With CPA Exam pass rates hovering around 50%, it's clear that the exam is difficult. But, a practical study schedule and the right exam prep resources and materials can make it a lot easier. With so many CPA course options available, how do you know which is the right one to pick? To help you make the right decision, we're breaking down what to look for in the best CPA Exam review to give you the best chance of success.
Summary: Which Is the Best CPA Exam Review Course?
The best CPA Exam Review is the one that works best for your learning needs and lifestyle. It should include the most up-to-date materials, expert instruction, and a variety of learning modalities, including textbooks, practice tests, and video instruction in a structured curriculum to keep you progressing forward towards exam day!
How to Choose the Best CPA Course for your Needs
Before we go into statistics and such, the most important thing about choosing an exam prep is making sure it works for your learning needs and lifestyle. We recommend considering several factors.
Up-to-Date Content
The CPA Exam changes annually to align with updates to the tax code and other regulations and guidance from accounting and auditing bodies. The best CPA Exam review will update their content regularly to align with the exam as closely as possible.
At Becker, our team issues regular updates to our CPA Exam Review. In addition to bi-annual updates to reflect changes in the exam, our team also adds new practice questions, updates content to improve clarity, and provide more information to better prepare students for the exam.
Expert CPA Exam Instructors
The CPA Exam covers a huge variety of complex topics and studying on your own may not offer the understanding or clarity you need to pass the exam. Having experienced instructors to teach these concepts is key to making sure you understand them. This way, when you continue to review, you'll have the correct foundational knowledge in place, and you can sit for the exam with confidence.
Comprehensive, Structured Study Materials
Becker recommends you spend between 80 to 150 hours studying, depending on the section you're working towards. The total time it takes to study for the CPA Exam is between 320 to 400 hours total. You want to make the most of your study time with high-quality content that is covered on the exam, but it also needs to be delivered in the best way for your learning style.
For example, some students learn better through instructional videos and need the accountability of live stream classes. Others may find they retain more information through reading textbooks. And the majority of people get the best results by having multiple study materials and resources to choose from. So, the best CPA course for you will have the materials you need to help you retain information most effectively.
Just as important, content should be designed to build on your knowledge in a way that will keep you from getting overwhelmed. Becker's content is specifically designed to offer structured learning so you're continually making progress, creating foundations of knowledge, and continually building on what you learn. Plus, you can regularly test your knowledge and verify you're making progress all without getting overwhelmed by the material.
Learning Support
When you are struggling with a concept, stuck on a question, or hitting an obstacle in your CPA journey, having the support you need is key to moving forward. From one-on-one tutoring sessions and small workshops to having access to someone who can answer those quick questions and help you over your hurdles, the best CPA review will have the learning support and guidance to keep you on track and ready to succeed.
Realistic Practice Tests
Practice tests and simulated exams are the most effective way to track your progress, focus on problem areas and reinforce what you learn. And when the simulated exam follows a near-identical format as the "real" CPA Exam, you know what to expect and have a better idea of how you'll perform on the exam. Look for a CPA review course that offers more than just practice tests and lets you personalize the experience so you're testing in the most effective way to get ready.
What Is the Best CPA Exam Review?
Becker has been the leading provider of CPA Exam prep for nearly 70 years and has helped nearly two million students get their CPA license. Plus, more accounting firms, universities, and corporations trust Becker than other options. What sets us apart?
- A structured curriculum based on the most recent CPA Exam blueprint
- An expert team of experienced instructors with backgrounds in accounting, finance, and law
- Best in class virtual and physical textbooks and flashcards
- Engaging, instructional concept videos
- Newt™, an AI-powered study tool plus unlimited learning support
- Adaptive learning for personalized practice tests based on your knowledge gaps and areas of expertise
- Simulated exams to get you ready for the real thing.
In addition to having the qualities you need, the best CPA review has a track record for success. Becker Exam Day Ready SM students have a 64% higher pass rate than all other exam takers. While we understand the exam is challenging, we provide the resources and materials to help you beat the odds!
Try Becker's CPA Exam Review FREE for 14 Days
If you're ready to take the next step in your career, don't do it alone. Trust Becker to help you meet your career goals. Get a 14-day free trial of our full exam prep course and get started!
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