Best CPA Prep Courses
Updated July 3, 2024 · 4 Min Read
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All prospective certified public accountants (CPAs) must pass the Uniform CPA Examination, a standardized test required in all 50 states. This four-part exam includes multiple-choice questions, task-based simulations, and written communication tasks.
Students can take the exam all at once or complete each section separately. People who take the test in stages have up to 18 months to pass all four sections. However, evidence shows that students who finish within 12 months are more likely to succeed, according to the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA).
The CPA exam is challenging: In the first quarter of 2024, the AICPA's data showed cumulative pass rates below 65% for each of the three core sections of the test — only 41.92% of test-takers passed the financial accounting and reporting section in that timeframe.
Successful applicants generally study at least 300-400 hours — around 100 hours per section. To learn the material, examinees usually create a study plan, dividing the test sections into information they already know and new concepts that may need additional time and effort.
While it is possible to study independently, many prospective CPAs take a comprehensive preparation course as an effective way to get ready for the test.
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What Are Ways to Study for the CPA Exam?
A CPA exam prep course usually covers the content you can expect to find on the exam and gives you tools to help you study successfully.
To develop a study plan, consult the AICPA's Exam Blueprints. This foundational set of documents explains what the test entails, including content, score weighting, sample task statements, reference materials, and the number of multiple-choice questions and task-based simulations you need to complete in each section.
Test preparation companies also provide exam review packages that include study materials such as practice tests, digital textbooks, apps, online flashcards, videos, live tutors, and real-time courses. Since some study tactics work better than others for different people, you personalize your study strategy to fit your learning style.
Many test-takers find that they need to read textbooks, listen to recorded lectures, and review handwritten notes many times to fully understand exam material. CPA candidates may spend dozens or hundreds of hours reviewing flashcards, answer thousands of mock questions, and complete at least two simulated exams before attempting the actual test.
Some people prefer studying in groups, while others dig into the course content on their own. In addition to enrolling in one of the top CPA exam prep courses, examinees can find support online or through in-person study groups.
6 Best CPA Exam Prep Courses
Many companies sell test preparation materials, and even more websites offer free advice and discussions about the test. We culled the internet for the most reputable, successful, and affordable CPA exam prep courses.
While the courses listed below are not an exhaustive list of study materials for the CPA exam, they do represent some of the best resources available. Most of these companies boast high pass rates for their customers.
American Institute of CPAs
The AICPA owns and scores the Uniform CPA Exam, so this organization is a good place to start your test prep. The AICPA provides extensive information about the exam itself, including how it is scored and how to study for it.
The organization's website, ThisWayToCPA.com, offers resources like a sample test and the Uniform CPA Examination booklet. Test-takers can also download episodes of "Next Stop: CPA," the AICPA's official CPA Exam podcast.
Learn more about AICPA's test-prep resources.
Becker
Founded more than 60 years ago, Becker offers CPA exam preparation resources along with continuing professional education courses for licensed accountants.
Becker's CPA prep courses include four comprehensive review packages, ranging in cost from $2,469 to $4,999. Becker also offers single-section study guides and a final review course. Its products include live online tutoring, classes, and academic support.
The program has an independently verified pass rate of 94%, but students who choose the pricier concierge plan are guaranteed to pass or else receive up to 100% of their money back.
Learn more about Becker.
Gleim
Operating for over 50 years, Gleim offers three comprehensive review packages, with costs ranging from $2,499 to $3,499.
Students learn using an adaptive platform as they take mock tests that simulate the Prometric testing environment. Each exam question includes explanations for every answer. Gleim also provides a large supplemental bank of sample test questions.
Gleim also offers a "Help Me Pass" program, which gives discounts to people who have already purchased test prep programs from other providers.
Learn more about Gleim.
NINJA
NINJA began supplying CPA exam preparation supplements in 2010, gradually expanding into a comprehensive review program. Today, students can use NINJA as a full study course or as a supplement to another program. Since August 2020, the provider estimates five of their customers per day pass the final section of their CPA exam.
The course's proprietary framework consists of three core components: the study method, the study planner, and the study scheduler. Examinees learn what to study, when to study, and how to recognize and remember critical facts. Tools include flashcards, notes, a test bank, and interactive learning platforms.
The program costs $67 per month.
Learn more about NINJA.
Surgent Account & Financial Education
Across its 35-year history, Surgent has served more than 250,000 professionals with continuing education, exam reviews, and skill-building courses.
The company's CPA exam review includes three options, ranging in price from $1,299 to $2,999. All three programs feature Surgent's proprietary predictive AI technology, 8,800 multiple-choice questions, and more than 450 simulations. The more expensive packages provide additional tools and unlimited access until you pass.
Surgent's ReadySCORE technology forecasts when students are prepared to take the CPA exam, and the company guarantees refunds for customers who fail all four exam sections.
Learn more about Surgent's CPA review.
UWorld
Formerly known as Efficient Learning, UWorld's CPA review course has helped more than 1 million candidates earn their CPA credentials.
The program includes practice questions that actual CPAs and university professors wrote and verified. Students can also access more than 100 hours of video lectures, e-book study guides, and over 8,000 practice questions.
UWorld offers a premier review program with 18 months of access and an elite program with unlimited access. Costs range from $1,999 to $2,299. UWorld reports a pass rate of 94%.
Learn more about UWorld's CPA course preparation.
Questions About CPA Exam Preparation
What is the best way to prepare for the CPA exam?
The best way to prepare is to make and follow a study plan. This regimen should include at least 300-400 hours of focused prep time. You may also benefit from joining a study group, hiring a mentor, or taking a CPA exam review course.
Which study material is best for the CPA exam?
The best study material for the CPA exam is whatever materials you learn from best. Research each of the top programs carefully, and then decide which one will work best for you, your budget, and your learning style.
How expensive is Becker CPA exam prep?
Becker CPA Review offers several courses and products, which range in price from $2,469 to $4,999. The company offers a 14-day free trial so you can test-drive the products before making a purchase.
Is Becker enough to pass the CPA exam?
Many test-takers say Becker's CPA prep resources alone are enough to pass the CPA exam, and the company itself reports a 94% pass rate. However, it's a good idea to thoroughly research several test prep companies before making your decision.
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