Becoming an enrolled agent (EA) is no small achievement—it’s the IRS’s highest credential, and for good reason.
Think about it.
You’re mastering intricate tax laws, upholding strict ethical standards, and committing to 72 hours of continuing education every three years. It’s a lot, but that’s what makes EAs trusted experts in the tax world.
If you’re like me, finding the right tools to tackle something this important is a must. The review course you choose can make all the difference. Let’s take a closer look at Gleim and Fast Forward Academy to see which course is right for you.
Key Takeaways
- Personalization: Gleim’s SmartAdapt™ tech gave me a custom study plan and kept me focused on what I actually needed to review.
- Community: Fast Forward Academy’s forum made it easy to connect with others and get quick answers when I was stuck.
- Practice Tools: Gleim’s huge test bank and tough practice exams helped me build real confidence.
- Value: Fast Forward is more affordable, but Gleim’s lifetime access and detailed tools make it worth the investment.
- Best EA Review Course: For structure, depth, and long-term prep, Gleim came out on top for me.
Gleim EA Review
For decades, Gleim has been a go-to choice for aspiring enrolled agents. It offers three tailored programs: Premium EA Review, Traditional EA Review, and the EA Test Bank. This course provider combines expert support, advanced technology, and extensive practice tools to set you up for success.
Why Gleim Stands Out
I tried out several features in the Gleim EA Review course, and honestly, they made a big difference in how I studied.
- SmartAdapt™ Technology was like my personal coach. It tracked my progress and helped me focus on the stuff I actually needed to work on.
- Mock Exams were a game-changer. They closely mimic the format and feel of the real EA exam, which can go a long way in helping you build confidence and reduce test-day anxiety.
- Expert Guidance was super helpful. Anytime I had a question, I could reach out and get quick, clear answers from real pros.
Top Pick: Gleim Premium EA Review
If you’re looking for a feature-packed course that gives you serious value, the Premium EA Review System is a strong contender. It typically falls into the mid-to-high price range compared to other options, but you get a lot for what you pay:
- Unlimited Access Until You Pass: This was a huge stress reliever for me. There was no ticking clock, no feeling like I had to cram everything in. I could take my time and really learn the material.
- One-on-One Mentorship: A personal counselor works with you to create a study plan that fits your goals and answers your questions.
- Flexible Study Materials: Get the latest EA textbooks in both digital and physical formats. Whether you’re on the go or prefer flipping through pages, Gleim has you covered.
- Interactive Study Planner: Stay organized with tools that sync with your schedule, track your progress, and send you reminders to keep you on track.
If you’re looking for a solid mix of tools, guidance, and flexibility, Gleim has what it takes to help you tackle the enrolled agent exam with confidence.
Gleim EA Review
Fast Forward Academy
Fast Forward Academy combines adaptive learning technology with plenty of practice material to help you stay on track. Plus, the interactive community gives you a chance to connect with other EA candidates and get expert advice.
What Sets Fast Forward Academy Apart
- The online forum was one of my favorite features. Whenever I had questions or got stuck, I could jump in and see how others were tackling the same topics. It made the hard stuff feel a lot more manageable.
- And the practice questions? There are over 3,000 practice questions. I went through a ton and liked how each one came with clear explanations—super helpful for reinforcing what I was learning.
Flexible Course Options
Fast Forward Academy offers two main packages: the EA Smart Bundle + Bootcamp and the EA Online Course. Both are generally priced in the mid-range for EA review programs and come with a solid set of study tools to help you navigate the exam process with confidence.
“I used Fast Forward last June and July, and it worked great for me. I was able to pass all 3 parts first try. I listened to the videos a lot during my commute and did a lot of multiple choice quizzes (30-50 questions) to see what I needed to read up on more.”
MrTobeyMan
While the course is loaded with features, the pricing can feel a little confusing, and you’ll need to set aside a good amount of study time to get through it all. Still, if you prefer an interactive learning experience with plenty of practice questions, this might be the EA prep course for you.
Smart Tools: Is Gleim’s Technology a Step Ahead of Fast Forward Academy EA?
When it comes to EA exam prep, both Gleim and Fast Forward Academy bring unique strengths to the table. Choosing between them depends on how you like to study.
Gleim EA Review really leans into personalized learning. I tried out the SmartAdapt™ tech, and it built a study plan around my performance. It showed me where I was strong and where I needed work, kind of like having a tutor keeping me focused.
Fast Forward Academy also uses adaptive learning, but what stood out to me was the community. The online forum felt more like a support group than a help desk. I could ask questions, see what others were struggling with, and learn from both instructors and fellow students.
Verdict: Tie
Both programs shine in their own ways. Gleim is perfect if you prefer a focused, personalized study path. On the other hand, Fast Forward Academy is ideal if you thrive in a collaborative environment. Think about what works best for you—do you like to study solo, or do you want to connect with others?
Tools for Success: Study Materials and Video Content
High-quality resources are key when you’re gearing up for the enrolled agent exam. Both Gleim EA Review and Fast Forward Academy provide study guides and video lectures, but they take slightly different approaches.
Gleim’s Features
- Video Lectures: Gleim’s lessons really stood out to me. There are over 30 hours of expert-led content, and it didn’t feel like I was just reading a textbook. The explanations were interactive and broke down tough topics in a way that actually made sense.
- Comprehensive Study Guides: Gleim delivers detailed materials covering every EA exam topic. The content is well-organized and mirrors the structure of the test, helping you stay focused on what matters most.
Fast Forward Academy’s Approach
- Concise Study Guides: Fast Forward Academy keeps it short and sweet, offering straightforward explanations that get right to the point. Their guides integrate with their adaptive platform, so you’ll only focus on areas where you need the most work.
- Engaging Videos: Fast Forward Academy’s video library may not be as lengthy as Gleim’s, but it still packs a punch. These lectures cover key topics and offer exam tips to help you prep smarter, not harder.
Verdict: Gleim EA Review
If you want detailed resources and don’t mind investing the time, Gleim’s materials are hard to beat. But if you prefer a more streamlined, efficient approach, Fast Forward Academy could be the right EA course for you. Either way, both options give you the tools you need to succeed.
Comparing Practice Questions and Exam Tools
Both Gleim and Fast Forward Academy came with extra tools that really added to the study experience, and I had a chance to try several of them out.
Gleim’s Test Prep
One thing that really stood out to me with Gleim was the massive test bank of 3,500 practice questions and unlimited practice exams. The questions felt super close to the real thing in both format and difficulty. I liked that each one came with a detailed explanation—not just the answer, but the why behind it. Some people say Gleim’s questions are even harder than the actual exam, but I saw that as a good thing. It felt like I was being over-prepared, which gave me more confidence.
Fast Forward Academy’s Approach
Fast Forward Academy also delivers solid practice tools. Their questions integrate with the learning platform, turning each one into a teaching moment. The forum is another unique feature, letting you discuss tough questions and get tips from other students and experts. While their test bank isn’t as extensive as Gleim’s, the platform’s interactive design makes studying feel more engaging.
Verdict: Gleim EA Review
If you’re looking for a test bank that goes above and beyond, Gleim is the clear winner. Their range of questions and emphasis on deep understanding make them a top choice for EA candidates. Fast Forward Academy still offers great resources, but it’s better suited for those who prefer a simpler, more interactive learning experience.
Bonus Features
Both Gleim and Fast Forward Academy came with extra tools that really added to the study experience, and I had a chance to try several of them out.
- With Gleim, I liked having both digital and print textbooks. The video lectures helped break down tricky topics in a way that actually stuck, and the flashcards were great for quick review. One of my favorite features was the “Access Until You Pass” guarantee. It took the pressure off knowing I could move at my own pace.
- Fast Forward Academy had some solid tools, too. I used the digital flashcards and liked that the IRS publications were integrated right into the platform. The forum also stood out. It was helpful to see how others were approaching the material and to get advice from people who had already been through the process.
Verdict: Gleim EA Review
After trying both, I found Gleim’s detailed study guides, helpful video lessons, and huge test bank made it the more complete option. If you want a course that covers everything and gives you the time and support to fully prepare, Gleim is a great choice.
Comparing Course Pricing and Value
Choosing the EA review course that works for you often comes down to finding the right balance between cost and value. I spent time exploring both Gleim and Fast Forward Academy, and here’s what I noticed about what you get for the price.
Gleim’s Pricing and Value
Gleim’s courses typically fall into the mid-to-high price range, depending on the package you choose. I tried out several of their tools, and it felt like a full-service prep system. The content was deep, the tools were polished, and the “Access Until You Pass” guarantee gave me peace of mind. It felt like a one-time investment I could rely on, and the financing options made it easier to manage.
“Gleim is pricey, but worth it. I found the video lectures they have available super helpful. Gleim also comes with some bells and whistles, like a study planner.”
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Fast Forward Academy’s Pricing and Value
Fast Forward Academy tends to be more budget-friendly, with several course options that still include plenty of helpful tools. I liked that you could access the platform from different devices and that it included built-in updates until you pass. It’s a great fit if you’re looking for a solid review course that won’t break the bank.
Which One is Worth It?
While Fast Forward Academy’s pricing is easier on the wallet, Gleim offers unmatched value for serious EA candidates. The breadth of study materials, personalized features like the study planner, and the lifetime access guarantee make it worth the extra cost. If you’re looking for a program that will thoroughly prepare you for both the exam and your career as an enrolled agent, Gleim is the smarter pick.
Fast Forward Academy is still a solid option, especially if you’re on a tighter budget. But for those who want to invest in their future, Gleim remains the gold standard for EA prep courses.
Final Verdict
After trying out both programs, I found that Gleim EA Review felt like the most complete option. The materials go deep, the support is strong, and the adaptive tools helped guide my study time in a smarter way. I really appreciated the “Access Until You Pass” guarantee because it let me study at my own pace without feeling rushed. If you’re looking for the best EA review course with a lot of structure and support, Gleim is a great pick.
Fast Forward Academy also has its perks. The interface is clean and easy to use, and the online forum makes it feel more interactive. If you like learning through discussion and want a course that feels a little more social, it might be the right EA study material for you.
In the end, choosing the EA prep course comes down to your learning style. Whether you go with the depth and structure of the Gleim EA Review or the flexible, community-focused approach of Fast Forward Academy, both EA courses give you solid tools to help you prepare for the EA exam.
FAQs
The Enrolled Agent exam is a three-part IRS exam for tax professionals who want to earn the highest credential awarded by the IRS. It’s ideal for anyone serious about a career in tax preparation or representation.
It’s possible, but not recommended. Most successful candidates use a structured EA review course like the Gleim EA Review or Fast Forward Academy to stay on track and build confidence.
Gleim EA Review offers deep, structured content, SmartAdapt™ technology, and unlimited access until you pass. It’s often recommended as one of the best EA review courses for thorough prep.
Most candidates spend 2–4 months preparing, depending on experience and the EA exam prep course they choose. Tools like Becker, Gleim, and the Fast Forward Academy EA can help speed up the process with study planners and practice exams.
Yes, Fast Forward Academy EA is known for its user-friendly platform, adaptive learning, and active online forum. It’s a solid option for first-time test takers looking for structured support.
Yes. While Gleim EA Review and Fast Forward Academy are top choices, others like the Becker EA, Surgent EA, and Lambers EA also offer prep options. Picking an EA prep course depends on your learning style and schedule.
