There are roughly 54,000 members of NC REALTORS®. Thinking about joining them and starting a real estate career in North Carolina, but unsure which online course to choose? With so many programs promising fast-track licensing and flexible study, picking the right pre-licensing course can feel overwhelming, especially when your future income and exam success are on the line.
In this guide, I’ll unveil the top online real estate schools in North Carolina that offer approved, flexible, and student-friendly pre-licensing courses. After personally testing these platforms and diving deep into their features, content quality, and usability, I’ve pinpointed which options work best for different learning styles and budgets.
Whether you’re a self-paced learner, a structured classroom-style student, or someone looking for top-notch exam prep, this list will help you find the course that gets you licensed—and confident—faster. Let’s dive in.
Best Online Real Estate School in North Carolina
| Feature / Provider |  |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $529-$949 | $479-$779 | $675-$1,295 | $200-$1,000 | $449-$899 |
| Discounts | No Discounts | Save 40% | Save 40% | Save 50% | Save $50 |
| Course Type | 75-hour NC-approved, self-paced, live, or in-person | 75-hour NC-approved, self-paced | 75-hour NC-approved, self-paced, or live | Exam prep only (not full course) | 75-hour NC-approved, self-paced, or live |
| Learning Format | Live & recorded webinars, in-person classes, practice tools | Mobile app, videos, quizzes, animations | Live online or on-demand video + materials | Live online or on-demand video + materials | Live online or on-demand video + materials |
| Instructor Support | Live support and instructor Q&A sessions | Email or text | Live support during webinars | Live class and Q&A support | Discussion forums & live study groups |
| Exam Prep Included | Yes, through CompuCram | Yes, basic prep tools | Yes, through Exam Prep Edge | Yes, full focus on exam prep | Yes, full exam prep with packages |
| Access Duration | 6 months | 12 months | 12 months | 6 months | 6 months |
| Best For | Live and in-person support | Mobile-first learners | One-stop shop for real estate education | Exam prep with personalized support | Structured, classroom-style learners |
| Get Started | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now |
Which NC Real Estate Course Is For You?
- Choose the Superior School of Real Estate for top live and in-person classes.
- Pick AceableAgent if you want self-paced, interactive content that will keep you engaged.
- Select The CE Shop if you want a one-stop shop for real estate education.
- Go with Kaplan if you prefer a more structured, traditional learning experience.
- Pick PrepAgent if you just need exam prep, but want it live and engaging.
- Choose CompuCram if you want lean, self-paced exam prep.
1. Superior School of Real Estate: Best Live and In-Person Classes
What to Expect
The Superior School of Real Estate stands out for their variety of course delivery options, whether you prefer on-demand, live, or even in-person instruction in North Carolina classrooms. If you’re close enough to make it to Charlotte, Greensboro, or Cornelius, you can take classes the old-fashioned way. However, you’re here for online courses, and Superior delivers in that ring, too.
What immediately sets Superior apart is the depth and professionalism of the content. During my review, I sampled both their live online and on-demand options and was impressed by the clarity and polish of the instruction. The live sessions in particular felt like being in a real classroom, with instructors who were not only experienced but also deeply invested in student success. The Q&A opportunities gave it a more personal, guided feel, which is rare in online learning environments.
I also appreciated the variety of prep tools included, especially the CompuCram exam prep system. It’s one of the more sophisticated test engines I’ve tried, offering adaptive questions and detailed feedback. Whether I was skimming videos or diving into exam drills, it felt like each component was carefully thought out, not just thrown in as filler.
“Highly recommend taking your pre-listening class through Superior School of Real Estate. Instructor Roger Green does an amazing job at instructing this course! He is passionate about real estate and makes the course interesting and fun! He explains topics well and goes above and beyond for his students ensuring they understand this course and prepare them for the test!”
Landon Lamonica
Standout Features
- 75-hour NC pre-licensing course (on-demand, live, or in-person)
- Buffini & Company career coaching videos
- Narrated audio review of exam topics
- Instructor Q&A sessions
- North Carolina cram course
- Exam prep and practice exams through CompuCram
Pros
- Career Coaching Videos: Learn about the career, not just the exam
- Choose Your Delivery: On-demand, live, or in-person content
- Top Exam Prep: CompuCram is a renowned real estate exam study tool
- Crammer Course: 8 hours of NC-specific review content
- Specialized Support: Instructor Q&A sessions and live interaction
Cons
- Not Cheap: The premium package is one of the most expensive on the list
Bottom Line
Superior School of Real Estate combines expert instruction, flexible learning formats, and top-tier exam prep. It’s a little more expensive than other options, but the quality and support justify the price. Students who want a polished, career-focused pre-licensing experience should consider Superior for their pre-licensing provider.
Superior School of Real Estate
2. AceableAgent: Top Self-Paced Online Course
What to Expect
AceableAgent is a standout option for students who value flexibility and modern design. This course is optimized for mobile learning, offering a smooth experience on smartphones and tablets—perfect for those on the go. The content is developed by industry professionals and includes real-world examples to help learners grasp complex real estate principles more easily.
What sets AceableAgent apart is its bite-sized lesson structure, ensuring that students don’t get overwhelmed. Its intuitive and sleek dashboard helps learners track their progress and stay motivated throughout the course.
I started this course on my phone during lunch breaks and was amazed at how seamless the mobile experience was—it felt like the content was made for multitaskers. One thing I didn’t expect? The short lesson format actually helped me stay focused and made it easy to knock out a few modules whenever I had 15 minutes to spare.
“The material is covered in a very clear and enjoyable way. I do not get bored during the course and retain more of the information from this format. A great way to study the material and flex your time around a busy schedule. We had a medical emergency that kept me from the course, but I was able to jump back in and pick up where I left off. This is something that you cannot do with fixed classes. I would have had to retake the entire course with other schools.”
Keith G.
Standout Features
- 75-hour NC pre-licensing course
- State-specific content tailored for North Carolina
- Fully mobile-compatible with iOS and Android apps
- Includes practice exams, quizzes, and instructor support
- Audio and video components included
Pros
- Dedicated Mobile App: Perfect for learning on your phone or tablet
- Engaging Content: Uses videos, animations, and interactive quizzes
- Clean, Modern User Interface: Easy navigation and progress tracking
- Virtual AI Instructor: Available 24/7 with Premium package
- Live Options: Frequent live webinars and Q&A sessions
Cons
- Can Feel Fluffy: Aceable’s engaging approach may feel silly to some
- Sometimes Lacks Depth: AceableAgent doesn’t dig as deep as some courses
Bottom Line
AceableAgent is ideal if you prefer a flexible, digital-first learning experience that fits into a busy lifestyle. With a user-friendly platform and engaging multimedia content, it’s a solid pick for tech-savvy students in North Carolina.
Aceable Agent
3. The CE Shop: Everything in One Place
What to Expect
The CE Shop offers one of the most well-rounded and professionally packaged real estate licensing programs in North Carolina. From pre-licensing to post-licensing and career development, everything is bundled in a single, intuitive platform. The 75-hour NC pre-licensing course is paired with Exam Prep Edge for both state and national exams, plus access to live and on-demand webinars to support your learning.
During my review, what stood out was how organized and well-sequenced the platform felt. Progress tracking was crystal clear, and the supplemental tools—like digital flashcards, glossaries, and eBooks—made it easy to reinforce learning outside of the main lessons. The weekly live webinars added a sense of structure and gave students a chance to check in and ask questions in real-time. It’s not the most entertaining course, but it’s one of the most complete, especially if you’re serious about getting licensed and staying licensed in one go.
“Being a licensed broker in three states (California, Nevada & South Carolina) I have used the CE Shop over several years to complete my exam requirements and Continuing Education requirements. I found the system very easy to use and retain and will continue to use them in the future. Great company especially if you’re a busy broker of salesperson like me!”
Cathleen Harry
Standout Features
- 75 hours of NC pre-licensing
- Exam Prep Edge for North Carolina and national exams
- Live and on-demand webinars
- Kickstarter Professional Development bundle of 3 courses
- 90-hour NC post-licensing package
- NC real estate and business eBooks
- Career resources to build your business
- Digital flashcards and a real estate glossary
Pros
- Post-Licensing: Save on post-licensing needs; your 90 hours are included
- Career Development: Business and career resources and tutorials
- Bonus Tools: Great bonuses like digital flashcards, a glossary, and a study schedule
- Pass Guarantee: Reimbursement of the first exam fee if you fail
- Downloadable Resources: Download resources and access across devices
Cons
- Tricky Questions: Practice questions are harder than the actual exam
- Extraneous Info: Some complain the course isn’t focused on priority subjects
- Not for Beginners: Complexity can be a turn-off for newbies
Bottom Line
The CE Shop is a smart pick if you want one platform for pre-licensing, post-licensing, and career development. Its structured format and live webinar support offer balance and accountability. As a result, CE Shop is a good fit for organized learners who want everything bundled from start to finish.
The CE Shop
4. Colibri Real Estate: Personalized Support Exam Prep
What to Expect
If exam prep only is your aim, and you value personalized support when you’re trying to get all the info down, Colibri Real Estate should be a serious contender on your radar. With 40 hours of office-hour-style question and answer sessions every month and six live, 1-hour webinars to cover the top testable topics for the exam, live learners can find accountability, personalized help, and community with Colibri.
The layout was clean, the navigation was fast, and the organization made sense. Plus, the simulated mock exams were clearly modeled after the real thing, and I think Colibri did an excellent job. However, not shockingly, my favorite part by far was the plethora of live support options available. The instructors were kind, compassionate, and eager to answer all of my silly questions (keep in mind, I passed the CPA exams, not the real estate exams!), and really went above and beyond to make sure I felt confident in the material.
However, this is an exam prep only package, meaning there are no mandatory pre-licensing hours included. So, this is only the right pick if you’ve already gotten your required education hours out of the way, or if you’re looking for an add-on to the course you already purchased.
Standout Features
- 6 hours of live exam prep review classes
- 40 hours of instructor-driven Q&A meetings every single month
- Full-length simulated mock exams
- Pre-study readiness assessment
- Audio guides and key topic summaries
- Pass or Don’t Pay guarantee
Pros
- Low Cost: Because it’s exam prep only, the cost is more affordable
- Live Learning Webinars: Learn vital content with real-time feedback
- Instructor Question and Answer: 40 Q&A hours delivered each month
- Audio Tools: Learn within your lifestyle with audio summaries and guides
Cons
- Exam Prep Only: If you’re here for pre-licensing hours, Colibri isn’t the pick
- Lean Materials: Don’t expect many bonus tools or extra resources
- Weak Essentials Package: The more expensive option is really the only choice
Bottom Line
Colibri isn’t the most comprehensive, but if you’re only after exam prep and learn best live, they’re an excellent choice. However, if you want something that includes pre-licensing hours, consider an alternative like the Superior School of Real Estate.
5. Kaplan: Traditional & Structured
What to Expect
Kaplan has long been a respected name in test prep and professional education. Its North Carolina pre-licensing real estate course blends tried-and-true textbook-style learning with the convenience of online access. Kaplan’s program includes instructor-led sessions, interactive study groups, and in-depth exam prep tools.
Students can choose from on-demand video packages or live online classes, depending on their preference for self-paced versus scheduled learning. Kaplan’s focus is on mastery of foundational knowledge, with rigorous content and experienced instructors.
When I tried Kaplan, I was surprised by how much the live online classes felt like a real classroom—it gave me the push I needed to stay accountable. I also found the study groups genuinely helpful; hearing other students ask the same questions I had made me feel like I wasn’t flying solo.
Standout Features
- 75-hour NC pre-licensing course
- Options for on-demand or live online formats
- Access to professional instructors and weekly study groups
- Interactive quizzes, flashcards, and exam prep tools
- National and state exam simulation
Pros
- Structured Format: Ideal for learners who thrive on routine and accountability
- Experienced Instructors: Clear, comprehensive explanations from real professionals
- Live Courses: All students receive access to optional Live Online instruction
- Large MCQ Bank: Practice with hundreds of MCQs before the exam
Cons
- Higher Price Point: Premium cost for added structure and instruction
- Interface Can Feel Outdated: Less sleek compared to competitors like Aceable
- Lots of Materials: Students may feel overwhelmed by the number of resources
Bottom Line
Choose Kaplan if you appreciate guided instruction and a more traditional learning experience. Its detailed content and access to instructors provide a solid path to exam success for those who need structure.
Kaplan
6. PrepAgent: Best for Exam Prep
What to Expect
PrepAgent is not a full pre-licensing course provider but is included here because of its excellence in exam preparation. Many students use PrepAgent after completing their 75-hour course to reinforce their knowledge and build test-taking confidence. The platform focuses solely on getting students ready for the state and national exams through targeted content reviews and practice tests.
PrepAgent’s lessons include webinars, audio lessons, and vocabulary worksheets, along with fun, animated videos to break down tough topics. Its material is constantly updated to reflect the latest exam trends and state requirements.
I used PrepAgent after finishing other courses and their animated videos made dry topics click for me—especially the tricky national vocabulary I kept tripping over. I will say that I liked it for review, but nothing beat how AceableAgent actually helped me understand the material the first time around.
Standout Features
- Live and recorded webinars
- Hundreds of practice questions and flashcards
- Mobile-friendly platform with audio and video content
- Covers both national and NC-specific material
- 1-week, 1-month, or 1-year access options
Pros
- Focused Exam Prep: Ideal supplement to your primary course
- Entertaining and Effective Teaching: Engaging instructors and practical tips
- Last-Minute Studying: Access the course for as little as one week
- Live and Recorded Webinars: Study live with real instructors and specific topics
Cons
- Not a Full Licensing Course: Must be used alongside another program
- Limited Customer Support: Some users say customer support is lacking
Bottom Line
Go with PrepAgent if you’ve already chosen a pre-licensing course and want extra confidence heading into your exam. Or, it’d be a great supplement if you want a course from a provider like the Superior School of Real Estate. It’s an unbeatable value for focused, high-quality test prep.
PrepAgent
7. CompuCram: Best Self-Paced Exam Prep
What to Expect
CompuCram is a stripped-down, efficient exam prep solution tailored to students who want to study on their own terms. For North Carolina test takers who’ve already completed their 75 hours of required education, CompuCram offers a focused, self-paced experience designed purely to help you pass the licensing exam. I liked that there were no distractions—just practice tools, performance tracking, and realistic simulations.
The platform’s “Study, Practice, Simulate” model is clean and methodical. I moved through flashcards, vocabulary drills, and quizzes before diving into full-length practice exams, all while tracking my progress with the built-in readiness meter. The content felt aligned with North Carolina-specific terminology and test structure, which gave me confidence going into the real thing. It’s not flashy and doesn’t offer extras like live classes or career coaching—but if you just want to get in, drill what matters, and pass, CompuCram does the job well.
Standout Features
- Self-paced format built for independent learners
- “Study, Practice, Simulate” structure for layered prep
- Adaptive readiness meter tracks exam readiness in real-time
- Digital flashcards, terminology drills, and timed test simulations
- Targeted content for the North Carolina real estate exam
Pros
- Straightforward Study Model: Minimal distractions, all focused on passing
- Real-Time Readiness Tracking: Know exactly when you’re exam-ready
- Affordable: Great budget option for students who already have their education hours
Cons
- No Education Hours: Doesn’t include pre-licensing coursework
- No Live Support: No instructor Q&A, webinars, or tutoring options
- Basic Interface: Functional but lacks the polish of multimedia-heavy platforms
- Limited Post-Exam Tools: No career coaching or job readiness resources
Bottom Line
CompuCram is built for one job—getting you past the North Carolina real estate exam—and it does that job well. If you’re a self-motivated learner who wants a focused, no-frills path to test day success, this is a smart and affordable way to get across the finish line. Just don’t expect extras—it’s designed for efficiency, not hand-holding.
CompuCram
Honorable Mentions
- Barnette Seminars
- Carefree School of Real Estate
- Communities Real Estate School
- Cumbie and Trull School of Real Estate
- Fastpass Learning
- Gaston College
- Go School
- Home Coach Real Estate School
- Jan Secor School of Real Estate
- Karen Berry Real Estate School
- Real Estate U
- Rowan-Cabarrus
How We Ranked These Courses
These rankings are based on hands-on testing and direct experience using each course. Your best pick will ultimately depend on how you learn best—whether that’s with flashcards on the couch, Zoom calls with instructors, or listening to audio lectures during your commute.
📚 Course Content Quality
Depth and accuracy of study materials
I looked for up-to-date, North Carolina-specific content that explains real estate concepts clearly and thoroughly. Superior School of Real Estate stood out for its instructor-led delivery and NC-specific depth, especially in the live classroom and webinar formats. Kaplan also performed well here with its robust textbooks and structured curriculum, while The CE Shop offered strong written materials with clear progress tracking and layered delivery.
🎯 Effectiveness
Proven success rates and student outcomes
While pass rates vary, Superior’s live instruction and intensive crammer course set it apart when it comes to preparing students for success. AceableAgent’s interactive format also scored high, with many learners reporting strong outcomes using its mobile-first platform. PrepAgent’s focused test drills and The CE Shop’s Exam Prep Edge round out the category with targeted strategies for mastering tough topics.
💻 User Experience
Ease of navigation, interface, and support
AceableAgent still takes the lead in usability, with a sleek interface, intuitive design, and great mobile access. That said, Superior School of Real Estate’s platform—especially in live and hybrid formats—offered a professional, well-supported experience that many users appreciated. The CE Shop also impressed with clean organization and helpful dashboards.
📊 Practice Questions & Exams
Quantity and quality of test simulations
Superior’s use of CompuCram provides one of the most realistic exam prep tools available, and the included crammer course further boosts readiness. PrepAgent and Kaplan also rank highly with extensive practice banks and adaptive testing tools. The CE Shop includes solid exam prep, though some users noted its practice questions felt tougher than the real exam.
🎥 Instructor Engagement
Teaching style and clarity of explanations
This is where Superior School of Real Estate really shines. Their live webinars, in-person classes, and real-time Q&A opportunities provide unmatched instructor access. Kaplan follows closely with credentialed instructors and structured live sessions. While The CE Shop does include live webinars, the overall engagement is more limited compared to Superior’s hands-on teaching model.
💰 Value for Money
Pricing vs. features
For overall value, The CE Shop offers a strong bundle, including pre- and post-licensing, exam prep, and career tools. Superior’s higher price tag is justified by its live instruction and strong success outcomes, making it a worthwhile investment. AceableAgent provides excellent flexibility at a mid-range price.
🔄 Flexibility
Self-paced vs. structured learning options
Superior School of Real Estate gives you the best of both worlds, with on-demand, live, and in-person formats. It’s ideal for students who want choice and accountability. AceableAgent is best for learners who prefer fully self-paced, mobile-friendly study. The CE Shop falls somewhere in the middle, offering structure via live webinars but maintaining full flexibility on the core course.
How to Choose the Best Real Estate School in North Carolina
Choosing the right real estate licensing course is more than just comparing price tags—it’s about finding a program that aligns with your learning style, goals, and schedule. Below, I’ve broken down the key factors to consider when evaluating your options, based on my firsthand experience with multiple North Carolina real estate courses.
Learning Style
Your preferred learning method should be the first thing you consider.
- Superior School of Real Estate is perfect if you want structured learning with live, on-demand, and in-person classes tailored for North Carolina.
- AceableAgent is great for independent learners who want total flexibility with self-paced, mobile-friendly modules.
- The CE Shop blends independent study with optional live webinars, offering structure without rigidity.
Course Format
How the material is delivered can make or break your study experience.
- Superior delivers traditional-style instruction through real-time classes and high-quality recorded content.
- AceableAgent keeps things dynamic with short videos, interactive quizzes, and animations.
- The CE Shop uses structured text-based modules and adds helpful extras like glossaries and digital flashcards.
Practice Questions & Exams
You’ll need more than just reading to pass the licensing exam—you’ll need practice.
- Superior’s CompuCram system and NC-specific crammer course provide targeted prep and full-length simulations.
- PrepAgent excels with practice questions, flashcards, and live drill sessions that mimic the exam.
- Kaplan offers in-depth quizzes and timed exams for realistic test-day readiness.
Adaptive Learning
Courses that adjust based on your strengths and weaknesses help you study smarter.
- PrepAgent’s live webinars adapt in real time based on student questions and focus areas.
- AceableAgent guides learners using feedback quizzes and modular learning to reinforce weaker topics.
- The CE Shop’s structured format supports progressive review and lets you focus on missed content.
Instructor Support
Not everyone is comfortable learning solo.
- Superior offers real-time interaction with instructors via live classes and Q&A sessions.
- Kaplan supports students through scheduled webinars and moderated forums.
- PrepAgent includes live coaching and chat support, ideal for students who want direct help.
Budget
Your budget may determine how much support and extras you receive.
- The CE Shop bundles pre- and post-licensing, exam prep, and career tools, making it one of the best values.
- AceableAgent balances cost with features, offering good interactivity at a mid-range price.
Pass Guarantee
Some courses offer a safety net if you don’t pass the exam on your first try.
- The CE Shop offers a pass guarantee with reimbursement for your first exam attempt.
- PrepAgent includes a money-back guarantee within your subscription window.
- Kaplan offers pass protection on select packages for added peace of mind.
Course Access Length
Access duration can impact how you pace your study.
- AceableAgent and The CE Shop both provide 12 months of access—generous timelines for busy learners.
- Superior provides access through the course duration with extensions available, especially for live formats.
- Kaplan access varies by package, often maxing out at 6 months, which may encourage faster completion.
Real Estate School vs. School Comparison
When comparing these North Carolina real estate courses, Superior School of Real Estate clearly came out on top. Its live classes, NC-specific crammer course, and real estate career coaching make it the most complete and polished option.
If you want structure, real-time instructor support, and a reputation that carries weight locally, Superior is the one to beat.
I also appreciated AceableAgent for its mobile-first design and interactive, bite-sized lessons—it’s perfect if you prefer a flexible, study-anywhere approach.
Kaplan, by contrast, offers a more traditional experience with scheduled live classes and detailed textbooks, ideal for students who want accountability and a classroom feel.
The CE Shop was another strong contender, especially for students who want everything bundled in one place. With self-paced modules, live webinars, and extras like post-licensing hours and career tools, it’s efficient and well-organized.
PrepAgent is a great add-on for test prep, offering flashcards, live Q&As, and practice drills that sharpen your exam readiness.
Your best choice depends on your learning style, but for most students, Superior, AceableAgent, and The CE Shop offer the strongest all-around value.
Final Thoughts
In the end, Superior School of Real Estate stands out as the top choice for most aspiring agents in North Carolina. Its combination of live instruction, structured content, and local expertise creates a standout learning experience, especially for those who want hands-on guidance and accountability. If you’re serious about mastering the material and prefer a more traditional, interactive format, Superior is hard to beat.
For learners who want flexibility, AceableAgent is the most convenient self-paced option, with a mobile-first platform that makes it easy to study on your schedule. The CE Shop is a great middle ground, offering a well-organized, all-in-one package that includes exam prep, post-licensing, and business tools. Kaplan brings structure and strong instructor access, while PrepAgent is perfect as a focused exam supplement. Whatever your learning style or goals, there’s a course here to match—and a license waiting on the other side.
FAQs
No, the licensing exam must be taken in person at a Pearson VUE testing center in North Carolina. You’ll need to complete your 75-hour course and receive a certificate before scheduling the exam.
You need a score of at least 75% on both the national and state portions of the exam to pass. Each section is graded separately, and you must pass both to earn your license.
The exam includes 140 questions total: 80 national questions and 60 state-specific questions. You’ll have 3.5 hours to complete both sections.
Most students finish in 4–8 weeks, depending on their schedule and pace. Self-paced courses allow you to move faster or slower based on your availability.
Yes, but only specific providers are approved. Always verify that the course is NCREC-approved before enrolling.
