What's the cheapest CPA review course?

Meridian CPA Review at $199-$299 for unlimited access is the lowest total cost for a complete course. NINJA CPA Review at $67/month offers flexibility but adds up to $400+ over a typical 6-month study period. Surgent occasionally offers promotional pricing around $800-900.

Should I use a budget course as a supplement?

Many candidates successfully use NINJA as a supplement to their primary course for extra MCQ practice. The monthly subscription model makes it flexible—you can add it during the final weeks before your exam.

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Affordable Options Under $1,000

Best Budget CPA Review Courses

Not everyone can afford premium CPA review courses, but that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice quality. These budget-friendly options deliver solid exam preparation at a fraction of the cost, making CPA exam success accessible to candidates on tight budgets.

3Courses Compared

Updated February 2026

Courses priced under $1,000 (or subscription-based)

Core study materials and question banks included

Flexible payment options available

Solid pass rates despite lower price points

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Additionally, one or more providers shown are owned by the same entity as Atlas CPA Index.

Courses in This Category

NINJA CPA

Affordable flexibility with monthly pricing

4.0

Price$67–$87/month

Best ForBudget-conscious

AccessMonthly

Key Strengths

Flexible monthly subscription ($67/month)
No long-term commitment required
Great supplemental resource

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Meridian CPA ReviewDisclosure

The most affordable complete CPA review course

4.0

Price$199–$299

Best ForBudget-conscious candidates

AccessUnlimited

Key Strengths

Lowest total cost of any CPA review course
Unlimited access (no expiration)
AI-powered adaptive learning

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Surgent

Adaptive learning that reads your needs

4.3

Price$999–$1,999

Best ForEfficient studiers

AccessUntil pass

Pass GuaranteeYes

Key Strengths

True adaptive technology adjusts to your level
Efficient study paths save time
Excellent value for mid-range budget

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Feature Comparison

Feature	NINJA CPA	Meridian CPA Review*	Surgent
Price Range	$67–$87/month	$199–$299	$999–$1,999
Overall Rating	4.0	4.0	4.3
Access Duration	Monthly	Unlimited	Until pass
Pass Guarantee	No	No	Yes
Mobile App	Yes	No	Yes
Free Trial	No	No	No
MCQs	6,000+	6,000+	8,000+
Video Hours	70+	0	350+
Live Classes	No	No	Yes
1-on-1 Tutoring	No	No	No

* Meridian CPA Review is owned by the same entity as Atlas CPA Index.

Our Recommendation

Top Pick

Surgent

Adaptive learning that reads your needs

$999–$1,9994.3 / 5.0

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Who Should Choose This Category?

Self-funding candidates
Students without employer reimbursement
Those retaking sections (supplement use)
Career changers testing the waters

Also Worth Considering

NINJA CPA4.0

$67–$87/month

Meridian CPA Review*4.0

$199–$299

Not Sure Which Course Is Right for You?

Take our free LIFTS assessment to get personalized recommendations based on your learning style, budget, and schedule.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely. Many candidates pass all four sections using budget courses like NINJA or Surgent. The key is consistent study habits and utilizing the materials effectively. Budget courses cover the same content as premium options—you're primarily paying less for brand recognition and extra features.

Affiliate Disclosure: Atlas CPA Index contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links. Meridian CPA Review is owned by the same entity as Atlas CPA Index. Our comparisons are based on the LIFTS framework methodology, not commission rates.