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 to see 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With Becker EA exam prep, you’re not stuck with outdated studying tactics.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.
Inside Becker’s 3,000-Question Engine and Newt AI
- 3,000+ Multiple-Choice Practice Questions
- 50+ Hours of Live Virtual Classes (Pro Package or Add-On)
- Unlimited Practice Exams
- Three Simulated Exams
- Three Digital Textbooks (One Per Exam Part)
- Adapt2U, Becker’s Adaptive Learning Technology
- Newt™ AI Assistant
- Integrated into mobile app, plus videos, textbooks, flashcards, and practice tools
- Dozens of Hours of Concept and Tax Form Video Lectures
- Digital Flashcards
- Customizable Study Planner
Pros
✅ Three tiers (Essentials, Premium, Pro) to match your budget and goals.
✅ Exclusive “Newt” AI assistant plus Adapt2U adaptive practice tests.
✅ 3,000+ multiple-choice questions with concept and tax-form video lectures.
✅ Pro tier adds LiveOnline classes, printed textbooks, and a pass guarantee.
Cons
❌ Newest EA provider (launched late 2024) with no published pass rate yet.
❌ LiveOnline classes and printed books are limited to the Pro tier.
❌ Among the pricier options at full retail.
See my full review of Becker EA courses.
Becker
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 live online class schedule was another highlight, which held me accountable and 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
✅ Largest test bank — 3,500+ MCQs with detailed answer explanations.
✅ SmartAdapt adaptive platform shows exactly when you’re exam-ready.
✅ Premium tier includes Access Until You Pass and free CPE.
✅ Real phone support from dedicated Gleim Personal Counselors.
Cons
❌ Video lectures are Premium-tier only; lower tiers use audio.
❌ Traditional and Test Bank packages expire after 12 months.
❌ Dense material can feel like a lot to wade through.
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 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
✅ Advertised 97% pass rate with adaptive, Predictive AI study plans.
✅ ReadySCORE predicts your exam score with claimed 98% accuracy.
✅ Access Until You Pass on the Ultimate and Premier packages.
✅ Personalized targeting cuts study time by roughly 40%.
Cons
❌ Smaller question bank (~2,000 MCQs) than Gleim or Fast Forward.
❌ Lighter video library — around 60 short videos.
❌ Test Bank package is capped at 24 months, not until-you-pass.
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
✅ Signature split-view shows the textbook and your notes side by side.
✅ 3,000+ practice questions with unlimited customizable practice exams.
✅ Course access until you pass — no expiration window.
✅ 100+ video lessons with adaptive flashcards.
Cons
❌ No dedicated mobile app for studying on a phone or tablet.
❌ No live instructor support during your studies.
❌ Video lectures can feel dry next to more polished competitors.
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 55 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
✅ Taught by Eva Rosenberg (“TaxMama”), a veteran EA instructor.
✅ Free “Ask the Expert” support directly from the course author.
✅ 55+ hours of classroom-style video lectures.
✅ 2,100+ practice questions with customizable practice exams.
Cons
❌ Sold part-by-part, so full prep costs add up.
❌ Adaptive software and flashcards cost more, on top of the base course.
❌ Less polished, all-in-one packaging than newer competitors.
Lambers EA Review
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.
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.
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