Considering a career upgrade? Becoming an Enrolled Agent (EA) might be your next best move. While tax professionals sometimes report frustrations with limited opportunities for growth, achieving the EA designation can open doors to meaningful, skill-driven work—backed by job security and impressive earning potential.
To do this, you’ll need to pass the Special Enrollment Examination (SEE) and use one of the best EA prep courses on the market.
To help you compare all of the exam prep options, I’ve evaluated EA review courses based on their effectiveness, user feedback, and unique features. Whether you’re looking for tailored practice exams, bite-sized video lessons, or flexible study plans, there’s something here for every aspiring EA.
Best EA Review Courses
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1. Becker: Overall Best Enrolled Agent Course
Becker only recently began offering exam prep and continuing education for enrolled agents, and their review course debuted in November 2024. But don’t let that fool you—Becker is known for their high-quality, highly effective exam prep materials. It’s only natural that they bring their expertise and proven track record to the EA world, and yet again, they knocked it out of the park.
In a rare show from Becker, they only have a single, highly affordable package available for aspiring enrolled agents, as well as the ability to study one section at a time:
- EA Essentials Package
- Access Duration: 12 Months
- EA Review Part 1, 2, or 3
- Access Duration: 12 Months
Becker EA Course Features
As I mentioned before, Becker’s EA review course is new, but their legacy isn’t. For over 60 years, Becker has educated nearly 2 million professionals in the tax and finance industries. Here are some of the best features of their course:
- Comprehensive Test Bank: Becker’s EA course features a question bank of over 3,000 multiple-choice questions to practice with. At the time of writing, there are around 1,000 additional questions over Surgent.
- Confidence in Relevant Material: Becker’s team are true perfectionists, and this is especially true when it comes to maintaining updated materials. The course content will always align with the topics you’ll find on the exam.
- Expert EA Team: Not only are your instructors successful EAs themselves, but they also participated in shaping the course from the ground up. You’ll learn from a team that knows what it takes to succeed, and it’s their job to pass that info on to you.
- Adapt2U Technology: The course offers unlimited practice tests run on Becker’s proprietary Adapt2U Technology. This tech helps students identify their strengths and weaknesses and allows them to boost their chances of success by filling in the gaps.
- AI Study Assistant: Becker’s newest study tool, Newt™, is currently the only AI assistant available in any EA course. It’s akin to a 24/7 tutor on your screen, ready and willing to answer your questions about MCQs, practice tests, and result reviews.
Pros
- Becker’s Legacy: You know a brand is good when one of their biggest selling points is that, well, it’s from Becker. In my opinion, Becker is the most reliable test prep company out there. I excitedly recommend their products because I know they work.
- Attention to Detail: While reviewing the new course, I realized that Becker is extremely thorough. Your instructors and course creators? All EAs. Your materials? Always up to date. Your success? Imminent.
- Study Smarter: The most valuable aspect of Becker’s Adapt2U Technology is that it saves time. Don’t waste time studying what you already know and excel in. Instead, study those areas where you have the chance to pick up extra points.
- Lengthy Free Trial: Not ready to invest? Becker offers a 14-day free trial so you can see if their EA prep course is right for you. Many companies offer only a 3-day or 7-day trial, so it’s nice to see this extended length for a new course.
- Great Price Point: Becker EA combines premium CPA prep with a competitive price, offering excellent value for aspiring CPAs. With comprehensive resources and a reputation for quality, it’s an affordable option that doesn’t compromise on effectiveness, making it a smart investment for your career.
Cons
- New is Scary: Because the course is fresh out of Becker’s exam prep oven, not many candidates have gotten the chance to taste it. As a result, there aren’t as many reviews to assure you it’s worth the investment, which can feel intimidating.
Bottom Line
Becker takes the top spot on my list for a reason—it’s reliable, thorough, and gets results. The course is built by enrolled agents who know what it takes to pass, and the materials are always up-to-date. With decades of experience in test prep, Becker makes success feel achievable. If you’re serious about becoming an EA, this is the course I’d recommend every time.
Becker
2. Gleim: Most Comprehensive EA Review Course
Gleim is a name synonymous with excellence in accounting exam preparation, period. Trusted for over 50 years by professionals worldwide, they are loved for their detailed and effective study materials. I found that Gleim offers some of the most tailored programs available. From their printed textbooks to the number of practice questions they offer, there are lots of things to love about Gleim.
Aspiring EAs have these three options:
- Premium EA Review
- Access Duration: Access Until You Pass®.
- Traditional EA Review
- Access Duration: 12 months.
- EA Test Bank
- Access Duration: 12 months.
Gleim EA Course Features
Gleim’s EA review courses are comprehensive, incorporating SmartAdapt™ technology. This award-winning feature allows Gleim to tailor the learning experience to each candidate’s strengths and weaknesses. This adaptive platform acts as a personal exam tutor, optimizing study time and ensuring readiness for the exam.
- Extensive Question Banks: The courses feature the most realistic bank of exam-quality questions available, including those previously released by the IRS, to provide rigorous practice and preparation.
- Video Lectures: The Premium review includes over 30 hours of expert-led instructional videos, offering in-depth coverage of complex topics.
- Continuing Professional Education (CPE): Up to 72 hours of CPE credits are included with the Premium review, helping professionals keep their skills sharp and up-to-date.
- Mock Exams: Simulated exams replicate the Prometric testing environment to enhance confidence and preparedness for the actual exam day.
Additional Benefits with Gleim
- Premium EA Review: This plan features unlimited access until you pass, double the number of full-length mock exams, and both digital and on-demand printed books. It’s designed for those who seek the most thorough preparation.
- Traditional EA Review: Offers a balanced approach with access to all digital materials, a large bank of practice questions, and full-length mock exams.
- EA Test Bank: Focuses primarily on providing a vast array of practice questions, ideal for those who prefer to concentrate on drilling questions to reinforce their knowledge.
Pros
- Advanced Adaptive Learning Technology: Gleim’s Enrolled Agent exam prep courses are anchored by their SmartAdapt technology, an advanced learning platform that tailors your study plan by analyzing your quiz performance and focusing on your weak areas. This method ensures that your study time is both strategic and productive, enhancing the overall efficiency of your exam preparation.
- Extensive Question Bank: Gleim’s vast test bank is one of the largest available, featuring a comprehensive array of multiple-choice questions. Each question is accompanied by detailed explanations for both the correct and incorrect answers, enhancing learning and understanding. This extensive practice resource aids in mastering complex concepts and improving exam techniques.
- Comprehensive Mock Exams: With Gleim, practice is paramount. The Premium EA Review includes six full-length mock exams, while the Traditional package offers two. These exams replicate the real EA exam’s format and pressure, helping you develop effective test-taking strategies and time-management skills.
- Dedicated Expert Support: Access to expert support sets Gleim apart. Whether you need help understanding complex tax topics or devising an effective study plan, Gleim’s seasoned team of accounting experts is readily accessible via phone or email to provide guidance and support.
- Interactive Demo Experience: Prospective students can explore Gleim’s tools and resources through a demo of the Premium EA Review. This trial includes access to a selection of the test bank and practice exams and showcases the powerful SmartAdapt platform alongside expert-led video lectures.
Cons
- Limited Duration of Access: Some of Gleim’s EA Review plans restrict access to just 12 months, which might not suffice for students who require more prolonged study periods or who might face delays in their exam preparation schedule.
- Intense Study Requirement: Gleim’s rigorous preparation strategy is designed to ensure that students are overprepared for the EA exam. While this approach generally results in students finding the actual exam to be less challenging, it can also lead to perceptions of an overly demanding study process.
Bottom Line
Gleim EA Review is highly recommended for its thorough approach and longstanding reputation for quality. The use of SmartAdapt™ technology, extensive question banks, and detailed video lectures provide an immersive learning experience that prepares candidates exceptionally well for the EA exam. While some may find the intense preparation demanding, this rigor is exactly what helps ensure students are over-prepared, making Gleim a solid choice for serious candidates aiming for first-time success.
Gleim
3. Surgent: Most Flexible EA Prep Course
Surgent is a powerhouse when it comes to exam prep, especially for those aspiring to become Enrolled Agents. With a strong foundation established over 35 years in the accounting and finance sectors, Surgent is now a leading provider of Enrolled Agent exam preparation.
With Surgent EA exam review courses, candidates have three distinct plans to choose from, tailored to fit different study needs and career goals:
- Ultimate Pass Review
- Access Duration: Unlimited
- Premier Pass Review
- Access Duration: Unlimited
- Essentials Pass Review
- Access Duration: 18 months
Surgent EA Course Features
Diving into the specifics, Surgent EA review courses are comprehensive toolkits for EA candidates. Each course option includes over 2,000 multiple-choice questions and unlimited practice exams, ensuring candidates have ample practice.
But Surgent’s offerings go beyond just practice.
The courses integrate Surgent’s proprietary A.S.A.P.® Technology, an adaptive learning system that customizes study material to your learning pace, dramatically increasing efficiency. ReadySCORE™ technology also features across all plans, giving you a reliable prediction of your EA exam score with stunning accuracy.
While testing the Surgent EA review plans, I loved that they were accessible on desktop, mobile, and tablet, with synchronized progress across all platforms. This flexibility allows candidates to study anytime, anywhere, adapting to busy schedules and different learning environments.
$175 Savings on Surgent EA Review Ultimate Pass
Additional Benefits of Surgent Enrolled Agent Prep
- Ultimate Pass Review: Comes with printed and digital textbooks, audio lectures, 60+ bite-sized video lessons, and free automatic content updates. This tier also includes a pass guarantee, 1-on-1 coaching, and bonus courses like “Excel for Accounting Professionals” and “Ethics for Tax Professionals.”
- Premier Pass Review: Shares many features with the Ultimate tier but focuses on digital-only content, ideal for the tech-savvy student.
- Essentials Pass Review: Best suited for those with a solid foundation who need focused review materials without the breadth of the higher tiers.
Pros
- Highly Rated: Surgent EA Review is celebrated for its exceptional quality, often receiving top awards and rankings in the industry. This recognition is a testament to the course’s comprehensive curriculum and effective teaching methods, making it a trusted choice among EA candidates.
- Exceptional Pass Rate: Exceptional Pass Rate: With a 99% pass rate, Surgent has proven its capability to prepare students effectively for the EA exam. This impressive statistic reflects the effectiveness of Surgent’s study materials and instructional methods in helping students understand and retain complex tax laws and regulations. As one Surgent user put it, “I passed each part on the first try by answering the multiple-choice questions and reading the explanations. Just find what works for you and allows you to understand the content.”
- Efficient Learning: Surgent’s advanced technology optimizes study time by focusing on areas where the student needs the most improvement and reducing unnecessary review. This targeted approach can cut total study time by up to 40%, making it ideal for busy professionals looking to become Enrolled Agents without prolonged study periods.
- Experienced Instructors: The instructors at Surgent are not only knowledgeable but also highly skilled in teaching complex content in an understandable way. Students frequently express appreciation for the supportive and engaging instructional style, which enhances learning and retention of the material.
Cons
- Short Trial Period: I love Surgent and its online community, but I wish that the 5-day trial period was a little longer. This brief window can be challenging for students to make an informed decision on which study resources to invest in.
- No Live Classes: While Surgent offers a wide range of study materials, it lacks live, instructor-led classes that some candidates might prefer for more interactive learning and real-time guidance.
- Costly Upgrades: While the Essentials Pass is affordable, upgrading to the Premier or Ultimate tiers for additional features like one-on-one coaching or bonus courses can be expensive, which might not be ideal for budget-conscious candidates.
Bottom Line
Surgent EA Review is a standout choice for its adaptive technology, high pass rates, and flexible study tools, making it ideal for busy professionals. The variety of plans ensures there’s an option for every budget and level of preparedness, while features like A.S.A.P.® Technology and ReadySCORE™ streamline your study process for maximum efficiency. However, the lack of live classes and the higher cost of premium upgrades may not suit everyone. Despite these drawbacks, Surgent’s innovative approach and comprehensive resources make it a strong contender for EA exam success.
Surgent
4. Fast Forward Academy: Most Innovative EA Prep
Fast Forward Academy EA Review is known for its tailored and technologically equipped study solutions for enrolled agent preparation. However, while it offers several appealing features, some aspects of its service may not suit everyone perfectly.
Fast Forward Academy EA Review Options
- EA Smart Bundle + Bootcamp: This package is targeted at learners seeking a comprehensive study experience. It includes access to an eBook, on-demand Bootcamp webinars for a deep dive into subjects, and an extensive online course. With over 3,053 study questions, unlimited practice exams, and support through various media (including digital flashcards and integrated IRS publications), it’s structured for thorough exam prep. Notably, this bundle offers printed materials as an optional extra.
- EA Smart Bundle: Despite being more expensive, this popular option lacks the on-demand webinars included in the cheaper Bootcamp bundle, which may raise questions about its value. It does provide extensive EA review materials, video lectures, and access to practice questions, supporting a solid understanding of necessary concepts.
- EA Online Course: Geared towards self-directed learners, this course features over 100 video lectures, more than 3,000 study questions, and unlimited practice exams. While it shares many benefits with the more expensive packages, it omits a physical study guide, which could be a downside for those who prefer traditional learning tools.
Pros
- Thorough Preparation: Fast Forward Academy doesn’t just offer a vast test bank; it ensures that each question is discussed thoroughly to enhance understanding. The platform’s moderators are adept at simplifying complex topics, which not only clarifies learning but also helps students feel more prepared. Many users feel that this detailed approach contributes to a higher first-time pass rate.
- User-Friendly Interface: Fast Forward Academy is recognized for its easy-to-navigate interface. Users find that this straightforward design minimizes distractions and maximizes the efficiency of their study sessions, allowing them to focus more effectively on the content.
- Extensive Question Bank: With one of the biggest banks on the market, Fast Forward Academy provides a robust foundation for EA exam prep. This comprehensive bank of practice questions is designed to mirror the exam format closely, enhancing both the quality and depth of exam preparation.
- Effective Simulated Exams: The platform offers unlimited practice exams that simulate the real EA exam environment, boosting preparation and confidence. Many users credit these practice exams with their success, noting that repeated practice helped them pass each part of the exam on their first attempt.
Cons
- Significant Time Commitment: Some users report that preparing with Fast Forward Academy requires a substantial investment of time. Despite the high quality of the materials, the time needed to cover them thoroughly can be daunting, and some students feel that the effort required does not always match the outcomes.
- Confusing Pricing Structure: The pricing for Fast Forward Academy’s various packages and add-ons can be perplexing, making it difficult for users to understand the full cost of their preparation. This complexity can lead to frustration and uncertainty about the value of the investment.
- Insufficient Explanations for Complex Topics: Although the platform offers a comprehensive “book” for study, some users find that they need to seek additional resources, such as Google or YouTube, to understand more challenging subjects fully. This need to look beyond the provided materials can be seen as a drawback, indicating that the explanations within Fast Forward Academy’s resources may not be sufficient for all learners.
Bottom Line
Fast Forward Academy offers a robust EA exam preparation platform known for its innovative learning tools and extensive question bank. The interactive interface and adaptive learning technology make it a favorite among students seeking an engaging and efficient study process. With unlimited practice exams and detailed explanations, candidates are well-prepared for the EA exam. However, some users have noted that despite the high-quality content, the time commitment required to cover all materials can be substantial. Additionally, the pricing structure can be confusing, which may deter some potential users.
Fast Forward Academy
5. Lambers EA Review: Modular Learning Style Option
Lambers takes a unique approach to Enrolled Agent exam preparation by segmenting its content to match the structure of the EA exam. Instead of bundling resources, Lambers offers its courses in three separate parts, each focusing on a specific section of the exam. While this method provides flexibility and may seem cost-effective, it may not suit everyone, especially those who prefer a more integrated study experience.
Lambers EA Review Options
Each part of the Lambers EA review is sold separately and not in a comprehensive program like some of the other full-course providers.
Features of Lambers EA Review
- Digital Textbooks and Video Lectures: Lambers provides 55 hours of detailed video tutorials.
- Test Prep Database: With over 2,100 unique questions, Lambers’ database offers a range of practice material that reflects the depth and complexity of the EA exam.
- Intuitive Test Prep Software: Lambers employs an adaptive learning platform that tailors the study experience to the user’s needs.
- Lambers Flash Trainer: Lambers offers more than 450 flashcards to aid in memorization and recall. These are available both online and in printable format, making them versatile tools for on-the-go review.
While Lambers’ modular approach offers flexibility and can be cost-effective, it may not be suited for those who prefer a more integrated or comprehensive package typically provided by other course providers. Additionally, the focus on digital and printable flashcards, while beneficial, might not meet the needs of learners who prefer more interactive or multimedia-based study tools.
Pros
- Ubiquitous Access to Materials: One of the most appreciated features of Lambers is the flexibility to access its thorough review materials from any location. Users have praised this feature, noting how crucial it was for their success on the EA exam. The ability to dive deeper into subjects where needed using supplementary reference materials enhances the learning experience significantly.
- Engaging Video Lectures: Lambers is renowned for its rich library of dynamic video lectures that extensively cover various topics necessary for the EA exam. These lectures are crafted to captivate and maintain student engagement, simplifying complex tax concepts and making them more digestible. The visual aids provided in these videos are critical in laying down a robust foundation for exam success.
- Robust Support and Continuous Updates: Lambers ensures that students are well-supported throughout their study journey, offering access to expert advice for challenging questions and regularly updated course materials. This support system ensures learners are studying the most current content, keeping them abreast of the latest tax regulations.
Cons
- Subpar Website Interface: The Lambers website lacks comprehensive details about its course offerings, which can leave potential students feeling unsure, especially when comparing it to the detailed sites of competitors like Surgent and Gleim. This deficiency in transparency can deter students from choosing Lambers for their exam preparation.
- Lack of Interactive Learning Tools: Unlike other prep courses that integrate interactive forums and real-time feedback, Lambers does not offer many dynamic learning options. This limitation can affect the level of engagement and interaction among students, potentially hindering the collaborative learning experience.
- No Trial Offer: Lambers does not provide a free trial period for its courses, requiring candidates to rely solely on the program’s reputation and existing reviews to make their decision. This approach can be a significant drawback for those who prefer to sample the course content before committing financially.
Bottom Line
Lambers offers a flexible and detailed approach to EA exam preparation, which is especially beneficial for learners who prefer a segmented study schedule. With focused video lectures and an adaptive test prep system, Lambers caters well to those who need to concentrate on specific parts of the exam at different times. However, compared to more integrated programs like Surgent or Gleim, Lambers might not provide the same level of comprehensive support and cutting-edge technology, making it somewhat less attractive for those seeking an all-encompassing prep course.
Lambers
6. Hock International: Top EA Supplementary Material
Hock EA, in partnership with PassKey Learning, offers a structured EA exam preparation course. using a subscription model. Although the course includes robust educational tools, some elements may appear underwhelming compared to other top-tier offerings in the market.
Subscription Options
- Premium Subscription: This plan includes access to all EA exam prep materials, including over 70 hours of videos, 2,300+ practice questions, three mock exams, and complete online PassKey textbooks. Subscribers also benefit from weekly live online EA study sessions, expert support, and student forums.
- Standard Subscription: This plan includes videos, a question bank, and one mock exam. However, it lacks the complete PassKey textbooks and bonus video lessons offered in the Premium plan.
Features of the Hock EA/PassKey Learning Courses
- Comprehensive Learning Materials: Each subscription tier provides a significant amount of video content and a large question bank. The Premium plan also offers full-length timed practice exams and a multiple-choice question interface that mimics the Prometric Testing Centers, which could help candidates feel more comfortable on exam day.
- Expertise and Support: Christy Pinheiro, with over 15 years of experience in helping candidates pass professional exams, lends her expertise to the courses. This is supplemented by expert support and interactive student forums.
“I used passkey. It was just enough to pass. Not too technical like gleim. But, if you want to learn it really well, gleim it is…”
u/Nomstah
Pros
- Effective Supplementary Material: PassKey serves well as a supplementary resource in preparing for the EA exam. TheDancingStoic suggested, “I would just take PassKey and fill in the gaps with independent research if I were you.” This indicates that while PassKey covers essential areas, it is most effective when used in conjunction with additional study and research to ensure a comprehensive understanding of all exam topics.
- Efficient and Enjoyable Study Process: Users report that once they understand the concepts through Hock, studying becomes easier and faster. “Once I understood the concepts through Hock, it has been easier, faster, and I have developed a liking for taxes,” said a satisfied student. This efficiency not only makes the process more enjoyable but can also accelerate the path to passing the exams.
Cons
- Deceptive Cost Accumulation: While the initial subscription price may appear affordable, the long-term costs can quickly accumulate, making it a more expensive option than anticipated. Users considering the subscription need to be aware that what starts as a cost-effective solution can add up significantly over time, particularly if extended study periods are required to complete the preparation. This can result in a financial burden that may not initially be evident.
- Online Tools and Features Can Be Cumbersome: Some of Hock’s online tools, such as flashcards, may not be user-friendly. As one user expressed, “The online flashcards are kind of annoying to use because I have to rate the difficulty of each one before moving on to the next card.” This can disrupt the study flow and may detract from the overall learning experience.
- Inconsistent Live Support Quality: While Hock generally provides good support, the quality of live sessions can be inconsistent. A user shared their experience with a study session moderator: “I have joined two EA Part 1 study sessions and, to be honest, have not been impressed with the moderator.” Issues like this could impact the effectiveness of live study aids and learner satisfaction.
- Lack of Retention and Confidence: Some users have reported feeling unprepared and uncertain while using Fast Forward Academy’s materials despite passing their exams. One user, Agreeable_Menu5293, recounted their experience: “I passed Part I with Fast Forward but felt like I was failing the whole time. Swear I couldn’t remember any of the questions after I walked out.” This suggests that while the course may cover necessary content, it may not effectively build the deep understanding and confidence needed to feel secure during and after the exam.
Bottom Line
Hock with PassKeys offers a structured approach to EA exam preparation focused on conceptual understanding rather than rote memorization. While this educational philosophy is commendable for fostering a deeper grasp of the material, the program might lack the technological sophistication and comprehensive resources found in competitors like Surgent or Gleim. The platform’s tools, such as the online flashcards, can be cumbersome and interrupt the flow of study, potentially detracting from the overall learning experience. Moreover, the inconsistency in live support quality and the absence of more interactive learning options might leave students seeking a more engaging and supportive study environment disappointed.
Hock International
Enrolled Agent Course Promo Codes
Save with these exclusive enrolled agent course discounts.
Enrolled Agent Course Comparisons
Surgent vs. WiseGuides
Surgent EA Review significantly outshines WiseGuides, particularly due to its adaptive learning technology, which customizes study plans to maximize efficiency and efficacy. Surgent’s system is designed to focus on areas needing improvement, drastically reducing preparation time while maintaining a high level of comprehension and retention. In contrast, WiseGuides offers a large question bank and self-paced learning but lacks the modern, intuitive learning enhancements that Surgent provides, making Surgent a superior choice for those seeking a more guided, technology-driven study experience.
Hock (PassKey) vs. Gleim
Gleim EA Review clearly surpasses Hock PassKey, particularly due to its comprehensive coverage and intensive practice opportunities. Gleim’s approach, with its extensive question bank and rigorous mock exams, ensures that students are not just prepared but over-prepared, making the actual EA exam feel more manageable. Although Hock PassKey focuses on building a strong understanding of concepts, Gleim’s systematic and detailed preparation strategy, complete with adaptive learning technology and expert support, provides a more structured and supportive learning environment. This makes Gleim the preferable choice for students seeking a thorough and immersive study experience that promises high levels of readiness and confidence.
Surgent vs. Fast Forward Academy
Surgent EA Review stands out against Fast Forward Academy due to its advanced adaptive learning technology and consistently high pass rates. Surgent’s A.S.A.P. Technology customizes the study experience to focus intensely on areas where students need the most improvement, significantly reducing preparation time while enhancing understanding. Although Fast Forward Academy offers a substantial question bank and useful simulated exams, Surgent’s tailored approach and comprehensive support system provide a more efficient and effective preparation process, making it the superior option for EA candidates aiming for success on their first attempt.
Gleim vs. WiseGuides
Gleim EA Review is the clear winner when compared to WiseGuides, offering a far more robust and detailed preparation toolkit. Gleim’s extensive practice questions and full-length mock exams are designed to prepare students thoroughly, ensuring that they are well-versed in every topic and capable of handling the exam’s demands. In contrast, WiseGuides, while providing a good range of materials and accessible content, lacks the depth and breadth of Gleim’s offerings, particularly in terms of interactive learning and real-time feedback. Gleim’s structured approach, combined with its comprehensive support and update system, makes it the preferred choice for students who seek a rigorous and supportive study environment.
Lambers vs. Surgent
Surgent EA Review edges out Lambers when it comes to comprehensive EA exam preparation, largely due to its innovative adaptive learning technology and superior pass rates. Surgent’s A.S.A.P. Technology effectively tailors the learning process to individual needs, ensuring students spend time on areas where they require the most improvement, which can significantly cut down overall study time. Additionally, Surgent’s support system and extensive practice exams prepare students thoroughly for the exam. On the other hand, while Lambers offers in-depth video lectures and a segment-specific approach that allows for targeted studying, it lacks the adaptive features and cohesive learning environment that Surgent provides, making Surgent a more effective choice for those looking to pass their exams efficiently and effectively.
Fast Forward Academy vs. Gleim
Between Fast Forward Academy and Gleim for EA exam prep, Gleim stands out as the superior choice. Gleim’s comprehensive approach, featuring SmartAdapt technology, tailors learning to individual needs, ensuring efficient and targeted study. It also offers a broader range of practice questions and more rigorous mock exams than Fast Forward Academy, better-preparing students for the EA exam. While FFA is user-friendly, it occasionally requires supplementary materials for complex topics, which Gleim typically covers more thoroughly in its course materials.
Hock (PassKey) vs Lambers
Both of these EA exam review course providers have valuable resources for Enrolled Agent exam preparation, each with a focused approach. Lambers offers detailed video lectures and a modular structure that allows for targeted studying, while Hock integrates comprehensive content with PassKey learning tools to emphasize deep understanding. However, for those seeking more advanced technological aids and extensive practice tests, options like Surgent or Gleim might offer better value and effectiveness, enhancing the chances of success on the EA exams with their state-of-the-art adaptive learning systems and exhaustive mock exams.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re managing a busy schedule with work, family, or both, choosing the right EA prep course is essential. Becker stands out as the top recommendation for its proven track record, comprehensive materials, state-of-the-art AI tools, and efficient approach to exam prep. Gleim is an excellent option for detail-oriented learners who want in-depth coverage, while Surgent’s adaptive technology makes it ideal for time-crunched professionals. No matter your goals or learning style, there’s a course tailored to your needs—choose the one that fits you best, and you’ll be on the path to EA success!
FAQ
The best Enrolled Agent review course depends on your specific learning needs and preferences. Top-rated courses like Becker EA, Gleim EA Review, Surgent EA Review, and Fast Forward Academy are highly recommended due to their comprehensive content, advanced adaptive learning technologies, and varied instructional methods that cater to different study styles.
Preparation time for the Enrolled Agent exam can vary widely depending on your background knowledge and the time you can dedicate to studying. On average, candidates may spend 3 to 6 months preparing, with daily study sessions recommended to cover all exam topics thoroughly. If you use an EA exam review program like the Surgent EA review course, you can greatly reduce this time.
Yes, it is possible to become an Enrolled Agent without prior accounting experience. The EA exam focuses on understanding the U.S. tax code and requires thorough preparation using EA review courses, which are designed to teach all necessary tax-related knowledge from the ground up.
Becoming an Enrolled Agent offers numerous benefits, including recognition as a tax authority, the ability to represent taxpayers before the IRS, increased job opportunities, and potentially higher earnings. EAs enjoy a level of professional prestige and have a flexible career path with opportunities in both private practice and public service.
The Enrolled Agent exam is considered challenging due to its comprehensive coverage of tax laws and regulations. However, with diligent study and the right preparation tools from reputable EA review courses, many candidates can pass the exam successfully. The exam’s difficulty underscores the importance of thorough preparation and consistent study habits.
