How to Compare CPA Reviews

If you need to obtain your CPA license to become a certified public accountant, there are many CPA review courses that may be a huge asset in helping you achieve that goal. There are regular brick-and-mortar classes as well as online review courses. The online review courses have become extremely popular due to the flexibility they allow. There are also self-directed as well as guided CPA review courses. As you can see, there are many choices available for CPA exam review courses. This article will help you compare these CPA review choices so that you can make the best decision based upon your lifestyle, budget and learning style.

Instructions

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1. Decide whether you want to go to a brick-and-mortar CPA review course or an online CPA review course. The brick-and-mortar classes offer the most structure for preparation of the CPA Exam. Some individuals learn better with a specific schedule with a live teacher and homework to turn in. These individuals also like to have the interaction with fellow students as well as the lecturer. On the other hand, online review courses offer the flexibility to schedule your workload with what fits in best with your schedule.

2. Think about whether you want a self-directed guide or a guided review course. The self-directed courses allow you to set the pace of moving through the material while the guided review course requires you to log on at specified intervals.

3. Examine the composition of the course materials. Some courses come with printed flashcards while others charge a fee for extra materials such as flashcards. Some courses offer sample CPA Exam tests and sample questions as well as tutorials. Additionally, you will want to find out if the course offers free re-takes if you do not pass the CPA exam the first time.

4. Compare the costs of the various courses. There are wide variations in cost depending on the firm, whether the course is brick and mortar, online, or a self-study CD. Weigh the pros and cons of the cost versus your best learning style to come up with the best choice for you.

5. Ask about discounts. Some review courses offer discounts for students. Some discounts are up to 20 percent off.

6. Network with other CPAs. Talk to other CPAs and see what CPA review course they took. Ask them if they can give you the pros and cons of the course they took. Often hearing the first hand experience of someone that has been through a particular course can provide you with objective information to help you decide on the best CPA review course for you.

Tips & Warnings

• Some self-guided CPA exam review courses offer access to an instructor. This may be a very helpful benefit if you are stuck on a particular section.

• Beware of possible hype given by sales professionals of a CPA review course.

• Check that the course offers free updates. CPA rules may change while you are studying for the exam.

Resources

• Journal of Accountancy
• Compare test preparation.
• Uniform CPA examination