After the January 31st IRS deadline for enrolled agent renewals passed, the landscape for tax professionals has shifted significantly. This change means there’s a prime opportunity for aspiring Enrolled Agents to make their mark.
Choosing the right EA review course is more crucial than ever to navigate this unique situation. The EA exam, with its deep dive into tax laws and regulations, requires a study guide that is comprehensive, up-to-date, and trustworthy.
This is where Gleim EA Review and Fast Forward Academy enter.
Both provide extensive material and promise to keep you current, but the right choice for you will depend on your personal study preferences and goals. Therefore, they are my top two and three choices in EA review courses.
But which is which?
Keep reading to learn more about Fast Forward Academy EA, Gleim EA review, and other top EA review courses.
Key Takeaways
- If you want unmatched content depth: Gleim’s decades of experience deliver a thorough understanding of tax laws and regulations, while Fast Forward Academy is better for a quicker, more streamlined review.
- If you value personalized learning: Gleim’s SmartAdapt™ system offers a tailored study path, but Fast Forward Academy’s real-time feedback and interactive tools provide a hands-on learning experience.
- If you need extensive practice: Gleim’s massive test bank and challenging practice exams thoroughly prepare you for the EA exam, while Fast Forward Academy’s test questions are great for focused review.
- If you prioritize support: Gleim shines with access to personal counselors and accounting experts, but Fast Forward Academy’s user-friendly platform offers an easier setup for independent learners.
- If you’re looking for long-term value: Gleim’s “Access Until You Pass®” guarantee and comprehensive resources make it the better investment, though Fast Forward Academy’s lower price is appealing for those on a tight budget.
Gleim EA Review
With over five decades of experience, Gleim has etched its name in the hearts of accountants with its comprehensive and tailored EA exam prep solutions. Offering three main programs—Premium EA Review, Traditional EA Review, and the EA Test Bank—each Gleim EA review course stands out with its blend of technology, extensive practice resources, and unparalleled support.
Highlights from Gleim
- SmartAdapt™ Technology: Acting as your personal exam tutor, it guides you through the study material, ensuring you’re focused on what’s needed to pass.
- Mock Exams: Designed to mirror the actual EA exam environment, these exams boost confidence and readiness. Three to six mock exams come with each of Gleim’s Exam review courses (excluding the test bank only option.)
- Expert Support: Direct access to accounting experts and a top-tier support team, making sure you’re never alone on this journey.
Gleim EA Discount
Save with our exclusive Gleim EA discount.
Best Course Option from Gleim EA
The Premium EA Review System is the flagship, with features like over 30 hours of videos, a massive test bank, and an “Access Until You Pass®” guarantee. It’s available for $799 or as low as $73/month with financing. With this course, you also get:
- Personal Counselor Access: A unique feature that assigns you a personal mentor, providing one-on-one guidance, answering questions, and helping tailor your study plan for optimum efficiency.
- Digital and Physical Books: Offers the latest edition of EA review textbooks in both digital and printed formats, allowing for flexible study preferences and on-the-go learning.
- Interactive Study Planner: Integrates with your schedule to set realistic study goals, keeping you on track throughout your preparation journey with reminders and progress tracking.
Fast Forward Academy
Fast Forward Academy EA brings freshness to EA exam prep with its adaptive learning platform, extensive practice exams, and vibrant online community. While not the top choice for everyone, it stands firmly as a formidable contender, especially valued for its interactive approach and comprehensive resources.
Highlights from Fast Forward Academy:
- Interactive Online Forum: A standout feature that allows candidates to engage with experts and peers, turning complexity into clarity.
- Extensive Question Bank: Over 3,000 practice questions ensure you’re well-prepared to tackle the exam.
Fast Forward Academy EA Discount
With options ranging from the EA Smart Bundle + Bootcamp to the EA Online Course, Fast Forward Academy offers flexibility and a rich array of resources. However, its somewhat puzzling pricing and the significant time investment required are points to consider.
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Technology: Is Gleim Better than Fast Forward Academy EA?
Gleim EA Review doesn’t just offer an adaptive learning platform; it’s a comprehensive ecosystem designed to mimic the personal touch of a tutor. SmartAdapt™ guides you through a customized learning path, adjusting in real time based on your performance. This system not only highlights areas needing improvement but also celebrates your strengths, keeping you motivated and on track.
Fast Forward Academy also stands out with its adaptive learning technology, but it adds an extra layer of community engagement through its online forum. This platform isn’t just a place for Q&A; it’s a dynamic space where students, experts, and educators converge to discuss complex tax topics, share insights, and offer support. It embodies the principle that learning is as much about conversation as it is about curriculum.
“FFA was my go-to and great for EA…”
Reviewer on EA Courses discussion
Verdict: Tie
Both platforms excel with their adaptive technologies, but they cater to different aspects of the learning experience. Gleim offers a highly personalized study path, while Fast Forward Academy emphasizes the community aspect of learning.
Study Guides and Video Lectures
High-quality study materials and engaging video lectures are crucial for success when preparing for the Enrolled Agent exam. Let’s compare how Gleim EA Review and Fast Forward Academy approach these essential resources.
Gleim EA Review
- Study Guides: Gleim offers comprehensive, up-to-date study guides that accounting and tax education experts meticulously design. These guides cover the full spectrum of EA exam topics, ensuring no stone is left unturned. With chapters organized to mirror the exam’s structure, candidates can easily follow along and ensure they’re covering all necessary content.
- Video Lectures: Over 30 hours of expert-led video lectures complement the study guides, providing visual and auditory explanations of complex topics. These lectures are not just readings of the text but dynamic, engaging lessons that aim to deepen understanding and retention. Gleim’s video content is accessible and designed to cater to different learning styles, making difficult concepts more approachable.
“Audio lectures are wonderful on my commute. Can listen on the train, or with android auto. They are the same as the video lectures too, so if I needed a picture to understand I made note of it and when I got home the videos could be skipped right to that point to see it.”
jce-superbeast on Gleim’s lectures
Fast Forward Academy
- Study Guides: Fast Forward Academy’s study guides are known for their direct and to-the-point explanations, which are great for learners who prefer a concise approach to study. Integrated with their adaptive learning platform, these guides offer a personalized learning experience, dynamically adjusting to the student’s needs based on their performance on practice questions and tests.
- Video Lectures: Fast Forward Academy provides a nice-sized library of video lectures that focus on key topics and exam strategies. While perhaps not as extensive in hours as Gleim’s offerings, these lectures are packed with insights and tips to tackle the EA exam efficiently. The interactive nature of their platform allows students to engage with the material actively, enhancing the learning process.
Verdict: Gleim EA Course Options
Verdict: Gleim
While both platforms bring strong features to the table, Gleim EA Review stands out for those who seek an all-encompassing study experience. Gleim’s in-depth study materials and extensive video lectures, combined with personalized support and adaptive learning technology, offer a rich and thorough preparation path.
Practice Questions and Exams
Gleim is known for having the best test bank out of all EA review course offerings. The same goes for their unlimited practice exams. I’ve found that Gleim not only provides a vast array of practice questions but also ensures they’re like those of the actual Enrolled Agent exam. With its detailed explanations of answers, students gain a deeper understanding of both the “how” and the “why” behind each answer, which is much better than other programs like the Lambers EA review course or PassKey.
I will say that during my research, I saw many firsthand accounts that suggested Gleim’s material was too difficult and that the practice exams were harder than the real Enrolled Agent exam. But personally, I see this as a plus and prefer it over EA prep courses that underprepare.
“I did a sample Gleim test the day I passed SEE 3 and found the questions much more complex than the actual test or Fast Forward’s. I think they overdo it. The “experimental” questions can freak you out. Just remember that they are there – there isn’t any indication which ones they are. Focus on the questions you know first and then go back through the test for the squirrelly ones.”
Radiant-Republic9835
Fast Forward Academy impresses with its practice questions and the volume of its exams but really shines in how it integrates these with its learning platform and forum. Each question isn’t just a test; it’s a learning opportunity, with discussions and expert insights available to provide context and deepen understanding. Although I like Gleim and Surgent EA review course offerings much better than FFA materials, I do like the way they structure their EA exam questions.
Verdict: Gleim
Although FFA is a good runner-up, Gleim’s broader selection and the educational quality of its multiple-choice questions and exams make it my top pick. Whether it’s an EA or CPA review course, no one can top Gleim when it comes to test banks.
Extras and Add-Ons
Gleim truly goes above and beyond with its additional resources. From its immersive video lectures that cover a broad spectrum of topics to its digital and printed books designed for on-the-go learning, Gleim ensures that students have a variety of tools at their disposal. The digital flashcards and the “Access Until You Pass®” guarantee underscore Gleim’s commitment to student success for EA candidates.
Fast Forward Academy offers more than just a study platform; it provides a holistic learning environment. With its interactive tools, such as digital flashcards and integrated IRS publications, students can engage with the material in various ways. Once again, the online forum stands out as a unique feature, offering real-time support and fostering a sense of community among students.
“I used both Gleim and FFA. Gleim is more independent, and I think you will learn more. FFA has a much better interface and keeps things relatively simple to make it easy to understand. I had 10 years experience in tax prep when I took the EA exam, so others may have different views.”
Reddit User
Verdict: Gleim EA Review
Gleim’s comprehensive array of extras and add-ons, tailored to enhance the learning experience from multiple angles, offers unmatched value and support to EA candidates. This is why I continue to rank it as one of the best EA review courses.
Course Value and Access
Here are the current costs of Gleim and FFA’s EA exam prep courses:
Gleim
- Premium EA Review System: $799
- Traditional EA Review System: $629
- EA Test Bank Only: $459
Fast Forward Academy
- EA Smart Bundle + Bootcamp: $549
- EA Smart Bundle: $649
- EA Online Course: $499
Gleim‘s offerings may come at a premium, but the investment is justified by the depth and breadth of its resources. The option for financing makes it more accessible, and the value extends beyond just passing the EA exam. Gleim’s materials are designed not only to help students achieve certification but also to provide a solid foundation for their careers.
“…Gleim is pricey, but worth it. I found the video lectures they have available super helpful. And mine came with an “access until you pass guarantee,” which was nice. Gleim also comes with some bells and whistles, like a study planner.”
u/OkOpposite_3403
Fast Forward Academy‘s flexible pricing structure and variety of course options cater to a wide range of budgets and learning preferences. The commitment to providing access and updates until you pass, alongside the platform’s adaptability across devices, ensures that students have the resources they need whenever they need them without breaking the bank.
Verdict: Gleim EA Review Course Materials
Gleim EA Review emerges as the superior investment, especially with a Gleim EA discount code, over Fast Forward Academy, even considering the latter’s occasional discounts. The slight extra cost for Gleim’s program is justified by its “Access Until You Pass®” guarantee, ensuring you have the resources you need until you achieve EA status. This promise and Gleim’s comprehensive study materials and personalized support highlight the program’s exceptional value. Opting for Gleim means investing in a depth of preparation and continuous access to updated content, making it the smarter choice for serious candidates.
Student Support
Gleim excels in offering a level of student support that feels personal and tailored. It’s also one of my favorite things about the EA exam process with Gleim. With access to accounting experts and Personal Counselors, students receive guidance that’s specific to their needs and challenges. This approach not only aids in mastering the material but also in building confidence and reducing exam anxiety.
Fast Forward Academy also emphasizes support but through a different lens. Its academic support and vibrant online community offer a platform for collaborative learning and peer support. The ability to interact with educators and fellow students in real-time adds an invaluable layer to the study process, creating a network of encouragement and assistance.
Verdict: Gleim EA Review
Gleim’s unparalleled student support, offering direct access to experts and personalized guidance, sets it apart as the premier choice for those seeking an in-depth and supportive study experience.
User Experience and Satisfaction
Understanding how previous students have navigated through Gleim EA Review and Fast Forward Academy can provide valuable insights into your study habits and learning preferences.
Gleim EA Review
- User Experience: Generally praised for its intuitive layout and ease of use, Gleim’s platform facilitates a smooth study process. Users appreciate the structured approach and clear progress indicators.
- Satisfaction: High marks are given for the comprehensive nature of the study materials and the depth of the practice questions. Many attribute their exam success directly to the thorough preparation provided by Gleim.
- Feedback Highlights:
- “The study materials were comprehensive and easy to understand… I passed all three parts on my first attempt.” – Sarah L.
- “Gleim’s practice questions were key to my success… the explanations helped me understand the ‘why’ behind the answers.” – Michael R.
- “The adaptive learning technology customized my study plan and focused my efforts where they were needed most.” – Jessica H.
- “Thanks to Gleim, I felt confident going into the exam. The mock exams were especially helpful for managing my time during the actual test.” – David G.
Fast Forward Academy
- User Experience: Known for its modern interface and engaging tools, Fast Forward Academy offers a user-friendly experience that’s particularly appealing to tech-savvy learners.
- Satisfaction: The platform’s interactive forum and the adaptability of the study materials to the user’s performance are frequently cited as key benefits. However, some note a desire for more in-depth explanations in certain areas.
- Feedback Highlights:
- “The online community was a game-changer, providing both moral support and expert advice.” – EA Candidate
- Excellent preparation content for the Enrolled Agent exam. The quizzes and expert explanations helped me to pass all 3 exams in just 3 months. – Larry, Trust Pilot Review
Enrolled Agent Course Discounts
Final Verdict
Choosing the right EA review course is crucial, and here’s where Gleim EA Review shines. I found that with their comprehensive study guides, SmartAdapt™ technology, over 30 hours of video lectures, and the invaluable “Access Until You Pass®” guarantee, Gleim offers an unmatched preparation experience. While Fast Forward Academy has its strengths, particularly in adaptive learning and community engagement, Gleim’s depth of resources, expert support, and superior practice materials make it the top choice for those serious about passing the EA exam and excelling in the tax profession.
FAQ
Gleim EA Review is one of my top choices for the best EA review course due to their comprehensive study materials, adaptive technology, extensive practice exams, and pass guarantees.
The difficulty of the Enrolled Agent exam varies for each individual, but it’s known for its rigorous testing of tax laws and regulations. Successful candidates often use thorough review courses like Gleim EA Review to prepare.
Yes, you can become an Enrolled Agent without an accounting background. EA requirements include passing the EA exam, which covers tax laws and regulations. Review courses like Gleim EA Review are designed to help candidates from various backgrounds succeed.
The study time for the EA exam can vary, but candidates typically spend 3-6 months preparing, depending on their background and the time they can dedicate to study. Utilizing a comprehensive review course like Gleim EA Review can help streamline the preparation process.
Enrolled Agents enjoy numerous benefits, including unlimited practice rights before the IRS, a specialized understanding of tax laws and regulations, and opportunities for career advancement in the tax preparation and consulting fields.
