It depends on experience and knowledge really. It's probably better to study when you're not concentrating on multiple things like school, etc unless you're a great multi-tasker.
I've taken the Network+ exam three times, passed all three times in 2006, 2010 and 2014, and Security+ four times, failed my first time in 2006, passed in 2006, 2011 and 2014.
I failed the Security+ my first time. I took the exam a year after switching to IT in the military and a lot of the concepts and terminology was new to me.
Every time I've taken the exams later, I've aced them in the 800s (0-900 grading scale). I have 10 years of IT experience though.
If you haven't worked in the industry and your studies haven't dipped too deeply into the topics covered in the exam, I'd recommend reading the self-study guide and doing practice exams (Skillsoft, Measureup, Boson, etc).
Besides the entry-level Fundamentals you learn, the main perk of having these certifications is in obtaining DoD IT job positions. It's the only reason why I have them. To work in certain technician roles, the DoD requires Information Assurance and operating system certifications. Example for me to be a Tier-2 network administrator, I'd need CCNA and Security+. In order to be a Tier-3 network administrator, I might need CCNP/CCIE and CASP or CISSP.
Better certifications are CCNA, PMP, CISSP, VCP, MCSE. CISSP, PMP, OSCP and CCIE are great HR eye raisers and help in obtaining six-figure jobs (though they're not necessary if you have great experience and connections).
