The Best CPA Exam Prep Courses

Friday, May 16th

2025 CPA Exam Prep Course Reviews

Varsity Tutors

• Prices from $70 to $95 per hour
• Video conferences and written content
• Practice tests
• Multiple learning styles
• Curated for you
• Professionally vetted tutors
• Pass guarantee
• 4.5-star average
• "A+” rating from the BBB

Varsity Tutors is a valuable resource for students seeking expert guidance in a variety of academic subjects, including accounting. With a team of tutors who are industry experts with extensive Certified Public Accountant (CPA) experience, Varsity Tutors offers live tutoring, test prep, group tutoring, and virtual learning opportunities. The company has attracted top talent from prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Yale, Princeton, and Stanford, so students receive the highest quality help from its employees. Whether you're a high school or college student studying for a specific topic or preparing for a challenging test like the LSAT, MCAT, GMAT, SAT, or CPA exam, Varsity Tutors can provide personalized support to help you achieve your academic goals.

Answer a quick quiz to begin

Getting started with Varsity Tutors is straightforward. To begin, you'll be asked whether you've already taken the CPA exam before or not. Then, you'll need to specify why you're seeking help, what your preferred learning style is (conversation, writing, or studying), and how soon you need assistance. You'll also need to provide your contact information and indicate a convenient time for Varsity Tutors to reach out to you by phone. This information will help the company match you with the most suitable tutor based on your unique needs and preferences.

Top tutors for each subject

What sets Varsity Tutors apart from other tutoring companies is its rigorous hiring process. Only 6% of applicants who apply to work with Varsity Tutors successfully pass the company's stringent vetting process. As a result, students can rest assured that they'll be working with highly qualified and experienced tutors who have undergone a thorough evaluation process. Each tutor's profile includes their education and certifications, test scores, hobbies, and tutoring subjects, providing students with a clear understanding of their qualifications and expertise.

Create a custom plan

Due to the tutoring structure of this platform, there aren't set courses available. Your work will be with individual tutors who will work with you to create a curriculum. You can either get a full course designed with Varsity or work on individual areas of your CPA test with your tutor. It's entirely up to you.

Prices estimated from $70 to $95 per hour

Another important consideration when choosing a tutoring company is pricing. Unfortunately, Varsity Tutors doesn't provide pricing information on its website. To get a quote for the specific help you need, you'll need to fill out an online form and have a representative from the company contact you by phone. The cost of tutoring will vary depending on whether you're seeking group or one-on-one instruction. While private tutoring can range from $70 to $95 per hour, you'll want to discuss your specific needs and budget with a representative to get an accurate estimate.

Pass guarantee

One of the most attractive features of Varsity Tutors is its pass guarantee for CPA test prep tutoring. This means that if you take the CPA exam within 14 days of your last tutoring session, complete all homework and assignments, attend all sessions, and still don't pass the exam, you'll be eligible to repeat all your tutoring sessions at no cost or potentially receive a full refund. This policy demonstrates Varsity Tutors' commitment to helping students succeed and achieve their academic goals.

A great platform for all learning styles

The majority of students who have used Varsity Tutors have been extremely satisfied with their experience. The company has an impressive "A+" rating from the Better Business Bureau and thousands of reviews from satisfied customers who praise the quality of tutoring provided by Varsity Tutors' experts. On average, Varsity has a 4.5-star rating from students. Students appreciate the flexibility of tutoring sessions, which are tailored to their individual learning styles and needs.

Top pick for quality and affordability

Due to the high praise for the platform, as well as the impressive flexibility of the tutoring sessions and learning styles,, we highly recommend Varsity Tutors for CPA test prep and other academic subjects. The cost is more affordable as you pay per session rather than for a whole course, and with a pass guarantee, you have Varsity's support as you plan for your exam. Given all these benefits, Varsity earns the top spot in our review of CPA test prep options.

Gleim Exam Prep

• Prices from $999 to $3,499
• Video and written content
• Practice tests and task-based simulations
• Digital and print materials
• One-on-one review sessions with instructors
• Free demo
• 30-day refund policy
• 91% pass rate
• 4.9-star average rating
• "A+” rating from the BBB

Located in Gainesville, Florida, Gleim is a company that specializes in developing study and reference materials for both accounting and aviation students. Their CPA review program has been around for over 45 years, and it's impressive that they have maintained a high level of quality and consistency over such a long period. Gleim is an eco-friendly company that uses solar electricity, has a recycling program, and donates a portion of their proceeds to planting trees. This commitment to sustainability is something that sets Gleim apart from other companies.

Preview the content with free demo

Before committing to Gleim's CPA review program, it's a good idea to demo their materials for free. You can sign up for an account on their website and try out a complete study unit for each section. You can also view an 8-minute walkthrough on their website that gives a brief overview of how the platform works and gives you a visual idea of how it's all laid out.

Access to one-on-ones

Gleim offers personalized support to help you achieve success on your exam, with live counselors available to guide you from start to finish. Gleim promises that their experts will create a study plan tailored to your needs, providing ongoing support and encouragement along the way. With a team of experienced professionals, including those with advanced degrees in finance, Gleim's Personal Counselors are there to help you with your CPA.

Materials for all learning styles

One of the unique features of Gleim's online platform is its ability to provide real-time evaluations. Their platform, called SmartAdapt, is like having a personal exam tutor that evaluates your performance, directs you to resources you need, and continues to adjust as you improve your quiz scores. SmartAdapt will even let you know when it thinks you are ready to take your final test. The platform includes mock exams that are designed to mimic the actual exam experience, including the look, length, and weight of topics. Gleim's study materials are designed to help you understand the concepts behind the questions, rather than just memorizing answers. This approach can help you learn faster and deeper, and retain information more effectively. Their materials include over 100 hours of professor-led video lectures, digital and printed books, over 10,000 multiple-choice questions, unlimited practice exams, digital flashcards, and audio lectures.

Prices from $999 to $3,499

Gleim offers four CPA review packages, each featuring their innovative SmartAdapt technology. Here's what we found:

• Premium Pro CPA Review: You'll get everything you need to pass the CPA Exam, guaranteed. Choose your discipline section when you're ready and access all six exam sections, core topics, and more. You'll enjoy all-new lecture videos, unlimited assistance from experts, and one year of free CPE hours. Plus, you'll get printed books by request and a team of accounting experts at your disposal. This package is available for $3,499.
• Premium CPA Review: You'll get all three core sections, your choice of discipline, and the ability to switch once for free. You'll also receive all-new lecture videos, assistance from experts, digital flashcards, and more. This package is available for $2,999.
• Traditional CPA Review: You'll get 100% content coverage, a full-length mock exam for every section, digital books, and a personal counselor to help you succeed. Plus, you'll get practice questions and answer explanations, an invite to private study groups, and more. This package is available for $2,499.
• CPA Mega Test Bank: You'll get hundreds of task-based simulations, thousands of multiple-choice questions per section, expertly authored digital books, and 18 months of access. Choose your discipline section when you're ready and start preparing today. This package is available for $999.

30-day limited refunds

Gleim's CPA review program has a remarkable 91% pass rate, which is a testament to its effective teaching methods and resources. One of the benefits of using Gleim's materials is that you'll have access to them until you pass the CPA exam, plus electronic materials will update automatically. However, if you're looking for a guarantee or refund policy, Gleim doesn't stand out from the pack. The policy states that while you have 30 days to request a refund, Accounting and Academic Online Test Prep and other online courses are only eligible for a refund if only one study unit or lesson has been accessed. If you use more than that, you won't be able to get a refund even if the program doesn't work for you.

Praise for Gleim's process

Gleim has an impressive reputation. Currently, the company holds an "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau. On top of that, customers are leaving highly satisfied reviews for the company's study materials. Across most third-party reviews on sites like Facebook, the average rating for Gleim is 4.9 out of 5 stars. This agrees with the overall reviews shown on Gleim's website (with a perfect 5 out of 5). Even finance professionals are praising Gleim's program for its effective coursework, options for digital and print materials, and task-based simulations.

Impressive process no matter who you ask

Overall, Gleim is a fantastic choice for CPA test prep. They offer a wide range of study materials and flexible study plan options, as well as personalized support from accounting experts. Further, Gleim has impressive ratings across the board from the BBB, students, and other institutions. If you like what you see after using their free demo, this is definitely a safe and reliable choice for helping you pass the CPA exam.

Becker CPA Review

• Prices from $2,469 to $5,999
• Video and written content
• Practice tests and flashcards
• One-on-one review sessions with instructors
• 14-day free trial
• 10-day refund policy
• 95% pass rate
• 4.5-star average rating
• "A-” rating from the BBB

Becker's mission is to provide high-quality resources and training for your future in finance. With partnerships in over 55 countries, Becker helps people obtain their Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licenses, as well as other certifications such as the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Continuing Professional Education (CPE). Becker's focus is on delivering the most up-to-date content available and providing a user interface that mirrors the actual exam experience to help students prepare thoroughly for their exams and achieve success.

14-day trial to get started

Before committing to Becker CPA Review, many students want to test out the program to see if it's right for them. So, when you first get started with Becker, you'll find a 14-day free trial that allows you to review the structure of the course, access approximately 60 review sessions, 31 hours of lectures, two full units per content section, over 1,490 multiple-choice questions, 100 task-based simulations, SkillMaster video tutorials, unlimited practice tests, digital flashcards, and more. This should give you a good sense of whether or not Becker CPA Review is the right test prep course for you.

Staff and instructors are in the business

The company's instructors are all Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) with expertise in accounting, law, and business. With decades of practical experience, they provide a complete learning experience to help you prepare for and pass all four parts of the CPA Exam. They offer personalized support through one-on-one access to the company's certified support team, whether through video lessons or live tutoring. On top of being licensed CPAs, many have Master's degrees in Business Administration (MBAs) as well.

Free preview and video-based review

If you want to get a feel for the course structure or lessons, you'll want to watch the demo video, which is nearly 20 minutes long. This video takes you through how to use all the features of the platform, update your information, access materials, and more. We highly recommend watching this video in addition to using the free trial before signing up. One of the primary ways that Becker offers assistance with prep is through its SkillBuilder videos, which walk you through individual test questions and help you solve them with transferable strategies.

Priced from $2,499 to $5,999

Becker's CPA Review program is not without its costs, but many students would argue that it is well worth the investment. The program offers four different packages, each with its own set of features and benefits. The Advantage package costs $2,499 and includes access to all essential exam test prep tools and features for two years, as well as a four-section CPA course. The Premium package costs $3,099 and adds textbooks to the Advantage package. The Pro package costs $3,799 and includes everything in the Premium package plus a multiple-choice question bank, 5 one-on-one tutoring sessions, live online classes, in person classes, capstone course, flashcards, and a CPE subscription. Finally, there's the Concierge package which costs $5,999. This includes all of the features of Premium along with an additional 20 coaching sessions, extra video content, help with jurisdiction licensing, and a certificate program including Excel and DEI training.

10-day refund policy

One of the key factors that contributes to Becker's success is their impressive pass rate. According to statistics from one recent year's results, Becker CPA Review helped students pass an astonishing 94% of the CPA exam sections they attempted. This means that out of the over 33,000 sections of the CPA exam taken by students who used Becker's resources, more than 31,000 sections were passed successfully. This remarkable pass rate is a testament to the effectiveness of Becker's study materials and methods. While there isn't a guarantee, Becker does offer a refund if you decide the program isn't for you. If you decide to cancel your license or subscription, you can do so at any time. According to the refund policy, you must submit your refund request within 10 calendar days of your initial purchase. So, you'll be able to use the program for 10 days before you need to decide.

Impressive reputation with students

Finally, students who have used Becker CPA Review have nothing but praise for the program. With an "A-" rating from the Better Business Bureau and exceptional student reviews, it's clear that Becker has built a reputation for providing high-quality resources and support. Students who used Becker left it an impressive 4.5-star average rating on Trustpilot. Many students have reported not only passing the CPA exam but also achieving high scores thanks to Becker's help. Comments about how the format and content from Becker matched the actual test as well as helpful customer service representatives are just a few reasons why this platform stands out from others in its field.

Impressive and proven program

If you're able to commit to the cost of the program and make use of all its resources, Becker is an excellent option for anyone preparing for the CPA exam. There are tons of resources and different types of learning, from one-on-one sessions to video guides. Depending on the package you choose, you'll also get access to a range of additional features that can help you become one of the more than 90% of successful test takers that use Becker. For this reason, Becker stands out as one of the top-performing CPA test prep programs in our review, earning a strong rating overall.

Surgent CPA Review

• Prices from $1,299 to $2,999
• Video and written content
• Practice tests
• Online scheduler
• AI-driven lessons for individualized study
• Pass guarantee with refund
• 4.8-star rating on average

Surgent's test prep courses are designed to help students create a balanced and personalized study plan that allows them to focus on what they need to learn to pass the CPA exam while still managing their daily responsibilities. Recognizing that each student learns differently, Surgent offers two learning styles: adaptive and linear. The adaptive option provides a customized study plan tailored to each individual's strengths and weaknesses, while the linear style provides a structured approach to studying. By offering these different approaches, Surgent is ideal for students with busy lifestyles who may not have the time to read every chapter of a textbook, watch hundreds of videos, or answer every practice question.

5-day free trial

To get started at Surgent, you can easily try out the platform before committing to the full course. The company offers a 5-day free trial that you can access by providing your basic information to set up an account. If you decide that Surgent is the right fit for you, you can choose from three plans: Essentials, Premier, and Ultimate. Each plan includes additional features and resources designed to help students prepare for the CPA exam.

Impressive coaches

When you use Surgent exam coaches, they help you develop effective study and test-taking skills instead of just reviewing course material. With one-on-one coaching, you'll learn personalized strategies designed to help you at your current level of progress, allowing you to make the most of your study sessions. As a result, you can expect more efficient studying, smarter test-taking techniques, and improved performance on the exam. You'll have three coaching sessions per exam section, each lasting 20-30 minutes. You can easily schedule these sessions online and choose whether to meet by phone or through a Zoom meeting. All of the Surgent coaches have higher-ed degrees in business or other relevant fields.

Helpful course materials for different learning styles

One of the key features of Surgent's CPA study platform is its use of AI-powered software that identifies areas where a student needs improvement and provides targeted guidance to help them fill those gaps. Using a range of multiple-choice questions, the platform assesses a student's knowledge across a content area and creates a personalized study plan for them. Surgent's CPA test prep course includes over 7,700 multiple-choice questions, 350 bite-sized videos, and 400 task-based simulations. Every time you log in, you will have new reading material, quiz questions, and videos that are tailored to your progress. Surgent's ReadyScore feature also allows students to complete a 350-question assessment to get an accurate estimate of what they would score on the actual CPA exam if they were to take it today. This diagnostic report provides valuable insights into areas where students need improvement.

Prices from $1,299 to $2,999

There are three different study packages to choose from. The base tier, called the Essentials Pass, includes AI progress tracking, the ReadySCORE Exam-Readiness Indicator, the MyMCQ Study Content Optimizer, the Study Companion App, over 8,800 multiple-choice questions, 450 simulations, and digital study materials like e-books and lecture notes. This costs $1,299. The middle tier is the Premier Pass which includes all the features of the base tier and unlimited access until you pass the exam, 700+ videos, lecture study notes, and a pass guarantee. This costs $1,999. The highest tier is the Ultimate Pass. This includes all of the benefits of the lower tiers as well as one-on-one coaching, flashcards, extra tests, audio lectures, extra customer support, 1 year of CPE subscription, 1 year of "gamified” learning access, and more. This final option costs $2,999.

Pass guarantee with refund

Offering a 92% pass rate, Surgent's pass guarantee is another unique feature of their test prep course. The company offers a full refund if a student fails every section of the exam after achieving a ReadySCORE of at least 75 in each course section and taking the actual CPA exam within four months of beginning study with Surgent's program. This guarantee demonstrates Surgent's confidence in their program and commitment to helping students achieve their goals. You can claim a refund if you qualify under these conditions within 10 days of receiving a failure notice from the test facility.

Students are impressed with Surgent

While Surgent has a "B-” rating from the Better Business Bureau, which is not as high as many competitors, reviews from students show that Surgent is highly popular. According to third-party reviews, Surgent has an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5. Students found the materials helpful and the AI learning tools helped them focus on what they needed most. While we'd love to see Surgent raise its BBB rating, it's clear the company offers an impressive course of study.

Competitive with guarantee and prices

Overall, Surgent's approach to CPA test prep is unique in its focus on efficiency and personalization. By providing a range of study options and resources, Surgent helps students manage their time effectively and stay motivated throughout the studying process. While some may be disappointed by Surgent's Better Business Bureau rating, which has been affected by complaints against the company, we believe that the free trial provides a reliable way for prospective customers to evaluate the platform for themselves. Given the other benefits, like a pass guarantee as well as competitive pricing for different packages, Surgent earns a competitive rating in our review.

Universal CPA Review

• Prices from $199 a month to $99 for two years
• Video and written content
• Practice tests
• Task-based simulations
• 7-day refund policy
• 4.8-star rating average
• "A+” rating and accreditation from the BBB

Universal CPA Review is a unique platform that has gained popularity in the CPA review market due to its visually rich instructional methods. Founded in 2018 by Joey Reeve, the platform aims to simplify complex accounting topics through animated videos and colorful study guides. This approach has the potential to change how candidates engage with the content and make it more accessible to a wider range of students. For instance, visual learners who struggle to understand complex concepts may find the platform's visual aids particularly helpful in grasping difficult topics.

Free 7-day trial

To get started on Universal CPA, start your 7-day trial. You'll gain access to multiple-choice questions, video explanations for every CPA exam question, and bite-sized lectures that make learning fun and engaging. The company's study guides are designed to be easy to understand, featuring unique images that help drive concepts home. You'll also be able to preview the company's task-based simulations with accompanying video explanations. And, if you prefer digital learning, the company offers eBook study guides with video explanations to help you stay on track.

Ideal for visual learners

One of the key benefits of Universal CPA Review is its focus on visual learning. The platform uses animated videos and colorful study guides to make complex accounting concepts more engaging and easier to understand. This approach is particularly beneficial for visual learners who retain information better through visual representation. For instance, students who struggle with memorizing formulas and equations may find the platform's video explanations more helpful in understanding these concepts. You'll also gain access to over 100 hours of video lectures, 200+ task-based simulations, and 5,000+ multiple-choice questions. The platform's content follows along with the AICPA blueprints.

No direct tutoring offered

However, there are some limitations to Universal CPA Review's approach. One of the main drawbacks is the lack of instructor interaction. While the platform provides video-based explanations, it does not offer direct, personalized tutoring options like some of its competitors. This may be limiting for students who thrive under more traditional, interactive learning environments or who require one-on-one guidance to tackle difficult concepts.

Prices from $199 per month - $999 for 2 years

Universal CPA Review offers three main packages for candidates to choose from: a monthly subscription, a premier package, and a universal package. The monthly subscription provides access to all core and discipline sections, video explanations, and over 5,000 multiple-choice questions for $119 per month. The premier package offers 24-month access for $999, including extensive task-based simulations and a final review boot camp. The universal package is a 12-month access option priced at $699, which includes features similar to the premier package but for a shorter duration. This flexibility allows you to choose the plan that best fits your budget and study schedule.

7-day refund window

Universal does not offer a pass guarantee, and its window for getting a refund is somewhat limited. You only have 7 days from the date of purchase to try out Universal CPA. This appears to be separate from the 7-day free trial; however, you may want to contact Universal CPA to clarify as this isn't clear in the policies. Further, the monthly subscription is not eligible for any refunds whatsoever.

Game-changer for students

Despite the limited refund policy and no guarantees, Universal CPA Review has an impressive reputation overall. According to the Better Business Bureau, Universal holds an "A+” rating and accreditation. And, on third-party review sites, Universal is extremely popular. The company holds a 4.6-star average on Trustpilot, for example. Customers are calling Universal CPA Review a "game changer” and particularly praise how user-friendly the course is.

An impressive resource but could use more support

Universal CPA Review is a unique platform that offers a visually-rich instructional method for accounting students. While it has several strengths, including its well-designed content and flexible learning plans, it also has some drawbacks, such as its lack of instructor interaction and limited experience in the market. Still, with such an impressive reputation, students don't appear to miss the tutoring. Then again, with no refunds for monthly subscriptions, and a limited refund window for other plans, Universal CPA isn't quite as competitive as our top options. For this reason, it earns an above-average rating of 3.5 with room to improve in the future.

Lambers CPA Review

• Prices from $249.95 to $999.95
• Video and written content
• Practice tests
• Free demo

Lambers is a training program that provides a review course for those seeking to pass the CPA exam, as well as prospective Enrolled Agents (EAs) and Annual Filing Season Program (AFSP) candidates. With its roots dating back to 1966 in Boston, Massachusetts, Lambers has helped over 250,000 students pass the CPA exam since its inception. This impressive track record speaks to the effectiveness of their training methods and the quality of their materials.

No free trial available

Currently, there is no free trial available for the Lambers CPA Review. While the product description for individual test sections through Lambers includes essential information such as the number of questions, explanation videos, and course outline, we would like to see a free trial option to get a better feel for the program's material presentation. However, Lambers does provide screenshots of their features and a brief explanation of what each section entails, giving students a basic idea of what to expect.

No tutors for one-on-ones

Lambers bills itself as the "finishing tool” for your CPA test prep rather than a standalone study program. When you're using your current course material, the company's test prep can be a valuable addition to help you achieve your goals. However, there aren't any options for practice or discussions with a real CPA to help you through the program. This CPA test prep platform is entirely self-directed. This is reflected in the lower-than-average prices, but it does leave out a lot of potential learning opportunities.

Multiple exams and practice drills

One of the key features of Lambers' CPA test prep programs is their self-paced format. This allows those of you with busy schedules to learn at your own pace without feeling pressured by rigid class schedules or deadlines. You can choose to purchase individual sections of the course or opt for the full 4-part course. The 3-mode testing methodology used by Lambers starts with a pre-test mode, which establishes a baseline assessment of your knowledge. This is followed by an adaptive mode, where you are drilled on specific topics and categories, and finally, a simulated mode that mimics the actual exam experience.

Prices from $249.95 to $999.95

The cost of Lambers' 4-section CPA test prep course is $999.95, with individual sections available for $249.95 each. This is one of the more affordable options we've come across, making it an attractive choice for those looking to keep costs down. If you want to only study one section, you can pick and choose how much you want to purchase, which is ideal for those working on another CPA course already.

No pass no pay guarantee

When you purchase Lambers' products, the company is confident that you'll pass your corresponding exam. If you don't pass, you can get a full refund - no questions asked. To qualify, you must be a registered buyer and fail the exam twice (with no time limit). You'll also need to provide your registered email address from the training site and copies of the failing exam notices for both attempts. This guarantee only applies to products bought directly from Lambers and refund requests must be sent to Lambers within 30 days of receiving the second failed notice from the official test vendor.

Mixed reputation for successful materials

Despite its affordability and guarantee, Lambers' CPA prep course seems somewhat lacking in terms of content and resources. Their website is very basic and provides only minimal information about their offerings. We also found very few customer reviews online, and those we did find were mixed in their assessment of the program's quality. While Lambers has an "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau, some students felt that Lambers' video content was lacking in depth and diversity compared to other courses on the market.

Doesn't offer enough complete study

While Lambers may be a safe option due to its guarantee, students may find more value elsewhere by choosing a CPA test prep course from a higher-rated service that offers more resources and support. Since this is meant to be a program that is used in addition to a more robust course of study, Lambers may not be worth your money (even at low prices) if you're starting your CPA study from scratch.

Yaeger CPA Review

• Prices from $95 to $155 per month
• Online study guides, videos, and written content
• Practice tests
• Multiple learning styles
• 15-minute sessions with the creator of the program
• Pass guarantee
• "A+” rating from the BBB

Yaeger CPA Review Course is a well-established company that has been providing high-quality educational resources to accounting professionals for over 40 years. Founded by Phil Yaeger, the company has remained a family-owned business throughout its history. One of the unique features of Yaeger CPA Review is its materials designed for different students' specific needs and learning styles. The company provides a range of study materials, including streaming video lectures, downloadable textbooks, and audio lectures, to help students prepare for the CPA exam.

3-day free trial

To get started at Yaeger, you can jump right in after signing up for a 3-day free trial of the course content. The free trial offered by Yaeger provides you with a taste of their course offerings. You'll have access to streaming video lectures broken down into 15-minute clips, as well as downloadable PDF textbooks. You'll also be able to listen to audio lectures and review the material with the CRAM course and wrap-up lecture review. You'll also have the opportunity to practice with multiple-choice and simulation software, as well as generate quizzes and take simulated exams using the Test Bank Quiz Generator and Test Bank Exam Simulator.

Talk with the creator directly

One of the benefits of Yaeger CPA Review is its personalized approach to teaching. You can schedule 15-minute phone calls with Phil Yaeger himself to discuss your study plan and review your progress. This personalized attention can be invaluable for students who need additional support or have specific questions about the material. However, these sessions are limited to 15 minutes each, and students may need to pay extra for additional time with instructors. Due to Phill Yaeger being the primary contact here, this will be the way you get one-on-one help during this course rather than through tutors.

Helpful content, but not complete

In addition to its personalized approach, Yaeger CPA Review is known for its thorough and blueprint-focused methodology. The company's study materials are designed to match up with the AICPA blueprints, so students are well-prepared for the exam. Yaeger also offers a range of practice tools, including multiple-choice questions and simulations that mirror the exam format. These tools help students get used to the exam's timing and feel. While Yaeger CPA Review has many strengths, there are some limitations to its offerings. For example, the company does not provide preparation for all sections of the CPA exam, including disciplinary sections such as BAR, so you may need to supplement those elements elsewhere.

Prices from $95 to $155 per month

Yaeger's flexible subscription options allow you to choose the level of support you need, depending on your budget and study goals. The company offers three sections of the test individually, and you can choose which ones you want and need. You'll have access to a comprehensive package that covers FAR, AUD, and REG sections with each section costing $337. This will give you access for 24 months and you pay for an extension for one additional year for $99. The program includes streaming video lectures broken down into 15-minute clips, downloadable PDF textbooks, and audio "Listen 'n' Learn" lectures. You'll also receive a CRAM course and wrap-up review lecture to help reinforce your knowledge. You'll also receive two personalized phone calls with Phil Yaeger, the first to set up a customized study plan and the second to review your progress a week later.

Pass guarantee is a little complex

When you use Yaeger CPA Review, you'll have the added security of their Pass Guarantee, which extends your access to any failed sections for three months. To qualify for this guarantee, you need to meet two conditions: you must purchase the review program directly from Yaeger CPA Review, and you must complete the entire online course, answering at least 90% of the questions and taking no more than a 45-day break in your studies. The review program tracks your progress automatically, and Yaeger's staff will verify your completion before granting the guarantee. If you don't pass the CPA exam after using their course material as specified, you'll need to provide a copy of your official grades from your state board showing which sections you didn't pass, to qualify for a refund.

Mixed reviews on instructor

Despite some limitations, Yaeger CPA Review remains a popular choice among accounting professionals. Students praise the company's approach and thorough methodology. One reviewer noted that she passed all four exam sections with an average score of 89 thanks to her background knowledge and the solid foundation provided by Yaeger's materials. Another reviewer praised the utility of the resources provided by Yaeger, despite their simplicity. Yaeger also holds an "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau. However, not all students have had positive experiences with Yaeger CPA Review. Some have criticized Phil Yaeger's teaching style, saying that he repeats himself too much and stops/starts in the middle of his explanations. Others have noted that the company's support can be limited if students need more than 15 minutes of instructor time.

A balanced option best for online learners

Yaeger CPA Review provides personalized support and thorough methodology. While it has its limitations, it remains a popular choice among accounting professionals due to its flexible subscription options and valuable practice tools. However, since it doesn't cover every aspect of the test, you may find yourself also purchasing another study guide to help you pass your CPA exam, which may not be ideal for keeping costs down. Plus, with complaints about Mr. Yaeger being the only person-to-person interaction you get through this platform, this may not be ideal for those who prefer tutoring-style learning either. Given the drawbacks and the positives, Yaeger CPA Review earns a balanced rating in our review.

Wyzant

• Prices from $30 to $350 per hour
• Video conferences and written content
• Curated for you
• Professionally-vetted tutors
• "A-” rating from the BBB

Wyzant is an innovative online platform that connects students with independent tutors, making personalized learning more accessible and convenient. With over 65,000 tutors and 287 subjects to choose from, students can find the perfect match for their unique needs. The platform's long list of tutors and subjects is one of its standout features, allowing students to work with a tutor who specializes in their specific area of need. At the time of our review, there were 69 different CPA tutors available on Wyzant.

Find a tutor and get cracking

To get started, you just need to answer a few questions about your tutoring needs, and Wyzant will suggest tutors who can help you. Once you get to the list of tutors, you can use the platform's search tools to filter through options based on your specific needs. You'll see a list of potential tutors, along with their credentials, reviews from other students, and background check information. You can then chat with a tutor on the Wyzant website to get a sense of their teaching style and compatibility before committing to sessions with that tutor. Once you pick a tutor you like, you can choose whether to have the session in person or online.

Impressive tutor vetting system

Wyzant has a team that carefully reviews tutors' qualifications before they are listed on their website. To become a listed tutor on Wyzant, tutors must go through a thorough registration process. All of the tutors listed during our review had their own CPA certifications. Many also had a Master's degree in a related field and a CFA. Other qualifications listed include expertise in specific industry technologies, and reviews and ratings left by previous students.

Study structure is individualized

Wyzant's approach to learning is flexible and personalized, allowing you to work closely with a tutor to improve your understanding of a subject and achieve your test-taking goals. The platform's online lessons take place in an interactive, digital classroom, where you can communicate with your tutor through real-time video chat and share documents or work out equations on an interactive whiteboard. This type of interaction allows for a more engaging and effective learning experience. However, there is no baseline course for CPA test prep associated with Wyzant. Your study plan will be based on the materials you bring to the table and what you and your tutor plan together.

Prices from $30 to $350 per hour

One of the benefits of using Wyzant is that students don't need to commit to any packages or subscriptions. They can choose tutors based on price and qualifications, making it easy to find someone who fits within their budget. In terms of pricing, Wyzant allows tutors to set their own rates, which can range from $30 per hour to $350 per hour based on the CPA test prep tutors we saw during our review. On average, the cost per hour is around $40 to $80.

No pass guarantee

Sadly, there is no guarantee directly from Wyzant that you'll pass your CPA exam. Tutors on Wyzant are independent, so Wyzant can't adjust their lessons or cancellation fees. It is on you to contact the tutor and sort out a partial or complete refund based on the tutor's individual policies. If you're new to a tutor, the first hour of your lesson is protected by Wyzant's Good Fit Guarantee. After that, you're basically on your own.

Mixed reviews and lengthy tutor search

Wyzant's ratings and reviews show a mixed picture. The company has an "A-" rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and though some media outlets have praised Wyzant, it isn't as popular with students. Third-party review sites like Sitejabber and Trustpilot have average ratings of 3.8 stars and 2.8 stars, respectively, based on hundreds of reviews. While all of the top-recommended CPA tutors have 5 stars on Wyzant, the overall experience may not be for everyone. Some customers have reported notable improvements in their test scores, while others have been less satisfied and frustrated by a lack of refund policy. Some students found it took a long time to find a suitable tutor on the platform, and others felt that tutors' ability to set their own rates led to unfair pricing. Nevertheless, you can still consider Wyzant as an option, depending on how much time and effort you are willing to invest in finding the right tutor for your needs.

Can't compete with other CPA tutoring sites

At the end of the day, there seems to be less support for students through Wyzant than we found at other CPA test prep services. Considering this alongside the mixed reviews overall, we've rated Wyzant a lower-than-average rating in our review. While it may be a solid option for those seeking tutoring, the prices can be pretty high and the quality of instruction doesn't seem any better than that at other higher-rated test prep sites. Without any kind of refund protection or guarantee, Wyzant's CPA test prep offerings rank slightly below average.

NINJA CPA Review

• Prices from $67 per month
• Video and written content
• Practice tests
• Online scheduler
• 30-day money-back guarantee
• "A+” rating from the BBB

Ninja CPA Review describes itself as a "too good to be true" CPA review course, which rather than creating confidence, raised some eyebrows during our review. Known for its pay-as-you-pass program, which started out as a supplement offering a study guide and planner back in 2010, Ninja has grown over the years. Their materials, or "study weapons," have evolved into a full-fledged CPA review course. With over 7,377 students using the program to pass the CPA exam in the past year alone, Ninja CPA Review has clearly made an impact in the test prep industry.

Extremely frustrating ads

Before you can jump into Ninja's program, you'll have to get through the series of pop-up ads that come through when you land on the site. The "Get your free CPA notes” pop-up appeared around every 20 seconds and made it highly frustrating to browse the Ninja site. What we did find during our search was that Ninja CPA Review offers two options for using their program: as a primary review course or as a supplement with other courses. Students who feel like they're not getting enough help from their primary course or have recently failed a section may find Ninja's program to be a valuable supplement. On the other hand, students who want to use it as their primary course can do so without any issues.

Need more transparency on course details

As far as our research shows, Ninja CPA Review doesn't provide nearly enough detailed information about its features and materials. While they mention that you'll get 3+ hours of audio material, a study book, over 300 flashcards, over 7,000 multiple-choice practice questions, notes, access to a cram session, and live teleconferences, it's unclear what these materials look like or how they're organized, or how they vet their tutors for the teleconferences. A more detailed explanation of their platform would help give potential customers a better sense of what they're getting themselves into.

Ninja helps you structure your time

One of the key features of Ninja's methodology is its three core components: Study method, Study planner, and Study scheduler. The study method is designed to help CPA candidates recognize essential facts and remember information more effectively. While this may seem vague, Ninja claims that this approach has been successful in helping students pass the CPA exam. The study planner helps you see what to study and in what order to approach the material. The scheduler, also known as ELL (early, lunch, late), helps you find time in your busy schedule to fit in your studying. This structured approach can be particularly helpful for students who struggle with staying organized.

Prices from $67 per month

Ninja CPA Review's pay-as-you-pass program offers flexibility and affordability, with each section available for $67 per month ($268 for all four sections or $3,216 per year). While this may seem like a good deal upfront, it's essential to consider that you may need to purchase multiple sections depending on your needs. Luckily, there is no long-term contract, so you can cancel at any time if you're not satisfied with the program.

30-day money-back guarantee

Despite its claims of being the best option on the market, Ninja CPA Review's website spends too much time comparing itself to other companies and not enough time explaining its own features and benefits. We would appreciate more transparency and concrete information about their program rather than relying on hype and marketing tactics. While we did find that Ninja offers a 30-day guarantee that allows you to use all their materials and get your money back if you're not satisfied, we're still confused about what those materials really are.

No buzz for Ninja

Talking about reputation, Ninja has very little information out there in terms of reviews. While the website itself points to social media posts praising the program, actual third-party review sites have almost nothing to say. We did find a page for Ninja on the Better Business Bureau with an "A+” rating, but there are no reviews or details to cover why the rating is so high. A few professional blogs have covered Ninja, but they note that while the program is affordable, it's missing some key requirements to make it a successful CPA test prep program.

Needs a little work to be competitive

Until we see more concrete evidence of their effectiveness and value, we recommend considering other CPA test prep options in the market that offer more transparency and better value for money. For now, Ninja stands out for its affordability more than anything, but it may not be ideal for those looking for a complete course of study. For this reason, along with the almost total lack of reviews, Ninja earns a lower rating in our review.

UWorld

• Prices from $1,999 to $2,899
• Video and written content
• Practice tests
• Bootcamp live sessions
• Printed materials
• 7-day free trial
• Fresh start discount

UWorld was founded in 2001 by Roger Philipp, who aimed to revolutionize the way students prepare for the CPA exam. Philipp's innovative approach, known as the "Roger Method," is designed to help students retain key information, make important connections, and apply their knowledge to real-life scenarios. This method has been successful, as UWorld has become a leading provider of test prep courses for various exams across different fields, including AP, ACT, SAT, PSAT, MBE, MCAT, USMLE, NCLEX, and more.

Get started with 7-day free trial

According to UWorld, their Roger CPA Review program can help students prepare for and pass the CPA exam in as little as three months. This is thanks to their SmartPath predictive technology, which provides personalized learning recommendations and adjusts to individual students' needs. With a proven 94% pass rate on the CPA exam, UWorld's program is highly effective in preparing students for the test. If you want to get started with UWorld, you can try it out for free for seven days. This allows you to see the full platform and get a feel for how all the features work. You'll need to register with your name, email address, and a password you create. This is a great way to gauge whether or not UWorld's program is right for you.

Live bootcamp sessions

While there aren't one-on-one sessions like you'll find at some of UWorld's competitors, this platform does offer live "bootcamp” sessions that allow you to learn from a professional CPA expert along with other students. These sessions give you more details about the test as well as an opportunity to ask questions to someone who knows the process extremely well. These are available for the two most expensive course packages.

Structured yet individualized learning

UWorld's curriculum offers high-quality questions and explanations, written by experienced CPAs and accounting educators. These explanations include vivid illustrations, diagrams, flowcharts, and tables that provide immediate feedback and make difficult CPA Exam subjects more engaging and easy to understand. The company also offers a simulated CPA exam experience, with actual CPA exam questions that mimic the real thing. You can use this online tool to prepare for the 4-hour, 5-test exam. The company's learning platform allows you to create a personalized study schedule by inputting your start date, end date, and study hours. The platform will then generate a customized study plan tailored to your needs.

Prices from $399 to $2,899

When it comes to choosing a package for your CPA studies, you have several options. You can opt for a single section of the exam (AUD, BEC, FAR, or REG) for $399, which includes 6 months of access to the material and features such as 6,000+ multiple-choice questions, customizable quizzes, full-length practice exams, and more. Alternatively, you can choose one of UWorld's four-part review packages: Premier ($1,999), Elite-Unlimited ($2,299), or Elite-Unlimited+ ($2,899). The Premier package includes everything in the single-section package plus 18 months of access. The Elite-Unlimited package adds unlimited access and additional features like a four-part cram course and printed course textbooks, as well as extra live sessions and performance metrics. The top tier includes all of these features plus a pass guarantee upgrade that offers $1,000 back if you don't pass.

No pass guarantee

There isn't a pass guarantee with UWorld. Instead, the company promises continuous access to the course materials until you pass. For those who have already paid for a CPA review course from another company and aren't satisfied with the results, UWorld offers a Fresh Start discount. This program allows you to get a discount on either the Elite-Unlimited or Premier course for $1,199 instead of the full price. However, we do wish there was a refund guarantee or something similar to other competitors in our review.

Reputation has fallen in recent years

The reviews for UWorld are pretty mixed. Starting with the Better Business Bureau, UWorld has just a "B-” rating and only 6 reviews to back it up. Outside the BBB, the review presence for UWolrd is minimal. Some courses are available on the Apple app store and are rated high (like the Nursing program); however, the CPA program is barely talked about. The only third-party site that reviewed it, Trustpilot, showed a 2.6-star average rating. All of the "recent” reviews (nothing after 2023) are 1-star, with a range of complaints about how terrible the different programs are. Yikes!

Falling reputation raises red flags

UWorld's CPA review used to be a solid option for test prep. While the company claims a high pass rate, customers are now complaining about the effectiveness of the course. Without a guarantee of success from their program, we're a little wary of recommending UWorld.