With over 2 million students served and partnerships with all of the Big 4, Becker CPA Review has long been considered the gold standard in CPA exam prep. But just because it’s popular doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for you.
I’ve reviewed countless CPA courses over the years, and Becker consistently stands out for its polished interface, powerful tech tools, and high-touch support. Still, its higher price tag and feature-rich packages may not be necessary for every candidate. In this review, I’ll break down exactly what Becker offers, who it’s best for, and how it compares to the competition, so you can decide if this powerhouse course is really your best bet.
Is Becker CPA the Right Course For You?
- If you’re a visual learner, Becker’s engaging video lectures and live online classes will help you master complex topics.
- If you value personalized support, Becker’s success coaching and tutoring sessions offer hands-on guidance to keep you on track.
- If you want a mobile-friendly experience, Becker’s highly rated apps on Apple and Google are a big plus.
- If you prefer learning through structure, Becker’s step-by-step course design removes the guesswork from your study schedule.
- If you’re on a tight budget, Becker’s higher-tier packages may stretch your wallet more than other providers.
Becker CPA Review: The Basics
2 million students, and the choice of the “Big 4” and all the top 100 accounting firms. These are a few of the statistics Becker CPA Review is known for, and what’s made it one of the most popular choices for CPA exam preparation in the industry. But as with any course, Becker is more than their statistics. Choosing the right prep course should hinge on your budget, your specific needs and values, and frankly, what gets the job done.
In my experience with Becker, I believe the course is an excellent example of comprehensive, all-encompassing prep, but their variety of packages leaves room for candidates to “choose their own adventure.” If you prefer to go at your own pace, there’s a package for that. If you want 50 one-on-one tutoring/coaching sessions, there’s a package for that.
Now that you have a bird’s eye view of Becker, let’s dig into the pros, cons, packages, and features.
Pros
- Caters to modern learners with a mobile app and an AI study assistant
- One of the only top CPA review courses to offer live classes (and some onsite in Dallas, TX)
- Supports students through success coaching and tutoring in the Concierge and Pro Packages
- Difficult practice questions and exams help to thoroughly prepare students for the actual exam
- Known for producing over 90% of the top-scoring candidates since 2007
Cons
- Courses like the Concierge Package are unaffordable for the average person
Becker CPA Review
One Redditor summarizes these pros and cons, explaining:
“Becker is the best in my opinion based on other people i have talked to. However, it is also the most expensive. See if your job can pay for it.”
u/DragonflyMean1224
Becker CPA Package Options
In this section, I’d like to outline the different packages available to help you make the best pick for your needs. Keep in mind that while a package may look light based on the table, every package includes all of the following features:
- Complete four-part course, including at least one discipline section
- Study companion app on Apple and Android devices
- Unlimited customizable practice exams utilizing Adapt2U Technology
- Newt™, Becker’s AI exam review assistant
- 8,000+ practice questions and 500+ task-based simulations
- Digital textbooks and 1,400+ digital flashcards
- 12 mini exams and eight full-length simulated exams
Concierge Package
In this package, Becker offers 25 sessions each of success coaching and tutoring, plus exclusive features like additional video content, a CPA license navigator session, and your choice of CPE certificate program from Becker’s catalog.
👉 The Concierge Package is ideal for students who thrive with a complete support team behind them, or if you’re chasing the Elijah Watt Sells Award and want every possible advantage to do so.
Pro Package
The Pro Package is Becker’s most popular, the sweet spot for price and content. Like the Concierge Package, students can access live online and in-person classes, the final review capstone course, and a 1-year CPE subscription. However, they feature five sessions each of success coaching and tutoring, a total of 40 fewer than Concierge.
👉 This choice is a good match for most students. While the price can seem intimidating at first, it’s usually on sale at a price competitive with any top provider.
Premium Package
The Premium Package lacks a pass guarantee, personalized support sessions, live classes, the review capstone, and CPE bonuses. Nevertheless, you’re getting Becker’s core study materials, printed textbooks, and unlimited access.
👉 If these materials sound like must-haves, but you’re not as concerned with personalized support, Premium may be a solid selection.
Advantage Package
Finally, the Advantage Package is the lightest, but also the most affordable. It still sports an impressive 24-month access period and all of Becker’s fundamental tools (as listed at the beginning of the section).
👉 The Advantage Package is a great fit if you want to study with Becker on a budget and excel in a self-paced, digital-only environment.
| Concierge | Pro | Premium | Advantage | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Access | Unlimited Access | Unlimited Access | Unlimited Access | 24 Months |
| Pass Guarantee | 100% Money-Back | Up to $1,000 Back |  | |
| Discipline Sections Included | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Printed Textbooks |  | | | |
| Success Coaching Sessions | 25 | 5 | | |
| 1-on-1 Tutoring Sessions | 25 | 5 | | |
| Live Online and In-Person Classes | | | | |
| Final Review Capstone Course | | | | |
| Printable Flashcards | | | | |
| 1-Year CPE Subscription | | | | |
| Exclusive Resources | Deep Dive Workshops, ExamSolver Videos, CPA License Navigator Session, CPE Certificate Program | | | |
| Price | $6,349 | $3,799 | $3,099 | $2,499 |
| Financing | Options Available | Starts at $205.75/mo | Starts at $129.12/mo | Starts at $104.12/mo |
| Discounts | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Learn More | BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW | BUY NOW |
Becker CPA Discount Codes
Save $1,346 on Becker’s comprehensive materials, including unlimited access, pass guarantees, live classes, multiple mobile apps, and an AI chatbot for study support.
Extended Sale – $1,346 Off Becker CPA Pro+
Extended Sale – $1,345 Off Becker CPA Pro
Detailing My Becker CPA Review Experience
Now, it’s time to go feature by feature, figuring out what Becker really has to offer—and whether it’s what you’re looking for.
User Interface and Practice Materials
Becker’s user interface, structure, and practice materials help make clear why Becker is considered one of the best prep providers on the market. The user interface was modern and clean, with seamless navigation. Every section was laid out step-by-step, so to study, all I had to do was work through each item and move to the next, no guesswork necessary. As a reviewer, I appreciated not needing to deal with the decision fatigue of trying to figure out where everything was; it was truly effortless.
Further, Becker really shines in their practice materials. Put bluntly, these questions are tough, but there’s a method behind their “madness.” For example, Becker took a survey of their Exam Day Ready (SM) students taking the FAR exam in 2024, and saw an average increase of 10 points comparing practice exam scores to their scores on exam day. A few students even had point increases in the high twenties. To explain a little further, the questions are hard on purpose so the actual exam is much easier; you’re building muscle by practicing with 50-pound weights so the 25-pound weights feel light.
Adaptive Learning Technology, Mobile Apps, and AI
I cover course technology in most of my reviews, and typically, there isn’t much to discuss other than an adaptive learning tool. Becker, however, goes above and beyond in their modern approach, featuring that adaptive learning tool but adding a study companion app and an AI assistant à la ChatGPT named Newt™.
The best way to get a feel for these tools is to try them yourself in Becker’s free trial. Nevertheless, I’m excited to share my experience with you.
Adaptive learning technology is a bit of a test prep buzzword. What it means, put plainly, is a tool within the course that tracks the topics you excel in, and the topics that could use some work. Most frequently, this is used to apply to practice exams so you can target (and strengthen) those weak spots. Becker’s works as expected, and I appreciated the customization options of these Adapt2U Technology-driven unlimited practice tests, letting you toggle this “topic targeting” feature on and off.
The mobile app, meanwhile, is among my favorite aspects of Becker’s entire offer suite. Many CPA prep courses have low-rated mobile apps due to limited features and glitches. However, Becker’s app was intuitive, responsive, feature-rich, and glitch-free. Studying for hundreds of hours will never be fun, but thoughtful tools like these can certainly lighten the load and bring some joy to a drudgery-filled process.
“As others have said, I’d only use the mobile app for quick studying on the go. Becker is by far the best for this.”
u/omnium165
Finally, Newt™ is Becker’s latest creation. With the rise of generative AI chatbots like ChatGPT, DeepSeek, Gemini, and Claude, Becker’s team decided to take advantage of these technological advances to help CPA candidates study more efficiently. I was skeptical of Newt™ at first, but after spending some time entering queries and verifying accuracy, I was impressed. Newt™ can help better explain correct and incorrect question responses, make the right choices on practice exams, and provide tips and study strategies for improving your exam results.
Live Classes and Video Lectures
Live online virtual classes are one of Becker’s biggest selling points, and it only makes sense to address them alongside their on-demand versions.
First and foremost, let’s lay out the facts:
- 900+ bite-sized video lectures (often ~10 minutes long each)
- Live in-person classes available onsite in Dallas, TX
- Two-hour-long classes are divided by the CPA exam sections and modules
- Live online classes are available with early and late start times on weekdays and weekends
Further, these live classes were an excellent way for me to feel more connected to my coursework. If you have trouble sticking to a self-imposed schedule, the live nature of these lessons can make you feel more obligated to keep up with the material and stay motivated on your journey. Further, I found the instructors patient, kind, and of course, knowledgeable. I never stumped them with a question, and, at least in my experience, I never felt like they thought I was stupid or asking something unnecessary (and to be clear, I deliberately asked some obnoxious questions to test this!).
The video lessons were excellent as well. Though the experience certainly differed from instructor to instructor (Mike Potenza and Mike Brown were two of my favorites, particularly for practice question explanations), overall, I think the average person will have a positive experience. The team could break down difficult topics into something much more approachable, boosting student confidence before digging deeper. All in all, the live classes and video lectures are some of Becker’s strongest highlights.
Personalized Coaching, Tutoring, and Support
One of the lesser-known resources available for Becker students is their Facebook study groups, open only to Becker students. There’s a different group for each exam section, and you can interact with instructors and fellow students alike. However, you’re probably not looking for more info on Facebook groups when up to 50 personalized support sessions are available in some packages. So, let’s cover those face-to-face educational meetings, customized to your needs.
To clarify, you get either 5 or 25 sessions each of both study coaching and tutoring, depending on whether you select the Concierge or Pro Package. In testing both types of sessions, I found that even the lower-tier offering provides more value than you’d expect. The success coaching isn’t just about logistics—it’s about helping students build smarter study habits, stay on pace, and avoid burnout. The tutoring sessions, on the other hand, are tailored for deeper content support. The tutors I observed were knowledgeable, patient, and skilled at breaking down challenging material in ways that actually stick. For students feeling overwhelmed or plateauing mid-course, these sessions could make a substantial impact on their studies.
Value Compared to Price
Pricing is likely one of the highest concerns across the board for CPA candidates shopping for the right CPA exam prep course. However, value and price aren’t necessarily the same. Some high-priced prep courses are worthless, and some low-priced prep courses are hidden gems. So, in the trash-to-treasure spectrum, where does Becker lie?
I think the best way to answer this question lies in addressing their most popular package. The Pro Package may seem costly at first, but as I mentioned before, it’s frequently on sale, placing it well into the average price range for top prep providers (and honestly, at the lower end of that range). With five success coaching sessions, five tutoring sessions, printed textbooks, a year of CPE, unlimited access, and a partial guarantee, I sincerely consider it one of the best deals for aspiring certified public accountants.
Becker’s CPA Concierge Package, meanwhile, is likely overkill for most students, both in terms of support and price. Nevertheless, the ambitious student may get their money’s worth; some firms offer a bonus to employees who earn the award, and it may be a valuable differentiating factor for candidates applying for jobs.
“Becker is awesome. It is worth every penny. You want to do this and do it right, give yourself the best option of passing all 4 the first time. Follow the Becker plan and you have the best chance of Going 4/4. Becker is worth every penny.”
u/Substantial_Dot9350 (Response to Thread: Would You Still Choose Becker If You Had to Pay Out of Pocket?)
Becker vs. Competing CPA Courses
Becker vs. Gleim
Gleim is known for their enormous question bank—over 11,500 multiple-choice questions and 1,600 task-based simulations—which makes them a strong choice for students who believe practice makes perfect. They also have one of the more analytics-focused platforms, offering detailed performance feedback and personalized study plans. That said, the interface feels slightly dated compared to Becker, and the courses lack features such as live classes and mobile apps, which some students find helpful for long-term motivation.
Becker, on the other hand, brings a highly polished experience with comprehensive content, engaging video lessons, and high-touch support options, including coaching and tutoring. Their live and on-demand instruction options stand out, as do their top-tier mobile apps and strong track record of success. It’s a more structured, guided experience, which some students prefer—especially if you’re aiming for top scores or want full-service prep support.
- Choose Becker if you value a polished platform, expert-led classes, and extensive support to guide your study.
- Pick Gleim if you want the largest question bank and plan to drill your way to success.
Check out my full reviews of Becker and Gleim in this comparison.
Becker vs. Surgent
Surgent shines with affordability and efficiency. Their ReadySCORE™ tool is a standout, offering a real-time look at how prepared you are for the exam, and they boast a solid 88% pass rate. With over 9,000 questions and a full money-back guarantee, Surgent was clearly designed for students who want to move fast and study smart. However, their video content and platform interface aren’t as dynamic or engaging as Becker’s.
Becker, by contrast, offers an all-around premium experience. From their high-quality lectures and live class options to their Newt™ AI assistant and adaptive tech, Becker was engineered to support students at every level. Yes, it’s more expensive—but for students who want the most structured, immersive learning environment possible, they deliver real value. Their high pass rate and track record with top scorers back that up.
- Choose Becker if you want expert instruction, powerful learning tools, and a proven history of top results.
- Pick Surgent if you need a budget-friendly, streamlined option with data-driven tools and no-frills support.
Find out more in this review of Becker vs Surgent.
Becker vs. Lambers
Lambers has been around for decades and offers a no-nonsense approach to CPA prep, particularly with its audio-based learning tools and à la carte course options. They’re well-suited for students who want to focus on specific areas or supplement another course. However, their design, delivery, and question bank don’t quite match the depth or engagement found in more modern platforms.
Becker, by comparison, is a full-package solution. They cover every aspect of CPA prep with polished video content, live support, tech tools, and a well-organized platform. Students who want structure, accountability, and long-term access benefit most. It’s a more modern, comprehensive learning experience that continues to evolve with student needs and exam changes.
- Choose Becker if you want a fully integrated, up-to-date course with live and digital resources.
- Pick Lambers if you’re looking for focused content to supplement your studies or need audio-based learning on the go.
Becker vs. UWorld
UWorld brings a strong reputation for rigorous, high-quality question writing—many students praise their test bank for being harder than the actual exam, which can boost confidence on test day. They also include a solid mobile platform and a user-friendly interface. However, UWorld doesn’t offer live classes or the same breadth of supplemental tools, such as AI assistants or personalized coaching.
Meanwhile, Becker offers a more complete support system for CPA candidates. From their polished learning dashboard and robust mobile apps to one-on-one tutoring and expert-led video lectures, they offer a course built to guide students from day one through exam day. Becker also shines when it comes to live class options, which many students find essential for staying accountable. One student explains:
“Let me offer you perspective. I had Becker and returned it to buy Uworld. Worst decision ever. I thought Roger’s high personality would be Gearty’s monotoned but I wish I had Becker still. The structure is better and more concise. The exam questions are better and more relevant in my opinion. Lastly, it gives you the closes things to the real exam as possible. Stay with Becker… Believe me….”
u/Titan-33
- Choose Becker if you want a feature-rich, guided prep experience with live instruction and proven results.
- Pick UWorld if you want a self-study course with excellent practice questions and a straightforward learning path.
See my in-depth analysis of Becker and UWorld here.
Compare Becker with my recommendations of the best CPA review courses in this article.
Final Verdict
Becker offers a lot of value, and in particular, the Pro Package is an excellent choice for CPA candidates seeking live classes, mobile apps, and high-touch support. If you’re a visual learner who thrives with guidance and real-time interaction, Becker is an excellent option. In some cases, you’re paying more than you would for a similar course from a different provider; however, this is typically only with the Concierge Package, and discounts can significantly reduce an intimidating price tag.
Does Becker sound like the right fit? Click below to learn more.
FAQ
Yes, Becker is widely considered one of the most effective CPA prep courses, especially for students who value structure, support, and proven results.
Yes, many students report that Becker’s mock exams and practice questions are tougher, making the real exam feel more manageable—a phenomenon known as the “Becker Bump.”
Becker ties with UWorld for the highest reported pass rate at 94% among “exam-ready” students.
Becker’s packages range widely in pricing, which can change with fluctuating figures and sales. However, you can expect to pay low to mid four-figures.
Becker stands out with live classes, a polished interface, AI tools, and extensive support, including coaching and tutoring sessions.
