Best OnCourse Learning Alternatives for NMLS Exam Prep
Looking for alternatives to OnCourse Learning (formerly TrainingPro)? Whether you want a free option, a pass guarantee, or just better value—we've got you covered.
Our Top Picks
Why Consider OnCourse Learning Alternatives?
OnCourse Learning (formerly TrainingPro) is an NMLS-approved provider. But that doesn't mean they're always the best choice for your situation.
Premium Pricing
Exam prep costs $99-$299 when free alternatives offer similar study content.
Bundled PE Hours
Often bundles required PE hours you may not need if already completed elsewhere.
Limited Access
Access periods vary and extensions may cost extra for exam prep materials.
Formerly TrainingPro
Rebranded from TrainingPro - some users report confusion during transition.
OnCourse Learning's 2026 Pricing
What you'd pay if you went with OnCourse Learning
* PE = Pre-licensing Education. The 20-hour PE course is required by NMLS before taking the exam.
Best OnCourse Learning Alternatives for NMLS Exam
For NMLS MLO (Mortgage Loan Originator) exam preparation
OpenExamPrep
RECOMMENDEDBudget-conscious learners who want quality free exam prep content
Pros
- Completely free - no credit card required
- AI tutor for personalized help
- Comprehensive NMLS study materials
- Modern, clean interface
Cons
- Does not include required PE hours
- No pass guarantee (it's free!)
Mortgage Educators
Those who need PE hours bundled with exam prep
Pros
- NMLS-approved PE provider
- Comprehensive course packages
- Strong industry reputation
- Pass guarantee on select packages
Cons
- Higher price point
- Some find content overwhelming
CompuCram NMLS
Test-focused learners who already have PE hours
Pros
- Proven CompuCram methodology
- Guaranteed until you pass
- Adaptive learning technology
- Vocabulary and practice focus
Cons
- No PE hours included
- Less comprehensive content
Kaplan NMLS
Those who prefer established brand names
Pros
- Trusted brand name
- 80+ years in test prep
- Comprehensive study materials
- QBank with practice questions
Cons
- No pass guarantee
- No PE hours included
Affinity Real Estate
Budget-conscious learners wanting paid support
Pros
- Most affordable paid option
- Strong money-back guarantee
- Focus on core exam concepts
- Good for visual learners
Cons
- No mobile app
- Smaller company
Quick Comparison Table
| Provider | Price | Pass Guarantee | PE Hours | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OpenExamPrep | FREE | - | Free comprehensive prep | |
| CompuCram NMLS | $99 | Best value paid option | ||
| Affinity | $79-$149 | Budget paid option | ||
| Kaplan NMLS | $99-$199 | Brand recognition | ||
| OnCourse Basic | $99 | Exam prep only | ||
| OnCourse Bundle | $299 | PE + exam prep | ||
| Mortgage Educators | $149-$299 | Select packages | Comprehensive bundles |
When OnCourse Learning Might Still Be Right
OnCourse Learning isn't a bad choice for everyone. It could be the right fit if:
Bundled packages include required 20-hour course
Many mortgage companies have OnCourse contracts
PE + exam prep in a single platform
Familiar interface if you used their predecessor
Frequently Asked Questions
Why look for OnCourse Learning alternatives in 2026?
While OnCourse Learning (formerly TrainingPro) is a legitimate NMLS-approved provider, there are reasons to consider alternatives: (1) High prices - exam prep costs $99-$299 when free options exist, (2) Bundled packages - you may pay for PE hours you don't need if completed elsewhere, (3) Free alternatives like OpenExamPrep offer comprehensive study materials at no cost, (4) Other providers like CompuCram offer guaranteed-until-you-pass programs at competitive prices.
What is the best free alternative to OnCourse Learning?
OpenExamPrep is the best free alternative to OnCourse Learning for NMLS MLO exam prep. It offers comprehensive study materials, an AI tutor for personalized help, practice questions, and a modern interface - all completely free. Note that while OpenExamPrep covers exam prep content, you'll still need to complete the required 20-hour PE course through an NMLS-approved provider before taking the exam.
Is OnCourse Learning the same as TrainingPro?
Yes, OnCourse Learning acquired and rebranded TrainingPro in recent years. TrainingPro was a well-known NMLS pre-licensing and exam prep provider. If you previously used TrainingPro, your account and courses may have transitioned to OnCourse Learning. The curriculum and NMLS approval status have generally remained consistent through this transition.
Do I need to pay for exam prep if I completed 20-hour PE elsewhere?
No, if you've already completed your required 20-hour NMLS pre-licensing education through another approved provider, you don't need to purchase bundled packages that include PE hours. You can use free resources like OpenExamPrep for exam preparation, or purchase exam-prep-only courses from providers like CompuCram ($99) or Affinity ($79-$149). This can save you $100-$200 compared to bundled packages.
Which OnCourse Learning alternative has the highest pass rate?
Based on claimed pass rates: CompuCram claims 95%+ for NMLS exam prep with their proven vocabulary-focused methodology, Affinity Real Estate claims 90%+, and Mortgage Educators reports high pass rates for their comprehensive packages. Note that pass rate claims are self-reported. The national average NMLS pass rate hovers around 54-60%, so quality prep significantly improves your odds.
Is the 20-hour pre-licensing course required before the NMLS exam?
Yes, the 20-hour SAFE Act pre-licensing education course is mandatory before you can take the NMLS MLO exam. This requirement cannot be bypassed with free study materials. You must complete PE hours through an NMLS-approved provider like OnCourse Learning, Mortgage Educators, or others. After completing PE, you can then use free resources like OpenExamPrep for exam preparation.
Still Have Questions?
Our AI tutor can answer specific questions about NMLS exam prep providers, compare features, or help you create a study plan for the MLO exam.
Start Studying for Your NMLS Exam Free Today
Why pay $99-$299 for exam prep when you can start learning right now for free? OpenExamPrep offers comprehensive NMLS MLO study materials at no cost.