Research shows that students who use multiple active study strategies, like practice questions, quizzes, and problem-solving, perform better on exams. Since the CFP® exam requires applying knowledge across financial planning topics, using at least four active strategies can significantly boost your chances of passing. That’s where the right CFP® exam prep course matters. It should fit your learning style, include the right study materials, and actually prepare you for the real exam, not just dump content at you.
When I tested the Kaplan CFP® education program, it felt more like stepping into a graduate-level course than a quick cram. That’s because Kaplan isn’t just a test-prep brand; its College for Financial Planning has been training professionals since 1972 and is one of the oldest CFP® Board–Registered programs. This academic background makes the Kaplan CFP® Review course stand out compared to other, less comprehensive options.
Key Takeaways
- If you want a structured path, then the Kaplan Premium Review Package with live online classes and a fixed cohort is your best bet.
- If you need flexibility but still like expert guidance, then the EssentialPlus package lets you use On-Demand video lectures at your own pace.
- If you’re motivated and independent, then the Essential package keeps it simple with self-study materials.
- If you’re aiming long-term, then Kaplan’s stackable credits can count toward a master’s degree in personal financial planning.
- If you want a last-minute review course, then Dalton might feel lighter, but Kaplan builds a deeper foundation.
Kaplan CFP®: First Impressions
When I logged into the Kaplan learning platform, the dashboard looked academic — clean, no distractions, just the tools I needed. What stood out most was the performance tracker. It clearly showed where I was strong and where I was falling behind, which saved me from wasting time.
The QBank was another highlight. I could build custom quizzes, revisit missed practice questions, and read explanations that broke down why specific answers didn’t fit the CFP® Board standards. This felt more realistic to the real exam than just drilling flashcards.
For tough topics like tax or retirement, the calculator videos and topical refreshers were lifesavers. These short lessons explained concepts in a way that felt approachable, especially for math-heavy sections.
Kaplan’s Best Features
- QBank With Practice Questions: Build custom quizzes, track performance, and review detailed answer explanations.
- Calculator and Topical Videos: Short lessons that simplify math-heavy topics and core exam concepts.
- eBooks and Digital Study Materials: Downloadable references included across all formats.
- InstructorLink Email Support: Direct access to faculty for course-related questions.
- Performance Tracker: Helps identify weak areas so you can focus on what matters most.
Kaplan CFP® Course Package Comparison
| Kaplan | Essential | EssentialPlus | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $5,350 | $5,500-$5,950 | $7,500-$8,049 |
| Self-Study Materials (eBooks, quizzes, QBank) |  | | |
| Disount | Save $549 | Save $549 | Save $549 |
| Calculator & Topical Videos | | | |
| InstructorLink™ Email Support | | | |
| On-Demand Video Lectures |  | | |
| Live Online Classes | | | |
| Archived Class Recordings | | | |
| Fixed Cohort Schedule | | | |
| Exam Prep Review Included | | | |
| Flexible Start Anytime | | | |
| 90-Day Course Access (per class) | | | |
| Up to 3 Years Access | | | |
| Stackable Credits Toward Master’s | | | |
| Best For | Independent self-starters | Flexible learners who want instructor support | Students who want structure and full exam prep |
| Get Started | Get Essential | Get EssentialPlus | Get Premium |
Pros
- Coursework Provides Stackable Credits: Can be applied toward a master’s degree in financial planning.
- Flexible Formats: Choose from live online classes, on-demand videos, or independent study.
- Robust Practice Questions: QBank includes detailed answer explanations that go beyond surface-level feedback.
- Extra Study Tools: Calculator videos and eBooks help simplify the most critical exam topics.
- Established Reputation: Backed by the College for Financial Planning, not just a test-prep company.
Cons
- Premium Package Costs More: Pricing is higher compared to many competitors.
Cohort Schedule Is Rigid: The fixed timeline may not work well for professionals who need more flexibility.
“Passed on first try
Student Feedback.
The lessons were well organized and insightful. The Q-bank was very helpful for me, and the lesson calendar kept me on track.”
Kaplan CFP® Review
What Each Kaplan LSAT Course Package Includes
Premium Package
Best for: learners who want accountability and structured learning.
- Live online graduate-level classes with archived sessions
- 9 months of education + 3 months of CFP® exam review classes
- Choice of Onsite, Live Online, or On-Demand review format
💡 Pro Tip: The structure makes this the easiest way to stay on track if you tend to procrastinate.
EssentialPlus Package
Best for: students who want flexibility but still want instructor support.
- On-Demand lectures (22+ hours per course)
- Start anytime with 90 days per course (extensions available)
- Includes InstructorLink™ email support
- Exam review sold separately
Essential Package
Best for: motivated self-starters.
- Self-study format with eBooks, quizzes, and QBank
- Start anytime, 90-day access per course
- Exam review sold separately
Course Content and Structure
Kaplan gives you more than just reading assignments. No matter which format you choose, live online, on-demand, or self-study, you get the same core resources that actually help with CFP® exam prep:
- eBooks and Quizzes: Quick ways to review concepts and check your progress.
- Calculator Videos: Short walkthroughs that make the math-heavy topics less intimidating.
- QBank: Thousands of practice questions with detailed explanations.
What I liked most was the ability to create custom quizzes. I could zero in on tax planning or estate planning without wasting time on material I already felt comfortable with. That flexibility made the prep feel targeted and closer to what I’d face on the real exam.
All About Technology
The learning platform, uniquely designed by Kaplan, is simple but functional. The OnDemand videos load quickly, include playback controls, and are led by expert faculty who know how to explain complex concepts without jargon.
I tested the mobile app, and it synced seamlessly with my desktop. That meant I could answer practice questions on my phone and pick up later on my laptop without losing progress.
Kaplan’s Overall Value
Kaplan costs more than some CFP® prep options, but you can see where the money goes. Instead of filler content, you get:
- Structured cohorts that keep you on track
- Stackable credits that can roll into a master’s program
- Study tools designed to mirror what the CFP® exam actually tests
It feels less like memorizing flashcards and more like training to work as a real Certified Financial Planner. If you’re serious about a career in financial planning, Kaplan delivers long-term value, not just a cram course.
“Highly recommend… Clear, well-structured, practical, comprehensive Course content.”
Student Feedback.
Student Support and Length of Access
- Email support through InstructorLink was responsive — I tested it and got an answer in less than 24 hours.
- Customer support is reliable during business hours.
- Access depends on your package: 90 days per course for Essential and EssentialPlus, or a full 12-month structure for Premium.
Kaplan Compared to Other CFP® Prep Courses
Kaplan vs. Boston Institute of Finance
Boston Institute of Finance is known for being concise and streamlined, cutting out extras to get you exam-ready faster. Kaplan, on the other hand, feels heavier and more academic with its full education program and stackable credits. See my analysis of Boston Institute of Finance CFP® in this review.
Bottom Line:
Choose Boston Institute of Finance if you want a lean, focused review without extra coursework.
Choose Kaplan if you want depth, structure, and long-term value beyond just the exam.
Kaplan vs. Brett Danko
Brett Danko is popular for his high-energy teaching style and intensive live review sessions. Kaplan’s strength is in offering multiple prep course formats, including live online classes, on-demand, and self-study, with more robust study tools.
Bottom Line:
- Choose Brett Danko if you thrive in a fast-paced, live classroom environment with a hands-on instructor.
- Choose Kaplan if you want flexibility, stronger practice resources, and more options for how you prep.
Kaplan vs. Zahn
- Zahn courses are widely respected for their interactive review classes and straightforward exam prep.
- Kaplan, by contrast, builds out a complete CFP® exam prep program with a Premium Review Package, QBank, and supplemental study materials.
Bottom Line:
Choose Zahn if you prefer short, intensive review classes that cut right to exam topics.
Choose Kaplan if you want a full learning system with broader resources and multiple package options.
Kaplan vs. Dalton
- Dalton is often viewed as the “classic” CFP® review course, known for its final-cram style and strong last-minute prep.
- Kaplan goes further with its College for Financial Planning background, structured packages, and stackable graduate-level credits.
Bottom Line:
Choose Dalton if you only need a fast, focused review class.
Choose Kaplan if you want a structured program that doubles as both exam prep and a professional credential.
Kaplan vs. Pro Exam Tutors
- Pro Exam Tutors focuses on one-on-one support and personalized tutoring, which can be great for candidates who struggle with accountability.
- Kaplan offers a broader learning platform with built-in mock exams, performance tracking, and multiple study formats.
Bottom Line:
Choose Pro Exam Tutors if you want individualized tutoring and direct feedback.
Choose Kaplan if you want structured packages with comprehensive tools and long-term value.
Final Verdict
Kaplan delivers one of the most respected CFP® exam prep programs, offering stackable credits, strong study tools, and the backing of the College for Financial Planning. The Boston Institute of Finance is a good fit if you want a lighter, more streamlined approach, but Kaplan gives you long-term value.
Choose your path, and let the CFP® prep course that fits your style be the move that takes you there.
FAQs
Yes. The Kaplan CFP® education program is one of the most established in the industry and offers flexible packages for different study styles.
Only the Kaplan Premium Review Package includes the built-in CFP® exam review. Essential and EssentialPlus require a separate review add-on.
Kaplan delivers stackable credits toward a master’s degree, a strong performance tracker, and study tools that go beyond simple practice questions.
Yes. Through InstructorLink email support, Kaplan students can contact faculty directly for course-related questions.
Essential and EssentialPlus allow 90 days per course (with extensions available). The Premium cohort runs 12 months total (9 months coursework + 3 months exam prep).
