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Updated March 2026

Best Budget CPA Review Courses

Quality CPA prep doesn't have to cost $5,000. Compare affordable options that can help you prepare without breaking the bank. New to the CPA journey? Start with our guide to becoming a CPA.

Disclaimer: Prices and features are based on publicly available information from each provider's website as of March 2026. Prices, features, and offerings may change. Always verify current information directly with the provider before purchasing. Meridian CPA Review is not affiliated with any of the companies mentioned.

Key Takeaways

  • Surgent offers the lowest starting price at $799 with adaptive learning technology
  • Gleim has the largest question bank (12,000+ MCQs) with unlimited access
  • UWorld frequently runs sales, sometimes dropping below $1,300
  • All three budget options offer "until you pass" access (with certain plans)

Top Budget-Friendly Options

#1 Budget Pick

Surgent CPA Review

Starting at
$799

Quick Stats

Price Range:$799 - $1,699
MCQ Questions:9,000+
Task-Based Sims:500+
Access Period:Until you pass

Strengths

  • A.S.A.P. Technology adapts to your knowledge level
  • Unlimited access until you pass
  • Frequent discounts available
  • ReadySCORE predicts exam readiness

Best for: Self-motivated learners who want adaptive technology at a lower price

#2 Budget Pick

Gleim CPA Review

Starting at
$599

Quick Stats

Price Range:$599 - $2,449
MCQ Questions:12,000+
Task-Based Sims:1,200+
Access Period:Until you pass

Strengths

  • Largest question bank in the industry
  • Unlimited access until you pass
  • Strong focus on practice questions
  • Personal counselor included

Best for: Candidates who learn best through extensive practice questions

#3 Budget Pick

UWorld (formerly Wiley CPAexcel)

Starting at
$1,999

Quick Stats

Price Range:$1,999 - $2,899
MCQ Questions:9,000+
Task-Based Sims:500+
Access Period:Until you pass (Elite-Unlimited)

Strengths

  • Bite-sized video lessons
  • 1,400+ video lectures
  • SmartPath adaptive technology
  • Mobile-friendly platform

Best for: Busy professionals who prefer short, focused study sessions

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureSurgentGleimUWorld
Starting Price$799$599$1,999
MCQ Questions9,000+12,000+9,000+
Task-Based Sims500+1,200+500+
Adaptive LearningA.S.A.P.SmartAdaptSmartPath
Until You PassYesYesElite-Unlimited only
Mobile AppYesYesYes

How to Save Even More

Wait for Sales

Most providers offer significant discounts during Black Friday, tax season (April), and back-to-school periods. Surgent and UWorld are known for frequent promotions.

Check Employer Benefits

Many accounting firms reimburse CPA review course costs. Ask your HR department about education benefits before purchasing.

University Partnerships

If you recently graduated, check if your university has partnerships with CPA review providers for alumni discounts.

Start with Free Resources

Use free AICPA sample tests and YouTube lectures to build a foundation before investing in a paid course. Check current CPA exam pass rates to understand what you're aiming for.

Consider Payment Plans

Most providers offer 0% interest payment plans, making it easier to spread the cost over several months.

Free Resources to Supplement Your Studies

Even with a budget course, you can supplement your studies with free resources:

AICPA Sample Tests

Official practice exams directly from the exam creators

YouTube Channels

Free lectures from Farhat Accounting, Edspira, and more

FASB Codification

Free access to accounting standards (academic access available)

Detailed Comparisons

Becker vs Surgent
Premium vs budget comparison
Becker vs Gleim
Premium vs mid-tier comparison
Becker vs UWorld
Premium vs adaptive learning

Try Meridian CPA Review Free

While you're comparing options, why not try our platform? Access 6,000+ practice questions and task-based simulations completely free during our beta period. No credit card required. Use our study hours calculator to plan how much time you need.

Start Practicing Free