Ready to kick off your CFP® exam prep? You’re in the right place with reviews of the best online CFP® programs.
Passing the CFP® exam is one of the toughest steps toward earning your CFP certification and joining the ranks of certified financial planners. For the past 10 years, the CFP® pass rate has stayed 64-65%, according to the CFP Board.
With so much on the line, the right CFP® prep course can make all the difference.
I tested the most popular CFP® review courses to help you find the one that fits your goals, study style, and timeline, whether you’re just starting out or closing in on exam day. Let’s break it down.
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Which CFP® Exam Review Course Is Best for You?
- Choose Boston Institute of Finance if: You want the gold standard with structure, accountability, and exam-level CFP® study materials.
- Choose Kaplan if: You need flexible formats, a guided 10-week plan, and a pass guarantee that keeps you on track.
- Choose Dalton Education if: You want a solid refund guarantee and don’t mind a more traditional, academic workload.
- Choose Brett Danko if: You prefer a fast-paced, instructor-led course and can handle an intensive pre-study commitment.
Keep reading for more of the best CFP® review courses that range from academic and structured to flexible, budget-friendly, and even last-minute tutoring options.
Boston Institute of Finance: Best Overall CFP® Prep Course
When I tested the Boston Institute of Finance, it immediately stood out for its organized approach and exam-day realism. The Premium program creates a classroom-like environment, with weekly deep dives, JAM sessions for tricky concepts, and steady lecture releases that keep me accountable. It covers every major topic in the financial planning process, from risk management and estate planning to insurance planning and tax strategies. For students who want structure, pacing, and instructor-led support, BIF is a standout.
What I appreciated most was how instructors broke down dense CFP Board exam topics like tax treatment into clear, step-by-step explanations. The virtual classroom isn’t just passive video mid-day mini-sessions, and strategy workshops kept me engaged and exam-ready. By the time I reached the 170-question mock exam, it genuinely felt like the real thing.
The Core BIF Review is a solid pick too, especially if you’re an experienced financial advisor looking for a lighter, streamlined prep option.
Package Options
- Premium BIF Review: Weekly lectures, deep dives, JAM sessions, mock exam, free retake. This is best for students who want full structure and instructor support.
- Core BIF Review: Weekly lectures, 3 QBanks, concise prep materials. This is best for experienced advisors who want a streamlined review
- Financial Calculations Mini-Course: 16 video modules, 750+ practice questions on HP 12C & HP 10bII+. This is best for students who need extra help with exam math
Key Features of BIF CFP® Prep
- Three QBanks: Pre-Study, Exam Prep, Financial Calculator
- Full 170-question practice test
- Formula guides and case study strategies
- Online discussion forums for students
- Free retake included in Premium package
💬 Student Feedback
One Reddit User shared that BIF Review was the key to finally passing the CFP® exam, stating:
“…Didn’t pass my first attempt with Danko in 2023. Just passed on my 2nd attempt with BIF in July (2025). I loved everything about BIF, it was exactly what I needed as a student…”
Save 15% on Boston Institute of Finance CFP Education Bundles
Boston Institute of Finance Offer: Try 30-Day Free Demo
Pros
- Highly Structured Weekly Plan: Keeps you on track with steady content releases.
- Deep Dive Sessions on Tricky Topics: Covers the hardest exam areas like taxes and options.
- Strong Question Banks: Three separate QBanks, including one for calculators.
- Mock Exam at Exam Level: 170 questions in true CFP® exam style.
- Free Retake in Premium Package: Adds peace of mind.
Cons
- Weekly Releases: Limits how quickly you can move ahead
Bottom Line: Why Choose BIF Review?
If you want a structured CFP® exam prep program that blends accountability with deep instruction, Boston Institute of Finance’s Premium Review is hard to beat. The combination of lecture batches, JAM sessions, and mock exams replicates exam pressure in a way that made me feel prepared before test day.
If you’re already confident and just want a lighter review, the Core package still covers all exam topics in a learner format. And if calculations are your weak spot, I recommend the Mini-Course as an add-on.
Boston Institute of Finance
Kaplan: Best for Flexible Learning
When I tested Kaplan’s CFP® Review, the flexibility really stood out. I tested out the live online classes, which gave me that classroom feel, and other times I streamed the 30+ On-Demand videos when my schedule got busy. Having both options made it easy to stay consistent.
The 10-week study plan was probably my favorite option to recommend. You don’t have to waste time figuring out what to do next; the activity feed lays it all out for you step by step. For CFP® preppers, it will keep you moving and stop you from falling behind.
I also tested Kaplan’s mock exams, which many financial planners describe as being similar to the real test, and the PassProtection™ guarantee definitely gives peace of mind. While it’s not as interactive as BIF’s JAM sessions, Kaplan’s polish and variety made it one of the smoothest CFP® exam prep courses I tried.
Package Options
- Premium Review: 10-week study plan, live/OnDemand/onsite formats, PassProtection™ guarantee. Best for students who want flexibility plus a pass guarantee
- Essential Review: Weekly lectures, 10-week plan, option to add online mock exam. Best for budget-conscious learners who want a streamlined review
Key Features
- Live Online (11 sessions), OnDemand (30+ videos), or 4-day Onsite option
- 10-week guided study plan with weekly activity feed
- 30+ pre-recorded video lectures for flexible Review
- Mobile-friendly access for studying anywhere
- PassProtection™ guarantee with Premium package
Student Feedback
“I used it and would recommend it. Super flexible schedule and best for someone who learns best from reading on their own time. Questions were good, and videos were hit or miss depending on the presenter.”
Student Feedback.
Pros
- Multiple Study Formats: Choose from live, OnDemand, or in-person.
- PassProtection™ Guarantee: Refund or free retake with Premium.
- Guided 10-Week Study Plan: Keeps your study schedule clear.
- Structured Mock Exam Options: Add-ons available even for Essential Review.
Cons
- Less Coaching Depth: Best for those who want more independent study rather than hands-on coaching
- Premium Package Price: Higher cost, but reflects the depth and quality of the program
Bottom Line: Why Choose Kaplan CFP® Review?
Kaplan is the most adaptable CFP® prep option I tested, with strong support for students who want multiple study formats and a reliable pass guarantee. The 10-week plan is polished and easy to follow, making it a good fit for anyone who needs structure without a lot of extra coaching. Compared to BIF, Kaplan feels more standardized. If you want a fully immersive program with live deep dives, exam-day strategy sessions, and a stronger sense of accountability, BIF Premium is still the top pick, but Kaplan is also a solid choice.
Kaplan
Dalton Education: Best for a Pass Guarantee
When I tested Dalton, I appreciated how organized it felt. The mix of self-study and live instruction made it easier to stay on track, and the flexible weeknight, weekend, or 4-day formats were a real plus for busy professionals. Most students wrap up the program in about two to three months.
The materials are solid—six study booklets, 2,800 practice questions, recorded lectures, live office hours, and realistic mock exams. The standout feature is the Guarantee to Pass™, which refunds your tuition if you finish the program but don’t pass the exam.
Still, Dalton feels more academic and heavier than BIF’s hands-on approach. The reading load can get intense, and while the guarantee is reassuring, it doesn’t necessarily make the prep process smoother. Dalton is reliable and thorough, but if you want more engagement and instructor interaction, BIF offers a livelier, more supportive learning experience.
Package Options
- Instructor-Led Exam Review: 36 hours of live instruction with recordings, handouts, and summaries. Best for students who want structure and accountability
- Pre-Study Program: 100–125 hours with booklets, lectures, office hours, and a question bank. Best for students who want a strong foundation before class
- Post-Class Program: 40–60 hours with office hours, practice questions, and mock exams. Best for students who need added Review after class
- Guarantee to Pass™ Bundle: All materials, mock exams, and a full refund if you don’t pass. Best for students who want the strongest safety net
Key Features
- Blended self-study and instructor-led format
- 2,800+ practice questions and mini-cases
- Recorded lectures and live review classes
- Mock exams and readiness assessments
- Live online office hours for support
Pros
- Money-Back Pass Guarantee: The Guarantee to Pass™ gives students a refund if they complete the program and do not pass
- Multiple Pathways: Instructor-led, FastPass, and self-study options allow some scheduling flexibility
- Large Question Bank: More than 2,800 practice questions plus mini-cases provide thorough review material
Cons
- Heavier Workload: Requires 100–125 hours before class and another 40–60 after, which can overwhelm busy professionals
- More Academic Than Practical: Textbook-heavy design lacks the interactive feel of BIF or the flexibility of Kaplan
💬 Student Feedback
Dalton works well for traditional learners, but many found its heavy pre-study books forced them to adjust their study habits, with one noting:
“I’m running into the same issue, and basically have a hard time retaining anything when reading the pre-study books unless I take comprehensive notes. This then slows me down immensely, and I struggle to keep pace with the study guide…”
Student Feedback.
Bottom Line: Why Choose Dalton CFP®?
Dalton is best suited for students who value its Guarantee to Pass™ above all else. The program is structured, thorough, and covers exam content in depth, but it comes with a heavier, more academic workload. While dependable, it feels traditional and lacks the modern tools and interactivity I saw in Kaplan. It’s the right fit if you want a strong safety net, less so if you prefer flexibility and engagement.
Dalton Education
Brett Danko: Best for Instructor Coaching
When I looked into Brett Danko’s Live Review, his teaching style stood out right away. Brett leads much of the program himself, and it feels like working directly with a coach who keeps you sharp under exam pressure. The focus is on practice, analysis, and case work—less theory, more “how do I solve this on exam day?”
The tradeoff is time. You’ll need to complete 120–140 hours and more than 3,500 practice questions before class even starts. That heavy workload makes the live sessions faster and more focused, but it also means you’re expected to come in prepared. The pace is quick, the energy high, and the feedback direct.
Compared to Kaplan’s flexible 10-week plan, Brett’s course is shorter and more demanding. It skips the polish and production value of larger online CFP® prep programs like BIF, but replaces it with a no-nonsense, boot-camp feel that some students love. It’s best if you want a charismatic, high-energy instructor and don’t mind doing a lot of the groundwork on your own before class begins.
Package Options
- Comprehensive Live Review: 3,500+ pre-study questions, 35 classroom hours, calculator sessions, study plan, online resources. Best for students who want a complete live review with core support
- Signature Package: Adds 16 hours of group sessions, six extra practice exams, 6 case studies, and a free retake. Best for students who want more practice and small-group coaching
- Plus Package: Everything in Signature plus more quizzes, additional case studies, and recorded pre-study modules. Best for students who want maximum resources and flexibility
Key Features
- Brett’s Pre-Study Materials
- 3,500+ Sample Questions (workbook)
- Quizzes, Mock Exams, and Case Studies
- 35 Hours of Live Exam Review (with calculator and formula sessions)
- Detailed Study Plan and Online Resource Access
Pros
- Instructor-Driven Coaching: Brett’s teaching style made dense topics easier to apply in exam scenarios
- Extensive Pre-Study Materials: 3,500+ questions ensured I was ready to focus in class
- Free Virtual Retake: Added reassurance for anyone worried about exam day
Cons
- Heavy Pre-Study Requirement: 120–140 hours before class can feel overwhelming
- Less Flexible Format: Sessions follow a set schedule with limited options compared to Kaplan
- Not as Comprehensive as BIF: Missing weekly JAM sessions, deep dives, and broader accountability structure
Bottom Line: Why Choose Brett Danko?
Brett Danko’s Live Review works best for students who want direct coaching and can handle the intensive pre-study workload. The sessions are practical, fast-paced, and geared toward applying concepts under exam pressure. Brett Danko’s Live Review is sharp and instructor-driven, but it trades adaptability for intensity.
Brett Danko
Zahn Associates: Best for Structured Study Plans
Two ways I describe the Zahn program: traditional and structured. The three-step process keeps you accountable but requires a significant time investment. It is a reliable CFP® review course, but it lacks the modern features and adaptive tools offered by higher-ranked prep options. The prestudy phase alone takes 100–120 hours with workbooks, quizzes, and mock exams.
Do you have lots of time? Zahn may be a good option.
The Live Review then drills practice and strategy, followed by another 60–80 hours of Post-Study work. This approach suits disciplined CFP candidates who like clear direction and a structured classroom environment. Compared to BIF or Kaplan, Zahn is more rigid, but it’s still a reliable CFP exam review course.
Package Options
- Live Review Program: In-person or virtual, includes pre-study materials, live classes, and a post-study plan. Best for students who want a full structured review
- Prestudy Program: 2 workbooks, quizzes, videos, mock exams, and an instructor Q&A board. Best for students who want to prepare thoroughly before class
- Post-Study Plan: 60–80 hours of advanced questions, cases, and videos. Best for students who need extra reinforcement after Review
Key Features
- 2 Prestudy Workbooks with quizzes and mock exams
- 34 hours of Live Review (in-person or virtual)
- Workbook aligned to CFP Board topics
- 1,800+ online practice questions
- Post-study plan with case studies and videos
Pros
- Proven 3-Step Process: Prestudy, live Review, and post-study create a full exam cycle
- Experienced CFP® Instructors: Classes are taught by practitioners, not general educators
- Strong Accountability: Forces you to commit time before and after class
Cons
- Heavy Workload: Requires 160–200 hours total outside of class
- Less Flexible: Strict structure with little room to adapt to personal pace
- Not as Engaging: Lacks interactive features like BIF’s JAM sessions or Kaplan’s polished online tools
- Condensed Live Review: The multi-day format can feel rushed for students who prefer a slower pace
Bottom Line: Why Choose Zahn?
Zahn is tough but effective. It’s made for disciplined students who thrive on structure, accountability, and steady practice. I liked how it keeps you on task, but it definitely runs on a no-excuses system. The downside is flexibility—Zahn feels rigid, and if you’re looking for a more interactive or modern experience, Kaplan is the better choice.
Zahn Associates
Florida Atlantic University: Best for Budget-Friendly Prep
When I tested FAU’s CFP® Exam Preparation Course, it felt like a straightforward university extension program—steady, academic, and predictable. The structure reflects the school’s long history with financial planning education, but it’s definitely more traditional than modern.
The course runs across six Saturdays, either on campus or live online, totaling 36 hours. It focuses on the most commonly tested CFP® topics and includes classroom instruction, quizzes, and online summaries. It’s a clear refresher that helps you brush up on key areas without getting lost in too much detail.
What I liked most was the simplicity and organization—it’s dependable and easy to follow. But it also feels dated compared to more interactive options like BIF or Kaplan. The fixed Saturday schedule makes flexibility nearly impossible, and the overall format leans more toward a lecture-style than engaging. It’s a solid, affordable choice if you just need structure and a light review, but not the course I’d pick for a deeper, modern CFP® prep experience.
Package Options
- Exam Preparation Course: Six Saturday sessions, on campus or virtual, with lectures, quizzes, summaries, and case studies. Best for students who want a short, structured university-style review
Key Features
- 36 hours over six Saturday sessions
- Covers most tested and difficult CFP® concepts
- Online summaries, quizzes, and case studies
- Led by an experienced instructor since 1995
- Free for FAU students completing the program
Pros
- University Credibility: FAU is one of only 10 universities offering a direct CFP® review
- Experienced Instructor: Taught by a veteran who also teaches for Kaplan
- Straightforward Format: Six structured sessions make it easy to schedule
- Exam Review Included: Free prep provided for students who complete all seven courses in FAU’s CFP curriculum
Cons
- Limited Instruction Hours: Just 36 hours versus hundreds of practice hours in other courses
- Condensed Structure: Weekly Saturday sessions may not give enough prep time
- Not Comprehensive: Lacks adaptive tools, mock exams, or pass guarantees
- Best for FAU Students: External candidates may find stronger review course options elsewhere
Bottom Line: Why Choose FAU?
FAU is a good fit if you want a straightforward, university-backed review, especially if you’re wrapping up the CFP Board–registered education program at FAU. It’s practical, clear, and led by an experienced instructor. That said, it’s not as immersive or comprehensive as BIF, Kaplan. If you need deeper interactivity, a more flexible format, or extra features like a pass guarantee, you’ll find stronger options higher on this list.
Florida Atlantic University
Pro Exam Tutors CFP® Prep: Best for Last-Minute Guided Help
Pro Exam Tutors is very different from the big CFP® exam prep courses like BIF or Kaplan. Instead of giving you a full curriculum, they focus on personalized tutoring and quick tune-ups. Their signature option is the 2-Day CFP® Exam “Tune-Up,” which packs six hours of live, interactive instruction on the toughest exam questions.
The best part is the flexibility. You can book one-on-one or small-group sessions by the hour, zero in on weak areas, and even get session recordings for Review. I liked the individualized feel, but it’s not a full review course. You won’t find a guided study plan, a large question bank, or a pass guarantee here.
Package Options
- 2-Day CFP® Exam “Tune-Up”: 6 hours live online with slide deck, recordings, and small class size. Best for last-minute review of tough questions
- Private Tutoring: 1–10 hours one-on-one via Zoom with assessments and recordings. Best for students who want personalized support
- Group Tutoring: Small-group sessions (1–10 hours) with assessments and recordings.
Best for study partners, colleagues, or firms
Key Features
- 2-day, 6-hour live class with recordings
- One-on-one or group tutoring options
- Focused help on the toughest exam topics
- Session recordings available on demand
Pros
- Personalized Instruction: One-on-one coaching targeted my weak spots
- Flexible Scheduling: Easy to fit sessions around a busy professional life
- Session Recordings Included: Reviewing tough lessons multiple times was helpful
Cons
- Not Comprehensive: No structured curriculum, large question banks, or pass guarantees
- Limited Scope: Works best as a supplement, not as your main prep course
- Smaller Scale: Lacks the polish and resources of larger providers like BIF or Kaplan
- Short-Term Focus: Strong for quick Review, but doesn’t provide long-term exam preparation
Bottom Line: Why Choose Pro Exam Tutors?
Pro Exam Tutors is a niche option that works best if you need individualized coaching or a last-minute confidence boost before exam day. The personalized tutoring and recordings can be extremely helpful for tackling weak areas. Pro Exam Tutors works best as a supplement, a way to sharpen specific skills or boost confidence before exam day. For full-scale exam prep, there are still stronger choices.
Pro Exam Tutors CFP® Prep
The American College: Best for Partnered Prep Discounts
When I looked into The American College for CFP® exam review, I found that they don’t run their own course. Instead, they’ve partnered with two of the most recognized prep providers, The Dalton Review® and Boston Institute of Finance (BIF), to offer discounted packages.
This setup makes sense if you’re already completing your CFP education with The American College and want to add on review in the same place. The choices include Dalton’s well-known Guarantee to Pass™ Review and BIF’s structured Core and Premium Reviews. What stood out to me is that you’re essentially getting the same high-quality reviews others buy directly, but with the convenience (and small price break) of bundling through the College.
Package Options
- BIF Core Review: Streamlined, content-focused program. Best for students who want a concise, lower-cost review
- BIF Premium Review: Expanded package with added support and resources. Best for students who need more structure, guidance, and practice material
- Dalton Review®: Comprehensive exam prep with quizzes, summaries, and instructor support. Best for students who want a full-scope review with balanced coverage
- Dalton Guarantee to Pass™ Review: Adds Dalton’s pass guarantee for extra security. Best for students who want exam insurance and maximum confidence on test day
Key Features
- Access to Dalton and BIF reviews at discounted rates
- Option to bundle with American College coursework
- Live online, classroom, or self-paced options, depending on the provider
- Coverage of exam strategies, practice questions, and test-day readiness
Pros
- Discounts on Review Providers: Save money on Dalton and BIF compared to buying directly.
- Bundle with Education: Conveniently add exam prep while completing your CFP® coursework.
- Flexible Formats: Options include live online, classroom, or self-paced, depending on the provider.
- Reputable Partners: BIF is an established name with a proven track record and is many candidates’ top pick
Cons
- No Standalone Review: The American College doesn’t run its own prep program.
- Not Fully Integrated: Other providers like Kaplan offer more all-in-one solutions.
- Some Confusion: It can be unclear where The American College ends and the partner begins.
Bottom Line: Why Choose The American College?
The American College is well-known in financial planning, but its CFP® prep feels more academic than exam-focused. The seven-course structure is solid for meeting the education requirement, covering theory and core concepts thoroughly. Still, I found it less engaging and slower-paced compared to Kaplan’s intensive Review. It works as a strong foundation, but if your main goal is exam readiness, you will need a more targeted, strategy-driven approach.
The American College
CFP Board: Only for Practice Exams
The biggest takeaway with this one is that they’re authentic but limited. Since these practice exams and tools are created by the same organization that writes the CFP® exam, the questions mirror the exact style and wording you’ll see on test day. That accuracy makes them valuable, but it also highlights the fact that the CFP Board doesn’t offer a full prep course.
The two 170-question practice exams felt almost identical to the real thing and gave me a clear sense of exam-day timing and pressure. The CFP® Exam Practice App was also convenient, letting me drill official questions on my phone or laptop. Still, that’s where the support ends. There’s no structured plan, live classes, or in-depth Review.
Course Options
- CFP Exam Practice App: One year of mobile and desktop access to official CFP Board questions. Best for daily practice and quick study sessions
- Official Practice Exams: Two full-length, 170-question simulations written by the CFP Board. Best for replicating exam-day conditions
- Mentor Program: Guidance from a certified CFP professional during your prep. Best for students who want extra support and encouragement
Key Features
- Two full-length 170-question exams
- CFP® Exam Practice App with one-year access
- Mentor program with a CFP professional
- Study checklist, strategy guide, and test-day tips
- Online community for CFP candidates
Pros
- Authentic Questions: Written by the CFP Board
- Full-Length Simulations: The 170-question exams mirror the test day
- Mentor Program Available: Extra guidance from certified CFP practitioners
Cons
- Not a Full Course: No lectures, study plan, or live instruction
- Limited Scope: Only practice exams and tools, not comprehensive prep
- Best as a Supplement: Works better alongside a broader study plan
- No Pass Guarantee: Offers practice, but no safety net if you do not pass
Bottom Line: Why Choose CFP Board Prep?
The CFP Board offers tools that are authentic and worth adding to your study plan, but they’re not a substitute for a full review course. The official practice exams and app give you the best feel for real exam questions, yet there’s no instruction, guided plan, or coaching like other providers offer.
CFP Board
Worth a Look: Other CFP® Prep Options
These CFP prep providers did not make the cut for the best list, but are worth considering for supplemental use.
- Varsity Tutors (1-on-1 Tutoring)
- Mometrix (Flashcards)
- Study.com (Flashcards, Practice Questions)
- Wyzant (Tutoring)
Best CFP® Review Course Comparison | ||
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Head-to-Head: Which CFP® Prep Course Should You Choose?
Boston Institute of Finance vs. Kaplan
BIF feels like the gold standard with structure, accountability, and mock exams. Kaplan wins on flexibility with live, OnDemand, and in-person formats, plus a polished 10-week plan.
Bottom Line:
- Choose BIF if: You want interactive coaching, structure, and exam-day simulations.
- Choose Kaplan if: You need flexible formats, a clear study plan, and a pass guarantee.
Kaplan vs. Zahn
Kaplan delivers flexibility with multiple study formats and a 10-week plan. Zahn follows a strict 3-step process with heavy pre-study and post-study hours, best for disciplined learners.
Bottom Line:
- Choose Kaplan if: You want flexible options and a reliable pass guarantee.
- Choose Zahn if: You prefer a rigid structure and don’t mind long hours.
Boston Institute of Finance vs. Brett Danko
BIF offers structured weekly sessions, JAM strategies, and accountability. Brett Danko provides charismatic teaching in a shorter, coach-style course but demands heavy pre-study with thousands of practice questions.
Bottom Line:
- Choose BIF if: You want comprehensive, structured prep with steady support.
- Choose Brett Danko if: You prefer instructor-driven intensity and can handle the prep load.
Boston Institute of Finance vs. Pro Exam Tutors
BIF covers everything from QBanks to live sessions and mock exams. Pro Exam Tutors focuses on short tutoring sessions and quick tune-ups, best as supplemental help before exam day.
Bottom Line:
- Choose BIF if: You want full-scale preparation and accountability.
- Choose Pro Exam Tutors if: You only need targeted tutoring or a refresher.
Kaplan vs. The American College
Kaplan emphasizes exam prep with live instruction, On-Demand videos, and a guided plan. The American College focuses on academic coursework, which is better suited to meeting education requirements than intensive exam review.
Bottom Line:
- Choose Kaplan if: You want structured CFP® exam prep with proven results.
- Choose The American College if: You need to satisfy education requirements first.
Kaplan vs. CFP Board
Kaplan provides a complete exam review with formats, strategy, and pass protection. The CFP Board only offers practice exams and a prep app, authentic but supplemental, not a full course.
Bottom Line:
- Choose Kaplan if: You want full preparation, structure, and exam-day readiness.
- Choose CFP Board if: You only want official practice questions to supplement other prep.
Boston Institute of Finance vs. Dalton
BIF delivers modern, interactive prep with live sessions and QBanks. Dalton emphasizes academic rigor and a money-back guarantee but requires heavier study hours and a textbook-driven approach.
Bottom Line:
- Choose BIF if: You want engaging prep that mirrors exam day.
- Choose Dalton if: You want a safety net and don’t mind a traditional workload.
My Final Verdict
The CFP® exam is no joke, but the right prep course can take a lot of pressure off and help you succeed. From my experience, Boston Institute of Finance impressed me most with its structure, live sessions, and exam-day practice that kept me accountable. Kaplan is a close pick if you want flexibility with live, OnDemand, or in-person formats and a clear 10-week roadmap. Dalton is solid for students who like a money-back guarantee, while Pro Exam Tutors works best as a last-minute boost.
Next step: Check out Boston Institute of Finance or Kaplan to see which fits your style
FAQ
Education courses meet CFP Board requirements through a registered program, while prep courses target strategies, practice, and review for exam day.
Most candidates spend 250–300 hours spread over 3–6 months studying for the CFP® exam, depending on experience and study pace.
Yes. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college is required to sit for the CFP®, though you may test before finishing if you have completed it within a certain number of years.
Based on my testing, Boston Institute of Finance is best for structure and accountability, while Kaplan is best for flexibility and multiple learning formats.
According to the CFP Board, the most recent pass rate was 65%, which shows why focused preparation is so important.
