Best CIA exam prep in 2026
Becker is the best overall pick as The IIA’s official review partner, from about $899. Gleim offers the most structured self-study, Surgent (now part of UWorld) the best value at about $499, and HOCK the most flexible monthly option. Active CPAs should look at the one-part Challenge Exam and its dedicated courses first.
Features from providers’ own pages; prices as checked on providers’ sites by CPA Exam Guide in August 2026. UWorld’s own CIA course has been discontinued; since April 2026 UWorld’s CIA prep is Surgent’s course. Checked October 11, 2026. We have not run hands-on tests, so we rank by fit and value rather than scores. See how we rank.
Our picks
The IIA's official partner; 3,300+ questions, six simulated exams, live classes in Pro.
→SmartAdapt, thorough books, mocks; Premium gives access until you pass.
→Adaptive diagnostics, 3,000+ questions, 18 months, pass guarantee; a UWorld company.
→All three parts, 5,500+ questions, cancel anytime.
→Side by side
| Course | Price | Access | Questions | Live classes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Becker | $899 / $1,299 / $1,599 | 24 months or unlimited | 3,300+ | Pro only |
| Gleim | $1,099 / $1,249 | 18 months or until you pass | Thousands | No |
| Surgent | $499 | 18 months | 3,000+ | No |
| HOCK | $119.99/month | Monthly | 5,500+ | No |
Prices as observed in August 2026.
How to choose
- Active CPA? Check the Challenge Exam route first; Becker and HOCK sell dedicated Challenge courses.
- Want official alignment or live classes: Becker.
- On a budget: Surgent, or HOCK if you’ll finish quickly.
- Use free trials: Becker (14 days), Gleim and HOCK previews.
Common questions
Where is UWorld?
UWorld’s own CIA course has been discontinued. UWorld bought Surgent in April 2026, and Surgent’s CIA course is now UWorld’s CIA offering.
Where is the IIA Learning System?
The IIA’s own Learning System was replaced by the Becker-The IIA course in March 2025.
Are these paid placements?
No. We currently earn no commission from any CIA provider, and no one paid for a placement.