For those that took the exam, are the review materials a must? Or can you buy the study guide and then review with Tripodi's books? The review course is pretty expensive, that's why I am asking.

I purchased them and I can't say they were all that useful. In fact, whenever the subject matter became complex, he would tell you to read further in the ERISA Outline Book. It was useful, but maybe more as a review than as a primary study resource.

I agree with Medusa...I got bored after reading only part of a chapter. I must say that 20+ years of experience had to have helped. And yes, I passed both parts.

We had an ERPA study class in house for the past 10 weeks, and tomorrow is our "review" day. Our owner had bought the study sessions for when she took the test in Feb, and we have used it. I agree about the sessions not hitting on complex material; Sal's books are better for that.

I am signed up for part 1. My concern is mostly on the DB questions, since I personally don't handle any of those plans. I took the practice test and got 1 of the 14 DB questions right....I have no clue how to do calculations!

I don't think the study guides are a must for experienced professionals. I took both parts in Feb without a study guide and passed both.

Four of us took test #1 in August; one took both - all passed. I really didn't think I was going to pass the one I took, but they can't take it back!
My boss (who took both) said the 2nd one was easier, so I guess I will be taking that one in the spring....he got his ERPA certificate last week and immediately got new business cards!