Is an expensive CPA review course worth it?

Not necessarily. Success depends more on your study habits than course price. Budget courses like NINJA and Meridian have excellent pass rates. Premium courses offer more features and support, but the content difference is marginal. Choose based on your learning style, not price alone.

Are there hidden costs I should know about?

Common unexpected costs include: application fees ($50-$200), ethics exam ($100-$200), international evaluation ($200-$500 for foreign credentials), credential verification ($100-$200), and re-exam fees if you dont pass first time ($200-$300 per section).

Career Guide

CPA Exam Cost Guide

Complete breakdown of all CPA exam expenses

Total cost ranges from $3,000-$10,000+ depending on choices

Review course is the largest single expense

Many costs can be reduced with planning

Employer reimbursement can eliminate costs

Understanding the full cost of obtaining your CPA license helps you budget appropriately and avoid surprises. This guide breaks down every expense from review courses to licensing fees.

Last updated: February 1, 2026

Exam and Application Fees

NASBA and state board fees are required for all candidates.

Application fee: $50-$200 (varies by state)
Exam fees per section: $200-$300
Total exam fees (4 sections): $800-$1,200
Rescheduling fees: $35 per section if needed

CPA Review Course

Your review course is typically the largest investment. Options range from budget to premium.

Budget options (NINJA, Meridian): $500-$1,500
Mid-range options (Surgent, Gleim): $1,000-$2,500
Premium options (Becker, UWorld): $2,000-$4,000
Supplemental materials: $200-$500 additional

Licensing Costs

After passing the exam, additional costs are required to obtain and maintain your license.

Ethics exam: $100-$200
Initial license fee: $100-$300
Background check (some states): $50-$100
Annual renewal fees: $50-$200 per year

Ways to Reduce Costs

Strategic planning can significantly reduce your total investment.

Employer reimbursement: Many firms cover all costs
Student discounts: Available from most review providers
Black Friday sales: Save 30-50% on review courses
Use NINJA as supplement: $67/month for extra practice

Recommended CPA Review Courses

NINJA CPA

Affordable flexibility with monthly pricing

$67–$87/monthView Review

Meridian CPA Review

The most affordable complete CPA review course

$199–$299View Review

Surgent

Adaptive learning that reads your needs

$999–$1,999View Review

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Frequently Asked Questions

Budget candidates can complete the process for $3,000-$5,000 using affordable review courses. Mid-range investments run $5,000-$7,000. Premium approaches with Becker or UWorld cost $7,000-$10,000+. Many employers reimburse these costs.

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