Best CFP Review Courses

What’s another name for long-term investment?

A failed short-term investment.

If you’re solidifying your career as a financial planner, you will need to invest in the short and long term.

Part of this includes getting your CFP certification, which begins with enrolling in a high-quality Certified Financial Planner course, AKA a CFP exam prep.

CFP exam prep courses vary in cost, included features, and length of study time, so narrowing the choices down can take some time and research.

The good news is that we’ve done all the hard work for you; just keep reading to see our detailed analysis of the best CFP prep courses offered!

Compare The Top 5 Certified Financial Planner Exam Study Materials

1. Kaplan CFP Review

A time-tested company with fantastic real-world examples and a value-driven price point

Kaplan CFP Review Pros & Cons 2023

PROS

Thanks to Kaplan’s different tiers of prep courses, students with any budget can find a course that suits them. For example, the cheapest CFP course is just under $500, with the more involved programs costing only a few hundred dollars more.

Practice Questions:

Students who learn best by answering practice questions will love what Kaplan has to offer. Their CFP test prep courses feature over 3,000 practice questions, making them the provider with the largest question bank on this list. The “analyze and apply” questions are meticulously crafted, delving into remarkable detail, and ensuring a thorough understanding and application of the topic at hand.

Case-Dedicated Material:

One of the standout features of Kaplan’s offerings is its case-dedicated material. Recognizing that real-world scenarios and case studies play an essential role in the CFA exams, Becker has meticulously curated material centered around real and hypothetical cases. This approach ensures that students not only understand the theoretical aspects but can also apply their knowledge in practical situations.

This immersion into case-based learning helps in honing analytical skills and instills a sense of confidence when faced with similar situations in the actual exam. With Becker’s case-focused resources, students are better equipped to tackle the complexities and nuances of real-world financial scenarios.

Exceptional Customer Support (As Reported on Reddit):

Kaplan stands out with its highly responsive support team. Users can easily reach out via their online form and expect a reply typically within a few hours, impressively even on weekends. This level of commitment ensures students always have assistance when they need it, as attested by Reddit users.

Up-to-Date Material & Effective Review:

The course is praised for its contemporary content, ensuring students are learning the most recent information. Additionally, the review sessions are structured to reinforce knowledge, making it feel like a genuine review rather than re-learning topics from scratch.

Bottom Line: Kaplan has truly tailored their CFP exam prep to meet a variety of needs. Whether you’re budget-conscious or ready to dive into a comprehensive study program, Kaplan has got you covered. Their massive 3,000+ practice question bank ensures students are rigorously tested, preparing them for anything the exam might throw their way. For those serious about ensuring success on their financial exams, Kaplan is a frontrunner in the race.

GO TO KAPLAN CFP REVIEW

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2. Boston Institute of Finance

Amazing instructors and a supportive community

Boston Institute of Finance Pros & Cons 2023

PROS

Community Support:

Students enrolled in Boston Institute of Finance via Boston Institute of Finance can access a private student forum staffed by the same instructors who teach the rest of the course. This allows them to ask direct questions to the community; fellow students and instructors can help provide answers.

Audio Options:

In addition to a large question bank, video lectures, live classes, and supplementary materials, the Boston Institute of Finance has a podcast staffed by the Boston Institute of Finance instructors that goes into even more detail about financial planning and preparing for the CFP exam. This is a great way to gain insight into your future career while multitasking.

Strong Alumni Network:

Graduating from the Boston Institute of Finance’s CFP program not only equips students with top-tier financial planning skills but also connects them to a vast network of alumni in the field. This connection opens doors to invaluable networking opportunities, mentorships, and potential career advancements tailored to the world of Certified Financial Planning.

Cutting Edge Resources:

The Boston Institute of Finance’s CFP program is renowned for providing students with access to the latest financial planning tools and software. This hands-on experience ensures graduates are not only theoretically proficient but also practically equipped to handle real-world financial planning scenarios efficiently.

CONS

Guarantee:

Although the Boston Institute of Finance has tons of helpful resources to teach you about financial planning and study for your exam, they don’t provide any kind of guarantee that you’ll pass your CFP exam after using their course. But don’t let this discourage you from trying them out; the vast majority of enrolled students achieve their desired results on exam day!

Bottom Line: Choose Boston Institute of Finance if you want to participate in an active learning community and learn from experienced financial professionals. Few online courses offer the unique experience that Boston Institute of Finance provides!

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3. Dalton CFP Review

Robust course curriculum and solid live instruction

Dalton CFP Review Pros & Cons 2023

PROS

Live Instruction:

Holistic Approach to Learning:

Dalton Education’s CFP program stands out for its comprehensive and integrative approach to financial planning education. Beyond just textbook knowledge, the program emphasizes real-world application, case studies, and interactive simulations, ensuring students are well-prepared to address diverse financial planning challenges in their professional careers.

As a high-end test prep provider, Dalton Education offers something that can’t be found easily among all CFP courses. Their Virtual Classroom enables Dalton Review students to learn from an instructor in a live classroom-style environment.

Pass Guarantee:

In order to alleviate the anxiety that can come from paying a large sum for educational material, Dalton Review guarantees that all students enrolled in their Certified Financial Planner course review will pass their exam or receive their money back.

CONS

Limited Access Duration:

Depending on the package selected, some students have expressed concerns about the access duration provided by Dalton Education’s CFP program. They feel it isn’t sufficient, especially for those who prefer a more extended, paced-out study schedule. This limitation can add pressure to complete the course within the given timeframe, potentially affecting the depth of understanding for certain topics.

Requires Self-Discipline:

Due to the depth of the material and the self-study nature of many of its courses, it requires a significant amount of self-discipline and time management from the students.

Remember, while these cons provide a balanced view, many students have successfully used Dalton for their CFP exam preparation and have praised the comprehensive nature of their materials. The best choice always depends on individual needs, preferences, and learning styles.

Dalton CFP Review Pros & Cons 2023

PROS

Live Instruction:

Holistic Approach to Learning:

Dalton Education’s CFP program stands out for its comprehensive and integrative approach to financial planning education. Beyond just textbook knowledge, the program emphasizes real-world application, case studies, and interactive simulations, ensuring students are well-prepared to address diverse financial planning challenges in their professional careers.

As a high-end test prep provider, Dalton Education offers something that can’t be found easily among all CFP courses. Their Virtual Classroom enables Dalton Review students to learn from an instructor in a live classroom-style environment.

Pass Guarantee:

In order to alleviate the anxiety that can come from paying a large sum for educational material, Dalton Review guarantees that all students enrolled in their Certified Financial Planner course review will pass their exam or receive their money back.

CONS

Limited Access Duration:

Depending on the package selected, some students have expressed concerns about the access duration provided by Dalton Education’s CFP program. They feel it isn’t sufficient, especially for those who prefer a more extended, paced-out study schedule. This limitation can add pressure to complete the course within the given timeframe, potentially affecting the depth of understanding for certain topics.

Requires Self-Discipline:

Due to the depth of the material and the self-study nature of many of its courses, it requires a significant amount of self-discipline and time management from the students. This means that those who thrive in structured environments or need consistent external motivation might find the course more challenging to navigate.

Bottom Line: Dalton Education’s CFP program stands out with its real-world application emphasis and live instruction. While they offer a pass guarantee, some students find the access duration limiting, and the course demands strong self-discipline. Despite these challenges, many have found success with Dalton’s comprehensive materials. The best fit ultimately depends on individual preferences and study habits.

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4. Zahn Associates Live Review Program

In person live options that are A+

Zahn CFP Review Pros & Cons 2023

PROS

High Pass Rates:

Zahn doesn’t just claim success; they prove it. With a pass rate consistently 10% above the national average, it’s evident that their program not only prepares students but gives them a distinct advantage.

Post-Study Rigor:

Preparation doesn’t end once the live review is over. Zahn’s Post Study material, designed for an intensive 60-80 hours of study before the CFP Board exam, is meticulously structured. It starts with foundational concepts and gradually intensifies, culminating in challenging comprehensive questions and cases.

Tutoring Resources:

Everyone’s learning journey is unique, and Zahn recognizes that. For students who might find certain topics challenging or those who simply want a deeper understanding, Zahn offers private one-on-one tutoring. This isn’t just about clearing doubts; it’s about giving students a tailored learning experience.

CONS

In-Person Live Review Limitation:

While many students appreciate the immersive experience of in-person classes, Zahn’s focus on live in-person reviews can be a drawback for those who prefer or need online options due to geographical constraints, personal commitments, or current global health situations. This limitation can make it challenging for some students to access their live review sessions.

Intensive Post-Study Requirement:

The recommended 60-80 hours of post-study material, while thorough, can be daunting for some students, especially those juggling work or other commitments. The rigorous nature of this post-study phase might feel overwhelming, especially as the exam date approaches.

Limited Locations for Live Review:

Zahn’s live review sessions are offered in specific locations. For students not residing near these locations, this can mean additional costs and time for travel and accommodation, making the review process more cumbersome and expensive.

Bottom Line: While Zahn’s CFP program boasts commendable pass rates and offers in-depth post-study materials, it’s not without its drawbacks. The heavy reliance on in-person live reviews, coupled with a demanding post-study phase and limited session locations, can be inconvenient for many. Prospective students should weigh these limitations against the program’s strengths before diving in.

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How to Choose the Best CFP Prep Course

Now that you’re aware of the different options available for premium exam prep through CFP review courses, you’ll want to narrow your list and determine which CFP exam review is best for you. Unfortunately, figuring out how to choose the best CFP prep course might be an overwhelming task. This is especially true if all of the CFP exam prep options look like winners.

The following tips can make it a little easier.

Focus on Your CFP Exam Prep Priorities

When determining how to choose the best CFP prep course for you, you’ll want to make a list of your prioritHowever, ies for CFP exam prep. Excellent study materials for someone else won’t necessarily work for you.

You’ve got to get personal!

• Are you looking for a particular platform?
• Is a live or virtual classroom critical?
• Is a CFP self study course enough for you?
• Is a vast question bank with lots of practice tests a selling point?
• Would CFP exam podcasts help you learn the material?

Other questions to ask yourself before selecting exam prep materials or a prep course:

• Are mock exams part of your “must-have” list?
• Is an exam readiness predictor part of what you’re looking for?
• Do you need a pass guarantee to feel comfortable investing?
• Do you need lots of instructor support before the actual exam?

Personal Factors of a Certified Financial Planner

Next, you’ll want to look at personal factors.

• How much study time is available before your exam date?
• What is your budget?
• Do you have the time to commit to a live review option?
• Are you disciplined enough to stick to a self study program?

Finally, you’ll want to look at the remaining choices in more detail.

Synchronous vs. Asynchronous CFP Prep Options

When it comes to setting a study schedule, you’ll fall into one of two categories: synchronous or asynchronous. CFP exam prep courses typically do as well.

With a synchronous course offering, you’ll be learning the material at the same time as other CFP candidates in a classroom environAgain, this (either virtual classes or in-person.)

Synchronous CFP exam prep courses work well for those who:

• Flourish in a scheduled or structured environment
• Prefer live classes or review courses with an instructor
• Enjoy learning with their peers in real-time

Asynchronous CFP exam prep courses don’t require you to meet on a certain day and time. This type of prep course is best for:

• Candidates who don’t like live review classes/virtual classes
• Those who need a lot of flexibility in their study schedule
• Are self-disciplined enough to get the work done
• Prefer working alone or viewing lectures on their own time.

A final option is selecting a course that doesn’t offer live or video lectures at all. These kinds of CFP exam review prep rely solely on printed review materials, question banks, and mock exams. They do not include instructor lead or OnDemand video lectures.

Going this route is often a more affordable option but not recommended over other CFP exam prep courses since lectures help drive general financial planning principles home.

Cost and Guarantees

Another thing smart candidates consider when studying to become a chartered financial consultant is cost. This isn’t surprising since exam cost alone can cost upward of $1,000.

In general, the cost of test prep courses varies from $455 to $2,395.To make this investment worth it, consider looking into a CFP exam prep course with a pass guarantee. These guarantees really come in handy if you fail to pass the CFP board exam the first time.

If this is important to you, look for live review classes or self-study programs that promise to:

• Return your money if you fail
• Offer more exam prep study time if you don’t pass
• Give a free premium review package to those who fail
• Promise access to CFP materials until you pass

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Frequently Asked Questions about the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Exam

How do you become a CFP?

There are four requirements candidates have to meet before becoming a Certified Financial Planner. The education requirement involves completing financial planning coursework and having a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent. Performance on the CFP exam is another requirement; the remaining two are professional ethics and work experience.

How hard is the CFP exam?

According to the CFP Board, the pass rates for the CFP exam are just over 60% on average. This is higher than the pass rates for many other finance and accounting exams, such as the CPA and CFA exams. This implies that this exam is easier than these other certification tests. However, this doesn’t mean that the test is easy in its own right, so remember to take your study plan seriously!

How long does it take to become a CFP?

If you’re trying to become a CFP as an undergraduate, it will take several years for you to meet the education requirements by obtaining a 4-year degree. In addition, if you’ve already obtained your degree, you’ll still be required to meet the requirement of 4,000-6,000 hour work experience. On top of all that, it’s estimated that it will still take candidates 1,000 hours to study competently for the exam itself. Hence, it will take you a great deal of time to become a CFP, no matter how you slice it!

How much does it cost to become a CFP?

CFP candidates will be required to cover costs for both education and the CFP exam. The costs for both of these requirements will vary depending on where you’re located. The most expensive costs will be related to education, but these can be alleviated by enrolling in a CFP Board-approved online course instead of attending classes in person.

How much does a CFP make?

Individuals who become CFP certified can enter the workforce in a wide range of positions – many with the possibility of upward mobility. According to Payscale, the average starting salary for a CFP is around $75,000 a year, with some positions making as much more!

Is CFP harder than CPA?

Becoming a CPA is much more complex than becoming a CFP. You’ll need to pass four exams instead of 1, and the pass rates are much lower for the CPA vs. the CFP. Because of this, we highly recommend that you enroll in one of our top-rated CFP prep courses.

Can you be a CFP and CPA?

Yes, you can! In fact, a CPA can use the accelerated path to CFP certification, which lets you skip most of the busy work required for the certification.

What is the hourly rate for a financial planner?

Payscale states that a certified financial planner makes an average of $28 an hour.