For many accounting students, preparing for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Exam while still in college can be an overwhelming challenge. Between attending lectures, completing coursework, and fulfilling internship commitments, finding the right CPA review course is essential to ensure efficient and effective study habits.
The best CPA review courses for college students should provide structured learning, affordability, engaging content, and flexible study schedules that fit within a busy academic lifestyle.
By choosing the right CPA review course early, college students can maximize their study time, build a strong foundation in accounting principles, and increase their chances of passing the CPA Exam on the first attempt.
This guide will explore the best CPA review courses tailored for college students, highlighting their features, benefits, and how they fit into a student’s schedule.
Why College Students Should Start CPA Exam Preparation Early
Contents
Many students wait until after graduation to begin CPA Exam preparation, but starting while still in college offers significant advantages.
- Stronger Academic Retention – Since students are already immersed in accounting courses, they can reinforce and apply CPA Exam topics more effectively.
- Maximized Study Time – College students typically have more flexibility in their schedules compared to full-time working professionals.
- Early Completion of the CPA Exam – Some states allow candidates to take the exam before completing 150 credit hours, allowing them to get ahead before entering the workforce.
- Access to Student Discounts – Many CPA review courses offer student pricing, scholarships, and discounts, making preparation more affordable.
By choosing the right CPA review course, college students can efficiently balance their coursework, exam preparation, and internships, setting themselves up for success early in their careers.
Best CPA Review Courses for College Students
Becker CPA Review – Best for Structured Learning and University Partnerships
Becker CPA Review is widely regarded as the gold standard in CPA Exam preparation, offering a structured, high-quality curriculum that aligns with CPA Exam content. Many universities partner with Becker, allowing students to access discounted or even free CPA prep courses as part of their accounting programs.
Why It’s Ideal for College Students:
- Comprehensive video lectures taught by top accounting instructors.
- Adaptive learning technology that tailors study plans based on individual progress.
- Mobile-friendly study tools for flexible on-the-go learning.
- University partnerships that provide students with subsidized pricing or free access.
Becker is an excellent choice for students who prefer a structured, classroom-like learning experience with extensive support and resources.
Wiley CPAexcel – Best for Bite-Sized Learning and Busy Schedules
For college students who prefer to study in short, digestible sessions, Wiley CPAexcel offers a microlearning approach that is perfect for balancing coursework and CPA prep.
Why It’s Ideal for College Students:
- Short, focused lessons (10-15 minutes per topic) that fit into a busy academic schedule.
- Unlimited course access until you pass, so students can start early without worrying about course expiration.
- Large bank of practice questions to reinforce key concepts.
- Budget-friendly student pricing and flexible payment plans.
Wiley CPAexcel is a great option for students who need flexibility and prefer studying in shorter sessions, rather than committing to long lectures.
Roger CPA Review (UWorld) – Best for Engaging and High-Energy Instruction
For students who struggle with staying engaged in long study sessions, Roger CPA Review provides dynamic, high-energy lectures that make learning fun and memorable.
Why It’s Ideal for College Students:
- Entertaining and fast-paced video lectures that break down complex accounting topics.
- Mnemonic devices and storytelling techniques to improve retention.
- Efficient study plans that can help students complete prep in as little as three months per section.
- Customizable digital flashcards for on-the-go review.
Roger CPA Review is perfect for students who need engaging, interactive content to stay focused and motivated throughout their CPA Exam preparation.
Gleim CPA Review – Best for Self-Paced and Budget-Friendly Study
For students looking for a lower-cost CPA review option without compromising on quality, Gleim CPA Review provides a detailed, self-paced study program that is highly affordable.
Why It’s Ideal for College Students:
- Extensive question bank with over 10,000 practice questions and simulations.
- Self-paced learning that allows students to study at their own speed.
- Audio lectures and digital flashcards for flexible study options.
- One of the most budget-friendly CPA prep courses available.
Gleim is best for independent learners who want a comprehensive CPA review course at a lower price.
How to Choose the Best CPA Review Course as a College Student
Selecting the best CPA review course depends on personal learning style, budget, and study schedule. Here are some key factors to consider:
Course Structure and Engagement
- If you prefer structured, university-aligned learning, Becker is a great choice.
- If you need engaging, high-energy lectures, Roger CPA Review is ideal.
- If you like short, flexible study sessions, Wiley CPAexcel is the best fit.
Cost and Student Discounts
Many CPA review courses offer student discounts, scholarships, or installment plans. Students should check for discounted pricing through their universities or explore budget-friendly options like Gleim.
Course Flexibility and Mobile Access
Since college students often balance multiple responsibilities, choosing a mobile-friendly CPA review course with on-the-go access can make studying more convenient. Courses like Becker, Wiley CPAexcel, and Roger CPA Review provide excellent mobile platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which CPA review course is best for college students balancing coursework?
Wiley CPAexcel is a great choice for college students because it offers short, bite-sized lessons that fit easily into a busy academic schedule. Becker CPA Review is another strong option for students looking for structured study plans with university partnerships and student discounts.
Do CPA review courses offer student discounts?
Yes, many CPA review providers, including Becker, Wiley CPAexcel, Roger CPA Review, and Gleim, offer student pricing, discounts, and even scholarships. Some universities also provide free or discounted access to CPA prep courses through academic partnerships.
Can I take the CPA Exam while still in college?
Some states allow students to sit for the CPA Exam after completing 120 credit hours, even if they haven’t reached the 150-hour requirement for licensure. It’s important to check with your state board of accountancy to confirm specific eligibility rules.
Which CPA review course is best for visual and interactive learners in college?
Roger CPA Review is excellent for visual learners because it features high-energy video lectures, whiteboard-style explanations, and mnemonic devices to reinforce learning. Becker CPA Review also provides engaging, structured video content with animations and real-world examples to help students grasp difficult concepts.
Bottom Line
For college students preparing for the CPA Exam, choosing the right CPA review course can make a significant impact on study efficiency, retention, and overall success. Becker CPA Review is perfect for students who want structured, university-supported study plans, while Wiley CPAexcel is best for those who prefer short, flexible lessons. Roger CPA Review provides an engaging, high-energy learning experience, and Gleim CPA Review is a great budget-friendly, self-paced option.
Starting CPA Exam preparation while still in college allows students to build on their coursework, take advantage of student discounts, and get ahead before entering the workforce. By selecting a CPA review course that fits their learning style and schedule, college students can successfully balance school, CPA prep, and career planning, setting themselves up for a smooth transition into the accounting profession.