Thinking about buying a CPA review course? We say do it – data shows that candidates who invest in a structured CPA review course pass the exam at higher rates than those who go it alone. While it might seem like an extra expense, it’s a small price to pay for the increased focus, organized study plan, and the customized approach these courses offer.
But with so many courses available, how do you choose the right one for your needs and budget? In short, you should find a course that best matches your learning style, schedule, and of course, budget. Need a more comprehensive explanation? Keep on reading.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a CPA Review Course
When you’re preparing for the CPA exam, having a clear, structured study plan is essential as it can reduce stress and keep you on track. A review course offers just that, alongside access to high-quality materials and expert instruction, which can accelerate your learning. Here’s what factors to consider when looking at the different courses:
Cost
CPA review courses can be expensive: prices range from a couple hundred to a few thousand dollars. When you factor in the CPA exam cost itself, which can add another $1,000 or more depending on where you’re taking it, the total investment can feel significant, to say the least.
So, consider your budget and look for courses that provide value for the price. Some courses offer payment plans, which might help alleviate some of the upfront costs. Still, remember that this is an investment in your career, so it’s important not to skimp on quality. The point is, take your time to find a course that provides the best value for the price you’re willing to pay.
Teaching Style
Everyone learns differently. Case in point, some people need a structured classroom setting, while others excel with self-paced online courses.
So, think about how you absorb information best. Do you prefer engaging video lessons or reading through detailed textbooks? Would you benefit from interactive content like quizzes and practice exams? Many review courses offer sample lessons, so take advantage of these to find out if the style works for you.
Course Accessibility and Flexibility
If you’re working full-time or have a busy personal life, you’ll want a course that allows you to study at your own pace. In this case, you should look for options that let you access materials anytime, anywhere. This flexibility is crucial if you need to balance study time with your regular responsibilities.
Also, some courses offer mobile apps, which can be incredibly helpful when you need to squeeze in extra study time on the go. If this is not a priority for you, you don’t even have to factor in course flexibility into your selection process; this not only gives you more options but also may also mean you won’t have to spend as much.
Content Coverage
You’ll want to make sure the course you choose covers all sections of the CPA exam comprehensively. It’s easy to find courses that focus heavily on one part of the exam but skimp on others, so look for a program that offers well-rounded coverage of all areas of the exam.
Practice exams and simulated questions are also important – they help reinforce the material and get you used to the format of the actual exam.
Support and Resources
One of the biggest advantages of taking a CPA review course is the support you get along the way. Whether it’s access to instructors, study groups, or 24/7 tech support, having resources at your disposal can make a huge difference.
We recommend choosing a course that offers responsive support, so you’re never left stuck on a question or concept. The ability to reach out for help when needed can alleviate a lot of stress during your preparation.
What Else Should You Consider?
When evaluating your options, don’t forget to read reviews and ask for recommendations. Fellow professionals who have been through the process can offer valuable insight into which courses worked for them and why (and which ones didn’t). Look for user reviews that discuss specific features like the course structure, effectiveness of the materials, and overall user experience.
Also, think about how well the course integrates practice exams. Practice tests are crucial in helping you familiarize yourself with the exam format and pacing. They also give you a clearer idea of where you stand in terms of readiness, helping you fine-tune your focus areas.
Continuing Education After Licensure
Once you’ve passed the CPA exam and earned your license, the learning doesn’t stop. In fact, continuing education is a critical part of maintaining your license. If you’re practicing in Arizona, you’ll need to fulfill specific continuing professional education (CPE) requirements to keep your license active. These can range from 80 to 120 CPE credits over a certain period, depending on the exact rules in your state.
Nationally, continuing education options are vast. You’ll find plenty of webinars, workshops, and specialized courses designed to help CPAs stay up to date with the latest changes in tax law, accounting standards, and other relevant topics. Many courses are available online as well, offering flexibility so you can balance your professional responsibilities with your educational goals.
