Choosing the right online real estate school can make preparing for your license more manageable, especially when course formats, prices, and student support vary widely by provider and state. Some schools specialize in exam preparation, while others stand out for mobile learning, instructor access, continuing education, or career development.
As a real estate agent who completed my licensing education online, I know that flexibility is only part of the equation. A good school should also help you understand the material, prepare confidently for the licensing exam, and stay motivated through the required coursework. I compared leading providers based on pricing, course availability, learning formats, features, support, and student feedback to identify the five best online real estate schools for 2026.
| School | Best for | Average price |
| Colibri Real Estate | Exam prep | $307 |
| Kaplan | Career advice | $294 |
| Fortune Academy | Student support | $283 |
| The CE Shop | Continuing education | $283 |
| AceableAgent | Mobile | $259 |
Why you can trust The Close
As a real estate agent, I used an online real estate school to earn my license. This gave me a firsthand insight into what features help agents pass their state test. For this guide, I combined my experience with in-depth research to identify the best online real estate schools. At The Close, our editorial approach is rooted in delivering accurate, practical insights, so agents can confidently make the best choices and focus on growing their business.
Sophia Doyle
Staff Writer-The Close
- The Close’s top picks of online real estate schools in 2026
- Best for exam prep: Colibri Real Estate
- Best for career advice: Kaplan
- Best for student support: Fortune Academy
- Best for continuing education: The CE Shop
- Best for mobile: AceableAgent
- Honorable mention: RealEstateU, best for budget-friendly courses
- What to look for in an online real estate school
- What happens after you finish prelicensing?
- Methodology
- Bringing it all together
The Close’s top picks of online real estate schools in 2026
| Our top picks | The Close score | Promo code |
| Colibri Real Estate | 4.3 | TheClose40—Save 40% |
| Kaplan | 4.2 | No promo code yet |
| Fortune Academy | 4.0 | No promo code yet |
| The CE Shop | 3.9 | TheClose35—Save 35% |
| AceableAgent | 3.9 | Click our AceableAgent link—Save 25% |
| *All prices throughout the article are based on the average cost of prelicensing courses in TX, NY, FL, and CA. | ||
Best for exam prep: Colibri Real Estate
My expert opinion on Colibri Real Estate
Colibri Real Estate is my top online real estate school because its comprehensive exam prep materials go beyond just questions. In addition to its extensive prelicensing courses, its top-tier exam prep package includes the Exam Crammer Webinar series and a live instructor Q&A session. These features provide students with real-time answers to questions while helping them tackle complex topics with confidence.
Colibri Real Estate cost
Colibri Real Estate’s course packages include exam-prep materials such as audio review guides, flashcards, and simulated exams.
Type of education | Price range | Features |
| Prelicensing | $199-$729 |
|
| Post-licensing | $79-$389 |
|
| Continuing education | $19-$305 |
|
| Broker prelicensing | $219-$899 |
|
| Exam prep | $115-$609 |
|
Promo Code: TheClose40—Save 40%
Best for career advice: Kaplan
My expert opinion on Kaplan
Kaplan is hands-down the best online real estate license program for its career advice. Its Career Launcher package includes the Real Estate Accelerator online course and live coaching, during which students meet weekly with industry experts to discuss key real estate topics. If Career Launcher’s cost doesn’t fit your budget, Kaplan’s basic package already comes with the Live Online Learning Hub access and Career Mentor Connect via Zoom.
Kaplan cost
Kaplan’s courses are a bit pricier, but they offer excellent value. They include top-notch test prep materials and access to a live online community.
| Type of education | Price range | Features |
| Prelicensing | $129-$699 |
|
| Post-licensing | $59-$159 |
|
| Continuing education | $19-$133 |
|
| Broker prelicensing | $349-$859 |
|
| Exam prep | $29-$199 |
|
Best for student support: Fortune Academy
My expert opinion on Fortune Academy
Fortune Academy is one of the best online real estate schools because of its exceptional student support. Students benefit from round-the-clock instructor attention, ensuring no one is left waiting for a response. Its commitment to supporting students is rare among online real estate schools. Fortune Academy is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a responsive provider, available 24/7 through mobile, email, and live chat.
Fortune Academy cost
Fortune Academy offers some of the best real estate classes online, combining them with top-notch student support.
Type of education | Price range | Features |
| Prelicensing | $139-$1169 |
|
| Post-licensing | $85-$409 |
|
| Continuing education | $45-$145 |
|
| Broker prelicensing | $125-$1,025 |
|
| Exam prep | $135 |
|
Best for continuing education: The CE Shop
My expert opinion on The CE Shop
The CE Shop is my go-to for real estate continuing education courses and is also one of the best online real estate schools. Its CE courses are always up to date and aligned with industry trends and regulations. Students can choose from unique, practical electives such as Wholesaling in Today’s Market, Technology Tools, Trends, and Risk Management, and The Fundamentals of Commercial Real Estate. So whether you’re studying for your license, completing your CE credits, or expanding your expertise, The CE Shop has your back.
The CE Shop cost
The CE Shop offers a variety of affordable courses. Each package includes career resources and a study schedule to keep you on track.
Type of education | Price range | Features |
| Prelicensing | $139-$1,169 |
|
| Post-licensing | $85-$409 |
|
| Continuing education | $9-$115 |
|
| Broker prelicensing | $115-$1,025 |
|
| Exam prep | $79-$135 |
|
Promo Code: TheClose35 — Save 35%
Best for mobile: AceableAgent
My expert opinion on AceableAgent
Unlike other education providers, AceableAgent stands out as one of the best online real estate schools due to its mobile app. AceableAgent’s platform, which is compatible with all devices, allows prospective agents to study anytime, anywhere. If budget is not an issue, take advantage of its Premium package, which includes a live Q&A session, webinars, and an hour of private tutoring at your convenience.
AceableAgent cost
AceableAgent offers affordable courses that are accessible on any device, including its mobile app.
Type of education | Price range | Features |
| Prelicensing | $199-$1,119 |
|
| Post-licensing | $169-$555 |
|
| Continuing education | $24-$179 |
|
| Exam prep | $59-$99 |
|
Promo Code: No code needed — Click our link to save 25%
Honorable mention: RealEstateU, best for budget-friendly courses
My expert opinion on RealEstateU
While RealEstateU didn’t make my list of top five online real estate schools, due to its limited availability and minimal course offerings, it’s definitely still worth mentioning. RealEstateU offers solid courses that won’t break the bank. While its content is text-heavy, it’s easy to follow if you learn best by reading. If you’re looking for a no-frills, cost-effective way to get your license, RealEstateU is your top choice.
RealEstateU cost
RealEstateU offers some of the most budget-friendly courses without compromising quality.
Type of education | Price range | Features |
| Prelicensing | $99-$1,030 |
|
| Post-licensing and continuing education | $99-$149 |
|
| Exam prep | $125 |
|
What to look for in an online real estate school
Start by confirming that the school’s courses are approved by the real estate licensing authority in your state. Prelicensing requirements vary, so a highly rated school may still not offer the course hours, delivery format, or education type you need.
Next, consider how you learn best. Self-paced courses provide maximum scheduling flexibility, while livestream classes offer more structure and opportunities to ask questions. You should also compare exam prep, instructor access, course-access periods, refund or pass guarantees, mobile compatibility, and career resources. The best school is the one that satisfies your state’s requirements while giving you enough to complete the coursework and prepare for the licensing exam.
What happens after you finish prelicensing?
Completing your prelicensing course does not automatically give you a real estate license. You will generally need to pass the course’s final exam, obtain your completion certificate, submit an application to your state, complete any required background check or fingerprinting, and pass the state licensing exam. Requirements and the order of these steps vary by state.
You may also need to select a sponsoring or employing broker before your license becomes active. Once licensed, check whether your state requires post-licensing education during your first renewal period. Understanding these next steps before finishing your course can help you avoid unnecessary delays when you are ready to begin working.
Methodology
At The Close, our team of licensed real estate professionals, writers, and editors developed a weighted rubric that evaluates each school. I researched dozens of the best online real estate schools to identify the top options for our readers. The features I explored are essential for students to become successful agents and brokers in the real estate industry.
The Close’s detailed criteria:
Course Features (25%)
- This includes items that assist agents and brokers in completing their education, such as pass and refund guarantees, career and instructor support, coaching, training, interactive study groups, and course extensions.
Value (20%)
- Pricing and availability of coursework are essential factors to assess. This covers real estate school offerings for prelicensing, post-licensing, continuing education, broker prelicensing, and exam prep.
Learning Format & Accessibility (20%)
- Real estate professionals must consider the best format for their learning, which includes self-paced, on-demand video, live stream, and in-person classes. Also, accessibility across multiple devices, such as computers, tablets, and mobile phones, determines user convenience.
Expert Score (15%)
- I closely reviewed each course for standout features, details, ease of use, and value for money from a real estate expert’s perspective.
Help & Support (10%)
- If students need additional support, they must know the customer service options available through phone, email, live chat, and the ticket system.
Reputation (10%)
- This examines the reputation of each real estate school through the lens of current and past students, reviewing each provider’s customer reviews and popularity.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How do I choose the best online real estate school for me?
Choosing the best online real estate school for you is a very personal choice. You have to determine what you prioritize in your real estate education, whether that is exam prep tools, instructor support, in-person classes, etc. Once you have identified your key factors, thoroughly research any school you are considering. Always check student reviews; they can provide valuable insight into what it is really like to attend the school.
Which is better: online or in-person real estate classes?
Choosing your course delivery method depends on your learning style. If you thrive on direct interaction, in-person classes at your local real estate school might be your best bet. But if you’re comfortable with online learning, many good online real estate schools offer courses that fit around your schedule. In addition, most online schools provide instructor support via phone, email, and live chat.
Can I study on my phone or tablet?
Yes, most online real estate schools are mobile-friendly and allow you to study on your phone, desktop, laptop, or tablet. Some schools also offer dedicated mobile apps for their online courses. Always check the access methods of the school you are considering to confirm.
Bringing it all together
The best online real estate school depends on your state, learning style, budget, and the level of support you need. Before enrolling, confirm that the course is state-approved and compare its learning format, exam prep, instructor access, course-access period, and refund policies. The right provider should do more than satisfy an education requirement—it should help you understand the material, prepare for the licensing exam, and begin your real estate career with confidence.
You may also like…