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Head-to-Head Comparison
Universal CPA vs Surgent
Adaptive efficiency versus visual content. Surgent's technology customizes your study path, while Universal's videos deliver concepts through engaging visual storytelling.
Universal CPA
Visual-first learning for modern candidates
4.0
$649–$1,850VS
Surgent
Adaptive learning that reads your needs
4.3
$999–$1,999VS
Quick Comparison
Feature
Universal CPA
Surgent
Overall Rating
4.0
4.3
Price Range
$649–$1,850
$999–$1,999
Best For
Visual learners
Efficient studiers
Access Duration
18 months
Until pass
Pass Guarantee
Yes
Yes
Mobile App
Yes
Yes
Free Trial
3 days
No
LIFTS Framework Comparison
How each course performs across our five key dimensions
Universal CPA leads in 0 dimensions, Surgent leads in 2 dimensions
L
Surgent leadsLearning Style— Video, text, interactive content
Universal CPA
3.0
Surgent
3.3
I
Surgent leadsInvestment— Pricing and value for money
Universal CPA
2.8
Surgent
3.0
F
Flexibility— Self-paced vs structured options
Universal CPA
3.0
Surgent
3.0
T
Time— Study timeline support
Universal CPA
3.5
Surgent
3.5
S
Support— Instructor access and help
Universal CPA
2.8
Surgent
2.8
Feature Comparison
Feature
Universal CPA
Surgent
MCQ Practice
4,500+
8,000+
Task-Based Sims
150+
300+
Video Hours
80+
350+
Textbook/Study Guide
Flashcards
Practice Exams
3
5
Pricing Comparison
Universal CPA starts at a lower price point
Universal CPA
$649–$1,850
Monthly$119/month
Monthly
Complete PackagePopular$1,850
Until pass
Surgent
$999–$1,999
Essentials Pass$999
Until pass
Premier PassPopular$1,599
Until pass
Ultimate Pass$1,999
Until pass
Prices shown are as of 2026. Please verify current pricing on each provider's website.
Final Verdict
Choose Universal CPA if...
- You're a visual learners
- Visual learners who prefer video content
- Candidates wanting quality videos at mid-range price
Choose Surgent if...
- You're a efficient studiers
- Efficient studiers who want to focus on weak areas
- Working professionals with limited study time
Still Undecided?
Take our personalized assessment to find the best course for your unique situation
Take the LIFTS AssessmentAffiliate Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links at no extra cost to you.