Roger vs Becker CPA Review: Which Course is Better?

Updated: January 11, 2024 You’re our #1 priority.
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Accountants have been around since the beginning of time. Before people used an actual numbering system, little clay counters were used to keep track of animals. Lucky for our ancient ancestors, they weren’t required to take a CPA exam to prove their knack for accounting.

Many modern-day accountants must pass the CPA exam to find jobs, increase their income, and secure important benefits. If you fall into this category, you probably wonder which CPA Exam review program is best for you. There are many on the market, with two of the most recommended being Becker and UWorld Roger CPA Review.

So, how do UWorld Roger CPA Review and Becker CPA Review stack up against each other?

As a CPA expert, I’ve tested both of these courses extensively and noticed several essential differences between the two. All CPA candidates should consider this before they purchase either of these review courses.

Let’s compare the two.


It’s important to note that both Becker and Roger have several different CPA review offerings. For this review, I’ll be looking at their most popular programs (Becker Pro and Elite Unlimited).

Becker vs UWorld Roger Format and Features

Becker Overview

Becker has been the pro of prep for over 60 years. Because they’re one of the most trusted names in the CPA exam prep field, they also come highly recommended. There are numerous reasons for this, including the fact that 94% of Becker Exam Day Ready students pass the CPA Exam. This is 40 points higher than the national average pass rate.

So how is this possible? And how did they earn the support of every one of the Big 4 accounting firms?

By sticking to delivering content that mirrors the CPA exam in every way.

Becker CPA Review Courses and Offerings

Becker’s offerings have now expanded to four. In addition to their Advantage, Premium, and Pro courses, Becker now offers a Concierge program.

  • Advantage Course:
    • Basic package with essential study materials, including digital textbooks, practice questions, and simulations
    • Access to video lectures and study planner
  • Premium Course:
    • More comprehensive than Advantage and offers additional resources like final review, flashcards, and supplemental MCQs
    • Includes live and on-demand tutoring support
  • Pro Course:
    • The most popular package that features unlimited access until you pass and Becker’s Pass Guarantee
    • Provides one-on-one academic support and mentoring and comes with printed textbooks and additional learning tools
  • Concierge Program:
    • Newest and most personalized offering with tailored study plans and materials based on individual needs
    • 25 tutoring sessions included with Concierge

As someone who has experienced Becker’s Pro Course firsthand, I can confidently say that it stands out as a top-tier CPA review program. Here’s my detailed account of how the course rates and ranks overall:

Becker CPA Content and Structure

Professional and Engaging Textbooks: One of the first things that struck me was the quality of Becker’s textbooks. They are not only professional-looking but also filled with colorful diagrams and images that make complex topics more engaging and easier to understand. This visual aspect greatly aids in the learning process, especially for visual learners like myself.

Well-Organized and Structured Content: The content in the Becker CPA review is meticulously organized and structured. This organization makes it easy to follow and digest. Each section is laid out in a manner that flows logically, building upon previously learned concepts, which is crucial for a subject as vast as CPA.

Detailed and Comprehensive Coverage: Becker’s CPA review courses delve into a surprising amount of detail. This comprehensive approach is particularly beneficial for refreshing knowledge on various topics. Whether it’s a fundamental concept or a more complex topic, Becker’s course materials cover it thoroughly, ensuring that you’re well-prepared for the exam.

Excellent Refresher Resource: For someone like me, who needed a refresher on certain terms and topics, Becker’s course materials proved to be invaluable. The depth and breadth of the content ensure that even if you’ve been out of touch with certain topics, you’ll be brought up to speed efficiently.

Overall Experience and Ranking: In terms of overall experience and ranking, I would place Becker’s Pro Course at the top of the list for CPA review courses. Its combination of professional-grade materials, comprehensive coverage, and user-friendly structure makes it an excellent choice for anyone serious about passing the CPA exam. The level of detail in the course ensures that you’re prepared not just to pass the exam but also to understand and apply the concepts in your professional life.

UWorld Roger CPA Review Courses and Offerings

Roger Philipp is a man with a plan–and a really solid CPA review course program. Boasting a 94% pass rate for those who go through the Roger CPA review, the Uworld Roger CPA review ties Becker for the highest pass percentage.

For the past 20 years, UWorld Roger CPA has done this through a combination of expert instruction and high-quality CPA exam content. The course is powered by smart technology. and backed by innovative learning tools, giving Roger CPA review a real edge.

Roger offers three different course packages. Each of these offers some of the same amazing CPA study materials. The main difference lies in whether there is unlimited course access and, if not, how long you get to keep it.

  • Elite Unlimited+ Course ($4099, discounted to $2899):
    • This package offers unlimited access until you pass the CPA Exam and a money-back pass guarantee, where you can receive a refund of $250 per section if you don’t pass, up to $1,000 back.
    • It also includes “Expert Deck” digital flashcards and printed textbooks on top of all of the other standard course features
  • Elite-Unlimited Course ($3899, discounted to $2499):
    • Similar to the Elite Unlimited+ but without the money-back pass guarantee
    • Provides unlimited access to all course materials until you pass the CPA Exam
    • Includes all the features of the Elite Unlimited+ course, such as comprehensive practice questions, video lectures, and both digital and printed textbooks
  • Premier Course ($3499, discounted to $1999):
    • Offers 18 months of access to the full four-part course review without all of the bells and whistles
    • Includes hundreds of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and task-based simulations (TBSs)
    • Features the same comprehensive practice questions, video lectures, and digital textbooks as the other packages

UWorld Roger Content and Structure

As someone who has personally experienced the UWorld Roger CPA Review course and written a review about it, I can share my insights on how it rates and ranks in the realm of CPA preparation. While it may not surpass Becker in every aspect, it certainly holds its own with several impressive features.

Textbooks: The UWorld Roger CPA review textbooks are notably impressive. Available both online and in print, they are succinct and focus exclusively on essential information for the CPA exam. This direct approach is particularly helpful for efficient studying. The textbooks are well-structured, featuring numerous mnemonics which I found invaluable for memorizing vast amounts of information.

Integration with Online Tools: One standout feature is the integration of the online textbooks with the course software. This integration allowed me to highlight key points, take notes, and create flashcards directly within the digital textbook. These flashcards were accessible on mobile devices, making it convenient to study on the go.

Course Structure and Coverage: The course is well-structured, systematically covering all the necessary content for the CPA exam. The material is organized in a way that facilitates a clear understanding of each topic. However, compared to Becker, I felt that UWorld Roger could delve a bit deeper in certain complex areas.

Extra Resources: The course offers a range of additional resources, including practice questions and simulations, which are quite comprehensive. The online platform is user-friendly, making it easy to navigate through different sections and tools.

WINNER:

Overall Experience and Ranking: In terms of overall experience, UWorld Roger CPA Review is a solid choice. It provides all the necessary tools and resources to prepare effectively for the CPA exam. The course is particularly strong in its textbook quality and online integration, which enhances the learning experience.

However, when compared to Becker, it falls significantly short in terms of depth and breadth of content coverage. In an overall ranking, while Becker might take the lead for its comprehensive approach, UWorld Roger certainly stands as a strong contender, especially for those who prefer a more streamlined and focused study approach.


Roger vs Becker CPA Review: Lectures and Videos

This may be the starkest contrast of all of the video lecture comparisons. UWorld Roger CPA review is very different from Becker’s in terms of both the actual content and the presentation.

Although Becker has some things going for it (especially the one-on-one tutoring sessions in their Pro package), their videos don’t really compare to Roger’s. And when you consider the price that’s attached to Becker CPA Review course packages, this is a pretty big deal!  

Roger CPA Review Video Lectures

UWorld Roger CPA review might be one of the newest on the block, but it’s not lacking when it comes to video lessons. Roger’s personality carries every video through, even the most boring segments, which can’t be said for the Becker CPA video lectures. Although both are unavoidably technical and somewhat boring, Roger makes the greatest effort to remedy this.

Will Roger drink a Mountain Dew while teaching you CPA concepts? Probably.

Will he bore you?

Never.

Becker CPA Review Lectures and Video Lessons

The Becker CPA review course isn’t nearly as personal. However, it is predictable. Each section of the Becker CPA review follows a similar pattern. It starts with skills practice, practice questions, and simulation practice. Becker’s books are known to provide all of the material students need to know for the CPA exam.

Becker vs UWorld Roger CPA Review (2023 CPA Exam Prep Course Comparison)

One area that Becker CPA review really stands out is its video content. Becker CPA offers two specialized types of videos:

  • Becker’s SkillBuilder videos
  • ExamSolver videos

Both videos help students improve their problem-solving skills when solving high-quality practice questions.

These video lessons are also connected to Becker’s mock exams. Miss a problem? No issue! Becker CPA will show you the ins and outs of the answer so that you can score big on a similar CPA exam problem.

In comparing Becker and UWorld Roger’s video lectures for CPA exam prep, both are strong choices. UWorld Roger excels with its engaging and personable lecture style, while Becker offers a more extensive range of videos, ideal for comprehensive learning. In essence, UWorld Roger is notable for personality, and Becker for quantity.

WINNER:


Best Practice Questions and Exams

When comparing Becker vs UWorld Roger CPA course packages, one of the most important features to look at is the practice questions and exams and how well they mimic the real CPA exam. Simulated exams are also important when it comes to CPA exam prep. After all, many students fail because they arrive at their actual exam having never practiced in similar settings.

Let’s look at the numbers.

Becker CPA Review includes 8,500 practice questions and hundreds of task-based simulations. Roger UWorld CPA review includes unlimited access to over 8,000 questions. Practicing these, along with their 400 simulations over and over, can help you pass the CPA exam. So really, they run neck and neck.

Keep in mind that quality, not quantity, is what really matters. One thing that Roger UWorld does is offer a free trial for their program. For seven days, you can try out their CPA review course (including their practice questions) and see the quality for yourself.

Becker CPA really shines with their practice exams. Want to test yourself and see if you’re ready to become a Certified Professional Accountant? Becker CPA Review is the best route. Their CPA prep course mock exams will let you know the following:

  • If you really know the material
  • How well you’ll do on simulations
  • If you’ll finish the CPA exam on time
  • Becker also works these into their Final Review. This is a condensed review that goes over the most challenging concepts and includes new videos and exclusive questions.

But which should you choose?

  • If you prefer highly detailed and comprehensive practice questions that closely mimic the CPA exam in terms of difficulty and format, then Becker is your go-to. Becker’s practice questions are known for their depth and rigor, making them ideal for those who seek a thorough understanding of each topic and want to be well-prepared for the complexity of the actual exam.
  • If you appreciate a more straightforward approach to practice questions, focusing on key concepts and clarity, UWorld Roger is the better choice. UWorld Roger’s questions are designed to be clear and concise, providing a focused approach to learning. This style suits individuals who prefer a more direct method of preparation, emphasizing essential information and efficient learning.

I would personally choose Becker because of how quickly they shifted their question bank to meet the needs of the CPA evolution.

WINNER:


Best Mobile App and Technology: Who Wins?

A killer mobile app and advanced technology are crucial parts of any unlimited access study materials included in a CPA review program.

When comparing the UWorld Roger CPA review vs Becker, you should consider the following questions:

  • Do the features available on the mobile app replicate those in the desktop version?
  • Are all of the CPA course materials accessible on the app?
  • Is the mobile app updated regularly?

UWorld Roger CPA is up to speed and assures that its desktop version matches the mobile version. So, you can access task-based simulations, practice questions, lectures, and more through the app. This is in part due to UWorld Roger CPA’s adaptive tool called SmartPath Predictive Technology™.

Becker has the same pass rate and top-tier technology (Adapt2u Technology), which uses AI to identify your weak spots. This way, you’re not just studying random topics. Becker tech makes sure you’re lasered into the areas you really need help with.

But what about their mobile app? Users rate it 4.7 out of 5 because of its dependability. Becker CPA Review also allows you to access the app offline. So, even if you don’t have access to the Internet, your study time won’t be cut short.

For this category, it’s a draw.

WINNER:

TIE


Uworld Roger CPA Review vs Becker: Value Comparison

UWorld Roger CPA Review and Becker CPA Review are both very good courses; in fact, both made my top CPA reviews list. And so far, these two companies have run neck and neck with many comparison areas. Pricing simply isn’t one of them.

As we take a look at Becker CPA review cost and that of UWorld Roger CPA review’s pricing, we have to keep one thing in mind. What is a reasonable price for unlimited access to a solid CPA review course will vary by student and budget.

The fact is, many Becker offerings are more expensive.

At $3,799, Becker’s CPA Review is on the expensive side. However, they often offer deep discounts, and it’s not uncommon to see the Becker program marked down by $1000 or more. Priced at $3,599 UWorld Roger CPA Review’s Elite offering isn’t that much cheaper. Also, their sale information isn’t as readily available.

“Becker CPA Review is a standout in CPA exam preparation, offering in-depth and comprehensive materials that are unmatched. It’s impressive how many employers acknowledge its value, often opting to cover the cost for their employees. This speaks volumes about Becker’s quality and effectiveness in the field.”

– Bryce Welker, CPA Expert

Building on the comparison of UWorld Roger CPA Review and Becker CPA Review, it’s important to consider the value-added features like money-back guarantees or other assurances that enhance the overall worth of these courses.

Both platforms have their unique offerings in this regard, which can significantly influence a student’s decision based on what they prioritize in a CPA review course.

Becker, despite its higher price tag, offers a level of assurance with its “Pass Guarantee.” This guarantee allows students some peace of mind, knowing that the investment in their education is protected to an extent. If a student doesn’t pass the CPA exam, Becker provides continued access to their course materials, ensuring ongoing support until the student achieves success.

On the other hand, UWorld Roger CPA Review also offers a compelling value proposition with its “Elite-Unlimited” package. This package includes unlimited access to their course materials until you pass the CPA exam. This feature is particularly appealing to students who may need more time to study or who might face unexpected life events that could delay their exam preparation.

Bottom Line: Although Becker might carry a slightly higher price tag, the value that you get for what you’re spending just can’t be matched.

WINNER:


Roger vs Becker CPA Course Support

When evaluating the support provided by Becker and UWorld Roger CPA Review, it’s clear that Becker has a distinct edge in this area.

Becker’s Support Pros: Becker’s support system is robust and highly accessible. They offer a range of support options, including U.S.-based instructors who are readily available to assist students. The quality of support is exceptional, with instructors providing thoughtful and detailed answers to questions. Becker’s support is easy to find and access, ensuring that students can get help quickly and efficiently. Additionally, their response time is commendably fast, minimizing delays in the learning process.

Becker’s Support Cons: The primary downside to Becker’s support might be its reliance on a more structured approach, which could be less flexible compared to other platforms. This structured system, while efficient, may not cater to the unique or immediate needs of all students.

UWorld Roger CPA Review’s Support Pros: UWorld Roger also offers support, but it tends to be more focused on online resources and self-help tools. Their platform is user-friendly, making it relatively easy for students to find answers to common questions through their resources.

UWorld Roger CPA Review’s Support Cons: The major drawback with UWorld Roger’s support is that it may not be as comprehensive or as immediate as Becker’s. The response times can vary, and the depth of personal interaction with instructors might not be as thorough as what Becker provides. Additionally, the support is not always provided by U.S.-based instructors, which could be a consideration for some students.

WINNER:

TIE


Final Verdict: Becker CPA Course Wins

So which course is better? Although Roger has some appealing benefits, it’s clear that Becker has the better Becker emerges as the champion in the CPA review course arena, not just meeting but exceeding expectations with its comprehensive content, superior support, and robust learning tools. It’s like having a personal coach for the CPA journey, blending expertise with technology to turn the daunting task of exam preparation into an achievable mission. For those seeking a blend of quality, depth, and instructional excellence, Becker stands as the undisputed choice, turning CPA candidates into CPA conquerors.

WINNER:


FAQs

What distinguishes Becker from UWorld Roger CPA Review courses?

Becker offers four courses (Advantage, Premium, Pro, and Concierge) with comprehensive content and structured learning. UWorld Roger has three packages (Elite Unlimited+, Elite-Unlimited, Premier), focusing on efficient study methods and online integration. Becker is known for its depth of content, while UWorld Roger emphasizes engaging and efficient learning.

How do Becker and UWorld Roger’s video lectures compare?

UWorld Roger’s lectures are engaging and personable, making technical content more interesting. Becker provides a wider range of videos with a predictable format, integrating well with mock exams and practice questions for a thorough learning experience.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of Becker and UWorld Roger’s support systems?

Becker offers robust, accessible support with U.S.-based instructors and quick, detailed responses but may lack flexibility. UWorld Roger’s support focuses on online resources, offering user-friendly but potentially less immediate assistance, and not always with U.S.-based instructors.

Which course offers better practice questions and exams?

Becker is known for detailed, comprehensive practice questions that closely mimic the CPA exam. UWorld Roger offers a straightforward approach with clear, concise questions focusing on key concepts.

What are the pricing differences between Becker and UWorld Roger CPA Review?

Becker’s courses are generally more expensive, often discounted significantly. UWorld Roger’s Elite package is slightly cheaper, but their discount information is less accessible.

Do Becker and UWorld Roger offer any money-back guarantees or assurances?

Becker provides a “Pass Guarantee” for continued access if a student doesn’t pass. UWorld Roger’s “Elite-Unlimited” package includes unlimited access until passing the CPA exam.

How do the mobile apps of Becker and UWorld Roger compare?

Both offer reliable mobile apps with comprehensive access to course materials. Becker’s app is highly rated for its dependability and offline access, while UWorld Roger’s app is synced with its desktop version for seamless study.

Which CPA review course is better for a personalized learning experience?

UWorld Roger is known for its personalized feel and engaging lectures, while Becker offers a more structured and comprehensive learning path.

Bryce Welker, CPA

Bryce Welker is a regular contributor to Forbes, Inc.com, YEC and Business Insider. After graduating from San Diego State University he went on to earn his Certified Public Accountant license and created CrushTheCPAexam.com to share his knowledge and experience to help other accountants become CPAs too. Bryce was named one of Accounting Today’s “Accountants To Watch” among other accolades.   As Seen On Forbes