Introduction
Are you considering Online Trading Academy (OTA) for your trading education? This Online Trading Academy review will provide you with the information you need. Founded in 1997, OTA has grown into a well-known institution offering trading and investing courses across various markets, including stocks, options, futures, and forex. While many students praise its structured approach, others raise concerns about high course costs and past legal issues.
In this Online Trading Academy Review, we’ll explore its course offerings, pricing, pros & cons, and whether it’s a worthwhile investment.
What is Online Trading Academy (OTA)?
Online Trading Academy provides structured trading education designed to help students develop market timing and risk management skills. The academy offers in-person and online courses for traders at different experience levels.
Some key features include:
✔ Core Strategy Course – Teaches OTA’s proprietary market timing strategy to identify low-risk, high-potential trade opportunities.
✔ Advanced Courses – Specialized training in options, forex, futures, and wealth management.
✔ Extended Learning Track (XLT) – Live mentoring sessions where students apply concepts in real-time market conditions.
✔ Professional-Level Trading Techniques – Includes supply & demand trading strategies, portfolio management, and technical analysis.
Course Offerings & Structure
1. Core Strategy Course (Beginner Level)
This is OTA’s flagship course, designed to teach:
- How to identify low-risk, high-reward trades.
- Understanding price action and market psychology.
- Trade execution techniques for stocks, forex, and futures.
2. Specialized Courses (Intermediate & Advanced Level)
OTA offers specialized training in various asset classes:
- Options Trading – Learn how to leverage options in different market conditions.
- Futures Trading – Understand market trends and risk management for futures.
- Forex Trading – Master currency market fluctuations and trade execution.
- Wealth Management – Focuses on portfolio diversification, passive income, and long-term investing.
3. Extended Learning Track (XLT) – Live Trading & Mentorship
The XLT program allows students to trade live with OTA instructors. Benefits include:
✔ Real-time market analysis.
✔ Trade breakdowns and feedback.
✔ Hands-on experience in a simulated environment.
Many students find XLT valuable because it provides practical market experience beyond theory.
Pricing – How Much Does OTA Cost?
OTA’s courses are expensive, making affordability a major concern for many traders. Estimated costs include:
💰 Core Strategy Course: ~$6,000
💰 Specialized Courses (Options, Forex, Futures): $8,000 – $11,000 per course
💰 Mastermind Program (Full Access): $20,000 – $25,000
For those serious about trading, the courses provide structured learning and mentorship, but the high cost may be prohibitive for some.
Student Feedback & Reviews
OTA claims a 4.72/5 average rating from 220,000+ student reviews. Many traders appreciate:
✔ Quality instruction and well-structured courses.
✔ Live mentorship and interactive learning.
✔ Strong emphasis on market timing strategies.
Student Testimonials:
📌 “This program can truly change a person’s life… Everyone here cares about their students.” – Glen I. (Irvine, CA)
📌 “The XLT sessions were invaluable for seeing live trading in action.” – Arthur B. (Irvine, CA)
However, not all reviews are positive. Some students express concerns over high fees and overpromising results.
Regulatory Issues & FTC Lawsuit
One major controversy surrounding OTA occurred in 2020, when the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) filed a lawsuit against the company.
🔴 The FTC accused OTA of deceptive marketing practices, claiming that the company misled students with unrealistic earnings expectations.
🔴 As part of a settlement, OTA agreed to:
✔ Offer refunds and debt forgiveness to affected students.
✔ Pay $10+ million in reparations.
Despite this, OTA continues to operate, and many traders still find value in its programs. However, potential students should be aware of this history before enrolling.
Pros and Cons of Online Trading Academy
✅ Pros
- ✔ High-quality trading education – Structured courses from beginner to advanced levels.
- ✔ Live trading & mentorship (XLT Program) – Real-time guidance from professional traders.
- ✔ Covers multiple markets – Stocks, forex, options, and futures.
- ✔ Strong emphasis on risk management – Helps traders develop a disciplined approach.
❌ Cons
- ✖ Very expensive courses – High tuition costs may not be affordable for all traders.
- ✖ FTC lawsuit & past legal issues – Raises concerns about business practices.
- ✖ Not a quick-profit program – Requires time and commitment to see results.
Who Should Join OTA?
✅ Good fit for:
- ✔ Traders who want structured training and live mentorship.
- ✔ Individuals willing to invest heavily in their trading education.
- ✔ Those interested in long-term wealth management and risk control.
❌ Not ideal for:
- ✖ Traders looking for cheap or free educational resources.
- ✖ Those expecting quick profits or guaranteed earnings.
- ✖ Absolute beginners who prefer a less expensive learning path.
Final Verdict – Is Online Trading Academy Worth It?
⭐ Overall Rating: 4.2/5
✅ YES, if you want structured trading education from professionals.
OTA’s courses provide comprehensive trading strategies, live mentorship, and professional guidance. The XLT program is especially valuable for traders who need real-time market experience.
❌ NO, if you are on a tight budget or looking for a quick trading strategy.
The high costs and past legal controversies are concerns that potential students should carefully consider before enrolling.
📌 Final Thoughts:
If you are serious about trading and have the budget, OTA offers a well-structured, professional trading education. However, be mindful of the costs and do thorough research before committing.
🔗 Visit Online Trading Academy for more details.
