Can I use an old version of a CPA review course?

Not recommended. The 2024 CPA Evolution significantly changed the exam structure. Materials from 2023 or earlier are missing critical content changes and include obsolete BEC content. Always use current-year materials.

How do I know if I need supplemental materials?

If youre consistently scoring 70-75%+ on your main courses practice questions, you likely dont need supplements. If struggling in specific areas, targeted supplements (like extra MCQs) can help. Dont add materials just to add them.

Study Resources7 min read

CPA Exam Study Materials

What you need to pass the CPA exam

A structured review course is essential for most candidates

Quality matters more than quantity of materials

Supplement based on your specific weak areas

Practice questions are your most important resource

The right study materials make CPA exam preparation more efficient and effective. This guide covers essential and optional resources, from review courses to supplemental materials.

Last updated: February 1, 2026

Essential: CPA Review Course

A comprehensive CPA review course is the foundation of successful preparation. Review courses provide structured content, practice questions, simulations, and study schedules.

Premium options (Becker, UWorld): $2,000-$4,000, most comprehensive
Mid-range options (Surgent, Gleim): $1,000-$2,500, adaptive learning
Budget options (NINJA, Meridian): $500-$1,500, solid core content
All major courses cover full exam content—differences are in delivery and support

Essential: Practice Questions

Access to a large bank of quality MCQs and TBS is non-negotiable. Most review courses include sufficient questions, but some candidates add supplemental question banks.

Your review course typically includes 4,000-10,000+ questions
Gleim has the largest MCQ bank (10,000+ questions)
NINJA CPA is popular as a supplement at $67/month
Aim to complete 2,000-4,000 MCQs per section

Optional: Supplemental Materials

Based on your learning style and weak areas, consider these additions.

Item	Value	Notes
NINJA CPA	MCQ supplement	$67/month, great as addition to any course
Flashcards	Quick review	Digital (Anki, Quizlet) or physical
AICPA Practice Exams	Official practice	Free, highly recommended
Tutoring	Personalized help	For specific stuck points

What to Avoid

More materials isnt always better. Avoid these common mistakes.

Dont buy multiple full review courses—master one thoroughly
Avoid outdated materials (pre-2024 courses miss CPA Evolution)
Skip unnecessary supplements if your main course is sufficient
Dont substitute social media "tips" for structured study

Recommended CPA Review Courses

Becker

The industry standard for CPA exam prep

$2,499–$5,999View Review

Surgent

Adaptive learning that reads your needs

$999–$1,999View Review

NINJA CPA

Affordable flexibility with monthly pricing

$67–$87/monthView Review

Gleim

The largest question bank in CPA review

$2,499–$3,499View Review

UWorld

Visual learning meets adaptive technology

$2,299–$4,100View Review

Related Exam Guides

Best For Your Situation

Best for Budget-Conscious Candidates

Getting CPA certified shouldn't break the bank. You're looking for quality preparation at an affordable price, whether that means lower upfront costs or flexible payment options.

Best for Working Professionals

Balancing a full-time job while studying for the CPA exam requires maximum flexibility and efficient study methods. You need a course that fits your schedule, not the other way around.

Frequently Asked Questions

While technically not required, a structured review course dramatically increases your pass probability. The vast majority of successful candidates use one. Self-study using only textbooks and free resources is possible but much harder and takes longer.