticeTestGeeks (200+ questions with answer explanations).
If you are searching for IC3 exam practice, start with the free IC3 practice questions on this page: every answer comes with an explanation, and the study notes below cover the IC3 exam topics in order. The same questions run as an IC3 online quiz with instant scoring, so you can check your readiness before you buy a voucher.
Free IC3 - Digital Literacy Certification Study Tools
Interactive IC3 - Digital Literacy Certification resources on PracticeTestGeeks, free to start:
IC3 Exam Flashcards
Quick review for IC3 Digital Literacy Certification concepts (GS6 Level 1, 2 and 3)
📚 💻What is an Operating System?
An Operating System (OS) is software that manages computer hardware and software resources and provides common services for computer programs.
🎯 🌐What is Phishing?
Phishing is a cyber attack that uses disguised email as a weapon to trick the email recipient into believing that the message is something they want or need.
💡 📊What is a Spreadsheet?
A spreadsheet is an electronic document in which data is arranged in the rows and columns of a grid and can be manipulated and used in calculations.
🔑 🖱️What is a Peripheral Device?
A peripheral device is an internal or external device that connects directly to a computer but does not contribute to the computer's primary function, such as computing.
📝 ☁️What is Cloud Computing?
Cloud computing is the delivery of different services through the Internet, including data storage, servers, databases, networking, and software.
⭐ 🔐What is Two-Factor Authentication?
Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) is a security process in which users provide two different authentication factors to verify themselves.
IC3 Certification Exam Study Guide
Understanding the structure of the IC3 Digital Literacy Certification (Global Standard 6) is crucial for success. This guide breaks down the key components of the IC3 Exam to help you prepare effectively.
- What is the IC3 Exam?
- The IC3 Exam is Certiport's digital literacy certification. The current IC3 Global Standard 6 (GS6) is three stackable exams (Level 1, Level 2, Level 3) that each test the same seven domains: Technology Basics, Digital Citizenship, Information Management, Content Creation, Communication, Collaboration, and Safety and Security.
- Who should take the IC3 Test?
- The IC3 Test is ideal for students, job seekers, and employees looking to validate their basic computer and internet skills for academic or career advancement.
- What versions of the IC3 Certification exist?
- The most common versions are IC3 GS5 and IC3 GS6. GS6 is the current version (three stackable Level 1, 2 and 3 exams); GS5 is the previous version with three separate modules, and its simulated exams were retired on December 31, 2025.
- Is the IC3 Certification recognized globally?
- Yes. Certiport delivers the IC3 Digital Literacy Certification through its worldwide network of Authorized Testing Centers, and the GS6 Level 1, 2 and 3 exams are released in 17+ languages. In the U.S., the American Council on Education (ACE Learning Evaluations) recommends 1 college credit for each GS6 level passed between September 1, 2024 and August 31, 2027.
- How many questions are on the IC3 Exam?
- Each IC3 GS6 exam (Level 1, 2 or 3) has 45 to 50 questions according to Certiport, delivered with a 50-minute time limit.
- How long is the IC3 Test?
- Candidates get 50 minutes for each exam (GS6 Level 1, 2 and 3, or the legacy GS5 modules) that makes up the full IC3 Certification.
- What does IC3 GS6 Level 1 cover?
- IC3 GS6 Level 1 covers fundamental concepts across all seven domains: operating system and browser basics, input and output devices, hardware, software and networking concepts, managing a digital identity, evaluating online information, basic content creation, communication and collaboration tools, and safety and security essentials.
- What happened to Computing Fundamentals, Key Applications and Living Online?
- Those were the three modules of the previous version, IC3 GS5. Their content is now spread across the seven GS6 domains at Level 1, 2 and 3. The GS5 simulated exams were retired on December 31, 2025; the GS5 selected-response exams remain available only in limited languages.
- How do I register for the IC3 Exam?
- You can register for the IC3 Exam by purchasing a voucher from Certiport and scheduling your test at an authorized testing center or online.
- What is the IC3 Exam cost?
- The IC3 Exam cost is $37 per exam voucher on the Certiport Store ($44 with a retake, or $130 for all three GS6 levels with retakes); schools and testing centers may bundle it differently.
- Can I take the IC3 Test online?
- Yes. Through select U.S.-based Certiport testing centers you can take the exam online from home if you are 18 or older and purchase a proctoring service with your voucher. Otherwise, test at an Authorized Testing Center.
- Are there prerequisites for the IC3 Certification?
- There are no formal prerequisites for the IC3 Certification, making it accessible to beginners and students of all ages.
- What is a passing score for the IC3 Exam?
- The passing score for each IC3 Exam module is typically 700 out of a possible 1000 points.
- When do I get my IC3 Test results?
- You will receive your IC3 Test results immediately after completing the exam on the computer screen.
- Can I retake the IC3 Exam if I fail?
- Yes, you can retake the IC3 Exam. Certiport requires a 24-hour wait after a first failed attempt and 48 hours before each attempt after a second failure, with no annual limit on attempts.
- How long is the IC3 Certification valid?
- IC3 Digital Literacy certifications do not expire, according to Certiport. Moving from GS5 to GS6 is optional, but it shows you have been tested on the current standard.
- Does IC3 Certification increase salary?
- Certiport does not publish salary data for IC3. The credential documents basic digital skills that entry-level administrative, customer service and help-desk roles often expect, but it does not guarantee higher pay.
- What jobs require IC3 Certification?
- No job strictly requires it. IC3 is used to show digital literacy for entry-level roles such as administrative assistant, customer service representative, help desk support and office staff, and many schools use it as a skills credential.
- Is IC3 Certification worth it?
- It is worth it if you need proof of basic digital skills, for example for school, an entry-level job or college credit. It is an entry-level credential, not an advanced IT certification, so weigh the $37 voucher against what your school or employer will accept.
- Can IC3 Certification help with college admissions?
- It is not an admissions requirement. The American Council on Education recommends 1 college credit for each GS6 level passed between September 1, 2024 and August 31, 2027, but each college decides whether to accept it for credit or placement.
IC3 Score Calculator
Total Scored Questions
45
Estimated score calculation
31 out of 45 correct
69%
Required to Pass: ~70% (Estimated)
Your Score: 31 correct ✓ PASS
How to Become IC3 Certified
The journey to earning your IC3 Digital Literacy Certification involves a few straightforward steps. GS6 (Global Standard 6) is the current version; GS5 is a previous version whose simulated exams were retired at the end of 2025, so most new candidates should follow the GS6 path.
If you want more targeted practice, the ic3 certification page covers the same material with additional questions and explanations.
- Choose Your Version - Take IC3 GS6 (Level 1, 2 and 3) unless your school still runs the legacy IC3 GS5 selected-response modules.
- Assess Your Skills - Take a free IC3 certification practice test to identify areas needing improvement.
- Study Key Topics - Work through the seven GS6 domains (Technology Basics, Digital Citizenship, Information Management, Content Creation, Communication, Collaboration, Safety and Security) at the level you are sitting; legacy GS5 candidates study Computing Fundamentals, Key Applications and Living Online.
- Purchase Voucher - Buy an exam voucher from Certiport or an authorized partner for the specific IC3 test you plan to take.
- Schedule Exam - Book your test at a Certiport Authorized Testing Center or for an online session.
- Pass the Exams - Successfully complete the required exams (GS6 Level 1, 2 and 3 for the Master certification, or the 3 legacy GS5 modules) with a score of 700 or higher on the 1-1000 scale.
- Claim Certification - Receive your official IC3 Digital Literacy Certification and digital badge.
Many schools and universities offer IC3 Certification as part of their curriculum at no additional cost to students. Check with your institution's IT or career department before purchasing vouchers independently.
IC3 GS6 at a Glance
IC3 Global Standard 6 is three separate exams, Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3, each awarding its own certificate. Every level is built on the same seven objective domains, and each exam has 45–50 questions with a 50-minute time limit, scored on Certiport's 1–1000 scale with a passing value of 700. Exams are delivered in Certiport's Compass software at a Certiport Authorized Testing Center or, for candidates 18 and older through select U.S. centers, online with a proctor. Pass all three levels and Certiport awards the IC3 Digital Literacy Master Certification and Master Badge. The previous version, GS5, split the same material into Computing Fundamentals, Key Applications and Living Online; its simulated exams were retired at the end of 2026. Practice questions on this page that mirror the GS6 item types will get you comfortable with the performance-based tasks and the time limit before exam day.
IC3 GS6 Levels and Domains: What the Practice Questions Cover
IC3 Global Standard 6 replaces the three GS5 modules with three stackable exams. Certiport describes Level 1 as measuring fundamental concepts and essential components, Level 2 as requiring a working knowledge of each skill group, and Level 3 as validating an advanced understanding of digital literacy. Pass all three and you earn the IC3 Digital Literacy Master Certification and Master Badge.
Every level is built on the same seven objective domains, published by Certiport in a separate objective-domains document per level: Technology Basics, Digital Citizenship, Information Management, Content Creation, Communication, Collaboration, and Safety and Security. The difficulty rises with the level rather than the topic list. Level 1 asks you to identify input and output devices, explain browser and operating system basics, describe simple network troubleshooting, and tell public domain content from Creative Commons content. Level 2 adds customizing digital environments, managing a digital calendar, printer concepts, Internet commerce basics, and device and file security. Level 3 moves to troubleshooting technical problems with assistance, evaluating the veracity of digital information sources, representing data visually, accessibility, intellectual property standards, and managing device security.
Our IC3 practice questions are tagged to these domains, so a quick IC3 review by domain shows exactly where you are losing points. If you are working through IC3 practice exam questions online for a specific level, treat this IC3 certification practice test as a diagnostic first and a timed rehearsal second: the real exam gives you 50 minutes, and the performance-based items reward hands-on familiarity with the tasks listed in each objective domain.
IC3 Reviews: Is the IC3 Digital Literacy Certification Worth It?
Most IC3 reviews come down to cost, effort and lasting value. On cost, a single IC3 Digital Literacy exam voucher is $37 on the Certiport Store, $44 with a retake, or $130 for all three GS6 levels with retakes. On effort, each GS6 exam has 45–50 questions, a 50-minute time limit and a passing value of 700 on Certiport's 1–1000 scale, so a candidate who already uses a computer daily can usually prepare with focused practice rather than a long course. On value, IC3 Digital Literacy certifications do not expire, and each level awards its own certificate, with the IC3 Digital Literacy Master Certification after all three.
The certification is most worthwhile for students, career changers and entry-level office or help-desk applicants who need proof of baseline computer, internet and online-safety skills. Experienced IT professionals usually gain more from role-specific certifications. If your school offers IC3 vouchers through its curriculum, the cost may be zero. Note that "IC3" is also the name of the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov, which is unrelated to this Certiport exam.
IC3 Test Day Checklist
Valid Photo ID (Government issued) Certiport Login Credentials Exam Voucher Code (if not pre-applied) Review IC3 Practice Test notes Leave personal items in locker Know which GS6 level (1, 2 or 3) you are taking Start Your IC3 Test Prep Today
Prepare for your IC3 Certification Exam with our free resources. Run through the IC3 online quiz above as a final IC3 review before test day. Pick your GS6 level and start practicing now.
IC3 Certification Renewal
While the IC3 Certification does not expire, technology changes rapidly. Staying current is essential for your career.
If you hold an older certification like GS4 or GS5, consider taking the IC3 GS6 Practice Test and upgrading to the latest standard to demonstrate current proficiency to employers.
Pros
- Industry-recognized digital literacy credential that does not expire
- ACE recommends 1 college credit per GS6 level (Level 1, 2 and 3)
- Three stackable certificates plus a Master certification after all three levels
- Foundation for entry-level office, admin, help-desk and further IT certifications
Cons
- Three separate exams (Level 1, 2 and 3) to earn the Master certification
- $37 per exam voucher, or $130 for all three GS6 levels with retakes
- Performance-based items require hands-on practice, not just reading
- Older GS4/GS5 credentials look dated; upgrading to GS6 means retesting
Sample IC3 - Digital Literacy Certification Practice Questions
Try these questions from our free IC3 - Digital Literacy Certification practice tests. The correct answer and an explanation follow each question.
What is media literacy and why is it important in the digital age?
- A. The ability to read print newspapers
- B. The ability to access, analyze, evaluate, create, and act using all forms of communication
- C. Knowing how to use social media platforms
- D. The ability to write professional articles
Answer: B. The ability to access, analyze, evaluate, create, and act using all forms of communication
Media literacy is the ability to critically analyze and evaluate media messages across all formats, understanding how media is created, its intended purpose, and its potential effects.
What does the concept of a 'digital footprint' refer to?
- A. The physical storage space used by your digital files
- B. The trail of data and activity left behind by a user's online interactions
- C. A software tool used to track website performance
- D. The number of devices connected to a single Wi-Fi network
Answer: B. The trail of data and activity left behind by a user's online interactions
A digital footprint is the record of all the data generated by your online activities, including posts, searches, and site visits, which can be tracked and stored by websites and services.
Which behavior best demonstrates responsible digital citizenship when participating in online communities?
- A. Sharing unverified news stories to inform others quickly
- B. Engaging respectfully and verifying information before posting
- C. Using anonymous accounts to avoid accountability for comments
- D. Blocking anyone who disagrees with your opinions
Answer: B. Engaging respectfully and verifying information before posting
Responsible digital citizenship involves verifying information before sharing and communicating respectfully, which builds trust and reduces the spread of misinformation online.
What is the digital divide?
- A. A type of computer virus
- B. The gap between those who have access to digital technology and those who do not
- C. A method of splitting data across multiple servers
- D. The difference between digital and analog signals
Answer: B. The gap between those who have access to digital technology and those who do not
The digital divide refers to the inequality in access to computers, internet connectivity, and digital literacy skills between different socioeconomic, geographic, or demographic groups.
Take the full IC3 - Digital Literacy Certification practice test
If you want more targeted practice, the ic3 key applications exam page covers the same material with additional questions and explanations.
If you want more targeted practice, the ic3 key applications questions and answers page covers the same material with additional questions and explanations.
IC3 Questions and Answers
What is the IC3 Digital Literacy exam and which version is current?
The IC3 Digital Literacy Certification is Certiport's global standard for computer and internet skills. The current version is IC3 Global Standard 6 (GS6), made of three stackable exams: Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3. Each level tests the same seven domains, and passing all three earns the IC3 Digital Literacy Master Certification. The older GS5 modules were retired for simulated exams on December 31, 2025.
What topics are covered on the IC3 GS6 exams?
GS6 covers seven domains: Technology Basics, Digital Citizenship, Information Management, Content Creation, Communication, Collaboration, and Safety and Security. Level 1 tests fundamental concepts, Level 2 requires working knowledge of each skill group, and Level 3 validates advanced understanding. Certiport publishes a separate objective-domains document for each level, which is the best checklist for study.
How many questions and how much time does each IC3 exam have?
Each IC3 GS6 exam (Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3) has 45 to 50 questions and a 50-minute time limit, according to Certiport's published exam lengths. Because the Master Certification needs all three exams, you should plan for about 150 minutes of testing in total, which you can schedule on separate days rather than in one sitting.
What is the passing score for the IC3 exam?
Certiport reports every exam score on a scale of 1 to 1000, and the passing value is always equated to 700 on that scale. That means each IC3 GS6 level has a passing score of 700. Because scores are scaled, 700 does not translate to a fixed percentage of questions answered correctly, so aim well above it in practice tests.
How much does the IC3 exam cost?
On the Certiport Store (checked October 2026), an IC3 Digital Literacy exam voucher costs $37.00, and a voucher with a retake costs $44.00. A bundle covering all three GS6 levels with retakes is listed at $130.00. Many schools and testing centers pay for or discount vouchers, so check with your institution before buying.
Can I retake the IC3 exam if I fail?
Yes. After a first failed attempt you must wait 24 hours before retaking. After a second failure you must wait 2 days (48 hours) before each further attempt. Certiport sets no annual limit on attempts for the same exam. Each attempt needs its own voucher, and a retake voucher is valid only for the exact same exam and expires 60 days after it is generated.
Where and how can I take the IC3 exam?
IC3 exams are delivered through Certiport Authorized Testing Centers, such as schools, community colleges and workforce centers, which you can find with Certiport's locator. Through select U.S.-based centers you can also test online from home if you are 18 or older and add a proctoring service to your voucher. There are no formal prerequisites.
Does the IC3 certification expire, and do colleges accept it?
IC3 Digital Literacy certifications do not expire, according to Certiport. The American Council on Education (ACE Learning Evaluations) recommends 1 college credit for each GS6 level passed between September 1, 2024 and August 31, 2027. Each college decides for itself whether to award credit, so confirm with your school's registrar before relying on it.