Editorial Policy
How we research, review, and recommend CPA review courses
Our Mission
Atlas CPA Index exists to help CPA candidates find the review course that best fits their unique situation. We believe there is no single "best" CPA review course—only the best course for you. Our goal is to provide transparent, data-driven recommendations that help you make an informed decision.
The LIFTS Framework
Our recommendations are powered by the LIFTS framework, a structured methodology we developed to match candidates with courses based on five key dimensions:
L — Learning Style
How you prefer to absorb information (video, text, practice, etc.)
I — Investment
Your budget and pricing preferences
F — Flexibility
Schedule flexibility and self-pacing needs
T — Technology
Platform preferences and tech-forward features
S — Support
Level of instructor access and support needed
Each provider is scored across these dimensions based on our editorial assessment of their features, content, and user experience. The LIFTS Assessment matches your preferences to provider strengths to generate personalized recommendations.
How We Review Courses
Our review process includes:
- Feature analysis: We document course content, technology, pricing, and support options
- User experience evaluation: We assess platform usability, mobile apps, and study tools
- Value analysis: We compare pricing, access duration, and included features
- Regular updates: We verify pricing and features periodically to maintain accuracy
Editorial Independence
Our editorial assessments are independent of our affiliate relationships. We do not:
- • Allow providers to pay for higher ratings or rankings
- • Adjust LIFTS scores based on commission rates
- • Hide or downplay provider weaknesses
- • Guarantee favorable coverage in exchange for affiliate partnerships
Our revenue model (affiliate commissions) is transparent and disclosed throughout the site. While this model sustains our research, it does not influence our editorial judgment.
Meridian CPA Review Disclosure
Important: Atlas CPA Index is owned by the same entity that owns Meridian CPA Review. This is a material relationship that we disclose prominently throughout the site.
Despite this ownership relationship:
- • Meridian is scored using the same LIFTS methodology as all other providers
- • Meridian is not artificially ranked higher than warranted
- • We clearly label Meridian with a disclosure badge whenever it appears
- • Our reviews include honest assessments of Meridian's considerations
We believe transparency about this relationship is essential for maintaining your trust.
Data Sources & Attribution
We draw information from the following sources:
- • Pricing: Provider websites (verified periodically)
- • Pass rates: Self-reported by providers (methodologies vary; not independently verified)
- • Exam statistics: NASBA/AICPA published data
- • State requirements: State Board of Accountancy websites
- • Salary data: Bureau of Labor Statistics and industry surveys
Information may change without notice. We encourage users to verify current details directly with providers and official sources before making decisions.
Our Update Commitment
We are committed to keeping our content current and accurate:
- • Provider pricing and features are verified periodically
- • Reviews display a "Last verified" date for transparency
- • State CPA requirements are reviewed for major changes
- • LIFTS scores are reassessed when providers make significant updates
If you notice outdated information, please let us know through our About page.
Questions About Our Editorial Process?
We welcome feedback and questions about our methodology. Visit our About page for contact information.