Deciding on the best CPA study material is one of the most critical choices you’ll make on your journey to becoming a CPA.
A solid review course is one of the most important tools in your CPA study arsenal. It keeps your study on track, saves time, and gives you structure, content, and practice tools all in one place.
This guide will help you find that perfect fit for your unique learning style and needs, because there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The best course for you depends on how you learn, how much support you need, and what kind of budget you’re working with.
Key factors in choosing the best CPA study material for you
Your learning style, budget, and a course’s features are the three pillars of a good decision. It’s about finding a course that works for you, not just one that works for the masses.
Your learning style and preferences
Are you someone who learns best by watching engaging videos, or are you a textbook-focused learner? Do you need a lot of practice questions to feel confident? Finding a course that aligns with your preferred method of learning is crucial for staying motivated and retaining information.
The all-important budget
CPA review courses are a significant financial investment, with costs ranging from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. While you shouldn’t let cost be the only factor, it’s important to find a course that offers great value for your money. Many providers offer payment plans, discounts, or a monthly subscription model to make it more accessible.
Course features and format
Not all courses are created equal. Aside from quality, look for a comprehensive package that includes all the tools you may need, such as:
- Video Lectures: Are they engaging and easy to follow?
- Textbooks/eBooks: Do they break down complex topics clearly?
- Question Bank (QBank): A good QBank should have thousands of high-quality, up-to-date multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and task-based simulations (TBSs).
- Adaptive Learning Technology: This is a game-changer that uses algorithms to create a personalized study plan for you.
- Pass Guarantee: Many providers offer an “Access Until You Pass” guarantee, which is a great safety net.
A deep dive into the top CPA review courses
CPA prep provider summary and comparison table
Let’s get straight to the details. Here’s a good overview of some of the most popular and effective CPA review courses on the market
| Provider | Best for | Price range | Adaptive learning | Video lectures | Question bank | Pass guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Becker | The industry standard. Great for those who prefer structure & guidance. | $2,500 – $3,500+ | ✅ | ✅ Thorough & structured | ✅ (9,000+ MCQs) | ✅ |
| UWorld (formerly Roger & Wiley) | Visual learners and those who need engaging, high-energy lectures. | $2,000 – $3,000+ | ✅ | ✅ Dynamic & engaging | ✅ (9,000+ MCQs) | ✅ |
| Gleim | Those who want a massive question bank and are self-starters. | $1,250 – $2,500+ | ✅ | – Less engaging | ✅ (11,500+ MCQs) | ✅ for top tiers |
| Surgent | Time-crunched candidates who want to study efficiently. | $800 – $1,700+ | ✅ | ✅ Concise with micro lectures | ✅ (9,000+ MCQs) | ✅ |
| Ninja | As a supplemental course or for those on a tight budget. | ~$67 per month | ✅ | – Shorter, less detailed | ✅ (7,000+ MCQs) | ❌ |
| Universal | Visual learners who need video explanations for every question. | $120/month or $2,000+ | ❌ | ✅ Visual with mental maps | – Smaller question bank | ❌ |
| i-75 | As a supplemental course or for those who need simplified topic explanations. | ~$100/section or ~$1,000 | ❌ | ✅ Walkthrough focused | – Smaller question bank | ✅ until you pass |
Becker CPA review
The most widely used especially by the Big Four accounting firms and is known for its highly structured curriculum, high-quality content, and exam-like simulations.
- Best For: Candidates who want an all-in-one solution and are okay paying a premium for structure, support, and a polished interface.
- Pros: Becker’s lectures are thorough and well-organized. They have a massive QBank with thousands of MCQs and simulations that closely mimic the real exam. Their “Adapt2U” adaptive technology helps you create a personalized study plan.
- Cons: Becker is often the most expensive option. Some students find the lectures to be a bit dry, and the sheer volume of material can feel overwhelming at times.
Key features:
- Comprehensive curriculum with 9,000+ MCQs and 400+ SIMs
- Adaptive study planner and mobile app
- SkillMaster video walk-throughs of complex SIMs
- Live classes and tutoring available
UWorld CPA review (formerly Roger and Wiley)
UWorld now combines the engaging teaching style of Roger Philipp with the content depth of Wiley. It’s a solid all-round CPA exam study option that balances motivation with rigorous practice.
- Best For: Visual/auditory learners who want a structured course with strong video instruction and great coverage.
- Pros: The video lectures are second to none. Roger’s high-energy style keeps you engaged and makes even the driest topics memorable. UWorld’s platform features exceptional, visually-driven explanations for every practice question, which is a massive advantage for visual learners. Their “SmartPath Predictive Technology” uses data to show you how you compare to other successful students, telling you when you’re “exam-ready.”
- Cons: Some users reported less than ideal user experience given the premium price. E.g. issues with app and desktop synchronization, study planner not as flexible as Becker’s.
Key features:
- Roger’s energetic lectures keep dense topics interesting
- Huge practice bank inherited from Wiley (MCQs + SIMs)
- SmartPath tech tracks progress and suggests next steps
- Includes textbooks (digital and print) for those who prefer reading
Gleim CPA exam prep
One of the most in-depth and academically rigorous CPA exam prep and review programs. Textbook-heavy with thousands of practice questions and detailed explanations. Gleim’s most significant claim to fame is its massive test bank, which is consistently one of the largest on the market.
- Best For: Self-directed learners, accounting majors, or anyone who wants to master the theory behind the content.
- Pros: The sheer number of practice questions is its biggest strength. The detailed answer explanations go deep, helping you understand not just what the correct answer is, but why it’s correct. Their SmartAdapt technology helps you focus on your weak areas.
- Cons: Some users find the video lectures to be a bit dry and less engaging than competitors. The course is very self-study oriented, which may not be ideal for those who need more hand-holding or structure.
Key Features:
- 11,500+ MCQs (the most in the industry)
- Heavily detailed textbooks and explanations
- Personalized coaching (premium option)
- Great for those who want deep content coverage
Surgent CPA review
Built around adaptive learning, Surgent’s value proposition is about efficiency. Their A.S.A.P. technology helps you identify weak areas and focus on them first, making it highly efficient for busy candidates.
- Best For: CPA exam candidates with limited time who want to maximize efficiency and target weak areas quickly.
- Pros: The adaptive learning technology is top-tier and can genuinely save you time. The course is built to get you “exam-ready” as quickly as possible. The progress tracking dashboard is excellent and gives you a clear picture of your readiness.
- Cons: The platform can feel a little less “robust” in terms of video content compared to Becker or UWorld. If you’re someone who learns best by watching long, in-depth lectures, this might not be the right fit.
Key Features:
- AI-driven “ReadySCORE” that estimates your exam readiness
- Shorter, to-the-point lectures and lessons
- Custom study plans that adjust dynamically as you progress
- Excellent for retakers and time-pressed professionals
Ninja CPA review
Created as an affordable alternative or supplement, Ninja CPA is known for its community, straightforward study tools, and monthly pricing model. While it can be used as a standalone course, its real strength lies in how it fills the gaps left by other providers.
- Best For: Budget-conscious CPA exam candidates or those supplementing another course.
- Pros: It’s incredibly affordable and flexible. The “Ninja Notes” and “Ninja Audio” are fantastic for on-the-go review and last-minute cramming. Their large, up-to-date question bank is a huge value-add.
- Cons: It lacks the structured, all-in-one approach of a full course. You’ll need a lot of discipline to use it effectively as your sole study material.
Key Features:
- MCQs, notes, audio reviews, and weekly group tutoring (Ninja Monthly)
- Excellent value for money
- Can be used as a primary or secondary resource
Universal CPA review
A newer CPA study course built for visual learners, Universal offers highly visual content and animations to explain complex topics in simple terms – a game-changer for those who are tired of staring at endless pages of text.
- Best For: Visual learners, ESL (English as Second Language) candidates, or those who struggle with traditional text-heavy materials.
- Pros: The video explanations for every single question are a huge differentiator. They use “mental maps” and colorful graphics to help you truly understand the concepts, not just memorize them. It’s a fantastic option for visual learners and anyone who finds traditional courses to be boring.
- Cons: The question bank is smaller than some of the market leaders. While the visual approach is great, it might not suit every learning style, particularly those who prefer a more traditional, text-heavy approach.
Key Features:
- “Visual learning” approach with whiteboard-style videos
- Illustrated study guides and interactive modules
- Exam-matching MCQs and SIMs
i-75 CPA review
Led by instructor Darius Clark, i-75 CPA Review is a very different beast. Rather than a full-service course with a textbook and a QBank, i-75 focuses on simplifying complex topics by walking you through question after question. A no-fluff, straight-to-the-point course focused on clarity, speed, and strategy.
- Best For: Focused candidates who want a streamlined course with direct explanations — often used solo or paired with Ninja for reinforcement.
- Pros: Darius Clark’s ability to simplify difficult concepts is a major selling point. The course is video-heavy and focuses on a “narrated questions” approach, which can be great for those who struggle with traditional lecture formats. It’s also very affordable and often used as a supplemental tool for the most difficult topics.
- Cons: The course lacks a full, comprehensive question bank and physical textbooks. It is highly dependent on a single instructor’s style, which may not be for everyone. It is best used as a supplement to a more traditional, comprehensive course.
Key Features:
- Video lectures and 1,500+ MCQs
- Clear, concise teaching style
- High pass rates among self-motivated learners
Conclusion: Your path to CPA success
Ultimately, the best CPA study material is the one that you will actually use. While Becker has long been the industry standard, and UWorld has a fantastic reputation for its engaging lectures, the rise of powerful, adaptive courses like Surgent and niche players like Gleim, Ninja, Universal, and i-75 means you have more choices than ever before.
To make your decision, consider your learning style, your budget, and your schedule:
- Are you a visual learner who needs video walkthroughs? Universal might be for you.
- Do you need a massive question bank and are a self-starter? Gleim could be your best bet.
- Or do you need the structure of a market leader? Then Becker or UWorld are the clear choices.
The key is to do your research, take advantage of free trials, and find the perfect fit for your unique journey to becoming a CPA.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Is a CPA review course really necessary to pass the exam?
While it’s technically possible to pass without a course, it is highly unlikely. Think of a CPA review course as a GPS for the exam. Without it, you’re trying to navigate a dense, complex city with a paper map from the 1980s. The exam is too vast and intricate to tackle without a structured, comprehensive study plan and high-quality practice questions.
How much should I expect to pay for a CPA review course?
Prices for a full, all-inclusive course can range from $900 to over $3,500. Some courses, like Ninja, offer monthly subscriptions for around $60-100, which can be a much more affordable option. Remember, this is a significant investment in your career, and the ROI is almost always worth it.
What is the most important feature to look for in a CPA review course?
The question bank is arguably the most critical feature. The CPA exam is all about practice, and the more high-quality, up-to-date questions you can get your hands on, the better.
Look for a course with a large question bank that also provides detailed, clear explanations for both correct and incorrect answers.
Should I buy a standalone course or a supplemental one?
If you’re starting your CPA journey from scratch, a full, standalone course is the way to go. These courses provide the structure, content, and guidance you’ll need.
Supplemental courses like Ninja are fantastic for those who have already purchased a full course and are looking for extra practice or a final review.
How long does it take to study for the CPA exam?
Most candidates spend anywhere from 300 to 450 hours studying to pass all four sections. This is a personal journey, and some will need more time, while others may need less. The key is to create a consistent study schedule and stick to it.
We hope you found the guide above useful in determining the best CPA review course for you. Meanwhile, here are other related CPA articles which may be of interest:
- CPA Beginner’s Guide: Everything You Need to Know
- CPA Pass Rates: How Hard Are The CPA Exams?
- CPA Requirements: 5-Step Guide On How To Become a CPA
- CPA Requirements By State: A Quick & Complete Guide
- CPA Career Path: Roles, Progressing & Specializing as a CPA
- CPA Salary – How Much Do Certified Public Accountants Make?