The Kaplan CPA Review Course is part of Kaplan, one of the leading educational review companies out there. You’ve probably heard the name associated with high quality preparation materials.
The reputation is built on Kaplan’s history of preparing candidates to take not only the CPA exam but a number of other professional exams.
Reputation is nice, but how does the actual CPA review course rank among other courses available to you. After all, your goal is passing the exam right? It takes more than a good reputation to give you the success you’re looking for.
Let’s dig into Kaplan and see what they have to offer.
Kaplan has a trademarked Learn-Practice-Retain methodology. The course focuses on repetition of foundational concepts and repeated learning opportunities to prepare you fully for the CPA Exam. They feel this is approach is the best way to ensure your success.
While Kaplan originally offered a “live online” class option, they now offer a self-study package only. The self-study package includes many different kinds of material, giving you lots of learning options.
The package for all four sections of the exam is $1,399. Each section can also be purchased separately. It’s pretty reasonable, although not the least expensive option available. This fee gives you access to the materials for 24 months. After that point, you must purchase the package again but receive a 50% discount.
There is no guarantee related to passing or failing the exam. The only refund Kaplan offers is a 30 day money back offer. To qualify, you must return the entire package in its original condition and with the original packing slip.
If you use it extensively or mark in the materials in any way, you are not eligible to get your money back.
CPA review courses are plentiful and have a lot of similarities. In order to choose wisely, it’s important that you understand the unique features of each one. We reviewed comments and feedback from former students of the Kaplan CPA Review Course to get a good understanding of what makes this course different.
The Kaplan CPA Review course has name recognition and a reputation for quality. In our view, however, the product doesn’t live up to the reputation. While the course offers some unique and positive features it delivers a mediocre review experience based on the competition.