Have you ever watched a video game trailer and thought to yourself, “Wow, that looks amazing, I’m going to try it out!” So you do… And it’s nothing like what you saw in the trailer, because the trailer wasn’t made with game footage? If you’re lucky, it doesn’t matter, and it’s still fun. However, when that’s not the case, you’re out $60 and a few hours of your time.
The same thing can happen with EA review courses, except instead of losing $60, you’ll lose hundreds—and maybe even thousands—of dollars.
Everyone’s different, and the right course for your friend might not be the right course for you. So, I’m here to help. Through in-depth, up-close-and-personal research from studying popular EA exam prep courses, I narrowed it down to the best fits for unique student needs. This article is about YOU, so get ready to find your match made in prep course heaven.
Best Enrolled Agent Courses
| Provider |  |  |  |  |  |
| Course Name | EA Review Pro | Premium EA Review System | Enrolled Agent Review Ultimate Pass | EA Smart Bundle + Bootcamp | Lambers EA Part 1, 2, and 3 |
| Price | $799 | $799 | $999 | $699 | $199-$233 per part |
| Discounts | Save $160 | Save $349 | Save $210 | No Discounts | Save 10% |
| Practice Questions | 3,000+ | 3,500+ | 2,000+ | 3,000+ | 2,100+ |
| Pass Guarantees(Check Terms) |  | | |  | |
| Refund Policy (Check Terms) | 10 Days | 30 Days | 10 Days | 30 Days | 30 Days |
| Best For | Most Students | Student Support | Busy Schedules | Experienced Candidates | Traditional Learners |
| Learn More | Get Started | Get Started | Get Started | Get Started | Get Started |
Choosing the Best EA Review Course for Your Needs
- Pick Becker if you want the most well-rounded option.
- Choose Gleim if you want support in droves and tough practice questions for thorough prep.
- Go after Surgent if you want to significantly reduce your study time and pass fast.
- Select Fast Forward Academy if you have industry experience and want a quick, easy refresher.
- Study with Lambers if you want the most traditional “online classroom” experience.
1. Becker EA Review: Best for Most Students
Becker is known in the exam preparation industry for their high-quality resources and meticulous attention to detail, and that fact is abundantly evident in its EA review courses. With unlimited course access, unlimited practice exams, unlimited academic support, 3,000+ practice questions, dozens of video lecture hours, and a substantial volume of helpful bonus tools, Becker’s EA Review Pro package is perfectly well-rounded, offering everything most students need without being overwhelming.
If you want the confidence, you’re buying the safest option that’s most likely to help you pass, Becker EA Review is a good bet. Their EA courses are relatively new, but for their CPA courses (a notoriously difficult 4-part exam), they boast a 94% pass rate and have a long history of top-scoring award winners.
And recently, the IIA chose Becker to partner with to create the only IIA-endorsed CIA review course on the market. So, ambitious students who want to get a top score, not just pass, should take note.
Personally, I loved Becker’s video lectures, and I think they’re an excellent fit for visual learners. These videos are interesting, easy-to-digest, and entertaining enough that you’re not going to fall asleep halfway through. The analogies and stories the lecturer uses to help ideas embed into your mind and stay put was extremely helpful. Further, the slides are perfect for note-taking: crisp, clean, and not too cluttered.
“I used Becker and completed all 3 parts within 60 days. Video lectures quality is unmatched and they have good library of MCQ. What I liked most is their flashcards, it helps to summarize the knowledge gathered from reading and videos.”
uzbpro
Key Features
- 📚 Course Format: On-demand
- 🤖 Adapt2U Technology personalizes your experience to cover your weak spots
- 🎯 Customizable Study Planner for a complete, fully personalized learning calendar
- 🔍 Number of Practice Questions: 3,000+
- ✍️ Unlimited Practice Exams with customization through adaptive learning technology
- 🎥 Video Lectures: 300+ SkillBuilder videos, plus concept and tax form videos
- 🃏 Digital Flashcards: 700+
- 📘 Private Facebook Community reserved for Becker EA students
Take $160 Off Becker EA Exam Review Pro
Pros
- Unlimited access and support to decrease test anxiety
- Outstanding video lectures to keep you locked in and learning
- History of high pass rates and award-winning examinees
- Step-by-step guidelines for how to tackle the materials, no guesswork needed
- Private Facebook community helps you feel less alone in the study trenches
Cons
- This is a new offering and does not have a proven track record like their CPA courses
Bottom Line
Becker is a great choice for most aspiring enrolled agents, especially if you’re a video aficionado, love the idea of unlimited access and academic support, or feel inspired when you’re surrounded by a community of your peers. There isn’t a pass guarantee, but overall, Becker delivers an exceptional course that’s perfect for beginners thanks to their clean interface, guided learning plan, and customizable options.
Becker EA
2. Gleim EA Review: Best for Student Support
Gleim’s prep course is one of the oldest and most popular on the market. While it’s updated frequently, its longstanding history is a testament to their effective methodology. So, if history helps soothe your anxiety, Gleim EA Review is worth a look. However, where Gleim really gleams (see what I did there?) is student support. You’re getting customer service options for technical support, phone calls, chat, and email channels.
The real pro, though, is in their personal counselors and accounting experts. Personal counselors are like your homeroom teacher: the home base who feels close to you and wants to help you succeed. They help you plan your study sessions and give top exam-taking tips. Meanwhile, the accounting experts are your actual instructors, answering your “homework” questions, however silly, patiently working with you until you get the right answer.
The support is phenomenal, but there’s so much more beyond support. For example, the practice questions are hard, and it’s intentional. I compared them to the real thing, and they use longer questions with more complicated framing and reference more obscure topics on occasion. The purpose is so that the actual exam is a breeze, and you’ll know that going in, reducing your anxiety.
However, if you’re a little more sensitive, this can be aggravating. However, those videos? Elegant interface, combined with all the tools you need on a single page. In my experience, the videos are clean, concise, and laid out perfectly for binge-watching. All in all, there’s a lot to love about Gleim.
“Another vote for Gleim here. I used them to prep for my EA exams and found their process and their large question bank to be very useful.”
Nubboi
Key Features
- 📚 Course Format: On-demand
- 🤖 SmartAdapt™ adaptive learning technology pinpoints weaknesses for focused study
- 🔍 Number of Practice Questions: 3,500+
- ✍️ Unlimited Practice Exams and six full-length mock exams
- 🎥 Video Lectures: 30+ hours of Gleim Instruct video lectures
- 🃏 Digital Flashcards for quick, efficient study sessions
- 📅 Money-Back Pass Guarantee and Access Until You Pass® Guarantee
- 🤝 Personal Coaching and Accounting Experts for expert learning assistance
Pros
- The largest test bank of any provider on the list by 500 practice questions
- Unlimited access means no strict timeline because of a prep course
- Excellent support options; standard customer service to coaching and expert Q&A
- 30+ hours of great instructional videos for A/V learners
- The SmartAdapt™ course incorporates adaptive tech throughout the experience
Cons
- If you’re easily overwhelmed, Gleim’s massive volume of materials might be stressful
- Gleim’s practice questions are very difficult, which can be discouraging
Bottom Line
If you value a proven legacy, a large question bank, quick and easy video lessons, and a plethora of support options, Gleim could be your perfect fit. However, if you’re easily overwhelmed, a sensitive perfectionist, or you’d prefer the fastest study period possible, consider another option, like Becker. However, for the right person, Gleim is an outstanding choice with everything you need to pass, and then some.
Gleim EA
3. Surgent EA Review: Best for Speedrunning Your Studies
Surgent EA is best known for cutting down your study time. For the EA exam, which typically has a study time between 200 and 300 hours across all three parts, Surgent says their students spend a total of 61 hours. So, if passing A.S.A.P. is your priority, Surgent could be a good fit. This speed is due in part to their focus on laser-efficiency: 60+ bite-sized video lessons, 2,000 practice questions, and savvy adaptive learning technology that pinpoints your weaknesses so you can strengthen them more easily.
From my experience with the course, I especially loved the daily surge, diagnostic reports, and ReadySCORE™ exam readiness indicator. The daily surge involves three daily tasks to complete to further your studies, picked for you by Surgent’s magic algorithm. There is something so exciting and motivating about getting to check these tasks off, and I love the way your learning is gamified, so it isn’t such drudgery.
As for the diagnostic reports, you’re able to monitor your progress: both how far you’ve come, how far you have to go, and how much further you’d have to go with a different provider.
However, not everything is perfect. There are some downfalls, like the significantly smaller amount of practice questions and a lack of depth and material volume compared to other courses. As a result, I’d argue that the best fits for Surgent are students who are already pretty good test takers, who don’t need to dig deep to pass. That being said, for those folks, Surgent EA Review is a great fit.
“I used Surgent for all the 3 parts and passed all on first atempt within exactly 3 months. I really feel Surgent is the plug, they explain all the concepts well.”
enrolledagentvee
Key Features
- 📚 Course Format: On-demand
- 🤖 ReadySCORE™ and Proprietary AI Tech for focused, organized study sessions
- 🔍 Number of Practice Questions: 2,000+
- ✍️ Unlimited Practice Exams for nonstop practice
- 🎥 Video Lectures: 60+ short and sweet video lessons
- 🃏 Printed Flashcards in spiral-bound mini booklets
- 📅 Unlimited Access and a Money-Back Pass Guarantee
- 🤝 1-on-1 Success Coaching with an enrolled agent exam expert
Pros
- Reports a 97% pass rate, the highest of these providers, though terms are involved
- Boasts a study time of 61 hours to pass, shorter than the average of ~250 hours
- 1-on-1 coaching helps students with a plan personalized to their strengths and goals
- ReadySCORE™ predicts your actual exam score during the prep stage
Cons
- Fewer practice questions than average, by up to 1,500 fewer options
- Surgent’s Ultimate Package is the most expensive option on the list
- Going quickly and not digging deep might make overpreparers anxious
Bottom Line
A Surgent EA review course is the best fit for students who want to pass faster. If you’re a naturally gifted test-taker, spending more time might be outright wasting it, especially if passing is more important than getting a high score. Plus, Surgent’s tech-driven learning model and ReadySCORE™ exam indicator are helpful for staying curious in your learning and motivated to perform at your best on exam day.
Surgent EA Review
4. Fast Forward Academy EA Review: Best for Experienced Candidates
Fast Forward Academy EA prides itself on being the underdog, and they make that fact very clear in their branding, as they should! For a smaller company, they have a lot to offer the right student, hence their spot on this list. In particular, they’re proud of their adaptive learning technology.
Most prep courses have adaptive tech, but FFA states: “We have spent millions developing personalized learning technology to improve the way you learn, earning a patent along the way.” They also offer bootcamp webinar sessions, which are unique in their hyperspecificity and target the topics you’ll find on the exam.
Personally, I appreciated FFA’s simple, beginner-friendly interface, but struggled a bit because I wanted more: deeper explanations and additional study materials. The materials were perfect for a quick refresher or final review if you have industry experience, but if you’re brand new to the finance and accounting world, you might not find the level of coverage you need to succeed.
This is corroborated by the reviews; for example, one student says,
“I passed on my first attempts by using FFA as an intro to stuff I didn’t know and a review of stuff I did. I used Glem Online (and a Part 1 Gleim book from a prior year) for more detail on things I had not seen. I found FFA easy to navigate and a quick hit on topics, but found it lacking in in-depth coverage. Gleim was far more in-depth in their details, examples, and exceptions.”
However, another states,
“I used FFA and passed all 3 exams in 6 weeks. I had a little under 2 years of experience at the time.”
So, if you’ve been around the block, this is a great fit. If you haven’t spent any time out in the field? Pick a different course.
Key Features
- 📚 Course Format: On-demand
- 🤖 Adaptive Learning Technology for a quicker, more efficient study approach
- 🔍 Number of Practice Questions: 3,000+
- ✍️ Unlimited Practice Exams to practice to your heart’s content
- 🎥 Video Lectures: 100+ video lectures across 15 hours
- 🃏 Digital Flashcards for learning on the go
- 📅 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee so you can return the course if it isn’t right for you
- 🤝 Online Community and Instructor Support for a connected, collaborative experience
Pros
- 23 bootcamp webinar sessions are valuable if you prefer laser-focused lectures
- One of the lower-priced options on the list
- The online community is a great resource for connection during an isolating journey
- Risk-free 30-day trial allows you to try before you buy
Cons
- Not as comprehensive as competitors like Becker and Gleim
- No money-back pass guarantee for a refund if you fail the exam
- Doesn’t have enough breadth for some students, according to reviews
Bottom Line
Thanks to its straightforward approach and light, refresher-style focus, Fast Forward Academy is an excellent pick for EA candidates who are already tax professionals with some industry experience. However, if you’re new to the IRS-adjacent world, Becker is probably a better fit, due to a more in-depth approach that covers everything at length.
Fast Forward Academy EA
5. Lambers EA Review: Best for Traditional, Structured Learning
When I explored the Lambers EA Review course, I was immediately struck by its traditional, classroom-like structure. The video lectures, totaling over 55 hours, are led by seasoned instructors like Eva Rosenberg, EA, and Andrew Clark, EA. Their teaching style is methodical, breaking down complex tax concepts into manageable lessons. For instance, during a session on tax deductions, Eva used real-life scenarios to illustrate the application of specific IRS codes, which made the content more relatable and easier to grasp.
The course’s adaptive Test Prep software offers three distinct modes: Pretest, Adaptive Drill, and Simulated Exam. I found the Adaptive Drill Mode particularly beneficial. After completing the Pretest, the software identified my weak areas and tailored EA practice questions accordingly.
However, it’s worth noting that the platform’s interface feels a bit dated compared to competitors like Gleim or Fast Forward Academy, which offer more modern, interactive dashboards. Also, while the course provides over 2,100 practice questions, it lacks some of the advanced analytics and AI-driven features found in other programs. For students seeking a more tech-savvy experience, I think that these alternatives might be more appealing.
“Lambers EA review is nice, lots of video lectures.”
TK7860
Key Features
- 📚 Course Format: On-demand, self-paced learning
- 🎯 Adaptive Learning Technology: Three-mode Test Prep software (Pretest, Adaptive Drill, Simulated Exam)
- 🔍 Number of Practice Questions: 2,100+ with detailed explanations
- 🎥 Video Lectures: 55+ hours of instruction led by experienced professionals
- 🃏 Flashcards: Over 450 printable flashcards for quick reviews
- 👨🏫 Instructor Support: Direct access to instructors for personalized assistance
- 📅 Money-Back Guarantee: Refund available if you fail the EA exam twice
Pros
- Extensive video lectures that mimic a traditional classroom setting
- Adaptive software that personalizes study plans based on individual performance
- Direct instructor support for clarifying complex topics
Cons
- Lacks the advanced analytics and AI-driven features found in newer platforms
- The interface may feel dated compared to more modern course designs
- No published pass rates or performance guarantees
Bottom Line
Lambers EA Review is ideal for learners who value a structured, traditional approach to studying. With comprehensive video lectures, adaptive practice tools, and direct instructor support, it provides a solid foundation for mastering the EA exam content. While it may not boast the latest technological features, its depth and clarity make it a reliable choice for those seeking a thorough understanding of tax principles. If you’re after something more cutting edge, give Becker or Surgent a try.
Lambers EA Review
Honorable Mentions for the Best EA Review Courses
EA Exam Prep Course Comparison
🆚 Becker vs. Gleim EA
Choose Becker because it offers unlimited access and support in a clean, user-friendly interface ideal for beginners and visual learners. Its engaging video lectures and guided study plan help reduce study stress and make it easier to stay on track.
Choose Gleim because it provides the largest practice question bank and top-tier support from both personal counselors and accounting experts, making it ideal for students who value comprehensive preparation and personalized assistance.
🆚 Gleim vs. Surgent EA
Choose Gleim because its intense focus on overpreparation and tough practice questions ensures you’ll walk into the exam more confident and better prepared for curveballs. Its structured support system and legacy of proven success make it a great option for students who want maximum coverage.
Choose Surgent because its laser-focused, AI-driven learning model helps you cut down study time significantly, perfect for busy professionals or experienced test-takers aiming to pass quickly with minimal study hours.
Check out my analysis of Gleim vs Surgent EA here.
🆚 Becker vs. Surgent EA
Choose Becker because it delivers a high-quality, well-rounded review course with engaging lectures, unlimited practice exams, and a strong reputation for helping students succeed across various exam types. It’s best for those who want a structured, community-driven study experience with top-tier content.
Choose Surgent because its predictive ReadySCORE™ and personalized daily tasks optimize your study sessions for efficiency, helping you pass in just 61 hours on average. It’s perfect for confident test-takers who want to get exam-ready fast without sacrificing performance.
🆚 Fast Forward Academy vs. Lambers EA
Choose Fast Forward Academy because its patented adaptive learning tech and bootcamp webinars make it ideal for experienced tax professionals looking for a fast, targeted refresher. Its lower price point and simple interface also make it a practical choice for budget-conscious learners.
Choose Lambers because it offers a traditional, structured learning environment with in-depth video lectures and adaptive practice modes, ideal for students who prefer a classroom feel and direct instructor support. It’s especially useful for those who want steady, methodical guidance through complex topics.
Final Verdict: What’s the Best EA Review Course for You?
It’s cliche, but it’s true. The best course for your enrolled agent exam prep is the one that’s best for you, and that changes from person to person. So, let’s recap.
Want a well-rounded course that hits the sweet spot of materials and value? Becker’s an excellent choice.
Are you someone who wants to learn everything you possibly can about a topic before exam day, with a human support system to guide you? Gleim’s coaches and experts will help you delve into the finer details.
Looking to pass as quickly as possible? Surgent helps students cut hundreds of hours of study time off their schedule.
Or, maybe you’re a traditional learner who wants a classroom-style experience. Then, Lambers is your best bet.
Ready to get started? Check out exclusive enrolled agent course discounts to kickstart study season for less.
FAQs
Becker is best for most students, but Gleim, Surgent, Fast Forward Academy, and Lambers each excel depending on your learning style and goals.
Part 2 (Business) is generally considered the hardest due to its complex tax topics and in-depth IRS regulations.
Yes, the EA exam is shorter and more focused, while the CPA exam is broader, longer, and typically more difficult.
Choose a review course that fits your needs, follow a study schedule, take practice exams, and focus on weak areas.
Absolutely—EA certification boosts your credibility, earning potential, and career opportunities in tax and accounting.
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