Are you preparing to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) and wondering which prep course is the best fit for you? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to choose. Two of the most popular MCAT prep courses are Kaplan and Princeton Review. In this article, we'll compare and contrast these two industry leaders to help you make an informed decision.
Preparing for the MCAT is a significant undertaking, requiring a substantial investment of time, money, and effort. With the average medical school debt ranging from $150,000 to over $250,000, it's essential to get it right the first time. A high-quality prep course can make all the difference in achieving a competitive score.
What to Expect from Kaplan MCAT Prep
Kaplan is a well-established test prep company with over 80 years of experience. Their MCAT prep course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive review of the material, as well as strategies for tackling the exam.
Here are some key features of Kaplan's MCAT prep course:
- Personalized study plan: Kaplan's course includes a personalized study plan tailored to your strengths, weaknesses, and learning style.
- Comprehensive material review: The course covers all sections of the MCAT, including biology, chemistry, physics, and critical analysis and reasoning skills.
- Practice questions and exams: Kaplan provides access to a vast library of practice questions and full-length exams to help you assess your knowledge and identify areas for improvement.
- Live instruction: Kaplan offers live instruction from experienced teachers, either in-person or online.
- Support system: Kaplan's course includes a support system, including email and phone support, to help you stay on track and address any questions or concerns.
Kaplan MCAT Prep Pricing
Kaplan's MCAT prep course pricing varies depending on the package you choose. Here are some approximate prices:
- Kaplan MCAT Self-Paced: $1,999 - $2,499
- Kaplan MCAT Live Online: $2,499 - $3,499
- Kaplan MCAT In-Person: $3,499 - $4,499
What to Expect from Princeton Review MCAT Prep
Princeton Review is another well-established test prep company with over 35 years of experience. Their MCAT prep course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive review of the material, as well as strategies for tackling the exam.
Here are some key features of Princeton Review's MCAT prep course:
- Comprehensive material review: The course covers all sections of the MCAT, including biology, chemistry, physics, and critical analysis and reasoning skills.
- Practice questions and exams: Princeton Review provides access to a vast library of practice questions and full-length exams to help you assess your knowledge and identify areas for improvement.
- Live instruction: Princeton Review offers live instruction from experienced teachers, either in-person or online.
- Support system: Princeton Review's course includes a support system, including email and phone support, to help you stay on track and address any questions or concerns.
- Free prep resources: Princeton Review offers free prep resources, including a free online prep course and a free practice exam.
Princeton Review MCAT Prep Pricing
Princeton Review's MCAT prep course pricing varies depending on the package you choose. Here are some approximate prices:
- Princeton Review MCAT Self-Paced: $1,699 - $2,299
- Princeton Review MCAT Live Online: $2,299 - $3,299
- Princeton Review MCAT In-Person: $3,299 - $4,299
Comparison of Kaplan and Princeton Review MCAT Prep
Both Kaplan and Princeton Review offer comprehensive MCAT prep courses with similar features. However, there are some key differences to consider:
- Personalization: Kaplan's course includes a personalized study plan, while Princeton Review's course does not.
- Pricing: Princeton Review's course is generally more affordable than Kaplan's course.
- Free resources: Princeton Review offers more free prep resources than Kaplan.
Which MCAT Prep Course is Best for You?
Ultimately, the best MCAT prep course for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a personalized study plan and are willing to invest in a more comprehensive course, Kaplan may be the better choice. If you're on a budget and want access to a wide range of free prep resources, Princeton Review may be the better choice.
Additional Tips for MCAT Prep Success
Regardless of which prep course you choose, here are some additional tips for MCAT prep success:
- Start early: Give yourself plenty of time to prepare for the exam.
- Create a study schedule: Develop a study schedule and stick to it.
- Practice consistently: Practice consistently, using a variety of study materials.
- Seek support: Seek support from teachers, mentors, or classmates.
Conclusion
Preparing for the MCAT is a significant undertaking, but with the right prep course, you can achieve a competitive score and increase your chances of getting into medical school. Kaplan and Princeton Review are two of the most popular MCAT prep courses available, offering comprehensive review materials, practice questions, and live instruction. By considering your individual needs and preferences, you can choose the best prep course for you and achieve MCAT prep success.
What is the best MCAT prep course?
+The best MCAT prep course depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as course content, instruction style, and price when making your decision.
How long does it take to prepare for the MCAT?
+The amount of time it takes to prepare for the MCAT varies depending on your starting level and goals. Typically, students spend 3-6 months preparing for the exam.
What is the average score on the MCAT?
+The average score on the MCAT is around 500, with a range of 472-528.