When you’re preparing for a high-stakes exam like the insurance license test, the goal is simple: pass quickly and on the first try. XCEL Insurance Training has emerged as one of the leading options in the field, but does it actually deliver? Or is its popularity just a numbers game?
Over 1 million students have used XCEL to prep since 2013, according to the company. And with the insurance industry employing more than 3 million people in the U.S. alone, the demand for licensing prep remains high.
I took a close look at the course structure and learning tools to evaluate whether XCEL holds up against competitors and which types of students benefit most. This review breaks down everything from course format to learning outcomes so you can make a smarter, more informed choice.
What to Know Before You Enroll
- If completion rates matter to you, then XCEL’s structured pacing may help improve follow-through.
- If you’re looking for affordability plus performance, then this course ranks high in overall value.
- If you need deep content reviews or case-based scenarios, then you might find XCEL a bit surface-level.
- If mobile compatibility is important, then you’ll appreciate that XCEL’s platform works smoothly across phones, tablets, and desktops without sacrificing functionality.
- If you want a proven path to licensure, then XCEL performs consistently across most major state exams.
XCEL Insurance Training Course Overview
XCEL Insurance Training delivers self-paced, online prep for insurance licensing in all 50 states. I navigated the platform to get a feel for the course structure, and it was immediately clear that XCEL was built to guide students step by step. There’s no guesswork—you complete a module, take a quiz, then move on once you’re ready.
The “Prep Review” is designed to lock in the fundamentals before you sit for the exam. From a usability perspective, the dashboard is clean, the course flow is linear, and everything is organized by topic and state. The approach feels intentional, with tools aimed at accountability and measurable progress.
Pros
- Predictable flow: Predictable course flow supports high completion rates.
- Efficient targeting: State-specific accuracy makes it more efficient than generic study guides.
- Performance tools: Prep Review and Readiness Exam offer measurable performance tracking.
- Stable tech: Smooth platform experience—no lag or tech issues during testing.
- Cross-platform: Compatible across desktop and mobile without any real functionality gaps.
Cons
- Limited depth: Lacks deeper scenario-based learning or instructor-led options.
- Traditional tools: Study tools are solid but lean more traditional than innovative.
XCEL Insurance Training
Course Package Options
XCEL offers two main course options designed to meet different student needs. Both packages cover the core content required for licensure, but the Premier option adds additional tools for those who want more reinforcement and structured review.
| Feature | Standard | Premier |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-licensing course (state-approved) |  | |
| Prep Review course (condensed content) | | |
| Exam simulator (3 full-length exams) | | |
| Unlimited exam retakes | | |
| 30-day access per course segment | | |
| 800+ digital flashcards |  | |
| Recorded livestream review class | | |
| Prepared to Pass Promise (full refund) | | |
| Price | $299 | $199 |
| Start Your Course | Get Standard | Get Premier |
Premier Pre-licensing
In Florida, where the insurance market is especially competitive, XCEL’s Premier package gives you layered tools that boost both confidence and retention.
- A 1-day recorded review class that lets you revisit tough topics
- 800+ interactive flashcards designed for Life, Health, P&C, or Personal Lines
- XCEL’s Prepared to Pass Promise with full refund terms
- Plus, everything offered in the standard course
Standard Pre-licensing
If you’re studying independently and want the essentials without distractions, this version delivers. The exam simulators are especially useful. They mimic the actual exam closely, and the unlimited retakes are a real bonus.
- Pre-licensing course covering all state-required material
- Focused Prep Review section weighted to the state exam
- Three practice exams with unlimited retakes
- 30-day access per course segment
Save on any package with an XCEL Insurance Training discount code.
Inside the Course
Course Format
All tracks—Life and Health, Property and Casualty, and Personal Lines—follow the same framework: core course, targeted review, and exam simulation. The layout is linear and intentionally locked step-by-step to match exam pacing. I navigated the modules to evaluate ease of use, and the transitions between sections were intuitive.
You won’t find instructor-led options or live tutoring, but the course does include:
- Content that aligns with each state’s official exam outline
- A prep review designed to emphasize high-weight topics
- Simulated exams with performance tracking
- In Premier: flashcards and a full recorded review session
“I used Xcel to study for P&C. If you’re able to pass the simulator exams – 150, 200 and timed exam, you should be able to pass the state exam. I do suggest taking time to review all of these exams and scoring 80% and higher before scheduling the state exam.”
u/Mysterious_Garden805
Digital Tools and Course Playback
XCEL’s platform performs reliably across devices, which is especially important for students balancing work and study on the go. During testing on tablet, phone, and desktop, the platform loaded quickly and maintained a consistent user experience without lag. This consistency ensures students won’t lose valuable time troubleshooting technology.
The video content is streamlined and purpose-driven. While it doesn’t rely on overly produced visuals or animations, it presents the material in a clear and methodical way that aligns with typical exam expectations. Integrated note-taking features within the platform simplify the study process, providing students with a centralized space to capture key points without needing to toggle between apps.
For mobile users in particular, the platform’s performance is solid. The ability to progress through modules or review flashcards during short breaks adds flexibility, a key advantage for adult learners or those managing full-time schedules.
Features That Matter
The Premier package’s greatest strength is its focus on reinforcement through layered study tools. Research supports this approach — combining passive review (like videos) with active recall (like flashcards and practice exams) helps improve retention and readiness. XCEL integrates these tools in a way that feels organized, purposeful, and aligned with exam objectives.
Key features that stand out include:
- Prep Review: Focuses on high-weight exam topics to sharpen understanding where it matters most.
- Readiness Exam: Offers measurable benchmarks so students can track progress with confidence.
- 800+ Flashcards: Reinforces key terminology and concepts through active recall.
- Recorded Review Class: A one-day recorded session designed for easy rewatching and review.
These tools aren’t designed to overwhelm. Instead, they provide structure and clarity, giving students multiple ways to engage with the material without adding unnecessary complexity.
The Prepared to Pass Promise adds another layer of accountability. This guarantee ties directly to course completion and performance standards, giving students a clear target to work toward and peace of mind throughout the process.
Getting Help When You Need It
XCEL offers 30 days of access to each component of the course — the main pre-licensing modules, the Prep Review, and the exam simulators. This setup provides a clear structure for how long you’ll have to complete each section and helps keep students on track without the stress of racing through the material all at once.
When it comes to support, XCEL provides email and chat assistance during regular business hours. I tested the chat feature with a simple question about course access, and while the response wasn’t immediate, it arrived the same afternoon and addressed the issue clearly. For most students, this level of support will cover common questions about login issues, course progress, or technical troubleshooting.
Support options include:
- 30-day access to each course segment to help pace study time
- Email and chat during business hours for questions about access, tech, or course policies
- In-platform FAQs and help links for quick answers without waiting on a response
There’s no phone-based support or live tutoring available, which aligns with the course’s self-paced, independent study model. For learners who don’t anticipate needing frequent guidance, the available support is functional and responsive enough to ensure you’re not left stuck if a question comes up.
XCEL vs Other Providers
XCEL vs ExamFX
XCEL is designed for focused, self-paced learners. Its structured path prevents skipping ahead and prioritizes exam-aligned material. It’s not flashy, but it’s consistent—and the addition of flashcards and a recorded review class in the Premier package adds helpful reinforcement.
ExamFX adds more interactivity, including instructor-led webinars, customizable study paths, and their Guarantee Exam. That makes it better for students who benefit from a more dynamic environment. Choose ExamFX if you want more guidance and test-day practice. Choose XCEL if you want a streamlined, efficient experience with a clear finish line.
XCEL vs Kaplan
Kaplan’s course is more traditional in format, with printed study tools, instructor options, and more supplemental content. It’s comprehensive, but also more time-intensive. For learners who prefer deep dives and scheduled learning, it’s a strong option.
XCEL is more efficient by design. It doesn’t try to be everything—it’s focused on helping you pass, with key tools like unlimited exam sims and targeted review modules. Choose Kaplan if you want a broader academic experience. Choose XCEL if your goal is fast, focused exam prep.
Also, see a comparison of ExamFX vs Kaplan in this review.
| Feature | |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course Format | 100% online, self-paced | Self-paced + live online options | Self-paced + scheduled live sessions |
| Instructor Support | | (webinars, live chat) | (instructors, forums) |
| Flashcards | (Premier only) | (included) | (printed or digital) |
| Video Lessons | | | |
| Mobile Access | | | |
| Custom Study Plans | | | |
| Guarantee/Pass Promise | (Premier only) | (Guarantee Exam) | |
| Exam Simulators | (3, unlimited retakes) | (varies by package) | (varies by package) |
| Printed Study Materials | ❌ | ❌ | (included or optional) |
| Learn More | Visit XCEL | Visit ExamFX | Visit Kaplan |
Final Thoughts
XCEL delivers an efficient, well-designed learning experience that prioritizes exam alignment, ease of use, and practical performance tools. From my time navigating the platform, it’s clear that the course is built for students who want structure without unnecessary complexity. The Premier package, in particular, adds meaningful value through layered learning features like flashcards, a recorded review class, and the pass guarantee.
While Kaplan and ExamFX offer broader features, including live instruction and more customizable study paths, XCEL stands out for students who want a no-nonsense, data-aligned prep course. It’s especially well-suited to independent learners who appreciate clear direction, logical pacing, and accountability baked into the course design.
FAQs
Depending on the state, you can obtain licenses for Life, Health, Property, and Casualty insurance. Some states offer combined licenses, such as Life and Health.
Many states require candidates to complete a certain number of pre-licensing education hours before taking the exam. Check with your state’s insurance department for specific requirements.
Yes, most states allow you to retake the exam. However, there may be a waiting period and additional fees involved.
Yes, XCEL’s courses are tailored to meet Florida’s state-specific requirements for insurance licensing exams.
The Premier package offers additional resources like flashcards and a recorded review class, which can be beneficial for thorough exam preparation.
