Best Online Real Estate Schools in Michigan – 2025 Guide

Choosing the right real estate school in Michigan is not just the first step—it sets the tone for your entire real estate career. Whether you're looking for maximum flexibility, top-tier support, or the best value for your budget, the school you choose will impact how quickly and confidently you earn your license.

To get started, Michigan requires you to complete 40 hours of pre-licensing education through a state-approved provider. After finishing your course, you’ll need to pass the state exam, apply for your license, and affiliate with a broker.

So, how do you choose the right school? We evaluated the most popular online real estate schools in Michigan using the following criteria:

• Course curriculum: Is the material engaging and memorable?

• Exam prep: Will you be ready to pass your exam after completing your course?

• Coursework access: Can you study on-the-go from your phone or tablet?

• Instructor access: Will you have real-time support when you need it?

• Affordability: Does the course provide strong value for the investment?

Based on these factors, here are the top options for future Michigan real estate agents:

1. AceableAgent

AceableAgent may be newer to Michigan, but it’s already earned a reputation for innovation and student success in other states. Launched in Texas in 2012, this mobile-first platform has quickly become a favorite among aspiring agents nationwide.

Built for Today’s Learners

AceableAgent’s 40-hour pre-licensing course is designed by real estate experts and instructional designers to be engaging and practical. Rather than working through long PDFs or dated textbooks, students get interactive content they can actually retain—videos, quizzes, and scenario-based lessons included.

Mobile-First, Always

AceableAgent was the first real estate school built specifically for mobile learning. You can access your course from your phone, tablet, or laptop, with seamless syncing across devices. Whether you're studying during lunch or reviewing material on your commute, you're always in control.

Straightforward Pricing

AceableAgent includes built-in exam prep tools and instructor access—no hidden fees, no surprises. It’s an all-in-one solution designed for busy students who want to pass their exam without overpaying.

Where AceableAgent excels:

User-friendly design, all-inclusive pricing, and flexible mobile access make it a top choice for tech-savvy learners.

Where AceableAgent could use work:

Since it’s newer to Michigan, some students may prefer a brand with a longer track record in the state. CE options are still expanding.

2. Colibri Real Estate

Colibri Real Estate, previously known as Real Estate Express, is one of the most renowned online real estate education brands in the country. With decades of experience and a large student base, it has become a preferred choice for many aspiring agents.

Reliable Platform with Tiered Packages

Colibri provides a structured online platform with multiple packages, ranging from a basic course to premium options that include exam preparation and instructor Q&A. All packages fulfill Michigan's 40-hour education requirement.

Traditional Learning Format

The coursework relies heavily on text-based reading, making it ideal for students who prefer a self-paced, textbook-style approach. However, it lacks the multimedia elements found in newer platforms.

Upgrade for Support

Access to instructors and exam preparation is only available in the higher-tier packages. Students should consider whether they will need this support before choosing the basic option.

Where Colibri excels:

Colibri is a trusted name, offering a straightforward experience and scalable course options.

Where Colibri could improve:

The course format feels outdated compared to more interactive providers, and critical features like exam preparation are not included in the basic package.

3. The CE Shop

The CE Shop is a rapidly expanding national provider, known for its sleek course platform and strong student outcomes. Their Michigan course is designed for flexibility and to keep learners on track.

Modern and Interactive

From interactive dashboards to built-in progress tracking, The CE Shop's course design is clean and easy to navigate. Students benefit from short-form content, visual aids, and quick assessments.

Exam Preparation as an Add-On

To access exam preparation tools, students need to upgrade to a higher-priced package. It's an effective system, but it's worth noting that preparation is not bundled into the most basic course.

Limited Access Window

Students have six months to complete the course. A one-month extension is free, but additional months come with a fee—something to consider if you need more time.

Where The CE Shop excels:

Its tech-forward design and high satisfaction rates make The CE Shop a strong contender for independent learners.

Where The CE Shop could improve:

You'll need to pay more for exam preparation, and the time window to finish the course is shorter than some competitors.

4. Kaplan (KAPRE)

Kaplan Real Estate Education is a household name, offering licensing courses in all 50 states. Its Michigan offering comes with the backing of a well-known brand—but it may not suit all learners.

Traditional Experience

Kaplan’s platform relies on textbook-based learning and dated digital layouts. While the information is reliable, the format lacks the interactivity found in more modern schools.

Affordable Add-On Exam Prep

Unlike other providers, Kaplan’s exam prep is a low-cost add-on rather than a major package upgrade. It’s a nice option for students who want to build a customized learning plan.

National Reach, Local Limits

Kaplan’s wide reach is great for multi-state license seekers, but its Michigan-specific experience is limited compared to some local-focused competitors.

Where Kaplan excels:

Long-standing brand with wide educational offerings and reasonably priced add-ons.

Where Kaplan could use work:

Tech and content feel outdated, and student reviews frequently mention issues with customer support.

5. RealEstateU

RealEstateU is best known for its audio-first format and affordability. It’s ideal for students who prefer to listen and learn while multitasking.

Built for Auditory Learners

Instead of reading, most of the coursework is delivered through audio lectures—perfect for busy students who want to study on the go. You can absorb material while driving, walking, or doing household tasks.

Light on Visuals

The audio-first model may be challenging for visual learners. There’s limited opportunity to review written content or highlight key points for later.

Affordability Advantage

RealEstateU is typically one of the most budget-friendly options. That said, students may need to invest more time reviewing to prepare effectively for the exam.

Where RealEstateU excels:

Great for auditory learners and students on a budget.

Where RealEstateU could use work:

Limited visual materials and note-taking tools make it harder to review and reinforce key concepts.