5 Best Accredited Online Schools for Real Estate 2023
Gina is a licensed real estate salesperson, experienced trainer, and former high school educator of 1,000+ learners. She writes for Fit Small Business with a focus on real estate content.
Jealie is a staff writer at Fit Small Business, specializing in real estate education.
This article is part of a larger series on How to Become a Real Estate Agent.
All states require licensing coursework to earn or maintain your real estate license, but not all schools are accredited by state agencies. This reduces the value of the courses and may not be accepted by your state’s licensing agency. To help you get the best return on investment for your time, we evaluated dozens of real estate accredited schools based on pricing, course features, help and support, and customer reviews to determine the five best online schools for real estate learners for various career stages.
- Colibri Real Estate: Best overall for real estate professionals seeking the most value for their money
- Aceable Agent: Excellent for on-the-go students looking to complete their courses on a mobile device
- Kaplan: Ideal for high-quality prelicensing classes and support for aspiring new agents
- The CE Shop: Great for real estate agents who need customizable continuing education
- VanEducation Center: Recommended for real estate agents who want flexible payment options
Best Online Schools for Real Estate at a Glance
Schools | Education Provided & Median Price* | Learning Formats | Pass Guarantee | Customer Support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Prelicensing: $234 Post-licensing: $249 Broker licensing: $284 CE: $99.45 Exam prep: $99 |
| âś“ | Phone, email, and live chat |
Visit Colibri Real Estate (Use Promo Code: FSB25 for 25% off) | ||||
 | Prelicensing: $209 Post-licensing: $474 CE: $111 |
| âś“ | Phone, email, and live chat |
Visit Aceable Agent (25% off; no promo code required) | ||||
 | Prelicensing: $314 Post-licensing: $149 Broker licensing: $389 CE: $116 Exam prep: $99 |
| âś• | Phone, email, and live chat |
Visit Kaplan (Use Promo Code: Kapre5 for 5% off) | ||||
 | Prelicensing: $214 Post-licensing: $109 Broker licensing: $302 CE: $99 Exam prep: $125 |
| âś“ | Phone, email, and live chat |
Visit The CE Shop (Use Promo Code: FSB30 for 30% off) | ||||
 | Prelicensing: $129 Post-licensing: $408 CE: $68 Exam prep: $69 | Prelicensing: $129 Post-licensing: $408 CE: $68 Exam prep: $69 | âś• | Phone, email, and live chat |
*Rates vary per state; pricing in the above chart is based on median course costs for California, Florida, New York, and Texas.
To find out which best accredited online real estate school will best suit your real estate needs, take this quick quiz:
Which best accredited online real estate school is right for you?
Colibri Real Estate: Best Overall Real Estate Accredited School
Overall Score:
4.81 / 5
What We Like
- Most nationwide presence: prelicensing in 39 states, post-licensing in 12 states, and continued education nationwide (through partner McKissock Learning)
- Customer support availability
- Direct instructor support and access
What's Missing
- Only six months to finish the course after the purchase
- Mid-level pricing
- No in-person class option
Accreditation
- Association of Real Estate License Law Officials (ARELLO)
- The International Distance Education Certification Center (IDECC)
Colibri Real Estate ranks as our best online school for real estate—topping our list because of its unique “Smart Bites” feature. This learning methodology breaks down knowledge into smaller, digestible pieces, making it easier for students to learn and retain information. Furthermore, it has a Learning Management System (LMS) that allows for an easy-to-navigate dashboard and highly qualified instructors to assist you in passing your course.
It also provides “Live Q&A,” which are live question and answer sessions with real estate experts and classmates—enabling new and experienced agents to learn in-depth concepts to enhance their real estate expertise. The school’s comprehensive course features and a “Pass or Don’t Pay” guarantee gave Colibri Real Estate our number-one ranking for online real estate courses.
Discount: For Fit Small Business readers, use promo code FSB25 for 25% off your purchase of any Colibri Real Estate class.
Additional Colibri Real Estate Features
Colibri Real Estate’s career expos
- Variety of course formats: Self-paced online and livestream classes, available on all devices
- Course extension: Option to extend your course access at a cost for seven, 30, or up to 60 days
- Career expos: Allows you to register to attend various career expos events
- Exam prep: Consists of dozens of practice exams and flashcards
- Career Hub: Contains articles, blogs, and advice
Colibri Real Estate Reviews
Colibri Real Estate garnered a 4.1 out of 5-star rating from customers. Most users preferred the self-paced online courses from Colibri Real Estate, stating that the platform is very informative and easy to use since it allows you six months to complete your course on your own time. One user said that the reps are beneficial if you have any questions and are assigned a teacher for specific real estate questions.
In the negative reviews, some users claimed that the learning materials contain many typos, need to be updated, and are different from the final exam. However, Colibri Real Estate does not offer in-person learning, and some find it easier to grasp real estate concepts within an in-classroom environment. In that case, choose a school like Kaplan, which provides livestream classes and live interactive study groups with almost all of its packages.
Colibri Real Estate Pricing
States | Prelicensing Starting Prices | Post-licensing Starting Prices | Broker Licensing Starting Prices | CE Starting Prices | Exam Prep Starting Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Florida | $139 | $109 | $199 | $19.95 | $99 |
New York | $329 | — | $249 | $129.95 | $99 |
California | $129 | — | $319 | $68.95 | $99 |
Texas | $549 | $389 | $888 | $139.95 | $99 |
Aceable Agent: Best for On-the-go Aspiring Real Estate Agents
Overall Score:
4.76 / 5
What We Like
- “Ace or Don’t Pay Guarantee”
- Mobile application
- Practice tests, study guides, and flashcards
What's Missing
- Continuing education only offered in Texas, New York, and Georgia
- No real estate broker license courses
- Post-licensing courses only offered in Texas
Accreditation
- IDECC
- ARELLO
Because its courses are compatible with both the website and mobile app versions, Aceable Agent is ideal for busy and on-the-go aspiring agents. Students can take the classes on their iOS and Android smartphones, tablets, or online, allowing them to tailor their schedules. The mobile app syncs with other devices, allowing students to instantly pick up where they left off without losing any completed progress. If there’s any problem with the app, the student concierge is available seven days a week to help with mobile app troubleshooting.
Although its courses are self-paced, the multimedia learning experience add-ons make the classes more interactive, keeping students engaged and encouraging retention. These also include interactive games, infographics, and videos. Aceable Agent offers one-on-one tutoring as part of its top-tier package, which helps students realize their full potential and kick-start their real estate careers.
Additional Aceable Agent Features
Screenshot of Aceable Agent mobile app
- Accessibility: Available on all devices, including phones, tablets, and desktop computers
- Mastery tracking: Allows students to see their progress and which topic they should focus on
- The Deluxe plan: Contains over 3,000 additional practice questions to prepare for the exam
- Learning materials: Provides free real estate practice tests, exam prep e-book, downloadable learning materials, and state and national question bank
- Instructor assistance: Provides a live Q&A and private tutoring
Aceable Agent Reviews
Aceable Agent received a customer review rating of 4.9 out of 5. Most of its users cite the platform’s ease of use, comprehensive content, and engaging teaching style as strengths. One student remarked that it was simple to finish the courses while maintaining a full-time job, and another praised the quality of the exam study guides. Also, students said the videos were fun to watch and insightful, which helped them become interested in the content.
However, Aceable Agent’s final exam received many poor reviews. One dissatisfied customer stated that the review handouts did not cover some critical exam material, and another student noted that the practice test did not contain questions similar to those on the final exam, leaving them unprepared. If you seek more robust exam prep, The CE Shop’s dynamic practice exams that include state-specific content will better prepare you for the final state tests.
Aceable Agent Pricing
States | Prelicensing Starting Prices | Post-licensing Starting Prices | CE Starting Prices | Exam Prep Starting Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Florida | $116 | — | — | Exam prep included with prelicensing package |
New York | $239 | — | $29 | |
California | $179 | — | — | |
Texas | $499 | $30 | $26 |
Kaplan: Best for High-quality Real Estate Prelicensing Support
Overall Score:
4.24 / 5
What We Like
- Variety of learning formats
- Great feedback from users
- Career support
What's Missing
- Most expensive
- Only available in 23 states
- Limited customer support
Accreditation
- ARELLO
- IDECC
Kaplan claims the top spot for real estate prelicensing classes, emphasizing high-quality prelicensing education. Kaplan maintains this reputation in its real estate school as a household name for test preparation due to its various course formats, including livestream, self-paced, and on-demand video. Even though the prelicensing courses are only available in 23 states, the course accommodates a variety of learning styles. Kaplan offers visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning styles, so you can choose how you learn best.
Moreover, Kaplan’s prelicensing course packages include access to supplementary textbooks, interactive study groups, and exam prep materials to prepare you for the license exam. You can also purchase additional learning tools like exam prep apps and flashcards to improve your chances and confidence in passing the exam. In some states, it also offers the post-licensing education required to upgrade to a broker license when you’re ready to start your brokerage.
Additional Kaplan Features
Kaplan’s real estate career toolbox
- LMS platform: Offers a simple learning management system platform for easy navigation
- Course format variety: Livestream, on-demand videos, self-paced, and interactive course formats
- Pass Protection Retake Policy: Full tuition refund within 30 days
- Career support: Provides direct instructor access, career toolbox, and course demos
Kaplan Reviews
The expert faculty at Kaplan got 4.4 out of 5 outstanding online customer reviews. Students cited its presentation, guidance, and knowledge as factors that led to their success as real estate agents in starting and continuing their real estate careers.
On the other hand, several reviewers complained about heavy-text learning materials. Some wished for more videos and audiobook-style options to make the class more enjoyable. Another student commented on the glitchy system and difficulties navigating the technology. For those who need extra navigation tools, consider The CE Shop or Colibri Real Estate.
Kaplan Pricing
States | Prelicensing Starting Prices | Post-licensing Starting Prices | Broker Licensing Starting Prices | CE Starting Prices | Exam Prep Starting Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Florida | $249 | $149 | $349 | $21.95 | $49 |
New York | $379 | — | $349 | $29 | $99 |
California | $179 | $16 | $93 | $16 | $29 |
Texas | $389 | $23 | $124 | $9 | $99 |
The CE Shop: Best for Customizable Continuing Education
Overall Score:
4.17 / 5
What We Like
- Customizable real estate education packages
- Interactive courses that provide feedback
- One year from purchase to finish courses
What's Missing
- No direct instructor access
- Mid-level pricing
- No physical school to visit for support and in-classroom options
Accreditation
- ARELLO
- IDECC
Whether you’re looking for prelicensing or continuing education, The CE Shop lets you personalize your real estate education. You can buy course packages or individual courses to finish the required hours in your state. Contact The CE Shop for assistance in developing a custom course package based on your educational requirements.
Moreover, The CE Shop provides state-approved continuing education in 50 states and the District of Columbia to real estate salespeople and brokers who need to renew their licenses every cycle. Agents can take state-specific courses and electives that cover industry issues and trends. Courses are self-paced and available on any mobile device at any time. Select from various classes that count toward the required hours in your state, or purchase CE packages that include Ethics hours.
Additional The CE Shop Features
The CE Shop’s main course dashboard
- Custom LEAP 2.0 Platform: Allows for easy navigation
- Free trial and money-back guarantee: Provides a five-day free trial on selected prelicensing courses, unlimited course access during the free trial period, and a 30-day money-back guarantee
- Exam Prep Edge: Offers a free initial assessment and unlimited exams
- Industry experts: State-approved curriculum developed by highly knowledgeable and experienced real estate professionals
- Interactive course features: Videos and practice exam make online learning more engaging; online chat button offers students easy access to customer support and get quick answers to their questions
The CE Shop Reviews
The CE Shop garnered a customer review rating of 4.2 out of 5 because of its affordability and thorough, interactive self-paced courses. A student commented that the course content and setup are conducive to an effective learning experience and enable him to learn at his own pace, with high success rates upon taking the state exams.
However, a few students are dissatisfied with the customer service team of the platform, claiming that they had an awful experience and nobody was helping them to resolve their issues. Consider Aceable Agent since it provides a student concierge available seven days a week to help you solve problems.
The CE Shop Pricing
States | Prelicensing Starting Prices | Post-licensing Starting Prices | Broker Licensing Starting Prices | CE Starting Prices | Exam Prep Starting Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Florida | $129 | $49 | $279 | $9 | $125 |
New York | $299 | $325 | $9 | $125 | |
California | $129 | $19 | $105 | $19 | $125 |
Texas | $629 | $39 | $975 | $29 | $125 |
VanEducation Center: Best for Its Flexible Payment Options
Overall Score:
4.14 / 5
What We Like
- Direct instructor access through multiple channels
- 1-year access to courses
- Comprehensive courses for every stage of your career
What's Missing
- Affordable rates
- No in-person classes or a physical school to visit for support
- Pass guarantee
Accreditation
- ARELLO
- IDECC
- The Real Estate Educators Association (REEA)
- Certified Distance Education Instructor (CDEI)
VanEducation Center (VanEd) offers flexible payment options for students who purchase a licensing course program. VanEd also offers a five-day free trial and, when purchasing a course, allows students to choose whether to pay in full or in two or three monthly payments by check or credit card.
Furthermore, VanEd provides a diverse range of courses for every stage of your career, from prelicensing to CE and license renewal. These courses can be taken as self-paced or on-demand video learning styles. To complete the online classroom experience, VanEd utilizes multimedia elements like texts, graphics, audio, and video. Multiple exercises, quizzes, and exams to check for understanding and free downloadable e-books in some courses are also available.
Additional VanEducation Features
VanEd additional online courses
- Learning management system platform: Allows students to easily navigate the platform
- Career enrichment and professional development programs: Offers real estate appraisal, real estate professional training, and designations and certification courses
- Course extension: It is available for an additional fee
- Real estate agent resources: Free access to blogs, how-to’s, and real estate tips
- Instructor access: Contact instructors via email, chat, phone, and its online Q&A system; premium packages include a Personal Academic Advisor to assist agents in advancing through their courses
VanEducation Center Reviews
Users praised VanEducation Center for its simple courses and convenient learning format. Some students appreciate the school’s website because it is simple to use and contains detailed information about the real estate licensing process. Other agents recommended VanEd’s test prep because of its well-summarized topics, which assisted them in passing the exam on the first try. With this, VanEd obtained a customer review rating of 4.36 out of 5.
The school received negative feedback for courses that had an excessive number of video and reading assignments. Others find the course content uninteresting, making it challenging to complete. If you desire lively interactions with instructors, we suggest Aceable Agent for its multimedia learning experience that includes interactive games, infographics, and videos, which help students stay focused and make classes engaging.
VanEducation Center Pricing
States | Prelicensing Starting Prices | Post-licensing Starting Prices | CE Starting Prices | Exam Prep Starting Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Florida | $119 | $199 | $9 | $59 |
New York | $139 | — | — | $59 |
California | $100 | — | — | $59 |
Texas | $495 | $279 | $34 | $59 |
How We Evaluated the Best Accredited Real Estate Schools in 2023
To be considered as the best online schools for real estate, a school had to be accredited by governing state and testing agencies. Also, each state requires a specific course curriculum and hours of prelicensing, post-licensing, and continuing education; therefore, we looked for those that offered online courses for agents in a broad range of locations like Florida, New York, California, and Texas.
After researching dozens of options, we determined that Colibri Real Estate is the best accredited real estate school for online learning. The innovative online course formats, learning style methodology, reasonable prices, and nationwide presence were contributing factors, pushing this school to the top spot for those seeking to get their real estate license for the first time or maintain it compared to its competitors.
Along with accreditation, we used the following criteria to evaluate each online school for real estate.
25%
Learning Style/Course Features
20%
Pricing
15%
Education Provided
15%
Additional Features
10%
Customer Reviews
10%
Expert Score
5%
Help & Support
25% of Overall Score
Consists of various formatting and learning styles for each course to meet the specific needs of the agent as well as ease of course accessibility.
20% of Overall Score
Pricing is based on the cost of pre- and post-licensing, continuing education courses, broker prelicensing, and exam prep of the top real estate accredited schools.
15% of Overall Score
The availability of each level of education for different stages of licensure. This includes pre- and post-licensing, continuing education courses, broker prelicensing, and exam prep.
15% of Overall Score
Extending services past licensure, such as coaching, training, and career assistance. Also, whether the provider offers pass or refund guarantees for its courses.
10% of Overall Score
Based on customer feedback for each program, with particular attention given to reviews of the product and popularity of the provider, to certify the course meets user satisfaction.
10% of Overall Score
Expertise in the field and firsthand experience with the providers allow us to evaluate the standout features, value for the money, and ease of use for each school.
5% of Overall Score
To find the best real estate accredited schools, we looked into the convenience and attainability of customer service for technical support and instructor assistance.
*Percentages of overall score
