As a professional course reviewer, I dove headfirst into the most popular CFP® prep options on the market. After personally experiencing the structure and study materials of each course, I’ve narrowed it down to five courses that cater to five distinct learning styles.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly which courses are right up your alley (and which you should avoid). Let’s dig in.
Comparing the Top CFP® Review Courses
| Provider |  |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $995 to $1,795 | $599 to $1,399 | $1,595 to $2,395 | $1,270 to $2,970 |
| Discounts | No Discounts | No Discounts | No Discounts | No Discounts |
| Format | Live or On-Demand | Onsite, Live, or On-Demand | Onsite, Live, or On-Demand | Onsite, Live, or On-Demand |
| Live Onsite Locations | N/A | Three (CO, IL, TX) | Six (GA, IL, NY, TX, CA, and Washington, D.C.) | Two(MA and PA) |
| Practice Questions | 1,500+ | 2,500 | 2,800+ | 3,500+ |
| Guarantees | N/A | PassProtection™ | Guarantee to Pass™ | N/A |
| Refund Policy | 15 Days | 30 Days | 5 Business Days | Partial; Policies Vary |
| Best For | Students Looking For the Best All-Around Option | Future Financial Planners on a Tight Budget | Aspiring CFPs Valuing Personalized Support | Students Who Thrive in a Live, Interactive Environment |
| Learn More | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now |
Top 5 CFP® Courses
- Best Overall Course: Boston Institute of Finance
- Best Budget Choice: Kaplan
- Best Student Support: Dalton
- Best Live Classes: Brett Danko
- Best Value for Onsite Classes: Zahn
1. Boston Institute of Finance: Best Online Course
Out of all the CFP® prep courses I’ve reviewed, the Boston Institute of Finance stands out as one of the most efficient and well-structured options. I liked that the 8-week format kept things moving without feeling rushed—great for anyone with a packed schedule.
The videos are short (think under 10 minutes), which makes it easy to stay engaged without zoning out. I also loved how clean and to-the-point the reading materials were—no fluff, no filler, just the info you need to pass. Visual aids like charts and graphs pop up often, and they do a great job simplifying the more complex topics.
This course is perfect for students who need structure but don’t want to waste time. Everything is planned out week by week, with live sessions like “Deep Dives” and “JAM” sessions to keep you moving forward and reinforce key concepts. The practice question bank isn’t huge, but BIF keeps things simple and clear, so you’re not wasting time trying to figure out confusing material.
Compared to Kaplan, BIF is more streamlined and time-conscious—it skips the extras and focuses on a clear 8-week path to passing, which I found helpful when trying to balance study time with a busy schedule. If you like structure or tend to lose focus without it, this course offers a straightforward schedule that keeps you on track without breaking the bank.
Course Content at a Glance
- Course Format: Live or On-Demand
- Live Online Classes: 8-week schedule with batched class releases and instructor-led mini sessions
- Deep Dive Sessions: Drill testable topics every Tuesday
- Question Breakdowns: “JAM” sessions every Thursday
- Number of Practice Questions: 1,500+
- Bonus Tools: Formula sheet and case study strategies
- Support: Live instruction and BIF’s virtual student community
What Boston Institute Students Are Saying
“I did my review through BIF and passed the first time on Tuesday. I was drawn to the BIF review because I enjoyed their podcast so much. I also felt that the way they break the review up into 8 weekly lessons vs the way other providers do reviews would work well for me. I really enjoyed the review and definitely learned a lot. Highly recommend!”
u/dedrickcurtis
Pros
- Regular live sessions with specific goals and outcomes
- On the more affordable end of the CFP® exam prep course price ranges
- Student community for additional community and support
- Every instructor and mentor has a CFP® certification
- Heavy use of visual aids like graphs, charts, and images
Cons
- No onsite options like some CFP® prep providers
Check my Boston Institute of Finance review to dive in and learn more.
Bottom Line: Why Choose the Boston Institute of Finance?
If you want a prep course that feels more like a focused sprint than a months-long slog, BIF is a superb pick. The materials are high quality without being overwhelming, the pacing is efficient, and the format makes it easy to stay on track. Sure, there’s no onsite option—but in terms of value, structure, and getting students exam-ready in just eight weeks, I feel that BIF has a lot to love.
Boston Institute of Finance CFP® Review
2. Kaplan: Great Budget Choice
Kaplan stands out for offering one of the most thoughtfully structured CFP® prep packages I’ve reviewed. The adaptive learning technology isn’t just a buzzword; it genuinely tailors the experience to the user’s strengths and weaknesses, helping students stay focused where it counts.
The live sessions strike a solid balance between informative and approachable, and the instructors consistently deliver content with clarity and energy. I also appreciated the production value of the on-demand videos—the audio was crisp, visuals were clean, and the slides were laid out in a way that supports focused note-taking without being overwhelming. And, many of the features are available in Kaplan’s Essential Review Package, the most affordable complete course bundle on the list.
From a reviewer’s standpoint, this course is best suited for learners who thrive in structured environments but still want the option to go at their own pace. Whether it’s the flexibility of live weekday, weekend, or evening classes, or the depth of the 2,500+ practice questions, Kaplan covers a lot of ground.
When compared to other courses, BIF may be more fast-paced and tightly structured, but Kaplan offers more study flexibility and a deeper library of practice questions, making it a great fit for students who want more room to explore the material at their own pace.
The PassProtection™ guarantee is a smart safety net that few competitors match, and extras like study podcasts and activity feeds make the overall experience feel well-rounded. Compared to other CFP® prep options, Kaplan’s strength lies in its versatility and learner-centered design—it’s a dependable pick for students who want a comprehensive, no-fluff approach to passing the CFP® exam.
Course Content at a Glance
- Course Format: Onsite, Live, or On-Demand
- Onsite: 4 days of classes in Denver, CO; Chicago, IL; or Dallas, TX
- Live Classes: 11 live online sessions
- On-Demand: 30+ on-demand video lessons
- Adaptive Learning Technology for personalized study plans
- Number of Practice Questions: 2,500+
- PassProtection™ offers a refund or a replacement course if you fail the exam
- Bonus Tools: Exam prep podcasts, study checklists, topic summaries, activity feed
- Support: Instructor email access through InstructorLink™
What Kaplan Students Are Saying
“I felt so prepared for the exam that there was not one item on my exam that I hadn’t previously read or discussed in a live class session. The actual exam felt much easier than any mock exam I took through Kaplan or the CFP. I got an 81/77 on my Kaplan mocks and a weighted average score of 77 on the CFP mock.”
u/dahusar
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Pros
- Live weekday, weekend, and night sessions available
- On-site courses available in 3 different cities/states
- A money-back pass guarantee is available if you don’t pass the CFP®
- Podcasts with CFP®-specific exam preparation tips
- One of the most affordable options on the market
Cons
- The comprehensive approach can feel dense and overly professional at times
- The hefty amount of content in the Premium Review may be intimidating
Learn more details in my Kaplan CFP® review.
Bottom Line: Why Choose Kaplan?
From my experience, Kaplan offers a well-rounded package with everything the average student would need to pass their exam. Some of the video lessons and content can feel a little lecture-y, but they more than get the job done. However, I found myself particularly appreciative of Kaplan’s flexible scheduling options, in-depth live review classes, prep podcasts, and money-back pass guarantee. For CFP® candidates who want it all on a budget, the Kaplan Company may be your best bet.
Kaplan CFP® Review
3. Dalton: Great for Students Who Need More Support
Dalton offers one of the most hands-on CFP® prep experiences I’ve reviewed. The instructors keep a fast pace, but there’s plenty of support to make sure no one falls behind—live office hours, pre- and post-review coaching, extra lectures, and Q&A sessions all help you stay on track.
You’ll also get over 2,800 practice questions, digital flashcards, a calculator book, and a diagnostic quiz to target weak spots. The Guarantee to Pass™ adds peace of mind. While it’s priced on the higher end, Dalton stands out for its structure, strong support, and team-based approach—ideal if you want more than just content.
This course is best suited for learners who thrive in a traditional classroom setting and value consistent, real-time support. With on-site classes offered in six major cities, it’s an especially appealing choice for those who want the accountability and structure of in-person learning.
Compared to Kaplan, Dalton’s on-demand content doesn’t quite measure up—but if your priority is a high-touch, in-person review experience, Dalton clearly leads the pack. Just keep in mind it’s on the pricier side, so it’s best for students who know they’ll take full advantage of the live elements.
Course Content at a Glance
- Course Format: Onsite, Live, or On-Demand
- Weeknight, weekend, and 4-day options
- Live classes available in Atlanta, GA; Chicago, IL; New York City, NY; Irving, TX; Washington, D.C.; and Irvine, CA
- Number of Practice Questions: 2,800+
- Guarantee to Pass™ offers extended access or a refund if you fail
- Bonus Tools: Digital flashcards, supplemental lectures and Q&A sessions, and a calculator book
- Support: Pre-review and post-review coaching, plus live office hours
What Dalton Students Are Saying
“Dalton was great. I would say they did an awesome job prepping me. I passed today as well, and I would say Dalton was 5x as hard as the test I took today. Hats off to the people at Dalton for getting you ready for this.”
u/lenny199777
Pros
- Live weeknight, weekend, and 4-day sessions available
- On-site courses are available in six different cities across the U.S.
- The Guarantee to Pass™ offers a refund or extended access for failed exams
- A large amount of personalized support and live instruction
Cons
- One of the more expensive options on the list
- Not ideal for self-paced learners
Bottom Line: Why Choose Dalton?
If you live near one of the six cities where Dalton hosts their CFP® review classes, it’s worth considering, even at the higher price tag. I’d argue that Dalton’s on-demand options are a little lackluster compared to Kaplan; however, they’re a great fit for traditional, classroom-style learners. And, of course, their levels of student support are unparalleled. If you have your heart set on a live review, Dalton might be a good fit. However, if you’re more of a self-paced student, the Boston Institute of Finance or Kaplan may be wiser choices.
Dalton
4. Brett Danko: Live, Onsite Class Options
If live instruction is your top priority, Brett Danko sets the bar. As a course reviewer, I’ve sat through a lot of CFP® prep sessions, and few match the energy and clarity that Brett Danko and John Choi bring to the classroom. The instructors manage to make even dense material digestible, often with a dose of humor that keeps the sessions from ever feeling dry.
I study a lot of courses, and being able to laugh a little made the load feel a little lighter. Plus, between the 35 hours of live review and 16 hours of smaller group sessions, there’s plenty of structured, real-time learning for students. It’s the kind of setup that helps students connect the dots between concepts and exam application, especially for those who learn best with consistent interaction.
This course is ideal for learners who want to feel immersed in a guided experience and who value face-to-face teaching, whether onsite in Boston or Philly or via live online classes. With over 3,500 practice questions, multiple flashcard formats, and a clearly outlined study plan, the resources are there, as long as you’re prepared to handle the bulk of the prep on your own before showing up to review.
Compared to Dalton, which offers more hand-holding throughout the entire process, Danko puts more responsibility on the student up front—but the payoff is a deep-dive, instructor-led review that feels like a true classroom experience. It’s the priciest option in this lineup, but for students who can afford it and want to feel coached rather than self-led, Danko’s format is hard to beat.
Course Content at a Glance
- Course Format: Onsite, Live, or On-Demand
- Onsite: 4 days of classes in Boston, MA, or Philadelphia, PA
- Live Classes: 35 hours of live review
- Online Group Sessions: 16 hours (eight two-hour classes)
- Number of Practice Questions: 3,500+
- Bonus Tools: Study plan, physical/online/audio flashcards, signature calls
- Support: Live interaction
What Brett Danko Students Are Saying
“I used Danko, and I passed as a first-time taker. The CFP exam, in my opinion, is trying to determine your understanding of the concept. I felt like the Danko team prepared me very well for the exam. The exam questions were not the same as those from the Danko practice exams. However, if you know the concepts, you just have to think about what the question is and how to apply the material to the question’s different variables.”
u/KookyLawfulness2701
Pros
- The highest number of practice questions on the list
- Known for their high-quality live classes
- Instructors are engaging and have a great sense of humor
- A variety of options for live attendance
Cons
- The most expensive option on the list
- 120-140 hours of the course are spent prepping for the live review on your own
- Not ideal for self-paced or introverted students
Bottom Line: Why Choose Brett Danko?
Brett Danko provides outstanding live classroom experiences you can’t get anywhere else. While the vast majority of the coursework will be a solo pursuit, the engaging humor and pro insights from instructors Brett Danko and John Choi help you tie it all together and focus on pass-worthy review. However, with such a steep cost, alternatives like the Boston Institute of Finance or Kaplan may be a better match for students with tight budgets.
Brett Danko
5. Zahn: Best Value for Onsite Classes
Zahn is the definition of no-frills value. If you’re looking for a live, in-person CFP® review course that won’t drain your budget, this is easily one of the best deals out there. While reviewing this course, I was struck by how streamlined everything felt. The live instruction is solid and to the point, and the structured three-part process gives students a clear, manageable roadmap. You’re not getting a sprawling content library or a flashy platform here, but what you do get—34 hours of live class time, flashcards, quick Q&A tools—is more than enough for learners who just want focused prep without the extras.
I feel that this course is best for students who learn best by showing up, taking notes, and getting their questions answered in real time. With in-person sessions available in 13 cities across the country, Zahn is also the most geographically accessible option on this list. Yes, it offers fewer practice questions than others, and the study materials are pretty minimal, but if you’re a traditional learner working on a tight budget, Zahn delivers a classroom-style prep experience at a fraction of the cost of competitors like Danko or Dalton.
Course Content at a Glance
- Course Format: Onsite and Live
- Onsite: 4 days of classes in Charlotte, NC; Washington, D.C., Detroit, MI; Kansas City, MO; Chicago, IL; Atlanta, GA; Los Angeles, CA; Dallas, TX; St. Louis, MO; Cincinnati, OH; Phoenix, AZ; Tampa, FL; and Houston, TX
- Live Classes: 34 hours of live instruction
- Number of Practice Questions: 1,800+
- Bonus Tools: Flashcards, quick prep Q&A
- Support: Live interaction
What Zahn Students Are Saying
“I do feel overall the CFP exam was less tricky than Zahns’ mocks, but no matter how many times I rolled my eyes at their tricks or super subjectiveness they taught me what to look for in the questions and their approach really hammers in your understanding of the subject matter, not just memorization.”
u/rosecoloredraybans
Pros
- The most live locations of any provider, with ~13 cities to choose from
- One of the most affordable options for live, onsite review courses
- Merit-based scholarships are available for students participating in DEI efforts
Cons
- The course materials are pretty bare compared to competitors
- The fewest number of practice questions, around half as many as Brett Danko
- Lacks a comprehensive on-demand video library
Bottom Line: Why Choose Zahn?
Zahn is the most budget-friendly way to get an in-person review, and it’s a solid fit if you learn best by listening, taking notes, and asking questions in a classroom setting. With 13 locations across the U.S., there’s a good chance one is within reach. Just know that the trade-off is fewer study tools—limited practice questions, no deep video library, and minimal extras. If you’re looking for more built-in structure or self-study resources, Kaplan or Dalton may be better fits.
Zahn
CFP® Courses That Didn’t Make the List
Here are the other courses I researched in the making of this list that didn’t make the cut:
CFP® Course Face-Off
Boston Institute of Finance vs. Kaplan
I found BIF to be a great fit if you like structure and efficiency. The 8-week plan is clearly laid out, with short, focused videos and clean visuals that make tougher CFP® topics easier to understand. Everything felt purposeful. There is no fluff, just what you need to stay on track.
Kaplan, on the other hand, gives you a lot more flexibility. You can choose from live, on-demand, or even in-person classes, and the question bank is huge. It’s better if you want more resources and options to study your way.
Winner: Personally, I’d go with BIF—it felt faster, simpler, and easier to follow from start to finish.
Kaplan vs. Dalton
Kaplan feels like a solid all-around option. I liked how it balanced content depth with flexibility—there’s live instruction if you want it, but also great on-demand videos. It’s also more affordable and still comes with a pass guarantee, which gives you a little extra peace of mind.
Dalton is where I’d point someone who needs lots of guidance. The support is top-notch—there are office hours, coaching, and direct access to instructors throughout. But it’s more expensive and geared more toward people who learn best with hands-on help.
Winner: I think Kaplan is the better pick for most people—it offers strong support without the higher price tag.
Boston Institute of Finance vs. Dalton
Both BIF and Dalton are structured, but the vibe is totally different. BIF feels clean and modern—short lessons, clear weekly goals, and just enough support to keep you moving forward. I never felt overwhelmed, and I liked how everything flowed from week to week.
Dalton takes more of a traditional classroom approach. There’s a lot more instructor time, which is great if you want that, but it’s slower paced and definitely more hands-on.
Winner: In my opinion, BIF is quicker, more efficient, and just easier to stick with.
Boston Institute of Finance vs. Brett Danko
BIF and Brett Danko both offer structure, but the experience feels totally different. With BIF, I liked how everything was broken into weekly lessons—short videos, clear reading materials, and just enough live sessions to keep me engaged. The 8-week timeline will give a strong sense of momentum to students and is a great fit if you want a modern, guided schedule that moves at a steady pace.
Danko’s course, meanwhile, felt more like an intensive, final review. Most of the studying happens before class, so you’re expected to show up ready to go. The live sessions are fast, focused, and instructor-driven, which I liked—but it’s definitely more of a bootcamp vibe. I do appreciate the face-to-face teaching (online or in person), especially if you learn better with direct instruction.
Winner: If you want consistent pacing and a smoother week-to-week experience, I’d go with BIF. But if you’re confident studying solo and want an immersive final push, Danko’s format delivers.
| Provider | | | | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $995 to $1,795 | $599 to $1,399 | $1,595 to $2,395 | $1,270 to $2,970 |
| Discounts | No Discounts | No Discounts | No Discounts | No Discounts |
| Format | Live or On-Demand | Onsite, Live, or On-Demand | Onsite, Live, or On-Demand | Onsite, Live, or On-Demand |
| Live Onsite Locations | N/A | Three (CO, IL, TX) | Six (GA, IL, NY, TX, CA, and Washington, D.C.) | Two(MA and PA) |
| Practice Questions | 1,500+ | 2,500 | 2,800+ | 3,500+ |
| Guarantees | N/A | PassProtection™ | Guarantee to Pass™ | N/A |
| Refund Policy | 15 Days | 30 Days | 5 Business Days | Partial; Policies Vary |
| Best For | Students Looking For the Best All-Around Option | Future Financial Planners on a Tight Budget | Aspiring CFPs Valuing Personalized Support | Students Who Thrive in a Live, Interactive Environment |
| Learn More | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now | Start Now |
Conclusion
Choosing the right review course for your study style is a big deal because, bottom line: people learn differently. None of us is a cardboard cutout, especially not when it comes to the way we think.
Most learners will mesh well with the Boston Institute of Finance’s live virtual classroom environment and 1-on-1 support. Kaplan’s well-balanced packages in a wide variety of delivery methods (and all the bonus tools you’d ever need). However, if you learn best with a lot of in-depth tutoring and Q&A sessions, Dalton may be your match. Want the best in-person classroom experience out there? Brett Danko is your best bet. Finally, if you want a more affordable onsite option, Zahn is the most budget-friendly, with thirteen different cities to choose from.
Ready to get started? Check out the Boston Institute of Finance to see if they have the perfect package for your needs. Best of luck in your study journey!
FAQs
To earn your CFP® certification, choosing a solid personal financial planning education program (namely, a CFP Board-registered program) is a great start. After, choose the right prep course and practice with sample questions and practice tests.
The program tuition for CFP® exam prep materials and self-study programs typically ranges between $500 and $3,000.
If you’re planning to enter the financial planning industry, a bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or business administration from an accredited college or university is your best bet.
The CFP® exam covers the general principles of the financial planning process. Specific subjects include risk management, insurance planning, and tax planning.
Kaplan is better for most CFP® students thanks to its adaptive tech, flexible formats, and lower cost. However, Dalton is a great online program for future financial advisors who need more hands-on support. Further, Kaplan is the only provider of the two to offer a continuing education program.
