The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is one of the most challenging entry exams for prospective medical students. It is designed not only to assess a student’s foundational knowledge in the sciences but also to evaluate critical thinking, problem-solving, and reasoning skills. Moreover, the MCAT serves as a predictor of success in medical school, making it a crucial factor in the admissions process. Given its complexity and significance, students face immense pressure to achieve a high score.
To prepare for the MCAT, many students enroll in structured prep courses that provide study materials, practice exams, and expert guidance. These courses are designed to help students master the exam’s rigorous content and develop test-taking strategies. However, choosing the right MCAT prep course is critical, as these programs can be expensive and time-intensive. Selecting a high-quality course increases the likelihood of achieving a strong score and reduces the chances of needing to retake the exam.
Two of the most popular MCAT prep providers are Kaplan and The Princeton Review. Both offer comprehensive programs with study materials, expert instruction, and various course formats. This article compares their study resources, costs, and key advantages to help students determine which program best suits their learning needs.
Key Takeaways
- The MCAT is a crucial exam that assesses scientific knowledge, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
- A high-quality prep course can significantly impact a student’s performance and reduce the likelihood of retaking the exam.
- Kaplan and The Princeton Review are two of the leading MCAT prep providers, offering extensive resources and expert instruction.
- This comparison will help students understand the strengths of each program and make an informed decision on which course to choose.
The Princeton Review Vs. Kaplan MCAT Courses
When choosing an MCAT prep course, two of the most well-known and widely used options are The Princeton Review and Kaplan. Both companies have a long-standing reputation for helping students achieve high scores through structured courses, expert instructors, and extensive study materials. However, each program has its own strengths, pricing, and teaching approach.
Here we’ll break down the key differences between The Princeton Review and Kaplan MCAT courses to help you determine which one best fits your study style, budget, and test-taking needs.
The Princeton Review MCAT
The Princeton Review is a well-respected and long-established educational organization that has been providing test preparation services for over 40 years. It is widely known for helping students succeed in a variety of standardized tests, including the SAT, ACT, LSAT, GMAT, GRE, and MCAT. The company is recognized for its structured, content-driven approach that focuses on improving both conceptual understanding and test-taking strategies.
The Princeton Review’s MCAT courses are designed to provide a comprehensive and systematic study plan for students preparing for one of the most challenging entrance exams in the medical field. The company’s prep courses are taught by expert instructors who have achieved top percentile scores on the MCAT and have undergone extensive training to effectively teach complex concepts.
Course Structure and Study Materials
Comprehensive Curriculum
The Princeton Review MCAT program offers a structured and detailed curriculum that ensures students have a strong grasp of all the subjects tested on the MCAT. The course covers all six major topics found on the exam:
- Biology – Focuses on molecular and cellular biology, genetics, human physiology, and biochemistry.
- General Chemistry – Includes stoichiometry, atomic structure, bonding, chemical kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamics.
- Organic Chemistry – Covers reaction mechanisms, stereochemistry, functional groups, and spectroscopy.
- Physics – Provides in-depth instruction on Newtonian mechanics, electricity, magnetism, waves, sound, and optics.
- Psychology and Sociology – Examines human behavior, cognitive processes, mental disorders, social interactions, and sociocultural factors affecting health.
- Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS) – Focuses on reading comprehension, logical reasoning, identifying arguments, and evaluating perspectives.
The structured study plan ensures that students build a solid foundation in each subject while also developing the critical thinking and reasoning skills required to tackle the exam effectively.
Multiple Course Formats
To accommodate different learning styles and schedules, The Princeton Review offers three main course formats:
- Live Online Classes – Interactive, real-time virtual classes taught by expert instructors. These sessions include live lectures, discussions, and Q&A opportunities.
- In-Person Courses – Available in select locations, these classes provide traditional classroom instruction, structured lesson plans, and direct interactions with instructors.
- Self-Paced Course – Ideal for students who prefer flexibility in their study schedule. This option provides access to on-demand video lessons, allowing students to progress at their own pace.
Each course format is designed to provide in-depth content review, strategic test-taking techniques, and practice opportunities to help students improve their scores.
Extensive Practice Tests and Question Banks
- 16 full-length practice exams that accurately simulate the real MCAT testing environment, including the length, question format, and difficulty level of the actual test.
- Section-specific practice tests that focus on individual subjects to help students strengthen their weaker areas.
- Over 2,500+ practice questions designed to reinforce understanding and improve critical thinking skills.
- Detailed answer explanations for each question, help students understand not just the correct answer, but also why other answer choices are incorrect.
- Adaptive learning technology that tracks performance and customizes study recommendations based on progress.
Access to Expert Tutors and Personalized Support
One of the standout features of The Princeton Review’s MCAT course is the level of support and access to expert instructors.
- Highly Qualified Tutors – All Princeton Review instructors have scored in the 95th percentile or higher on the MCAT and have received extensive training in teaching exam content and strategy.
- One-on-One Tutoring Options – Available for students who require individualized attention and customized study plans to target their weak areas.
- Live Office Hours – Students can attend real-time Q&A sessions with instructors to get their doubts cleared.
Interactive Study Tools and Learning Resources
The Princeton Review provides a variety of interactive and engaging study resources to enhance learning and retention.
- On-Demand Video Lessons – Students have access to a library of recorded video lectures covering every MCAT topic in detail.
- Comprehensive Study Guides – The Princeton Review provides detailed review books that break down complex topics into digestible sections.
- Practice Question Banks – Thousands of additional practice questions organized by subject, allowing students to drill specific areas of weakness.
- Flashcards and Mnemonics – Helpful memorization tools to reinforce key scientific concepts, equations, and definitions.
- Strategy Workshops – Special sessions focused on MCAT-specific test-taking techniques, such as time management, logical reasoning, and question interpretation.
Pros and Cons of The Princeton Review MCAT
Pros
- Extensive Live Instruction – Offers one of the highest numbers of live instruction hours among MCAT prep programs, which is ideal for students who benefit from guided learning.
- Comprehensive Content Coverage – Covers all subjects in great detail, providing a well-rounded preparation strategy.
- Abundant Practice Materials – Includes 16 full-length practice tests and thousands of practice questions, which help reinforce knowledge and improve test-taking endurance.
- Score Improvement Guarantee – Offers a higher score guarantee, ensuring that students can either improve their score or get their money back.
- Personalized Support – Access to highly trained tutors, live office hours, and one-on-one tutoring options to assist students who need additional guidance.
- Realistic Exam Simulation – Full-length practice tests closely mimic the real MCAT format, helping students build familiarity with the test structure and improve stamina.
Cons
- Higher Cost Compared to Some Alternatives – The Princeton Review’s MCAT courses are more expensive than some other test prep options, which may be a barrier for students on a tight budget.
- Content Overload for Some Students – The extensive amount of study materials and practice questions may feel overwhelming for students who prefer a more streamlined approach to studying.
- Pacing Issues in Live Classes – Some students may find the live instruction pacing either too fast or too slow depending on their background knowledge and learning style.
- Limited In-Person Availability – While The Princeton Review does offer in-person classes, they are only available in select locations, making this option inaccessible for some students.
Who Should Choose The Princeton Review MCAT?
- Students who prefer structured, instructor-led learning with a large amount of live instruction hours.
- Those who need detailed content review and strategy-focused test preparation.
- Individuals looking for a higher score guarantee and personalized support options such as one-on-one tutoring.
- Students who want extensive practice materials, including realistic full-length MCAT practice tests and thousands of practice questions.
Kaplan MCAT Review
Kaplan is one of the most well-known and respected test prep providers, with a strong reputation for helping students excel in standardized exams for over 80 years. Their MCAT prep courses are recognized for their comprehensive study resources, expert instruction, and flexible learning options that cater to different student needs. Kaplan’s MCAT courses are structured to provide an in-depth content review, realistic test-taking practice, and strategic exam techniques to maximize students’ performance.
Kaplan’s MCAT instructors are highly experienced professionals who have scored in the 90th percentile or higher on the MCAT and undergo rigorous training to ensure they can effectively teach complex concepts. Kaplan also incorporates advanced learning technologies to help students tailor their study plans and track their progress, making their courses one of the most adaptive and data-driven MCAT prep options available.
Course Structure and Study Materials
Multiple Learning Formats
Kaplan offers several course formats to accommodate different learning preferences and schedules. Students can choose from:
- Live Online Course – Virtual classes with real-time instruction from expert teachers, interactive discussions, and structured lesson plans.
- In-Person Classes – Available in select locations, providing traditional classroom learning with direct instructor interaction.
- Self-Paced Course – A flexible, on-demand program where students progress through video lessons, practice questions, and study materials at their own pace.
- Private Tutoring – One-on-one sessions with an MCAT expert, allowing for a personalized learning experience and customized study plans tailored to specific strengths and weaknesses.
- Bootcamp Option – An intensive, fast-paced study plan designed for students who want to complete their MCAT preparation in a short period with a high level of focus.
These multiple formats allow students to select a learning style that best fits their needs, whether they prefer structured guidance or independent study.
Extensive Study Resources
Kaplan provides one of the most comprehensive collections of study materials available for MCAT preparation. These resources include:
- 7 Kaplan MCAT Prep Books – Covering all sections of the exam with in-depth content review, test-taking strategies, and practice problems.
- 16 Full-Length Practice Tests – Designed to closely replicate the real MCAT experience, including test length, difficulty, and scoring style.
- Over 3,000+ Practice Questions – A large bank of subject-specific and passage-based questions to reinforce learning.
- On-Demand Video Library – Access to 130+ hours of recorded lectures covering high-yield MCAT topics in detail.
- Adaptive Qbank – A smart question bank that adapts to students’ strengths and weaknesses, providing targeted practice and explanations.
- CARS Strategy Training – Focused preparation for Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills (CARS), one of the most challenging sections of the MCAT.
- Kaplan’s MCAT Channel – Provides live and recorded lectures on specific MCAT topics, allowing students to join additional lessons based on their individual needs.
Kaplan’s wide range of resources ensures that students not only build a strong conceptual foundation but also develop the critical thinking and reasoning skills needed for MCAT success.
Expert Faculty and Personalized Study Plans
Kaplan is known for its highly qualified MCAT instructors, all of whom have scored in the top 10% of the MCAT and have received extensive training. The course includes:
- Live, interactive classes with expert instructors.
- Personalized progress tracking to monitor performance and focus on weak areas.
- One-on-one tutoring options for students who need individualized coaching.
- Office hours and extra help sessions where students can ask questions and clarify difficult concepts.
Kaplan’s platform is designed to be adaptive, meaning it adjusts to a student’s progress and suggests customized study plans based on performance in practice tests and quizzes.
Advanced Test-Taking Strategies
Kaplan places a strong emphasis on effective test-taking strategies to help students optimize their scores. These strategies include:
- Time Management Techniques – Training on how to allocate time efficiently across passage-based and discrete questions.
- Process of Elimination Strategies – Techniques for narrowing down answer choices to increase accuracy.
- Pacing Methods – Guidance on how to maintain focus and stamina during the long 7.5-hour MCAT exam.
- CARS Strategy Workshops – Specialized sessions on critical reading and reasoning techniques, which are essential for scoring well on the CARS section.
By combining strong conceptual learning with effective strategy training, Kaplan prepares students not just to understand the material but also to approach the test with confidence and efficiency.
Pros and Cons of Kaplan MCAT
Pros
- Extensive Study Materials – Kaplan offers thousands of practice questions, full-length practice exams, and detailed MCAT prep books, providing one of the most thorough content reviews available.
- Flexible Course Formats – Students can choose from live online, in-person, self-paced, tutoring, or bootcamp options, catering to different learning preferences.
- Highly Structured Study Plans – Ideal for students who prefer step-by-step guidance and organized lesson plans.
- Adaptive Learning Technology – The Qbank and performance tracking tools help students identify weak areas and focus on targeted improvement.
- Strong Emphasis on Strategy – Kaplan’s MCAT prep not only covers content but also trains students on test-taking techniques, time management, and question analysis.
- Free Trial and Resources – Offers a free MCAT practice test and access to sample lessons, allowing students to try out the course before committing.
Cons
- Higher Price Point – Kaplan’s MCAT courses are among the more expensive options, which might not be feasible for students on a tight budget.
- Overwhelming Amount of Material – The sheer volume of resources can feel excessive for students who prefer a more concise and streamlined approach.
- Self-Discipline Required for Self-Paced Course – The self-paced option demands a high level of motivation and time management skills, as there is no fixed schedule or instructor guidance.
- Limited In-Person Class Availability – Like The Princeton Review, Kaplan’s in-person courses are only offered in select cities, limiting accessibility for students who prefer classroom-based learning.
Who Should Choose Kaplan MCAT?
- Students who want comprehensive study materials, including 7 prep books, full-length exams, video lessons, and an adaptive Qbank.
- Those who value structured study plans and benefit from step-by-step learning with clear progress tracking.
- Students who need multiple course format options, including live, self-paced, in-person, and tutoring.
- Individuals looking for strong test-taking strategies and time management training to improve performance on the exam.
- Students who prefer an adaptive learning platform that customizes study recommendations based on individual performance.
Kaplan’s MCAT prep courses offer a balance of high-quality content review, extensive practice materials, and strategic test-taking training, making it a great option for students seeking a structured and data-driven approach to their MCAT preparation.
Pricing and Value for Money
Both Kaplan and The Princeton Review offer premium MCAT prep courses, but their pricing structures and features vary. While both companies provide a comprehensive curriculum and study resources, understanding what each offers for the price is crucial in determining the best value for students. Below is a breakdown of the costs and what students receive for their investment:
| Feature | The Princeton Review MCAT | Kaplan MCAT |
|---|---|---|
| Self-Paced Course | ~$1,599 | ~$1,799 |
| Live Online Course | ~$2,499 | ~$2,499 |
| In-Person Course | ~$2,799 | ~$2,999 |
| Private Tutoring | Starts at ~$3,499 | Starts at ~$3,699 |
| Number of Practice Tests | 16 full-length | 17 full-length |
| Score Improvement Guarantee | Yes | Yes |
| Access to Study Materials | 12 months | 12 months |
Course Pricing and Inclusions
Self-Paced Courses
- Kaplan’s self-paced course is slightly more expensive, but it includes more structured study schedules and adaptive learning technology.
- The Princeton Review’s self-paced option is more budget-friendly and offers solid foundational learning materials, but lacks some of Kaplan’s advanced analytics and customization options.
Live Online and In-Person Courses
- Both companies offer live online and in-person courses at similar price points.
- The Princeton Review stands out by providing more live instruction hours, while Kaplan integrates more advanced digital resources, such as AI-driven performance tracking.
Private Tutoring
- Private tutoring from both companies is expensive, but Kaplan’s sessions tend to include a wider range of scheduling options.
- The Princeton Review’s tutoring program, however, often offers more in-depth study plans tailored to each student’s weak points.
Practice Exams and Study Resources
- Kaplan provides 17 full-length practice exams, one more than The Princeton Review. However, both programs simulate the actual MCAT testing conditions effectively.
- Kaplan’s question banks tend to be more extensive, while The Princeton Review offers more live teaching hours to supplement its resources.
Score Improvement Guarantee
Both companies offer a score improvement guarantee, ensuring that students can either retake the course for free or receive a refund if they do not achieve a higher score. However, students should carefully read the terms, as eligibility for the guarantee requires completing a minimum number of assignments, practice exams, and study hours.
Which Course Offers Better Value?
While both courses are on the pricier side, Kaplan justifies its cost with a vast range of materials, extensive practice resources, and flexible learning options. Students who prefer self-study with strong analytics and AI-driven learning tools may find Kaplan’s courses a better investment.
On the other hand, The Princeton Review may appeal to students looking for more live instruction and hands-on guidance, as it offers more interactive class time and structured lessons. Additionally, students who prefer working directly with instructors may find The Princeton Review’s tutoring programs more beneficial.
Ultimately, the best value depends on the student’s learning style. If independent study with structured resources and adaptive learning tools is preferred, Kaplan is the better option. If a student needs more instructor-led guidance and live interactions, The Princeton Review may be a better fit.
Which Course Should You Choose?
Selecting the right MCAT prep course depends on your learning style, study preferences, and budget. Both The Princeton Review and Kaplan offer high-quality MCAT preparation, but they cater to different types of students. Below is a more detailed breakdown of which course may be better suited for you.
The Princeton Review MCAT is Ideal For:
- Students who prefer structured learning with live instruction: The Princeton Review provides a highly structured curriculum with live online or in-person instruction, making it ideal for students who thrive in a traditional classroom setting. Their courses offer scheduled classes, guided study plans, and direct interaction with expert instructors.
- Those looking for a high number of practice tests and score improvement guarantees: One of The Princeton Review’s standout features is its MCAT 513+ Guarantee. This means that students who complete the required coursework and do not achieve a score of at least 513 can be eligible for a full refund or free course retake. Additionally, their prep packages include 16 full-length practice tests, more than most competitors provide.
- Students who benefit from a more guided, intensive study experience: With small class sizes, targeted instruction, and a structured approach, The Princeton Review ensures that students stay on track with their studies. The program is particularly beneficial for students who need extra motivation and accountability to complete their coursework effectively.
Kaplan MCAT is Ideal For:
- Students who want a more flexible learning experience with both self-paced and live options: Kaplan offers a variety of formats, including on-demand, live online, and in-person courses, making it a great choice for students who need the flexibility to study at their own pace. The self-paced program is perfect for independent learners, while the live sessions provide an interactive classroom experience.
- Those who appreciate having access to a vast amount of study resources and practice questions: Kaplan’s MCAT prep includes over 10,000+ practice questions, 17 full-length practice tests, and 7 MCAT prep books, ensuring that students have ample material to master the content. Their extensive Qbank allows students to create custom quizzes for targeted practice, a key advantage for self-studiers.
- Students who want to try out free materials before committing to a paid course: Kaplan provides free MCAT resources, including a free full-length practice test, sample classes, and practice questions. This is beneficial for students who want to get a feel for the course before making a financial commitment. Additionally, Kaplan offers a trial period for their paid courses, allowing students to test the platform before fully enrolling.
The Takeaway
Both The Princeton Review and Kaplan provide top-tier MCAT prep programs, but your choice should depend on your learning preferences. If you require structured, live instruction and a score guarantee, The Princeton Review may be the best option for you. However, if you prefer flexibility, a vast amount of resources, and the ability to test materials before enrolling, Kaplan could be the better choice.
Ultimately, the best course is the one that aligns with your study style and helps you feel confident and prepared on test day.
Final Verdict: Kaplan Wins
Both Kaplan and The Princeton Review offer strong MCAT prep programs, but Kaplan stands out due to its extensive study materials, flexible course options, and expert instruction. With thousands of practice questions, adaptive learning technology, and instructors who have scored in the 90th percentile or higher, Kaplan provides a highly effective prep experience.
Kaplan’s personalized study plans, live and on-demand classes, and trial sessions make it a more adaptable option for different learning styles. While The Princeton Review offers a structured and intensive approach, Kaplan’s superior flexibility and depth of resources make it the best choice for students serious about maximizing their MCAT scores.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the MCAT, and why is it important?
The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is a standardized exam required for admission into most medical schools in the U.S. and Canada. It assesses knowledge in biological and physical sciences, psychology, sociology, and critical thinking. A strong MCAT score can significantly enhance a candidate’s chances of gaining admission to top medical schools.
2. Kaplan vs. Princeton Review: Which MCAT prep course is better?
The choice between Kaplan and Princeton Review depends on your learning style and priorities:
- Kaplan: Best for students who prefer structured study plans, advanced test analytics, and a vast library of practice materials. Kaplan offers 16 full-length tests, adaptive learning technology, and comprehensive course formats.
- The Princeton Review: Ideal for those who want smaller class sizes, intensive test-taking strategies, and personal coaching. The Princeton Review offers 11 full-length tests and is known for its rigorous content review.
3. Which prep course offers better practice tests: Kaplan or Princeton Review?
When comparing Kaplan vs. Princeton Review, Kaplan provides more full-length MCAT practice tests (16 vs. 11), along with detailed performance tracking and advanced analytics. The Princeton Review, however, focuses on providing an experience that closely mimics the actual MCAT, making it a strong alternative for students who need realistic exam simulation.
4. Does Kaplan or Princeton Review offer more personalized support?
- The Princeton Review is better for students looking for small class sizes and private tutoring. Their courses emphasize personalized coaching and structured learning.
- Kaplan also offers one-on-one tutoring but at a higher cost. Their program is more structured, making it a great choice for independent learners who benefit from self-paced study options.
5. Kaplan vs. Princeton Review: Which one is more affordable?
- Kaplan’s MCAT prep courses tend to be more expensive, but they offer a wealth of study materials, advanced analytics, and higher-quality practice questions.
- The Princeton Review is typically more budget-friendly and includes a money-back score guarantee, making it an appealing option for students looking for high value at a lower cost.
6. Are there free trial options for Kaplan and The Princeton Review?
- Kaplan provides a free trial session and access to sample MCAT materials before purchasing a course.
- The Princeton Review offers a money-back guarantee if your score doesn’t improve, making it a risk-free option for students unsure about their choice.
7. Should I choose Kaplan or The Princeton Review for MCAT prep?
Choose The Princeton Review if you prefer small class sizes, intensive coaching, and a budget-friendly option with a score guarantee.
Choose Kaplan if you want a larger practice test bank, structured learning, and adaptive study tools.
Conclusion
When it comes to preparing for the MCAT, both The Princeton Review and Kaplan offer excellent study programs designed to help students maximize their scores. The Princeton Review provides a well-rounded curriculum with structured guidance, making it a great choice for students who need comprehensive instruction. However, Kaplan stands out due to its depth of study materials, expert instructors, and flexibility in course offerings. While it comes at a higher price point, the investment in Kaplan’s MCAT prep program is justified by the quality of resources and support available. Ultimately, choosing the right prep course depends on individual learning preferences, budget, and study needs. Whichever program students select, the key to success lies in dedication, effective study habits, and making the most of the available resources.