Prepping for the MCAT exam can feel totally overwhelming. With so many prep companies touting their courses as the holy grail for med school admission, how do you even start to compare your options? Well, take a deep breath and relax!
In this article, we’re breaking down the top courses side-by-side so you can make a confident choice tailored to your learning needs and budget.
We compared heavy hitters like Kaplan and Princeton Review against up-and-comers like Blueprint and Altius across key factors like practice tests, study materials, instructors, and proven score increases.
Whether you prefer tackling test prep solo with self-paced options or learning in a traditional classroom, we’ll help uncover the right match to master MCAT sciences and ace exam day. Read on for the inside scoop so you can gain an extra edge on this critical pre-med milestone!
The Importance of MCAT Prep Courses
Acing the MCAT is no easy feat, with medical school hopefuls spending months immersed in books and flashcards. But going the prep course route can provide structure, guidance, and the competitive edge needed to tackle this critical exam. MCAT courses equip students with expert-designed study plans, comprehensive content reviews, and tons of practice questions to hone skills.
Whether one prefers live or online instruction, group or solo learning, the top courses break the MCAT down into manageable chunks. They also teach effective test-taking strategies tailored for each MCAT section. With so much on the line, prep courses give students the confidence needed to conquer this beast of a test. Investing in prep maximizes one’s chances of getting into medical school and realizing their dreams of becoming a doctor.
14+ Best MCAT Prep Courses 2024
| Name of the course | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Kaplan MCAT Prep Course | $1,999 |
| Blueprint MCAT | $1,499 |
| Princeton Review MCAT Prep | $1,399 |
| Magoosh MCAT Prep | $299 |
| Wize MCAT Prep | $1,999 |
| Altius Test Prep | $1,490 |
| MCAT Self Prep | $1,999 |
| UWorld MCAT Prep | $299 |
| AAMC MCAT Official Prep | $294 |
| Ace Test Prep | ~ $10.80 |
| Cambridge Coaching MCAT Prep | $315 |
| Gold Standard MCAT Prep | $50 |
| Next Step Test Prep | $299 |
| MCAT Prep by Test-Guide | $132.09 |
| Khan Academy | N/A |
1. Kaplan MCAT Prep Course
Kaplan is a renowned provider of MCAT prep courses, offering a comprehensive curriculum that covers all subjects tested on the MCAT. Key features include over 3,000 practice questions, 17 full-length practice exams, detailed score reports, and video lessons. The course is available in different formats, including on-demand, live online, and in-person, catering to various learning styles.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive curriculum Some find sample questions low quality Variety of course formats | Can be expensive |
2. Blueprint MCAT
Blueprint MCAT offers a personalized approach to MCAT prep, with a platform that adjusts the course content based on your strengths and weaknesses. Key features include AI-customized practice questions, instructor-led live review sessions 6 days/week, and 10 full-length exams.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Personalized learning Instructor-led live review sessions AI-customized practice questions | Can be expensive |
3. Princeton Review MCAT Prep
The Princeton Review goes beyond basic prep, offering expert-led workshops, personalized analytics to track progress, and a thriving online community for peer support and motivation. Plus, their 515+ score guarantee gives you peace of mind, ensuring you reach your target score or get your money back. Invest in your future, invest in Princeton Review’s MCAT prep.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Adaptive learning tech 15+ full-length practice exams Customized study plans | Expensive course pricing Limited live instruction |
4. Magoosh MCAT Prep
Magoosh’s flexible format lets you learn at your own pace, with mobile apps for on-the-go studying and a dedicated support team to answer questions. Their data-driven approach identifies your strengths and weaknesses, providing targeted practice to maximize your score improvement. Conquer the MCAT without breaking the bank, choose Magoosh.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable pricing Concise video lessons Thousands of practice questions | Less structure for some Limited live instructor support |
5. Wize MCAT Prep
Wize MCAT Prep keeps it lean and mean, delivering high-yield content in bite-sized lessons without sacrificing thoroughness. Master key concepts with their expert-crafted question bank, then put your knowledge to the test with 3 full-length practice exams. Ace the MCAT without the fluff; Wize optimizes your time and budget for maximum score impact.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable pricing Concise video lessons Detailed explanations | Limited instructor support |
6. Altius Test Prep
Experience the unparalleled power of live, online classes, where expert instructors guide you in real-time, answer your questions, and keep you engaged. Sharpen your sword with 15 full-length practice exams, strategically spaced to optimize your progress and build exam stamina. Forge your personal study path with a laser-focused plan, crafted just for you to conquer your weaknesses and maximize your strengths. Altius is an investment in excellence, an investment in your future as a doctor.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 15 full-length practice exams Live, online instruction Personalized study plans | Mixed reviews on instructors |
7. MCAT Self Prep
MCAT Self Prep offers a free comprehensive online prep course, as well as paid subscription plans that provide additional features. The free course includes over 300 hours of video lessons across 10 content modules covering all MCAT subjects. Paid plans such as the Deluxe Pro ($999) add mastery courses on memorization strategies, personalized study planning tools, and science passage analysis. MCAT Self Prep aims to provide customized and flexible MCAT preparation.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free comprehensive course Paid plans add value Flexible and self-paced | Requires self-motivation |
8. UWorld MCAT Prep
UWorld MCAT Prep carves your path to medical school success with a powerful arsenal of study materials and laser-focused performance tracking. Dive deep into a QBank overflowing with high-yield practice questions, each accompanied by in-depth explanations that illuminate concepts like never before. Hone your test-taking instincts with full-length practice exams, analyzing your strengths and weaknesses with granular performance data.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive study materials Detailed explanations Performance tracking | Limited live instruction |
9. AAMC MCAT Official Prep
AAMC prep grants you the ultimate insider advantage, offering practice materials crafted by the very minds behind the MCAT itself. Gain unparalleled accuracy and insight into the exam format, content, and question styles. Build confidence and refine your skills the official way, with AAMC MCAT prep.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Official practice exams Detailed explanations À la carte pricing adds up Content aligned with real MCAT | No comprehensive course |
10. Ace Test Prep
Ace Test Prep puts the power of MCAT prep within reach, offering bite-sized video lessons, targeted practice tests, and customizable study plans for a fraction of the cost. Master key concepts efficiently, test your knowledge with precision, and conquer the MCAT without breaking the bank. Choose Ace and ace your future in medicine.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable pricing Convenient online access Study planning guidance | Limited practice exams |
11. Cambridge Coaching MCAT Prep
Cambridge Coaching offers a tailored approach to MCAT preparation, featuring strategy and content review from top tutors at leading medical institutions. Their program includes high-yield content areas, instructional videos, and a practice test schedule. Pricing is tiered, starting at $9,072 for 36 one-on-one tutoring sessions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Tailored approach Top tutors High-yield content focus | High pricing Limited self-study resources |
12. Gold Standard MCAT Prep
Gold Standard goes beyond a one-size-fits-all approach, offering a customizable smorgasbord of materials to fit your learning style and budget. Dive deep with comprehensive textbooks, sharpen your skills with targeted practice tests, and gain clarity through engaging video lessons. Craft your perfect prep pathway and conquer the MCAT with confidence, powered by Gold Standard.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive study materials Practice tests included Video lessons available | Mixed reviews on content. |
13. Next Step Test Prep
Next Step Prep takes the guesswork out of MCAT prep, offering a strategic roadmap to success. Master key concepts through engaging video lessons, fine-tune your timing with a whopping 15 full-length practice exams, conquer your weaknesses through section-specific drills, and gain priceless insights with their score prediction assessments. Optimize your study, maximize your score, and ace the MCAT with Next Step Prep’s data-driven approach.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 15 full-length practice exams Video lessons Section-specific practice | Expensive course pricing |
14. MCAT Prep by Test-Guide
Test-Guide unlocks the door to MCAT success with an affordable, accessible, and comprehensive prep arsenal. Dive deep into engaging video lessons, put your knowledge to the test with full-length exams and thousands of practice questions, all conveniently accessible from any device. No matter your learning style or budget, Test-Guide empowers you to master the material, refine your strategies, and confidently stride towards your target score.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable pricing Accessible from any device Thousands of practice questions | Less structure than other courses |
15. Khan Academy
Khan Academy’s MCAT prep is your free passport to medical school dreams. Dive into over 1,000 expert-led videos, sharpen your skills with practice questions galore, and conquer exam anxiety with full-length practice tests all for the price of zero. Khan Academy’s grant-funded generosity empowers you to level the playing field, master the material, and achieve your score goals without breaking the bank. So, unlock the power of free, high-quality MCAT prep and embark on your medical journey with confidence.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Completely free 1,000+ video lessons Full practice tests | No live instruction Limited practice exams |
How to Choose the right MCAT Prep Course?
With countless MCAT prep options available, selecting the right course is crucial yet challenging. The ideal course provides materials aligned with the actual exam, instructors intimately familiar with the MCAT, flexible access to content, and ample practice questions and full-length exams. Consider your personal learning style and schedule availability first. Students preferring self-guided prep may opt for on-demand courses with pre-recorded lessons, while those desiring interaction can choose small group or private tutoring.
Examine the instructor qualifications, companies specializing in the MCAT often offer more tailored guidance. Compare content libraries across MCAT subjects, video lectures, practice questions, and full length exams when evaluating prep courses. Investing the time to research and select the optimal course boosts your chance of achieving your target MCAT score. Take advantage of free consultations to discuss your goals and determine the best course investment for your needs. Choosing the right MCAT prep empowers your medical school aspirations.
FAQs on MCAT Prep Courses
What is the best MCAT prep course for self-study?
Some of the top self-study MCAT prep courses based on reviews include Magoosh, Princeton Review, and Kaplan. These provide on-demand lessons and practice questions.
Which MCAT prep course offers the most full-length practice exams?
Altius Test Prep and Princeton Review offer 15+ full-length practice exams in their MCAT prep courses. Kaplan also provides 17 full-length exams.
How much do MCAT prep courses cost on average?
MCAT prep courses range widely in cost, but on average students pay between $1,000-$2,000 for comprehensive in-person or live online courses. Self-paced courses tend to cost $300-$700 on average.
When should I start an MCAT prep course?
Experts recommend starting an MCAT prep course at least 3-6 months before your test date. This provides enough time to get through all the material and practice.
What makes the AAMC prep products different?
The AAMC offers the only official MCAT prep products straight from the test makers. This includes practice exams, question banks, and study guides aligned directly with the real exam.
Wrapping Up on MCAT Prep Courses
Preparing for the MCAT exam is a challenging yet crucial step on the path to medical school. Finding the right prep course can provide the structure, content mastery, and test-taking strategies needed to conquer this beast of a test. After reviewing over a dozen highly-rated courses, it’s clear there are quality options available for every budget and learning style.
Whether you desire expert instruction, comprehensive materials, or maximum practice, investing in prep maximizes your chances of realizing your medical dreams. Remember that no two students are alike.
Carefully examine your needs and preferred methods before committing. If possible, leverage free trials to experience different courses first-hand. With smart prep decisions, you’ll gain the confidence and skills to master the MCAT. We wish you the very best as you continue on your pre-med journey and get ready to ace this “rite of passage” exam!
