Best CPA Review Courses for 2020: A Full Comparison of All Study Materials
The most popular CPA review courses in 2020
Not all CPA review courses are created equal. Each course is built with a specific user experience in mind. Some have unique approaches to learning. Others are designed to fast-track your efforts to study for the CPA exam.
While all CPA review courses have the same ultimate intent—to help you pass the CPA exam—there are some differences you need to know about. These differences include things like user interfaces, lecture materials and study guides. If you want to be sure that you are choosing the right CPA study material and CPA exam prep, read this article.
You will learn about five of the most popular CPA online review courses, see exactly what they offer compared to one another, and be able to pick the one with the features that best support your CPA preparation.
The criteria described here will help you cut through all of the promises and pitches to really determine how to study for the CPA exam and pass it.
When it comes to choosing one of the CPA exam review courses, you have many options. These range in quality, expertise, and popularity.
The CPA exam cost isn't cheap. You'll want to pass on your first try, if possible. A review course is a great way to make that happen.
Here’s a comprehensive list of CPA review courses:
Additionally, many colleges and universities offer courses of study to help CPA candidates prepare for the exam. Many of these can be taken online and some can be taken by non-students.
If you search for “CPA classes near me,” you may find one of these local in-person CPA reviews offers.
The Top 5 best CPA Review Courses and Study Materials Comparison
There are five, top-rated CPA prep courses. These are:
Each course has unique features that may stand out to you, depending on your learning style, budget, and preferences.
To give you everything you need to make a smart and informed decision, we've also rated and selected the best CPA review materials by category.
Click a link below to skip straight to any category:
Here is a comparison chart of the five courses, so you can see at a glance which one has everything you need for your CPA exam prep.
Surgent CPA Review Course
Our #1 Rated and Recommended CPA Course
When you need to prepare to pass the CPA exam on a short deadline, Surgent CPA Review is an effective solution. Surgent offers complete customization and unparalleled efficiency, so you can focus your limited study time on areas that will help you the most.
Surgent has been a leader in CPA coaching since 2013, with high-caliber instructors and CPA exam experts. Along with AI software, predictive scoring, and detailed reports, Surgent CPA Review offers a high-tech, personalized approach -- one that yields great results.
This is the only course on the market that tracks student success and estimates that their students can prepare for the CPA exam in an average of 46 hours -- that’s 80% faster than other courses.
The Surgent CPA Review Course in Detail: The Pros and Cons
Surgent Pros
- Unlimited access to updated materials with no expiration
- Cram course study included
- A.S.A.P. technology™ Adaptive Learning
- MyMCQ customization of test bank
- Framework for practicing task-based simulations
- Audio content
- Customizable study notes
Surgent Cons
- Audio lectures only come with the most expensive package (and can’t be purchased separately)
- No offline access
- Free trial is only five days long
Surgent Details
- The integrated multiple choice question bank will customize the content that is delivered to you, making your study more efficient and effective.
- Each user can create a customized learning plan that supports individual progress.
- Flashcards and textbooks are available both as physical, printed materials and digital content.
- ReadySCORE will measure your performance and let you know when you are ready to sit for the actual exam.
Who is this course most suitable for?
Because of the A.S.A.P. technology™ and ReadySCORE features, Surgent CPA Review can predict student readiness with remarkable accuracy. This means that during the whole course of study, students will be able to estimate their readiness.
These factors make the Surgent CPA Review the best course for people who have extremely limited time. It offers a quick targeted way to study that most efficiently prepares users for the CPA exam.
If you would like to learn more before deciding, then check out our comprehensive Surgent CPA Course Review!
Gleim CPA Review course
Over 1 Million CPA Exams Passed Using Gleim
The CPA exam is a challenging 4-part test that requires preparation. Gleim CPA Review has helped over a million people pass. With Gleim test prep, you will get access to practice questions, task-based simulations, and multimedia study aids.
This section covers the Gleim CPA Review course in more detail. If you want all the details, then make sure to check out our highly-detailed and complete review of the Gleim CPA course.
Gleim has an easy-to-use course format that can accommodate any user. One of their claims to fame is their SmartAdaptⓇ Guided Review process. This includes simulations with exhibits, all of their test bank questions, and more. There are many other ways the Gleim CPA course format is helpful for users.
The Gleim CPA Review Course in Detail
Gleim Pros
- One of the largest multiple choice test banks
- Large number of task-based simulations
- SmartAdaptⓇ Guided Review
- CPA practice exams
- Interactive study planner
- Video and audio lectures
- Visual navigation on a student dashboard
Gleim Cons
- Overwhelming amount of information
- Some say the video lectures are too long and detailed
- No mobile app
- No offline options
Gleim Details
- A one-on-one personal counselor is available for assistance in creating and sticking to your personalized study plan.
- Gleim customer support is known for responsive communication on both weekdays and weekends.
- With a premium package, you get the Access Until You PassⓇ guarantee.
- Interactive study planner can adjust dates and scheduling.
Who is this course most suitable for?
The Gleim CPA review is a solid study program that will appeal to a variety of users. Its extensive test bank will ensure proficiency in all areas of the CPA exam.
The Gleim CPA exam program may be a good fit for:
- Students taking the CPA exam for the first time
- Accounting professionals who want to upgrade
- People who need to retake the CPA exam after a failed attempt
Wiley CPA Review Course
93% of Surveyed Accounting Professionals Recommend Wiley
Wiley Efficient Learning™ is a test prep company and global content provider for professional development in numerous industries. Wiley review courses emphasize the efficient use of study time for busy students and professionals.
Known as Wiley CPAexcel, this CPA test prep course delivers content in “bite-sized lessons” -- 30-minute micro-learning opportunities. And with a 90 percent pass rate, it’s one of the most popular choices.
Are you looking to learn more about the course? Check out our complete Wiley CPAexcel Review Guide for 2020.
Here is some more information about the distinct aspects of the Wiley CPAexcel review course.
Wiley CPA Review Course in Detail
Wiley CPAexcel Pros
- Previous students have a high pass rate for the CPA exam
- Short, 30-minute learning sessions
- Large multiple-choice question and task-based simulation banks
- Virtual and live-stream classroom videos
- One-on-one assistance from professors
- Focus notes
- Access until you pass
Wiley CPAexcel Cons
- Created for PC users
- Mobile-friendly but no app
- Textbooks must be purchased separately
- Professor mentoring only comes with the two most expensive packages
Wiley CPAexcel Details
- Bite-sized learning in short lectures gives quickly consumable content to busy students.
- Offers Audit Data Analytics for updated content and other analytical tools that help you know when you’re ready to sit for the CPA exam.
- The Wiley CPAexcel is accessible until you pass the CPA exam.
- Live, virtual classrooms can sustain student interest and provide the opportunity for question and answer sessions.
Who is this course most suitable for?
The Gleim CPA review is a solid study program that will appeal to a variety of users. Its extensive test bank will ensure proficiency in all areas of the CPA exam.
The Gleim CPA exam program may be a good fit for:
- Students taking the CPA exam for the first time
- Accounting professionals who want to upgrade
- People who need to retake the CPA exam after a failed attempt
Roger CPA Review Course
Pass the exam 3X faster with SmartPath™
Roger CPA Review claims to have a 91% pass rate. Student reviews seem to back up this claim, indicating a high level of success with the CPA exam.
The expert angle of this course comes down to pedagogy. Roger’s approach is to help students think critically about the concepts, questions, and simulations they will encounter in the CPA exam.
By addressing the concepts—rather than just drilling facts—Roger believes that students will be empowered to perform well on the CPA test.
Additionally, Roger CPA Review has high marks in customer feedback for being engaging and entertaining.
Filmed by Roger himself, many of the videos are fast-paced and interesting to watch. Here is some more specific information about what you get with the Roger CPA Review course.
Roger CPA Review Course in Detail
With that said, let's now get into the details of the course and see how it can get you more prepared for the CPA exam.
Roger Pros
- Entertaining video content
- Audio content
- Memorization strategies and mnemonic training
- Discount for students
- SmartPath Predictive Technology™
- CPA exam simulator with full-length practice tests
- Homework help center
Roger Cons
- Time limitation: Access ends after 12 or 18 months. There’s an additional cost to extend access.
- Only offline availability requires USB or manual download
- Issues with software functionality
Roger Details
- Roger also offers a bonus cram course for each CPA exam section.
- Customizable study planners are available that allow you to adjust dates and set up a planned course of study for three, six, or nine months.
- Multiple-choice questions, task-based simulations, CPA books, and PDF supplements to physical textbooks are all regularly updated.
Who is this course most suitable for?
People who want something interesting and engaging, or who get bored easily, will benefit from the fast pace of the Roger CPA Review.
The video lectures are a dynamic and engaging way to learn. If you prefer audio materials, Roger offers a significant quantity of audio files for download.
For less academically-oriented students who need an effective study tool, the Roger CPA review might be the right choice.
If you'd like to dive deeper and learn more, then make sure to check out our comprehensive review of the Roger CPA Review Course.
Yaeger CPA Review Course
Built with the AICPA Blueprints and refined with over 42+ years of experience
The Yaeger CPA Review has helped people pass the CPA exam for more than 40 years. Founded by Phil Yaeger—who is also the course’s lead instructor—Yaeger stands apart from other companies for a few reasons.
In addition to standard fare video lectures, a test bank of practice questions, and task-based simulations, people studying for the CPA exam will benefit from one-on-one coaching and flexible payment plans.
The Yaeger CPA review course specializes in accommodating every person with an individualized approach to each learning style. They provide cram courses to fast-track learning.
With that said, let's now get into the details of the course and see how it can get you more prepared for the CPA exam.
Yaeger CPA Review Course in Detail
Yaeger Pros
- A mentorship program is available from an accounting professional
- Cram course materials provide an accelerated version of the course materials
- Unlimited access and a variety of purchasing options for audio lectures
- Competitive pricing
- Subscription plan
- Yaeger quiz engine
- CPA practice exams
Yaeger Cons
- Certain packages expire after 18 months
- Some students dislike the traditional classroom style of instruction
- Cram courses expire after six months
- Smaller test bank
Yaeger Details
- Yaeger offers video calls with CPA coaches, who can help students with questions and give study plan advice.
- Yaeger has a simple, online portal with an easy graphic interface that students find very intuitive.
- Lectures can be sped up if you wish to progress through the content at a faster pace.
- There are numerous additional resources, like advice on how to deal with stress or prepare for the day of the CPA exam.
Who is this course most suitable for?
The online reviews for the Yaeger CPA course describe students from a variety of walks of life. Because of financing and subscription options, the course is more accessible than others.
Customers describe themselves as:
- Busy professionals who work full-time
- Parents with children
People who are re-taking the exam - Students who need to focus on individual course sections
Yaeger CPA Review might be right for you if you have been out of school for a while and want a thorough course that gives you extensive information and practice.
It’s also helpful for people who have budgetary constraints and need flexible financing.
Best CPA Exam Study Materials (By Category)
Each of these five CPA courses covers all four exam sections and can be previewed in a free trial.
Often, the CPA review courses are compared one-to-one against each other. For example:
More than a “Becker CPA review,” this article is a universal CPA review of the most useful tools on the market.
Bottom line, accounting firms want qualified professionals who have excelled in their studies. As you prepare for the CPA exam, you may want a program that provides specific support in one area.
Here are the winners in each category. Read on to learn about the best CPA review programs for:
Best CPA Exam Test Bank
Gleim CPA Review has the largest bank of multiple-choice questions. Its bank of over 10,000 questions reflects the latest in the AICPA blueprint. This means that the questions will accurately prepare you for the questions you will encounter on the CPA exam. With so many questions, you will be exposed to everything the real test could throw at you.
In addition to practice questions, the CPA exam itself is made up of task-based simulations. In that area, also, Gleim has you covered.
Its program features over 1,300 task-based simulations, ensuring that you have the opportunity to practice an enormous variety of scenarios. Gleim lets you test out some of their multiple-choice questions and task-based simulations for free.
Best CPA Exam Study Flashcards
Roger CPA Review has the most targeted approach to memorization. With this, its digital flashcards are configured in a way that optimizes retention. While all of the courses have flashcards, the Roger CPA review allows you to customize and group flashcards.
This means that, as you use the flashcards to memorize over 200 key terms, you can flag cards for the concepts you need to revisit.
By whittling down the body of knowledge you need to review during each study session, you can reduce the overall amount of time you need to study. Through this kind of targeting, students can maximize the impact of each study session.
Best CPA Review Mobile App
The Surgent CPA Review has some of the most progressive technology in the marketplace. Its algorithmic A.S.A.P. Technology™ gets you test-ready in less time. Part of this is due to its intuitive and user-friendly app.
The Surgent mobile app has:
- Excellent graphics and icons
- Reminders and integration with calendars
- Numerical and graph-based progress reports
- Colorful charts and checklists
Surgent has three customized elements that are responsible for accelerated study success:
- A.S.A.P. Technology™
- ReadySCORE
- MyMCQ
App views and interactions are customizable, making it a useful and effective tool for studying.
Best CPA Cram Course and Final Review Materials
Yaeger CPA Review is known for its cram course. These courses are $289 each and are available as a supplement for the final weeks of studying.
After an initial assessment, students are put on a fast-track to success with an intense course of study. This program eliminates extraneous content and focuses only on the key concepts that reflect the latest AICPA blueprint.
These cram courses are not only available to students who already use Yaeger but are perfect for people who underperformed in the CPA exam. Cram courses are accessible for six months and digital textbooks are included.
Best CPA Exam Audio Lectures
The Yaeger CPA Review has Listen-n-Learn audio lectures. These are available for purchase outside of the packages, or included in a CPA exam review package. At $159 each, they cover each of the four sections of the CPA exam. They can be purchased together at a discounted rate.
Students praise the audio lectures as a way to review video material and supplement the reading and test simulations. Yaeger audio lectures offer:
- Unlimited playback
- Coverage of key exam concepts
- Individual file or series download
The audio supplements can be downloaded for access from any device at any time.
Best CPA Review Course on a Budget
Yaeger CPA Review has the largest variety of payment options. You can purchase the course in a few ways:
- Complete course: $1,649
- Individual courses: $449
- Payment plan (based on individual criteria)
In addition to a competitive, set price, you can also choose a subscription. This allows you to access the materials for as long as you pay your monthly fee.
Subscriptions are available for:
- Bronze: $119/month
- Silver: $159/month
- Gold: $189/month
If you are on a budget, one of these might be the right option for you.
Best CPA Study Combo for Self-Studiers
If you want to study on your own or over a course of time, you want the Wiley CPAexcel review course.
This CPA study course will get you ready as you focus on individual parts of the CPA exam. It is highly efficient and consumable, with micro-learning delivery, unlimited practice exams, and performance metrics.
You will have the ability to track your own progress and use a mobile app or virtual classroom to enhance your learning. Wiley CPAexcel is great for independent learners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have more questions?
Here are some concise answers to common questions about CPA review courses.
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