Getting an EA qualification isn’t just another career step, and you need a top EA prep course to get you there. Enrolled agents hold the highest credential offered by the Internal Revenue Service, making them prestigious, highly sought-after tax experts.
But let’s be honest: earning enrolled agent status is nothing to sneeze at. The EA exam pass rate is high compared to similar exams in the tax and finance industry; however, around 1 in 4 test takers still fail.
I’m not about to let you be one of them. I’ve scoured through the best EA prep courses, narrowing down to the top 5 you need to know.
Top 5 Best Enrolled Agent Courses
- Best Overall: Becker
- Best Study Resources: Gleim
- Best Time Saver: Surgent
- Best Practice Exams: Fast Forward Academy
- Best Instructors: Lambers
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1. Becker: Best Overall
I’m a big advocate of Becker’s EA exam review course, and it’s clear why.
Becker may be new to the enrolled agent exam prep space, but they’re no strangers to exam prep in general. They’ve served nearly 2 million students and boast a 4.6-star average rating on Trustpilot.
And in the EA world, they’re already making waves.
With Becker EA exam prep, you’re not stuck with outdated studying tactics. Instead, you’ll benefit from modern education featuring industry experts, video lectures, and adaptive learning technology for a personalized experience. The outcome? You study smarter, not grind harder.
“The technology made studying easy and effective. There were several updates during my exam process and I was always very impressed with the new features. Ease of access too.”
Blake Alexander via Trustpilot
What You Get with Becker EA
- 3,000+ Multiple-Choice Practice Questions
- Unlimited Practice Exams
- Three Simulated Exams
- Three Digital Textbooks (One Per Exam Part)
- Adapt2U, Becker’s Adaptive Learning Technology
- Dozens of Hours of Concept and Tax Form Video Lectures
- Digital Flashcards
- Customizable Study Planner
Pros
- 14-Day Free Trial Period: This extensive free demo provides ample time to explore the platform before committing without being billed.
- Flexible Learning: Becker’s mobile-friendly courses let you study anytime. Got a spare minute? Pull out your phone and squeeze in some learning!
- Simulated Exams: Get test-ready with an actual full-length exam to boost your confidence and format familiarity.
- Taught by Experienced Enrolled Agents: Top accounting professionals bring deep industry knowledge to enhance your tax education.
- Endless Support and Interaction: Receive endless learner support and an active Facebook community to pose questions.
Cons
- Limited EA Exam Review Course Selection: There’s only one option for EA prep, removing the ability to compare different bundles.
See my full review of Becker EA courses.
Becker
Take $160 Off Becker EA Exam Review Pro
Bottom Line
If you can look past Becker’s newness and focus on the quality of its offerings, you won’t regret choosing them. Plus, Becker’s not a new test prep company; they’re just new to enrolled agent courses.
Becker’s adaptive tech was my favorite feature because it helped me prioritize my weaknesses and work smarter. Their customized study plan was another highlight, which kept me on top of my studies.
2. Gleim: Best Study Resources
Enrolled agent learners seeking a trusted EA exam review might consider Gleim. Known for their long-standing reputation and success, Gleim continuously meets the demands of modern learning.
With their enrolled agent exam prep courses, you get the best of both worlds. Unlike Becker’s fully digital approach, Gleim blends classic studying alongside adaptive tech.
What You Get with Gleim EA
- SmartAdapt™, Gleim’s Adaptive Learning Technology
- Question Bank With 3,500+ Multiple-Choice Practice Questions
- Hours of Expert Video Lectures (Premium Only)
- Audio Lectures
- Digital and Physical Textbooks (On Demand)
- Full-Length Mock Exams
- Simulated Testing Environment
- Digital Flashcards
- Unlimited Academic Support
- Detailed Performance Reports
- 72 Hours of CPE
Pros
- Exceptional Adaptive Technology: I like how SmartAdapt™ guides you on what to study based on your specific needs. It checks your readiness, provides resources, and tracks progress.
- Strong Track Record: Gleim has been a trusted leader since the ‘60s. Their EA prep course has been perfected and updated for decades, ensuring quality.
- Support Is Just a Phone Call Away: Gleim’s support agents are ready to help you from day one. You’ll be speaking to real professionals —not bots.
- Expert-Vetted Content: Academics review the EA course materials, ensuring you receive accurate, detailed, and up-to-date content.
- Access Until You Pass® Guarantee: Course access and study material stay available to you until you pass the EA exam.
Cons
- Information Overload: Gleim’s extensive content may be overwhelming to someone who prefers a simple, straightforward approach.
- Limited Access for Some: The Traditional and Test Bank packages offer 12-month access periods, which may be restrictive if you have a hectic schedule.
Learn more in this detailed review of Gleim EA.
Gleim
Bottom Line
Gleim’s EA exam prep is a great choice for students wanting to fine-tune their studying. I particularly valued the unlimited practice exams because they allow students to build confidence and familiarity with the real thing. And if you need a break from screens, I appreciate that you have the option to switch from online studying to hands-on learning with textbooks.
3. Surgent: Best Time Saver
After 35 years in course development, I’m not surprised that Surgent EA Review has a 97% success rate in helping EA candidates. While contenders like Becker and Gleim may have an even longer history, Surgent focuses on an efficient learning style backed by science, reducing your study hours by an average of 40%.
If you’re stepping up in your tax career with dreams of becoming an enrolled agent, Surgent EA prep courses offer an innovative way to get you there.
“Surgent promotes being prepared in less time, and for me, that is a plus.”
Via Reddit
Surgent EA Features
- 2,000+ Multiple-Choice Practice Questions With Answers
- Over 60 Bite-Sized Videos
- Unlimited Practice Exams
- ReadySCORE™, AI-Powered Test Score Predictor
- A.S.A.P., Surgent’s Proprietary Adaptive Learning Technology
- Study Companion App
- Ebooks and Printed Reference Books
Pros
- Reduced Study Time: Memorize faster and focus on opportunity areas while mastering key concepts and tax codes. Balance study with work and life.
- Unlimited Course Access Until You Pass Guarantee: Experience pressure-free studying at your own pace in 2 of the 3 packages.
- Cross-Device Compatibility: Surgent’s resources sync across devices, enabling on-the-go studying. Plus, their Study Companion App is great for bite-sized learning.
- You’ll Probably Pass: With Surgent’s reported 97% pass rate, you can study with the confidence that you’ll probably pass your exam.
Cons
- Premium Prices: The highest-tier package is slightly pricier than other exam prep courses, but some of their high-value features may justify the price for you.
See if Surgent EA is for you in this review.
Surgent
Bottom Line
After trying Surgent EA Review, I can see how their 97% success rate and time-saving strategies might not just be bold marketing claims but backed by real data. One feature that immediately impressed me was Surgent’s ReadySCORE™ because it gives real-time insights into my exam preparedness — something I’m sure would ease test anxiety and boost confidence and performance on the big day.
4. Fast Forward Academy: Best Practice Exams
What makes Fast Forward Academy different is its strong focus on community. After joining, you can instantly access instructors and fellow students. This creates a space to ask questions, start discussions, and stay accountable while you prepare for your EA exams.
Understanding that learning is inherently social, Fast Forward Academy provides team-focused settings to boost your EA exam score.
What’s Included With Fast Forward Academy EA
- Over 100 Video Lectures
- Ebook or Printed Study Guides
- Unlimited and Realistic Practice Exams
- 3,000 Study Questions
- Digital Flashcards
- Online Community and Instructor Support
Pros
- Attractive, Easy-To-Use Interface: Fast Forward’s clean platform promotes efficient study sessions. All resources are accessible and offer a convenient split-view design.
- A Wealth of Knowledge at Your Fingertips: Fast Forward provides abundant, high-quality resources that enrich your learning experience.
- Highly Realistic Simulations: Timed and scored practice exams assess your performance under pressure.
- Versatile Study Options: Access digital and printed materials, plus mobile-friendly resources, for flexible, anywhere, anytime learning.
Cons
- Just the Facts: Where some providers give you everything you need and more, Fast Forward Academy prefers a minimalist approach, which may feel less valuable.
- Bizarre Pricing: Fast Forward has fixed past pricing issues, but some gaps remain, like the oddly small price difference between the first and second-tier options.
Fast Forward Academy
Bottom Line
Fast Forward Academy stands out for its strong sense of community and peer-based learning, making studying feel more interactive and engaging. The ability to connect with instructors and fellow students can enhance motivation, but those who prefer a more content-heavy approach might find it a bit minimalist. While it may not have the same level of tech-driven features as Becker or Gleim, its adaptive learning tools and flexible study options still make it a solid contender for EA exam prep.
5. Lambers: Best Instructors
Lambers EA Review provides 60 hours of classroom-style videos that make tax law seem more exciting. And with Eva Rosenberg’s sharp insights and engaging lecturing style, you’ll grasp the whys of tax.
Lambers’s section-based approach differs from those of other review courses like Becker or Surgent. Unlike these competitors, Lambers offers separate sections instead of an all-in-one package. I personally don’t love this approach, but students who have unsuccessfully tried other providers may appreciate being able to slip into one part at a time.
What You Get with Lambers EA
- 2,100+ Practice Questions
- 55 Hours of Video Lectures
- Customizable Practice Exams
- Adaptive Learning Test Prep Software (Extra)
- Current Digital Textbooks
- Electronic and Printable Flashcards (Extra)
- “Ask the Expert” Services
Pros
- Effective Learning Software: This well-organized EA test prep system targets areas for improvement. When ready, you can test your knowledge with realistic exam simulations.
- You Can Study Three Sections Separately: Lamber’s video courseware lets you focus fully on one topic before proceeding to the next.
- Expert-led Instruction: Eva Rosenberg breaks down complicated tax terms into simpler explanations. She brings expert guidance to the table.
Cons
- Not All-Inclusive: Lambers isn’t the best choice if you’re after an all-encompassing bundle. Individual products are priced well, but total costs can add up fast.
Lambers EA Review
Get 10% Off Lambers EA Courses
Bottom Line
While Lambers isn’t an all-in-one bundle like Becker or Surgent, students who don’t want a major upfront investment in the beginning might prefer a part-by-part approach. However, the costs can add up fast. My favorite aspect of the course was Lambers’ instructors, who seemed passionate about both the tax topics they were teaching and helping students succeed.
Enrolled Agent Course Comparisons
Becker vs Surgent EA
Pick Becker EA if you want polished video lectures, smart adaptive tech (Adapt2U), and a structured learning plan with deep instructor support. It’s better for visual learners who value user experience and engaging content.
Pick Surgent EA if time is tight. Their A.S.A.P. system cuts study time by 40% and ReadySCORE™ gives you a constant read on exam readiness. Great for busy pros who want a fast, targeted study path.
Gleim vs Surgent EA
Pick Gleim EA if you love in-depth content and a traditional study approach. Their course is built for thorough learners who want to drill into every nuance with the largest test bank and printed books.
Pick Surgent EA if you prefer efficiency and real-time performance feedback. Surgent’s adaptive tech trims the fluff and keeps your prep lean, which is ideal if you don’t have months to study.
Read my Surgent vs Gleim EA Review to see a more in-depth comparison.
Becker vs Fast Forward Academy EA
Pick Becker EA for top-tier production value, adaptive tech, and a more guided, premium experience. It’s better if you like watching polished video lectures and want to feel like you’re in a professional course.
Pick Fast Forward Academy EA for strong peer interaction, flexible materials, and realistic practice exams. It’s ideal for learners who want community support and clean, no-frills exam practice.
Gleim vs Fast Forward Academy EA
Pick Gleim EA if you’re a solo studier who prefers massive question banks, printed materials, and structured academic content with tons of detail.
Pick Fast Forward Academy EA if you’re a social learner who wants interactive support and practical test simulations. Its community-driven platform helps keep you motivated and accountable.
Check out my review of Gleim vs Fast Forward Academy EA for more information.
Becker vs Lambers EA
Pick Becker EA if you’re tech-oriented and want a one-stop, modern course with adaptive features, mobile access, and a smooth study interface.
Pick Lambers EA if instructor-led video lectures are your jam and you’d rather break up your study sections and pay as you go. Their teaching style makes tax law more digestible and is great for those who’ve struggled with other courses.
Gleim vs Lambers EA
Pick Gleim EA if you want a comprehensive, research-backed course with a long legacy of helping students pass. It’s ideal for over-preparers and those who want the full library of study tools.
Pick Lambers EA if you learn best from engaging instructors and prefer a section-by-section approach. It’s a solid pick for auditory learners or those re-taking specific parts of the EA exam.
Surgent vs Lambers EA
Pick Surgent EA if your main goal is speed and efficiency. With AI-backed tech and real-time readiness scoring, it’s designed to get you through faster with no fluff.
Pick Lambers EA if you want old-school instruction from passionate teachers and like the idea of studying one EA section at a time. Great for learners who need tax law broken down with personality.
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Final Verdict
Spoiled for options, picking the right course can feel daunting —especially when the stakes are this high. Start by asking yourself: How do you study best for the EA exam? Are you a visual learner who thrives with video content? Is adaptive learning technology a must-have for your enrolled agent prep?
The course you choose depends on your study style and priorities. But if you’re looking for all-inclusive packages packed with smart tech, top content, and strong support, Becker, Gleim, and Surgent are well worth your time and money – think smart tech, endless EA review materials, excellent support, and the ability to invest in courses with strong reputations and proven track records.
Because less anxiety means a better score, and a better score means achieving your goal: passing the EA exam and launching a successful career.
FAQ
This depends on your study style, budget, and learning requirements. However, our top options include Becker, Gleim, and Surgent.
Yes! Becoming an enrolled agent offers excellent benefits, including strong job prospects, career growth, expanded legal rights, and the ability to make a real difference for clients.
To qualify, you must study and pass the three sections of the Special Enrolment Examination: Individuals, Businesses, and Representation, Practices, and Procedures.
Part Two, Business, is reportedly the most difficult and time-consuming. Some companies even suggest sitting for this exam part last.
Surgent EA Review claims to reduce study time by 40% with its A.S.A.P. technology, making it a solid choice for those who want to pass efficiently without sacrificing comprehension.
Becker, Gleim, and Surgent all incorporate adaptive learning tools, but Becker’s Adapt2U and Surgent’s ReadyScore™ stand out for their ability to track progress and tailor study plans in real-time.
Fast Forward Academy is known for fostering a strong learning community where students can interact with instructors and fellow test-takers, making studying a more engaging experience.
