What are the Best CPA Review Courses in 2024 to Pass the Exam?

As a prospective Certified Public Accountant (CPA), selecting the right CPA review course is crucial to your success in passing the CPA exam. CPA review courses offer comprehensive study materials, experienced instructors, and tailored study plans to help you effectively prepare for the exam and achieve your desired results. A good review course not only equips you with necessary knowledge and skills but also helps you in creating an efficient exam preparation strategy.

There are numerous factors to consider when choosing a CPA review course, such as course content, instructor quality, price, as well as available support and resources. To make the most informed decision, it's essential to research and compare different course providers that cater to your specific needs and preferences. By selecting the most suitable course, you ensure a smoother and more successful journey towards becoming a CPA.

Key Takeaways

A well-rounded CPA review course offers comprehensive study materials and guidance for exam preparation.
It's essential to consider factors such as course content, price, and instructor quality when choosing a CPA review course.
Researching and comparing different course providers can help you find the most suitable option for your needs and preferences.
This guide on the best CPA prep courses will help you determine the best program that is right for you.

Why You Should Trust the University HQ Editorial Team

University HQ's editorial team comprises experienced accounting professionals with vast expertise in higher education and accounting career guidance. Each member brings his or her own expertise and perspective, creating comprehensive yet well-rounded content. Our accounting editors have held various roles within education, accounting positions and provide invaluable insights into college and accounting life. What sets our editorial team apart is their dedication to providing accurate, unbiased, up-to-date information and real life accounting experiences. We recognize the significance of reliable guidance when making life-altering decisions; thus we carefully verify all sources and data before publishing content.

Understanding CPA Review Courses

What Are CPA Review Courses

CPA review courses are comprehensive programs specifically designed to help accountants prepare for the rigorous Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. These courses cover all the essential topics in accounting that are tested on the CPA exam, such as financial accounting, auditing, business law, taxation, and ethics. By enrolling in a CPA review course, you get access to a wide range of study materials, including textbooks, video lectures, practice questions, study guides, and more.

There are various CPA review courses available to choose from, each offering different teaching styles, pricing options, and learning resources. Some popular CPA review courses include:

Becker CPA Review Course
Surgent CPA Review Course
Gleim CPA Review Course
UWorld Roger CPA Review Course
Yaeger CPA Review Course

Why a CPA Review Course is Key

Passing the CPA exam is a challenging experience, even for the most academically gifted accountants. The exam consists of four separate tests, each covering different areas of accounting knowledge. Here's why investing in a CPA review course is critical for your success:

Structured Learning: CPA review courses provide a well-organized study plan that covers all the relevant topics in a clear and concise manner. You get access to a comprehensive curriculum that simplifies complex accounting concepts, making it easier for you to understand and retain the information.
Time Management: These courses come with study schedules and time-management tools that help you plan your studies and make the most of your time. Knowing how much time to allocate for each topic ensures you cover all the material before the exam.
Practice and Feedback: CPA review courses offer a variety of practice questions, quizzes, and mock exams to help you assess your knowledge and identify any weak areas. These practice resources not only reinforce your understanding but also give you vital experience in answering exam-style questions.
Expert Instructors: Most CPA review courses feature experienced accounting professionals as instructors. These experts guide you through the course material, providing insights and tips on how to approach the exam.
Support and Community: Being part of a community of fellow accountants who are also pursuing their CPA license can be extremely motivating. Review courses often provide access to forums and live chat support, allowing you to connect with your peers and ask questions or seek advice.

All things considered, a CPA review course is an invaluable resource for those seeking a CPA license. By providing you with structured learning, time management, practice resources, expert instructors, and a supportive community, these courses significantly increase your chances of passing the CPA exam and achieving your professional goals.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a CPA Review Course

Learning Style

Your learning style plays a crucial role in selecting the right CPA review course for you. Some CPA prep courses focus on in-depth video lectures, while others emphasize practice questions and adaptive learning technology. Consider your strengths and preferences in learning. Evaluate the following aspects for each course:

Lecture format (live, recorded, or both)
Access to instructors and support team
Availability of physical or digital study materials
Interactive learning tools (e.g., flashcards, quizzes)

Budget

CPA review courses vary in price, so it's essential to consider your budget when choosing the best fit for you. Some of the leading CPA review courses are:

Becker CPA Exam Review: Known for its comprehensive study materials and reputation as the top choice among the Big Four accounting firms.
Gleim CPA Exam Review: Offers a cost-effective solution with a focus on quality content.
Wiley CPA Exam Review: Provides a good value for its comprehensive course offering.

When assessing the budget, keep these factors in mind:

Course tiers or packages available
Payment plans or financing options
Guarantees, such as a pass or money-back guarantee
Additional costs for supplementary materials or updates

Study Time

The amount of time you have available to study can influence the CPA review course that's best suited for your needs. Some courses require more time than others, so evaluate the following aspects:

Course duration and flexibility (self-paced or instructor-led)
Time commitment required per week
Course content depth and comprehensiveness
Access to materials (expiration dates or unlimited access)

Consider selecting a CPA review course that meets your learning style, budget, and study time requirements to maximize your chances of passing the CPA exam.

Highly Rated CPA Exam Prep Providers

Becker CPA Review

Becker CPA Review is well-known for its comprehensive study materials and exceptional support system. With their best-in-class textbooks, LiveOnline classes, and access to a CPA Exam Coach, you'll have all the resources needed to succeed on the exam. They also offer a Final Review capstone course, which includes 4 additional simulated exams to ensure you are well-prepared.

Surgent CPA Review

Surgent CPA Review offers a unique adaptive learning approach, focusing on your strengths and weaknesses. Their course includes over 7,300 multiple-choice questions, 400 task-based simulations, and concise video lectures, making it a great choice for those with limited study time. Additionally, their study materials are updated regularly to reflect the latest content on the CPA Exam.

UWorld Roger CPA Review

UWorld Roger CPA Review stands out for its engaging instructors and easy-to-follow video lectures. With their signature energetic teaching style, they effectively deliver complex concepts in a digestible manner. The course also offers an extensive question bank and study materials, ensuring you have a thorough understanding of the exam content.

Gleim CPA Review

Gleim CPA Review is recognized for its affordable price and extensive question bank, which contains over 10,000 questions and simulations. Their SmartAdapt technology tailors your study plan to your needs, and the interactive study planner helps you stay on track with your progress. Gleim CPA Review also offers a great support system with personal counselors and accounting experts ready to assist you throughout your journey.

Wiley CPA Review

Wiley CPAexcel offers a comprehensive study course, which includes over 12,000 multiple-choice questions, 600 task-based simulations, and 20 complete practice exams. They also provide an adaptive learning platform called Efficient Learning System, allowing you to focus on areas where you need improvement. With a clear and concise presentation style, Wiley CPAexcel makes studying for the exam an efficient and effective process.

Ninja CPA Review

Ninja CPA Review is known for its flexibility and affordability, making it a great option for those who need supplemental materials or are on a tight budget. They offer a wide variety of study resources, including multiple-choice questions, simulations, audio lectures, and enhanced study notes. With their unique "Ninja Framework," you can customize your study plan to suit your preferences and learning style.

Signature Features of CPA Review Courses

Table: Comparison of the Top CPA Review Courses

CPA Review Course	Comprehensive Study Materials	Engaging Video Lectures	Practice Questions and Test Banks	Dedicated Support
Becker CPA Review GET DEAL
UWorld Roger CPA Review GET DEAL
Surgent CPA Review GET DEAL
Gleim CPA Review GET DEAL
Ninja CPA Review GET DEAL
Wiley CPA Review GET DEAL

Adaptive Technology

Adaptive technology in CPA review courses is designed to help you focus on your areas of weakness by providing personalized study sessions tailored to your learning needs. With adaptive technology, the software continually assesses your performance and adjusts the content presented to maximize your study efficiency. This feature ensures that you spend more time on areas that require improvement, enabling you to build a strong foundation in those subjects and ultimately increase your chances of passing the CPA exam.

Video Lectures

In addition to written materials, many CPA review courses offer video lectures that can reinforce your understanding of complex topics. These lectures are typically delivered by experienced professionals who provide clear explanations and examples, helping you grasp the material more effectively. Video lectures can be particularly helpful for visual learners because they often incorporate visual aids, charts, and graphs to illustrate important concepts. Moreover, having the flexibility to watch the lectures at your own pace allows you to effectively manage your study time.

Mobile App

The availability of mobile apps for CPA review courses can significantly enhance your study experience. With a mobile app, you have the convenience of accessing study resources and materials on-the-go, allowing you to make better use of your time during commutes or breaks. Additionally, mobile app features often include progress tracking, flashcards, and practice questions, making it easier for you to maintain a consistent study routine and monitor your progress throughout the course.

Mock Exams

Mock exams play a crucial role in your CPA review course experience, as they help you gauge your readiness for the actual exam. These exams replicate the format, structure, and timing of the CPA exam and serve as a valuable tool for assessing your understanding of the material. By taking mock exams, you can identify your areas of weakness, practice your test-taking strategies, and build confidence in your ability to tackle the real exam. Furthermore, the review courses often provide detailed feedback on your mock exam performance, enabling you to refine your study plan and concentrate on the areas that need improvement.

Comprehensive Study Materials

Textbooks

When choosing a CPA review course, it's essential to find one that offers comprehensive textbooks. These textbooks should cover all the sections of the CPA exam, including AUD, BEC, FAR, and REG. Look for review courses that provide up-to-date and well-organized textbooks, as they will serve as your primary study material for the exam.

Flashcards

Flashcards are an essential study tool for any CPA candidate. They help reinforce your knowledge by testing you on key concepts and terms. Quality flashcards should be concise, easy to understand, and contain both a question and an answer. Some review courses offer physical flashcards, while others provide digital flashcards that you can access on your computer or mobile device.

Notes

Another vital component of comprehensive CPA review courses is the provision of notes. Clear and concise notes can greatly assist with your exam preparation by summarizing complex topics into easy-to-understand points. These notes should complement the textbooks and cover all areas of the CPA exam. Look for review courses that offer both printed and electronic notes to accommodate various learning preferences.

Digital Flashcards

In today's fast-paced, technologically advanced world, digital flashcards have become increasingly popular as a study tool. These digital flashcards provide the same benefits as traditional flashcards but are more accessible and convenient. You can easily access them on your mobile device, laptop, or desktop, making them ideal for on-the-go studying. Some review courses offer customizable digital flashcards, allowing you to create your personalized set based on your study needs.

In summary, comprehensive study materials are a crucial aspect of any CPA review course. Ensure you select a course that offers up-to-date textbooks, a variety of flashcards, and clear notes in both printed and electronic formats. With the right materials in hand, you are better equipped to tackle the CPA exam confidently and successfully.

Exam Preparation Strategy

Practice Exams

One key component of a successful CPA exam prep strategy is utilizing practice exams. These exams, provided by the best CPA review courses, closely mimic the actual exam in format, content, and time constraints. By taking practice exams, you can gauge your understanding of the CPA exam topics and identify areas for improvement. Moreover, practice exams help you develop good time management skills and build your test-taking endurance.

Task-Based Simulations

Another critical aspect of your CPA review strategy should focus on task-based simulations (TBS). TBS are case studies that test your ability to apply your knowledge to practical scenarios. Working through TBS helps reinforce your understanding of key concepts. Many CPA review courses offer TBS practice, featuring performance feedback and expert guidance, enabling you to refine your approach and build confidence in tackling these challenging components of the CPA exam.

Multiple Choice Questions

Practicing multiple-choice questions (MCQs) is an essential component of your CPA exam preparation strategy. MCQs cover a wide range of topics on the exam and provide an efficient way to test your comprehension and retention of the material. The best CPA review courses feature extensive MCQ banks with carefully crafted questions that reflect the types and difficulty levels found on the actual exam. Focusing on MCQ practice helps you identify areas that require further study and refine your problem-solving skills.

Study Schedule

Creating and adhering to a study schedule is crucial to your CPA exam success. A well-organized schedule enables you to balance your work, personal commitments, and test preparation effectively. You should allocate consistent study time, plan regular breaks, and factor in catch-up days. Moreover, setting realistic study milestones and tracking your progress helps you stay on track and maintain motivation throughout your CPA prep course journey.

Resources	Description
Test Banks	A comprehensive collection of multiple-choice questions and task-based simulations that mimic the CPA exam format.
Video Lectures	In-depth lectures delivered by experienced instructors to help you understand complex accounting concepts.
Study Materials	A wide range of materials, such as textbooks, practice problems, and flashcards, to enhance your understanding of exam topics.
Multiple-Choice Questions	Practice questions to assess your knowledge and familiarize yourself with the exam format.
Task-Based Simulations	Realistic simulations that require you to apply your knowledge and problem-solving skills to practical scenarios.
Audio Lectures	Recorded lectures that can be accessed on mobile devices or audio players, allowing for flexible learning.

Additional CPA Review Course Features

Money-Back Guarantee

When selecting a CPA review course, it's essential to consider the guarantees they offer. Many top CPA review courses provide a money-back guarantee if you don't pass the exam on your first attempt. This not only gives you peace of mind and financial reassurance but also demonstrates that the provider is confident in the effectiveness of their course. When comparing courses, take note of each provider's money-back guarantee terms and conditions since they may vary.

Access Until You Pass

Another useful feature offered by some CPA review courses is access until you pass. This means that you'll continue to have access to the course materials, updates, and support until you successfully pass all four sections of the CPA exam. This can be particularly valuable for those who might require additional time or multiple attempts in passing the exam.

checklist with 3 items

Unlimited access to course materials
Regular updates and content revisions
Continued support through your CPA journey end of checklist

Free Trial

A 14-day free trial can be a crucial deciding factor when selecting the best CPA review course for you. Many providers offer a trial period that allows you to test the course materials, user interface, and overall structure without committing to a purchase. During this trial period, you'll get a sense of whether the course aligns with your learning preferences and needs.

Remember to evaluate the following during your free trial:

Format and quality of lecture videos
Design and functionality of the digital platform
Availability and responsiveness of customer support

Taking advantage of these additional features can greatly enhance your experience and success with a CPA review course. Be sure to consider money-back guarantees, access until you pass, and free trial periods when evaluating and comparing different course options.

What is the Cost of the CPA Review Courses?

Becker CPA Review Cost

Becker CPA Review offers several packages with varying prices. The Advantage package is priced at $2,499 and offers a 24-month access. The Premium package is available at $3,099 and includes unlimited access. The most popular package, Pro, comes at a cost of $3,799, while the Concierge option is the highest tier at $5,999. Various payment plans, such as 0% interest flex pay, are also offered to make these pricing options more accessible.

Becker Deal

Wiley CPA Review Cost

Wiley CPA Review provides a comprehensive course at a reasonable price. Their Platinum package is available for around $2,800, while the Gold and Silver come at lower price points. Wiley occasionally offers discounts and promotions, so be sure to check their website for the latest updates.

Wiley Deal

Surgent CPA Review Cost

Surgent CPA Review has a variety of course options and pricing; however, they are more affordable compared to others. Their Essentials Pass is priced around $1,599, the Premier Pass at about $2,399, and the Ultimate Pass for roughly $2,999. Surgent also offers a financing option through Affirm.

Surgent Deal

Ninja CPA Review Cost

Ninja CPA Review is known as a budget-friendly option in the CPA review course market. Their course is available as a monthly subscription and is priced at $67 per month. This gives you access to all four sections and is quite convenient as you can cancel the subscription any time.

Ninja Deal

Gleim CPA Review Cost

Gleim CPA Review focuses on effective preparation at competitive prices. You have the option to purchase individual exam parts for around $599 each, or the entire course for $1,999 (Gleim's Premium CPA Review System). They also offer financing options such as installment payments, making it more manageable for a wider audience.

Gleim Deal

UWorld Roger CPA Review Cost

UWorld Roger CPA Review offers three main packages: Elite, Premier, and Essentials. Elite is the most comprehensive package, priced at $2,999 and includes unlimited access to the course materials. The Premier package comes at a cost of $2,399, while the Essentials package is available for around $1,699. They also provide options to purchase individual exam sections for more flexibility.

Roger Deal

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top CPA Review courses to consider?

There are several highly-regarded CPA Review courses. Some of the top options include Becker CPA Review, Surgent CPA Review, Wiley CPA Review Course, and Gleim CPA Course Review. Each course offers unique features and learning methods, so you should research each one to determine which best suits your needs.

Which CPA courses have the highest pass rates?

While specific pass rates may vary year to year, well-established CPA Review courses like Becker CPA Review and Surgent CPA Review often have high pass rates due to their comprehensive study materials and adaptive learning technology. It's important to remember, however, that the quality of the study materials provided by the course and the effort you put into studying also play a critical role in your success.

How do live and in-person courses compare to online programs?

Live and in-person courses usually provide an interactive learning environment, allowing you to ask questions and receive immediate feedback. They can also help you stay disciplined with a set schedule and study plan. Online programs, on the other hand, offer flexibility in terms of time and location, allowing you to balance other obligations, such as work or family. Both options can be effective, so it mainly depends on your personal preferences and learning style.

What should I look for when choosing a CPA study material?

When choosing CPA study materials, consider the following factors:

Comprehensive coverage of exam content, including detailed explanations and examples.
Access to realistic practice questions, including those from previous exams, to help you familiarize yourself with the test format.
Adaptive learning technology that adjusts to your strengths and weaknesses, helping you focus on specific areas needing improvement.
Quality of the instructors or faculty, as well as their availability for guidance and support.
Flexibility in terms of study plans, learning formats, and accessibility of the materials.

Are there any affordable or free CPA Review options?

While most CPA Review courses involve a cost, some affordable courses, such as Gleim CPA Course Review, provide high-quality materials at a lower price point. You can also use free resources, such as online forums, blogs, or even materials provided by your state board of accountancy. Keep in mind, though, that using free resources may require more effort and commitment compared to using a structured paid course.

How do major CPA prep providers like Wiley, Surgent, and Becker compare?

Each major CPA prep provider comes with its unique offerings and advantages:

Wiley CPA Review Course is considered a good value option, with comprehensive materials and accessibility on multiple platforms.
Surgent CPA Review stands out for its adaptive learning technology, which helps you efficiently focus on areas needing improvement.
Becker CPA Review is known for its quality and reputation, having partnerships with all Big Four accounting firms.

It's important to compare these providers based on your individual needs and preferences to make the best choice for your exam preparation.

5 Best CPA Exam Prep Review Courses for 2025