Tax laws in the U.S. change more than you might think—over 4,000 changes in the last decade alone. It’s like trying to take a shot at a moving target, which is why staying ahead of the game is so important if you work in tax.
Earning your Enrolled Agent (EA) certification is one of the best ways to do that. But let’s be real—the idea of preparing for the EA exam can feel a little overwhelming.
The good news?
Using the right EA prep course can increase your chances of passing on the first attempt while cutting down your study time. That means less time stuck in the books and more time enjoying the perks of being a certified tax expert.
Let’s break down what you need to know to choose the best course for your needs and set yourself up for success.
Best EA Courses
Editor’s Choice  Save $160START NOW |  Save $349START NOW |  Save $210START NOW |  No DiscountsSTART NOW |  Save 10%START NOW | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing | $499 | $499-$799 | $499-$999 | $549-$649 | $199-$233 |
| Discounts |  | | | Occasionally |  |
| Practice Questions | 3,000+ | 3,000+ | 2,000+ | 3,000+ | 2,100+ |
| Videos | | 30+ hours | 60+ hours | 100+ videos | 55+ hours |
| AI Study Assistant | | | | | |
| Money Back Guarantee | | | | | |
| Support | Phone, email, chat | Phone, email, chat | Phone, email, chat | Phone, email, chat | Phone, email, chat |
Which Enrolled Agent Course is for You?
- If you’re looking for a tailored study experience that adapts to your strengths and weaknesses, go with Becker EA Review. Its Adapt2U technology personalizes every session, helping you focus on areas that need the most attention and making each study minute count.
- If you prefer thorough, detailed prep, go for Gleim EA Prep. With the largest question bank and six mock exams, it’s ideal for those who want maximum practice.
- If you want the fastest path to passing with personalized study plans, choose Surgent EA Review. Its adaptive tech cuts study time by 40%, and its 99% pass rate makes it the top choice.
- If you need flexibility and tech-driven features, consider Fast Forward Academy. It offers a user-friendly platform with 3,000+ questions and realistic simulated exams. Alternatively, Surgent also provides excellent flexibility with its mobile-friendly platform.
- If you want to study one section at a time, try Lambers EA Review. Its section-by-section approach is useful, but for a more comprehensive experience, Surgent or Fast Forward Academy might serve you better.
- If you’re on a budget, WiseGuides offers essential practice materials. However, Gleim’s EA Test Bank is another affordable option with a larger question set.
- If you prefer a subscription model, Hock EA (PassKey) is an option, but Gleim or Surgent offer stronger content with better long-term access.
Best EA Prep Courses
1.
Becker EA Review is a powerful option for Enrolled Agent exam preparation, bringing together high-quality content, personalized study tools, and expert guidance to create a well-rounded course. Known for their CPA prep, Becker’s EA Review course leverages decades of experience to help EA candidates succeed.
Becker’s EA Course
Here’s what Becker’s course offers:
- Adapt2U Technology: Becker’s adaptive tech identifies your strengths and weaknesses, creating a personalized study path that helps you focus where it matters most.
- Newt™, AI Study Partner: Newt™ is an AI chatbot a la ChatGPT, but specifically programmed to help with EA practice questions, sample exams, and reviewing results.
- 3,000+ Practice Questions: An extensive question bank reinforces each topic, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the real exam.
- Flexible Access: Study on any device—desktop, tablet, or mobile—making it easy to fit study time into a busy schedule.
- Expert-Led Video Lectures: Lessons are taught by experienced Enrolled Agents, breaking down complex tax concepts with real-world insights.
- Unlimited Academic Support: Access expert help anytime, ensuring you’re never stuck on a tough topic.
Take $160 Off Becker EA Exam Review Pro
Pros
- Real-World Tax Guidance: Becker’s expert-led lectures focus on practical tax scenarios, preparing you for real-life applications.
- Comprehensive Tools: Access digital textbooks, flashcards, and a compliance tracker for well-rounded exam prep.
- Study Anytime, Anywhere: Becker’s mobile-friendly format lets you study on the go, perfect for busy schedules.
- Super Support System: With 24/7 academic support and an active online community, help is always available.
Cons
- Relatively New to EA Prep: As a recent addition to the EA exam prep scene, Becker lacks some of the long-standing reputation in EA courses that other providers have built, though it leverages years of expertise from its CPA courses.
Bottom Line
Becker is a strong, adaptable choice for those preparing for the Enrolled Agent exam. With its personalized Adapt2U technology, extensive question bank, and real-world instruction from experienced Enrolled Agents, Becker is designed to help you study smarter and feel fully prepared on exam day. While it’s a newer player in the EA prep space, Becker’s comprehensive features, mobile-friendly format, and around-the-clock support make it a competitive option. For candidates looking for flexibility, expert guidance, and targeted learning, Becker EA Review offers an effective path to success.
2. Gleim: Mastery-Focused Learning
If you’re looking for an EA review course with a solid reputation, Gleim is a fantastic option. They’ve been around for more than 50 years, helping accounting professionals pass their exams. With a range of study materials and a personalized learning experience, Gleim offers something for every type of learner.
Here are the three course options for Gleim’s EA review:
Premium EA Review
- Access: Unlimited until you pass.
- Guarantees: 100% money-back.
It comes with both digital and printed textbooks, unlimited access, extra mock exams, and even up to 72 hours of CPE credits to keep you updated on your professional skills.
Traditional EA Review
- Access: 12 months.
- Guarantees: N/A.
This option gives you digital study materials and full-length mock exams, perfect for a balanced study approach.
EA Test Bank
- Access: 12 months.
- Guarantees: N/A.
This option focuses mainly on offering practice questions, which is great if you just need more drills before the exam.
Gleim Course Features
These courses are packed with features to help you prep for the EA exam:
- SmartAdapt™ technology, which adjusts your study plan based on what you already know and what needs more work.
- The largest question bank available, including actual IRS-released questions for extra realism.
- Over 30 hours of video lectures in the Premium plan to explain tricky concepts in depth.
- Full-length mock exams will get you used to the real test environment.
Pros
- In-Depth Understanding: One user said, “I liked Gleim the best because it felt like they were teaching you the material and not just how to pass the test.” This approach helps build a solid foundation, ensuring you’re confident and well-prepared for the EA exam.
- Tailored Learning: SmartAdapt™ helps you focus on the areas you need most, saving you time and making your study sessions more effective.
- Mock Exams: Gleim offers six full-length mock exams in its Premium plan, designed to mimic the actual exam. One user shared, “I signed up for the online practice tests, which were way more helpful than the books… even though the entire time I was taking the practice tests, I figured I would never, ever pass the actual exams.” Despite these doubts, Gleim’s mock exams ensured the user was more than ready when it came to test day.
- Expert Help: Need help with a tough question? Gleim’s team of experts is just a phone call or email away, ready to assist.
Cons
- Limited Access: Some plans only give you 12 months of access, which might not be enough if you’re juggling a busy schedule or need extra time to study.
- Intense Study Load: Gleim is known for being thorough, which means you’ll probably end up studying more than you expect. This can be a good thing, but it might feel overwhelming at times.
Bottom Line
After reviewing Gleim EA Prep, what impressed me most was its focus on truly teaching the material rather than just helping you scrape by. The SmartAdapt™ technology ensures that your study sessions are targeted, and the massive question bank gives you the depth needed to feel confident on test day. What really sets Gleim apart is how it mirrors the real exam experience with its mock tests, preparing you mentally as well as academically. If you’re someone who values thorough preparation and wants to walk into the exam knowing you’re ready for anything, Gleim is an excellent choice.
“I used Gleim for my studies several years ago. Was extremely helpful and the test structure was very similar to the actual exams. Used combination of hard cover books and digital along with the digital test exams…Gleim, I credit you for passing.
u/Lynx914
3. Surgent EA Review Course: Top Choice
If you’re looking for a trusted resource to ace the Enrolled Agent exam, Surgent EA review courses are a standout option. With over 35 years in the game, Surgent has built a solid reputation for helping people pass tax exams, including the EA exam. Their courses are designed to adapt to your needs and provide the best possible preparation.
Surgent offers three different course plans to suit different levels of preparation, from core materials to fully immersive study experiences:
Ultimate Pass
- Access: Unlimited.
- Guarantees: 100% money-back.
Includes printed and digital textbooks, audio lessons, 60+ short video tutorials, a pass guarantee, and even 1-on-1 coaching. You’ll also get bonus courses like Excel and Ethics for tax professionals.
Premier Pass
- Access: Unlimited.
- Guarantees: 100% money-back.
Similar to Ultimate, but all digital—perfect for those who like studying online.
Essentials Pass
- Access: 18 months.
- Guarantees: 100% money-back.
It focuses on core study materials, making it ideal for those who already have a good grasp of the content but need to sharpen up for the exam.
Surgent Course Features
These courses are packed with features that make it easier to study:
- Over 2,000 multiple-choice questions
- Unlimited practice exams
- Adaptive learning tech (A.S.A.P.® Technology) that helps you focus on areas that need improvement
- ReadySCORE™ technology to predict your EA exam score and track progress
I hate dragging around a laptop, so one thing I like most about Surgent is that you can access your course on a desktop, mobile, or tablet. It also syncs your progress.
Pros
- Proven Results: Surgent’s review courses have an impressive 99% pass rate, and many students praise its effectiveness. One Reddit user shared their experience, saying, “I used Surgent. I passed each part first try by just doing the multiple choice questions and reading the explanations. Just find what works for you and allows you to understand the content.” This shows how Surgent’s practice questions and detailed explanations can make a real difference in passing the EA exam on the first attempt.
- Real-Time Progress Tracking: Surgent’s ReadySCORE™ technology gives you instant feedback on your exam readiness, showing you exactly how you would score if you took the exam today. This unique feature helps you focus on weak areas and boosts your confidence by tracking your progress in real time.
- Unlimited Access: With Surgent, you get unlimited access to your course materials, so there’s no pressure to rush through your studies. This flexibility allows you to take your time mastering each EA section at your own pace. Which most people find helpful since life is always throwing us some kind of curveball.
- Efficient Learning: Surgent’s adaptive learning tech personalizes your study plan, cutting study time by up to 40%. This is great if you’re short on time or juggling a busy schedule.
- Expert Instructors: The instructors are known for breaking down tricky topics in a way that’s easy to understand, making even the most complex tax concepts accessible. Their practical examples and clear explanations ensure you not only grasp the material but also retain it for the exam and beyond.
Cons
- Short Trial: You only get a 5-day trial. That might not be long enough to explore everything and decide if it’s the right fit for you.
Bottom Line
If you’re serious about passing the EA exam and want a course that adjusts to your needs, Surgent is the way to go. The adaptive tech and real-time progress tracking make studying efficient, and the unlimited access gives you the freedom to study at your own pace. Whether you need in-depth video tutorials or just practice exams, it’s all covered here. Personally, the ability to study anywhere on any device would be a game changer for me, making it easy to fit exam studying into a busy schedule. If you want flexibility and results, Surgent’s the top choice.
4. Fast Forward Academy: Cutting-Edge Learning
Fast Forward Academy (FFA) stands out for its tech-savvy and flexible study options for the Enrolled Agent exam. It’s designed for students who want an interactive and adaptive learning experience, though some features might not fit everyone best.
Here are the three main packages offered by Fast Forward Academy for EA exam prep:
EA Smart Bundle + Bootcamp
- Includes an eBook, on-demand Bootcamp webinars, over 3,000 study questions, unlimited practice exams, and access to digital flashcards and IRS publications.
- Optional printed materials are available for those who prefer physical study guides.
EA Smart Bundle
- Similar to the Bootcamp bundle but without the webinars, making it more expensive despite offering fewer features.
- Comes with video lectures, study questions, and other EA review materials.
EA Online Course
- Ideal for self-paced learners, offering over 100 video lectures, 3,000+ study questions, and practice exams.
Fast Forward Academy Course Features
- Detailed Question Breakdown: FFA takes the time to explain each practice question thoroughly, helping students better understand tricky concepts.
- User-Friendly Interface: The platform’s simple design makes it easy to focus on studying without distractions.
- Massive Question Bank: With one of the biggest test banks available, FFA offers a wide range of practice questions that closely mimic the real EA exam.
- Simulated Practice Exams: FFA provides practice exams that replicate the actual exam, giving you the confidence to tackle the real thing.
Pros
- In-Depth Prep: The large question bank and detailed explanations help many users feel ready for the EA exam.
- Easy to Navigate: The platform’s interface is clean and intuitive, making it easier to focus on your studies.
- Realistic Practice Exams: The simulated exams give a true feel for the EA exam, helping students feel more prepared and confident.
Cons
- Takes a Lot of Time: A lot of students have mentioned that Fast Forward Academy’s materials are pretty in-depth, which can feel like a time sink, especially if you’re juggling a busy schedule.
- Pricing Confusion: The pricing structure can be a bit tricky to figure out. It’s not always clear what you’re getting with each package, which can be frustrating when you’re trying to make the right choice.
- Some Topics Need More Clarity: While FFA offers a ton of resources, some users feel like certain difficult topics aren’t explained in enough detail, so you might find yourself needing to look elsewhere for extra help.
Bottom Line
Fast Forward Academy is perfect if you’re into interactive learning and love the idea of a tech-savvy platform with a huge question bank. The simulated exams and detailed explanations definitely help you feel prepared. That said, the materials can be pretty time-consuming, so if you’re short on time, that could be a downside. Plus, the pricing structure isn’t the easiest to figure out. But if you’re someone who loves cutting-edge tools and can dedicate the time, FFA gives you a solid prep experience.
5. Lambers EA Review Course: Flexible Study Option
Lambers EA takes a different approach to helping you prep for the EA exam by offering separate courses for each exam section. This allows you to focus on one part of the test at a time, which can be helpful for some learners. However, it may not be the best choice if you prefer an all-in-one package for the entire exam.
Lambers’ courses are sold in three separate parts. While this setup offers flexibility, it doesn’t provide a comprehensive bundle like other review courses.
Lambers Course Features
- Video Lessons: Lambers offers 55 hours of video tutorials, breaking down important topics in an easy-to-understand way.
- Question Bank: With over 2,100 questions, you’ll have plenty of practice material that closely mirrors the exam.
- Adaptive Learning: Their test prep software adjusts to your learning needs, helping you focus on weaker areas.
- Flashcards: Lambers provides 450+ digital and printable flashcards for on-the-go review, making it easier to memorize key terms and concepts.
Pros
- Clear and Engaging Video Lessons: Lambers stands out for its video tutorials, which offer clear explanations of difficult concepts. One user switched to Lambers for EA Part 2 specifically because of the videos, finding them especially helpful in breaking down complex material in a way that’s easy to follow and retain. If you’re someone who learns best through visual aids, Lambers’ videos make a real difference in mastering the content.
- Flexible Access: You can study from anywhere, which is a big plus if you have a busy schedule. Being able to focus on one part of the exam at a time can help you stay organized.
Cons
- Outdated Website: The course details on their website are not as clear or comprehensive as competitors like Surgent or Gleim, which can make it harder to know exactly what you’re getting.
- Few Interactive Features: Lambers lacks the forums and real-time feedback options found in other courses, which can make the experience feel a bit more isolated.
- No Free Trial: Unlike some other review courses, Lambers doesn’t offer a trial period, meaning you’ll have to make your decision based on reviews and reputation alone.
Bottom Line
Lambers can be a decent option if you prefer a section-by-section approach and clear video lessons. However, it lacks the all-in-one convenience and interactive features found in courses like Surgent or Gleim. If you’re someone who prefers more robust tools and real-time feedback, you might find Lambers a bit limited. The videos are useful, but the overall package doesn’t feel as comprehensive or tech-savvy as other top choices.
6. WiseGuides: Simple, No-Frills Option
WiseGuides offers a couple of different Enrolled Agent exam prep packages. While it covers the basics, it might not have everything you want, especially if you want more interactive features or live guidance.
And I’ll be honest, working through it feels like it was written in the early 2000s.
WiseGuides EA Prep Options:
SEE Test Prep Bundle
- Includes materials for all three parts of the exam, with over 3,000 practice questions.
- It’s mainly focused on self-study, which may not be ideal for those who need more hands-on support.
Wise Success Bundle
- Offers 45+ hours of pre-recorded video lectures covering key topics like tax forms and calculations, plus the same 3,000 practice questions.
- However, since the videos are pre-recorded, you won’t get real-time interaction, and the price might be a bit high for what’s included.
WiseGuides Course Features
- Study Support: Both bundles offer progress tracking, topic search, note-taking features, and free updates until you pass.
- Video Training: The pre-recorded videos include pop quizzes but don’t allow for live interaction or immediate feedback.
- Time Management Tools: A calendar and reminders aim to keep your study schedule on track.
Pros
- Access Anywhere: You can access all the materials online from any location, which is a big plus for busy people. This flexibility allows you to study on your own schedule.
- Large Question Bank: With 3,000+ practice questions, you’ll get plenty of opportunities to test your EA knowledge and get familiar with the exam format.
- Self-Paced: You can move through the materials at your own speed, which is helpful if you’re balancing work or other commitments.
Cons
- Outdated Design: The platform looks a bit old compared to other review courses. This can make it harder to navigate and less engaging.
- Limited Instructor Access: Unlike some other providers, WiseGuides doesn’t offer much direct support from instructors, which can be a downside if you need more help along the way.
- No Live or Interactive Content: The lack of live classes or interactive tools may make it tougher to stay motivated or fully understand complex topics.
Bottom Line
WiseGuides can be a decent choice if you’re a self-motivated learner who just needs the basics to prepare for the Enrolled Agent exam. Its online accessibility and extensive question bank are nice perks. However, if you prefer a more modern, interactive experience with real-time support, I suggest considering other options that offer a more dynamic learning environment.
7. Hock EA (PassKey Learning): Straightforward Approach
Hock EA, in partnership with PassKey Learning, offers a subscription-based option for exam prep. While it includes solid study materials, it may not provide the advanced features some other courses offer.
Premium Plan
- Includes over 70 hours of video lessons, 2,300+ practice questions, three mock exams, and full access to PassKey online textbooks.
- Weekly live study sessions, expert support, and access to a student forum are also part of this package.
Standard Plan
- Offers videos, a question bank, and one mock exam but doesn’t include the full PassKey textbooks or extra video lessons.
Pros
- Expert Guidance: Led by Christy Pinheiro, an instructor with over 15 years of experience, Hock provides expert-driven learning. You’ll also have access to student forums where you can ask questions and engage with others studying for the exam.
- Streamlined Learning: Once you get the hang of the concepts, users report that studying becomes quicker and even, dare I say, fun. This is a bonus if you want to speed up your study process.
Cons
- Need for Supplemental Materials: While Hock is praised for helping students understand the material, some users feel the questions don’t match the difficulty level of the actual exam. As one Reddit user put it, “I think Hock is great for understanding the material, but I supplemented with Gleim because their questions were way harder.” This suggests that Hock may require additional resources for more challenging practice.
- Clunky Online Tools: Some features, like the online flashcards, aren’t the easiest to use. Having to rate the difficulty of each card can disrupt the flow of your study sessions.
- Inconsistent Live Sessions: The quality may vary while live study sessions are included. Some users have found the moderators less helpful than expected, which can be a downside if you’re counting on live support.
Bottom Line
From my review, Hock EA with PassKey Learning offers a basic approach, but it lacks the advanced features I’d expect from a top prep course. The practice questions don’t match the difficulty of the actual exam, so you’ll likely need extra materials. The online tools are clunky, and the live sessions aren’t always helpful. If you’re just looking for something straightforward, it might work, but I think better options out there; why settle?
Comparing EA Review Courses
Becker vs. Surgent
Both offer adaptive tech, but Becker edges ahead with expert-led videos, AI study tool Newt™, and stronger academic support. Surgent is great for cutting study time, but Becker feels more balanced—smart tools and smart teachers. If you want guidance without sacrificing tech, Becker’s the better bet.
Gleim vs. Becker
Gleim goes all in on practice—huge question bank, printed books, and tough mock exams. Becker keeps things sleek with personalized study plans and real-world instruction. If you want the deepest dive, Gleim is solid. But for smarter, more supportive study, Becker wins.
Surgent vs. Gleim
Choosing between Surgent or Gleim EA depends on how you like to study. Surgent EA is great if you want to move quickly—its adaptive tech helps you zero in on weak areas and cut study time. Gleim EA leans into depth, offering the largest question bank and tough mock exams for thorough prep. If you’re aiming to study fast and efficiently, go with Surgent. If you prefer mastering every detail, Gleim’s your go-to.
Lambers vs. Becker
Lambers is flexible and video-heavy, but lacks the tech and structure of bigger players. Becker bundles adaptive tech, expert help, and all-in-one access. If you want simplicity, Lambers works—but for full-featured, focused prep, Becker’s the smarter move.
Surgent vs. WiseGuides
Honestly, if you’re looking for something that adapts to you, Surgent’s the way to go. It’s got this adaptive tech that focuses on what you don’t know, so you’re not wasting time on stuff you’ve already mastered. WiseGuides is fine if you just want to grind through questions at your own pace, but it doesn’t personalize the learning experience the way Surgent does. So, if you’re short on time or want a more guided path, Surgent is the better bet.
Gleim vs. Hock (PassKey)
No contest here—Gleim wins. It’s got a massive question bank and even makes the actual exam feel easier because it prepares you so well. Hock does a decent job explaining concepts, but Gleim’s adaptive tech and mock exams give you a more thorough prep. If you want to feel fully confident going into the exam, Gleim is definitely the way to go.
Surgent vs. Fast Forward Academy
Surgent pulls ahead of Fast Forward Academy because of that awesome adaptive learning tech. It really saves you time by honing in on your weak spots, and the pass rates speak for themselves. Fast Forward Academy has a solid question bank and good practice exams, but Surgent’s personalized approach and better support make it a stronger choice if you want to pass the exam on your first try.
Gleim vs. WiseGuides
If you want to be thoroughly prepared, Gleim’s the clear winner. It gives you loads of practice questions and full-length mock exams that really get you ready for the real deal. WiseGuides is okay if you want something basic, but it lacks the interactive features and real-time feedback that Gleim offers. The bottom line is that if you want a more intense, all-around prep, go with Gleim.
Surgent vs. Lambers
Surgent beats Lambers hands down when it comes to overall exam prep. Surgent’s adaptive tech makes sure you’re focusing on the areas you need most, saving you a lot of study time. Lambers has good video lessons and lets you tackle the exam section by section, but it just doesn’t have the same smart features or structure as Surgent. If you’re in a rush and want a more efficient study process, Surgent is the smarter choice.
Fast Forward Academy vs. Gleim
Between Fast Forward Academy and Gleim, I’d pick Gleim. Gleim’s SmartAdapt technology adjusts to what you need to focus on, making your study sessions super efficient. It also has way more practice questions and tougher mock exams than Fast Forward. Fast Forward is easy to use and has a nice layout, but Gleim’s depth and comprehensive coverage make it the better all-around option.
Hock (PassKey) vs. Lambers
These two are fine, but it really depends on how you learn best. Lambers is good if you like video lessons and tackling the exam piece by piece. Hock goes deeper into understanding the material with PassKey’s tools, but if you want more tech and practice tests, you’ll probably be better off with Surgent, Becker or Gleim.
Final Verdict
Picking the right Enrolled Agent review course really comes down to what works best for you. Do you want tons of practice questions? Prefer video lessons? Or maybe you need something with adaptive learning to help you zero in on your weak spots? Personally, my top picks are Becker, Gleim, Surgent, and Fast Forward Academy. They’ve got all the tools you need—easy-to-use platforms, smart tech, and plenty of practice material to get you exam-ready fast.
If you need something more budget-friendly or flexible, Lambers and Hock PassKey can be decent options. But honestly, if you’re serious about passing and want a course that gives you the best shot, stick with Becker, Gleim, Surgent, or Fast Forward Academy. It’s all about finding the course that fits your learning style and goals. Get that right, and you’ll be on your way to passing the EA exam with confidence!
FAQs
Becker, Surgent, and Gleim offer flexible, self-paced courses. They let you study at your own speed with adaptive learning features that tailor the content to your needs.
Most top courses, like Becker, Gleim, Surgent, and Fast Forward Academy, offer over 2,000 practice questions, giving you plenty of material to sharpen your skills.
Yes, Gleim, Surgent, and Fast Forward Academy offer pass guarantees, giving you peace of mind if you don’t pass on your first try.
Fast Forward Academy includes adaptive learning, over 3,000 practice questions, video lectures, and simulated exams to help you prepare efficiently.
Surgent offers a short 5-day trial so you can explore their platform before committing. It’s a great way to see if it fits your learning style!
