Best CPA Review Course: We Tested 5, Found 1 Winner
Best CPA Review Course 2026: An Honest Guide for Indian Professionals
The best CPA review course for Indian graduates and CAs in 2026 is Surgent CPA Review via Eduyush — it covers all 6 CPA exam parts at ₹31,000 with printed books and unlimited access until you pass, while most competitors only cover 4 parts at 3–6× the price.
💡 Key Takeaway
- Surgent CPA (via Eduyush) is the only provider offering all 6 CPA exam parts (3 Core + 3 Discipline) at ₹31,000 — competitors charge ₹86,000–₹2,00,000 for just 4 parts.
- Surgent's A.S.A.P. adaptive engine and ReadySCORE™ help working professionals cut study time by up to 50%.
- All plans include printed books, unlimited access until you pass, 9,000+ MCQs, and 500+ task-based simulations.
- Indian coaching providers like Simandhar, Miles, and Zell offer live classes but at significantly higher cost with time-limited access.
- According to AICPA data, the cumulative CPA pass rate hovers near 50% — choosing the right review course can meaningfully shift your odds.
📑 Table of Contents
- What Should You Look for in a CPA Review Course?
- Best CPA Review Courses Compared — Feature Table
- CPA Review Course Pricing in India (2026)
- Surgent CPA Review — Why It Stands Out
- Becker CPA Review — The Premium Choice
- Wiley, Gleim & UWorld Roger — Quick Reviews
- Which CPA Course Is Best for Working Professionals?
- Do CPA Review Course Pass Guarantees Really Work?
- How to Choose the Right Course for Your Study Style
- CPA Exam Structure: Core + Discipline Model (2024 Onwards)
- About the Author
- Frequently Asked Questions
What Should You Look for in a CPA Review Course?
A great CPA review course must align with your jurisdiction, budget, study schedule, and learning style — not just carry a popular brand name. A CPA (Certified Public Accountant) is a globally recognised credential administered by the AICPA (American Institute of Certified Public Accountants) and coordinated through NASBA (National Association of State Boards of Accountancy).
Before comparing courses, evaluate these ten factors:
- Learner profile & constraints — Assess your jurisdiction, time zone, weekly study hours, education baseline (CA, B.Com, MBA), and any prior exam attempts.
- Content coverage & blueprint alignment — Verify the course maps to the current CPA exam blueprints (updated January 2024 under the Core + Discipline model) and removes retired content promptly.
- Practice question quality & volume — Evaluate MCQ bank size, topic coverage, difficulty calibration, feedback depth, and fidelity of task-based simulations (TBS).
- Delivery format & pacing flexibility — Self-paced, on-demand, live online, or hybrid? Working professionals need asynchronous access; full-time students may prefer structured batches.
- Technology & adaptive learning — Check for genuine adaptive engines, AI tutoring, dashboard analytics, readiness scoring, mobile/offline access, and cross-device sync.
- Total cost of ownership — Look beyond sticker price: renewals, extension fees, add-on tutoring, printed books, shipping, and how payment plans interact with refund conditions.
- Guarantees, refunds & risk reduction — Read the fine print on "pass guarantees." Extract exact eligibility conditions, completion thresholds, proof of attempt, and refund mechanics.
- Pass-rate claims & review authenticity — Scrutinise the methodology: what's the denominator, sample size, and audit status? Cross-check testimonials for incentivisation disclosure.
- Peer community & support access — Evaluate built-in forums, cohort options, tutoring availability, response-time SLAs, and external communities like Reddit's r/CPA.
- Psychological fit — Does the course offer confidence-calibrated feedback, test-anxiety resources, sustainable pacing tools, and motivational mechanics that match your stress profile?
✅ Pro Tip:
If you're a CA or have significant accounting coursework, adaptive-learning platforms like Surgent can skip topics you already know — potentially saving 400+ hours of redundant study. Non-adaptive courses force you through every module regardless of your background.
Best CPA Review Courses Compared — Full Feature Table
This side-by-side comparison covers the six major global CPA review providers across every evaluation criterion listed above. Surgent CPA Review is the only platform that includes all 6 CPA exam sections in its standard package — the 3 mandatory Core sections (AUD, FAR, REG) plus all 3 Discipline electives (BAR, ISC, TCP).
| Feature | Surgent (via Eduyush) | Becker | Wiley (CPAexcel) | Gleim | UWorld Roger |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parts Covered | All 6 (3 Core + 3 Discipline) | 4 (Discipline extra) | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| India Pricing | ₹31,000 | ₹1,20,000–₹1,99,999 (via Simandhar) | ~₹1,85,000+ (USD converted) | ~₹2,10,000+ (USD converted) | ~₹1,60,000+ (USD converted) |
| US Pricing (USD) | $999–$1,699 | $2,499–$5,999 | $2,199–$2,999 | $2,499–$3,499 | $1,899–$2,999 |
| Access Duration | Unlimited (until you pass) | 24 months / Unlimited (Premium+) | Unlimited (Platinum) | Unlimited (Premium+) | 18 months / Unlimited (Elite) |
| Printed Books | Included | Premium+ only | Platinum only | No (digital only) | Elite only |
| Adaptive Learning Engine | A.S.A.P. Technology + ReadySCORE™ | Adapt2U | Limited | SmartAdapt | SmartPath |
| MCQs | 9,000+ | 7,000+ | 17,000+ | 10,000+ | 6,200+ |
| Task-Based Simulations | 500+ | 400+ | 500+ | 1,300+ | Included |
| Video Hours | 700+ | 200+ | 140+ | 100+ | 100+ |
| Claimed Pass Rate | 88% | 94% (of Becker students) | Not published | Not published | Not published |
| Pass Guarantee | Yes (Ultimate Pass) | Yes (conditions apply) | Partner Until You Pass (Platinum) | Access Until You Pass (Premium+) | No |
| Live Classes | No (fully self-paced) | Yes (LiveOnline) | No | No | No |
| Mobile & Offline Access | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Readiness Score | ReadySCORE™ | Exam Day Toolkit | No | No | No |
| Best For | Indian CAs, working professionals, budget-conscious learners | Students wanting structure & brand prestige | Self-disciplined learners wanting massive Q-bank | Detail-oriented, text-heavy study preference | Visual learners wanting engaging video |
How Much Does a CPA Review Course Cost in India?
For Indian candidates, the total cost of a CPA review course varies dramatically — from ₹31,000 to over ₹2,00,000 depending on the provider and what's included. The table below compares India-specific pricing across all major providers, including local coaching institutes.
| Provider | India Price (INR) | Parts | Books | Access | Live Classes | Adaptive AI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Surgent CPA (via Eduyush) | ₹31,000 | All 6 | Yes | Unlimited | No | A.S.A.P. + ReadySCORE™ |
| Simandhar Education (Becker) | ₹1,20,000–₹1,99,999 | 4 | Yes | 2–5 years | Yes | Becker Adapt2U |
| Zell Education | ₹86,000 | 4 | Yes | 12–18 months | Yes | No |
| Miles Education | ₹99,000–₹1,69,000 | 4 | Varies | 6–10 months | Yes | Limited |
What Is the Total Cost of CPA Ownership for Indian Candidates?
Beyond the course fee, Indian CPA candidates should budget for NASBA evaluation fees (~$200), exam fees per section (~$344.80 each via NASBA), Prometric testing centre fees in India, and any state licensing fees. When you factor in that Surgent via Eduyush charges zero for renewals, extensions, or additional discipline sections, the total cost advantage over competitors becomes even more significant.
Why Does Surgent CPA Review Stand Out for Indian Candidates?
Surgent CPA Review, available through Eduyush at ₹31,000, combines AI-powered adaptive learning with the most comprehensive section coverage in the market. It is one of the few platforms offering India-specific regional pricing while delivering the exact same content, technology, and pass guarantee available to US students.
A.S.A.P. Technology — How Surgent's Adaptive Engine Works
Surgent's A.S.A.P. (Adaptive Study Algorithm Platform) technology analyses your performance on every question and continuously reorganises your study plan. Unlike basic adaptive tools that simply repeat missed questions, A.S.A.P. maps your knowledge against the AICPA's CPA exam blueprints and prioritises topics where you'll gain the most marks per hour studied.
The ReadySCORE™ feature predicts your likely exam-day score in real time. According to Surgent, students who achieve a ReadySCORE of 75 or higher pass at a rate of 88% — well above the national average CPA pass rate of approximately 50%.
All 6 CPA Exam Parts — The Flexibility Advantage
Since the CPA exam transitioned to the Core + Discipline model in January 2024, candidates must pass 3 Core sections (AUD, FAR, REG) and choose 1 of 3 Discipline sections (BAR, ISC, or TCP). Most providers sell only the 4 sections you'll actually sit for. Surgent includes all 6 — letting you explore every discipline before committing, switch mid-preparation without paying extra, or use the additional content for professional development.
✅ Pro Tip:
Indian CAs often find the TCP (Tax Compliance and Planning) discipline more challenging because US tax law differs substantially from Indian tax frameworks. Having access to all three discipline sections lets you trial TCP, BAR, and ISC before locking in your choice.
Why Working Professionals Prefer Surgent
Surgent's fully self-paced, asynchronous model means there are no live batch timings to work around. You can study at 5 AM or midnight, on a desktop or your phone, and the AI adjusts your daily targets based on your actual availability. For Indian professionals juggling a 9-to-6 job with CPA preparation, this flexibility is a decisive factor.
Is Becker CPA Review Worth the Premium Price?
Becker CPA Review is the most recognised name in CPA exam preparation, with partnerships at Big 4 accounting firms and a claimed 94% pass rate among its students. In India, Becker is primarily available through coaching partners like Simandhar Education at ₹1,20,000–₹1,99,999.
Becker's strength lies in its structured, instructor-led approach. LiveOnline sessions, SkillMaster video explanations, and the Adapt2U technology provide a guided experience. It's a strong choice for candidates who need external accountability and prefer a traditional classroom-style format.
However, for Indian candidates weighing value for money, Becker's standard packages cover only 4 CPA sections, access is typically limited to 24 months (unless you buy Premium+), and the India pricing through coaching partners can reach nearly ₹2,00,000 — roughly 6× the cost of Surgent via Eduyush for fewer sections.
How Do Wiley, Gleim, and UWorld Roger Compare?
Wiley CPAexcel, Gleim CPA Review, and UWorld Roger CPA Review are all solid US-based platforms, but none offer India-specific pricing — Indian candidates must pay in USD at standard international rates.
- Wiley CPAexcel boasts the largest MCQ bank (17,000+ questions) and bite-sized lesson modules that suit mobile study. However, its adaptive learning is limited compared to Surgent or Gleim. Platinum pricing starts at $2,999 (~₹2,50,000).
- Gleim CPA Review has the deepest simulation bank (1,300+ TBS) and a solid SmartAdapt engine. It's excellent for detail-oriented learners who prefer text-heavy content. Pricing starts at $2,499 (~₹2,10,000).
- UWorld Roger CPA is known for Roger Philipp's engaging lecture style and high-quality question explanations. It lacks a formal pass guarantee and starts at $1,899 (~₹1,60,000) for 4 sections.
Which CPA Review Course Is Best for Working Professionals?
Working professionals — whether Indian CAs, B.Com graduates, or MBAs — need a CPA review course that adapts to irregular schedules, not the other way around. The ideal platform should offer self-paced access, mobile study, and an adaptive engine that maximises the value of every study hour.
| Factor | Surgent (Eduyush) | Becker (Simandhar) | Wiley / Gleim / UWorld |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schedule flexibility | Fully asynchronous, 24/7 | Fixed live batch times (IST) | Self-paced (US timezone recordings) |
| AI study-hour optimisation | A.S.A.P. adjusts daily workload | Fixed curriculum pace | Basic/moderate adaptive |
| Prior CA knowledge recognition | AI skips mastered topics automatically | Must complete all modules | Varies |
| Mobile study | Full app access + offline | App available | App available |
| Exam-readiness confidence | ReadySCORE™ real-time prediction | Exam Day Ready toolkit | Practice exam scores |
| Cost for working professional | ₹31,000 (self-funded friendly) | ₹1,20,000+ (may need employer help) | ₹1,60,000+ (USD pricing) |
Do CPA Review Course Pass Guarantees Really Work?
Most CPA review providers advertise a "pass guarantee," but the fine print varies significantly. A pass guarantee is not a money-back promise — it typically means continued access to the platform until you pass, provided you meet specific eligibility conditions.
| Provider | Guarantee Name | Key Conditions | What You Actually Get |
|---|---|---|---|
| Surgent | Ultimate Pass | Complete required study milestones; provide proof of exam attempt | Continued free access until you pass |
| Becker | Becker Promise | Complete 90%+ of coursework; attempt exam within access period | Continued access (not a cash refund) |
| Wiley | Partner Until You Pass | Must be on Platinum plan | Continued access |
| Gleim | Access Until You Pass | Must be on Premium or higher | Continued access |
| UWorld Roger | No formal guarantee | — | Standard refund policy |
⚠️ Important:
Always read the full terms of any pass guarantee before purchasing. Some providers require you to complete a high percentage of coursework (e.g., 90%) and show proof of a failed exam attempt before the guarantee activates. Surgent's approach — unlimited access included by default — is the most straightforward.
How to Choose the Right CPA Course for Your Study Style
Your ideal CPA review course depends as much on your psychological profile and study habits as it does on features and price. Here's a quick decision framework:
- Self-motivated, time-poor professionals → Surgent (AI adapts to you; no rigid schedule)
- Students needing external accountability → Becker via Simandhar (live batches, cohort structure)
- Learners who prefer massive practice banks → Wiley (17,000+ MCQs) or Gleim (1,300+ TBS)
- Visual/video-first learners → UWorld Roger (engaging lecture style)
- Budget-conscious Indian candidates → Surgent via Eduyush (₹31,000 for all 6 parts)
✅ Pro Tip:
If you're a CA with 3+ years of audit experience, you likely already know AUD concepts well. An adaptive platform like Surgent will recognise this and deprioritise AUD topics in your study plan, letting you focus on FAR and REG where Indian professionals typically need the most work.
What Is the CPA Exam Structure in 2026?
The CPA (Certified Public Accountant) exam underwent a major restructuring in January 2024, moving from the legacy 4-section format to the Core + Discipline model. Understanding this structure is essential when choosing a review course.
📘 CPA Exam Structure (Effective January 2024)
3 Core Sections (Mandatory): AUD (Auditing & Attestation), FAR (Financial Accounting & Reporting), REG (Taxation & Regulation)
3 Discipline Sections (Choose 1): BAR (Business Analysis & Reporting), ISC (Information Systems & Controls), TCP (Tax Compliance & Planning)
Passing Score: 75 on each section | Testing Window: Continuous year-round at Prometric centres
Prometric operates CPA testing centres in several Indian cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Chennai. For a complete guide on how to become a CPA from India, check our step-by-step walkthrough.
Also read: Why 90% of CPA candidates get exam order wrong
About the Author
Vicky Sarin, CA | INSEAD Alumni
Vicky Sarin is a Chartered Accountant with 25+ years of experience in finance, auditing, and professional education. An INSEAD alumnus and the founder of Eduyush, Vicky has guided thousands of Indian professionals through international certification journeys including CPA, CMA, ACCA, and CIA. His first-hand experience evaluating and reselling global review platforms — combined with deep knowledge of Indian accounting frameworks — makes him uniquely qualified to compare CPA review courses from an Indian candidate's perspective.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best CPA review course in 2026?
Surgent CPA Review via Eduyush is the best overall CPA review course for Indian candidates in 2026. It offers all 6 exam parts at ₹31,000 with printed books, unlimited access until you pass, and AI-powered adaptive learning — a combination no other provider matches at this price point.
How much does a CPA review course cost in India?
CPA review course pricing in India ranges from ₹31,000 (Surgent via Eduyush) to ₹1,99,999 (Becker via Simandhar). Indian coaching providers like Zell (₹86,000) and Miles (₹99,000–₹1,69,000) sit in between but typically offer only 4 exam sections with time-limited access.
Can I pass the CPA exam with self-study from India?
Yes. Thousands of Indian candidates pass the CPA exam through self-paced online platforms without attending live classes. Adaptive platforms like Surgent are specifically designed for self-study, using AI to personalise your learning path and predict exam readiness through the ReadySCORE™ feature.
Is Surgent or Becker better for CPA preparation?
Both are excellent, but they suit different profiles. Surgent offers superior value (₹31,000 vs ₹1,20,000+), all 6 exam parts, and stronger adaptive AI. Becker offers live classes, a more structured format, and Big 4 brand recognition. Choose Surgent for flexibility and value; choose Becker for structured accountability.
What is the CPA exam pass rate?
According to AICPA data, the cumulative CPA exam pass rate across all sections hovers around 50%. Individual section pass rates vary — FAR historically has the lowest pass rate (~45%), while AUD tends to be slightly higher (~50–52%). Surgent claims an 88% pass rate among students who achieve a ReadySCORE of 75+.
Is the CPA credential worth it for Indian Chartered Accountants?
Yes. A CPA credential alongside your CA opens doors to US GAAP reporting roles, international audit positions, and global finance leadership. Many Indian CAs find that their existing knowledge significantly reduces CPA study time, particularly for AUD and FAR sections. Read more about CPA USA and the future of finance.
Which CPA exam discipline should I choose — BAR, ISC, or TCP?
Your choice depends on your career goals. BAR suits financial reporting and analysis roles, ISC is ideal for IT audit and cybersecurity paths, and TCP fits tax professionals. Surgent's all-6-parts package lets you explore all three before deciding. Read our full guide on choosing your CPA exam discipline.
Featured product
Popular posts
Popular posts
Popular posts
Pass the CPA Exam Faster with 88% Success Rate!
- Unlimited Access Until You Pass
- AI-Driven Personalized Study Plan
- Now available at India pricing at 60% discounts
Questions? Answers.
What are the eligibility criteria for Indian students for the CPA exams?
Students can have any of the following qualifications.
- Member of the "Institute of Costs & Works Accountants in India."
- Member of the "Institute of Chartered Accountants of India."
- Member of the "Company Secretaries in India."
- MBAs.
- Master of Commerce.
- B.com graduates pursuing a Master's.
What if I fall short of the 150 hours requirements
There are plenty of AICPA courses that offer you CPE credits, Eduyush partners with AICPA to offer these courses at Indian pricing. Most of these courses offer between 15-30 CPE credits.
Whats the time frame to complete all the four sections of the CPA exam?
Passing all four sections of the CPA Exam within an 18-month window is essential, achieving a score of 75 or higher on each.
Your notification letter will include when your time limit runs out for those components you have already passed - giving you just under eighteen months from that date to complete any remaining tests and attain success on them all!
Can you take all 4 parts of the CPA Exam at the same time?
Yes students are allowed to take all the four sections together.
Do I have to be a U.S. citizen to sit for the CPA Exam?
No, most states permit international students to sit for the CPA exams.
Are the questions and exam format the same for students sitting in the U.S. and outside the U.S.?
Yes, the exams and testing pattern is the same.
Do I need a passport to take the international CPA Exam?
To take the CPA Exam, a current passport is essential. Successful completion of this exam can open many doors - providing aspirants with numerous career opportunities far beyond borders!
Is the CPA exam changing anytime soon?
Responding to the changing needs of accounting professionals, the AICPA and NASBA are transforming how CPAs reach licensure. By January 2024, a new core-plus-discipline licensure model will be in effect – designed not only to provide upskilling opportunities for future CPAs but also ensure they possess cutting edge knowledge required by today's evolving profession.
Is the CPA Exam expensive
The cost of the CPA Exam can vary depending on the state in which you take it.
Typically, the total fee is between $4000 and $6000 for students on self study.
So, while the CPA Exam may not be considered cheap, it is an investment that can pay off in terms of career opportunities and higher wages.
Is there a limit to the number of times, you can take the CPA exam?
With the innovative computer-based CPA Exam offered at Prometric Testing Centers, candidates can now access limitless opportunities! You can strive for successful exam results throughout the year through the continuous testing model.
While future attempts will depend on your scores from previous tries of each section – no cap or restrictions control how often you take each part of this rewarding examination.
From where Can i get CPA past papers?
AICPA doesnt provide past papers, but students can refer to their site for sample test papers.
Leave a comment