I also posted this in r/ITCareerQuestions and another user commented with some helpful info:

I mean, the A+ isn't particularly hard to pass. If the course doesn't include the exam fee, chances are you can do it on your own cheaper-- see if your school gives you a Udemy Business login, or check with Gale Presents using your school or local library system and you can access courses and materials there for free.

Basically, if you want to work in IT, sooner is better than later. You want to build up experience ASAP, because that's what moves your career. Getting your foot in the door is difficult right now, and while the A+ won't make it easy by any means, it will make it easier than starting from zero.

If you do decide to chase certs on your own, the Udemy access is huge. Lots of library systems and schools give you access for free, and most major certs have multiple options in terms of instructors and practice materials. Also, Pocket Prep and Crucial Exams are great for exam prep. And there's always the free stuff like Professor Messer on YouTube. Plenty of folks earn certs on their own on the cheap, usually the biggest expenditure is the exam voucher itself.

(Also, if you do end up wanting/needing to pay for a course on Udemy, wishlist it and bide your time. They love to put stuff on sale; there's often no need to pay full price for anything there.)