Princeton Review vs Kaplan Mcat: Which Prep Course Wins?
Staring down the MCAT can feel like facing a mountain. Choosing the right prep course is the first critical step toward conquering it. Two of the most popular options, Princeton Review and Kaplan, promise to equip you with the knowledge and strategies needed to succeed.
But which one is the better choice? This comparison dives deep into the offerings of both Princeton Review and Kaplan, breaking down their strengths and weaknesses. We’ll explore their course structures, content quality, practice materials, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a science whiz or a humanities enthusiast, understanding the nuances of Princeton Review and Kaplan is essential. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which MCAT prep course aligns best with your learning style and goals, paving the way for your medical school dreams.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Princeton Review | Kaplan MCAT |
|---|---|---|
| Course Format | Live Online, Self-Paced, In-Person | Live Online, Self-Paced, In-Person |
| Practice Tests | 16+ | 7 Full-Length |
| Practice Questions | 5000+ | 5000+ |
| Video Lessons | Yes | Yes |
| Qbank | Yes | Yes |
| Books | Yes, Comprehensive Set | Yes, Comprehensive Set |
| Personalized Study Plan | Yes | Yes |
| Score Guarantee | Yes (with certain packages) | Yes (with certain packages) |
| Tutoring | Yes, Private Tutoring Available | Yes, Private Tutoring Available |
| CARs Focus | Strong | Strong |
| Science Focus | Strong | Strong |
| Mobile App | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Course Structure & Content
- Princeton Review: Princeton Review offers a structured curriculum with a focus on strategy and test-taking techniques. Their materials are generally well-organized and cover all MCAT sections. Some students find their content explanations less in-depth compared to Kaplan.
- Kaplan Mcat: Kaplan provides a comprehensive and detailed curriculum with extensive practice materials. Their courses often include a large number of practice questions and full-length exams. The sheer volume of material can feel overwhelming for some students.
- Winner: Kaplan
Practice Tests & Simulations
- Princeton Review: Princeton Review provides full-length practice tests designed to mimic the MCAT. They offer adaptive testing to simulate the real exam experience. Some users report that their practice tests are slightly less representative of the real MCAT than Kaplan’s.
- Kaplan Mcat: Kaplan is known for its robust practice test offerings, including a high number of full-length exams and detailed score reports. Their simulations are considered very accurate and helpful for exam preparation.
- Winner: Kaplan
Instructor Quality & Support
- Princeton Review: Princeton Review instructors are generally experienced and provide valuable test-taking strategies. The quality of instructors can vary depending on location. They offer tutoring and other support options.
- Kaplan Mcat: Kaplan instructors are usually experienced and well-versed in the MCAT content. They offer robust support systems, including office hours and online resources. Some students have reported inconsistent instructor quality.
- Winner: Kaplan
Study Materials & Resources
- Princeton Review: Princeton Review provides a comprehensive set of study books and online resources, including video lectures and practice questions. Their materials are designed to be accessible and easy to understand.
- Kaplan Mcat: Kaplan offers a vast library of study materials, including detailed textbooks, online video lectures, and a large question bank. Their resources are known for their depth and thoroughness.
- Winner: Kaplan
Cost & Value
- Princeton Review: Princeton Review courses are often priced competitively, offering a good balance of features and affordability. They provide various course options to suit different budgets.
- Kaplan Mcat: Kaplan courses tend to be priced higher than Princeton Review, reflecting the extensive resources and comprehensive curriculum. They offer various packages with different price points.
- Winner: Princeton Review
Test-Taking Strategies
- Princeton Review: Princeton Review emphasizes test-taking strategies and techniques to help students improve their scores. They focus on how to approach the exam and manage time effectively.
- Kaplan Mcat: Kaplan also provides test-taking strategies but may place more emphasis on content mastery. Their focus is on building a strong foundation of knowledge and applying it to the exam.
- Winner: Princeton Review
Technology & Platform
- Princeton Review: Princeton Review offers an online platform with video lectures, practice questions, and progress tracking. The platform is generally user-friendly and accessible.
- Kaplan Mcat: Kaplan has a robust online platform with a wide range of resources, including video lectures, practice questions, and score reports. The platform is comprehensive but can sometimes feel overwhelming.
- Winner: Kaplan
Guarantees & Flexibility
- Princeton Review: Princeton Review offers score guarantees and flexible course options. They provide options for retaking the course if needed.
- Kaplan Mcat: Kaplan also offers score guarantees and flexible course options, including self-paced and live online courses. Their policies are generally customer-friendly.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Practice Tests | Princeton Review |
| Content Coverage | Tie |
| Test-Taking Strategies | Princeton Review |
| Online Platform | Tie |
| Overall Value | Tie |
What They Have in Common:
- Comprehensive Content: Both Princeton Review and Kaplan MCAT offer comprehensive content covering all sections of the MCAT exam, ensuring students are well-prepared for the test. They both provide detailed explanations and cover a wide range of topics.
- Practice Tests: Both providers include a significant number of full-length practice tests to simulate the actual MCAT exam environment. This allows students to familiarize themselves with the test format and time constraints.
- Online Resources: Both offer robust online platforms with video lessons, practice questions, and personalized study plans. These digital resources are designed to enhance learning and provide flexibility for students.
- Expert Instructors: Both services employ experienced instructors who are knowledgeable about the MCAT exam and effective in teaching the material. They provide support and guidance to students throughout the course.
- Study Materials: Both offer a comprehensive set of study materials, including textbooks, workbooks, and other resources. These materials are designed to supplement the online content and provide students with a variety of learning tools.
Princeton Review Vs Kaplan Mcat Buying Guide
Course Content and Structure
Both Princeton Review and Kaplan offer comprehensive MCAT prep courses, but their approaches differ. Princeton Review often emphasizes a more strategic, test-taking-focused approach, incorporating techniques like their “Smarty” system. Their content is well-organized and includes detailed explanations, practice problems, and full-length practice tests. Kaplan, on the other hand, provides a broader, more in-depth content review, covering a wider range of topics in greater detail. Kaplan’s courses also include a significant amount of practice material. The choice between the two often depends on individual learning preferences and strengths.
Teaching Methodology and Instructor Quality
The teaching methodologies of Princeton Review and Kaplan vary based on the course format. Princeton Review tends to have experienced instructors that are trained in test-taking strategies. Their classes can be dynamic and engaging, designed to help students maximize their scores. Kaplan also boasts experienced instructors, and their teaching often includes a strong focus on content mastery. The instructor’s quality can be highly variable depending on location and individual instructor experience, so it is important to research instructors beforehand.
Practice Tests and Question Banks
Both providers offer a wealth of practice tests and question banks to prepare students for the MCAT. Princeton Review provides a good number of full-length practice tests and offers detailed score reports to help students identify their weaknesses. Kaplan also offers numerous practice tests, including the official AAMC practice exams, as well as extensive question banks with detailed explanations. Kaplan’s question banks are often considered to be more similar to the actual MCAT questions. Both companies provide a robust set of practice resources.
Course Formats and Delivery Options
Both Princeton Review and Kaplan offer a variety of course formats, including live online, in-person, and self-paced options. Princeton Review often offers more flexibility in its online offerings. Kaplan provides different course formats to cater to diverse learning styles and schedules. Self-paced courses offer maximum flexibility, while live courses provide a more structured learning environment with direct interaction with instructors. The availability of in-person classes may vary depending on location. Each has pros and cons.
Pricing and Value for Money
The pricing for MCAT prep courses from both Princeton Review and Kaplan can vary significantly depending on the course format, duration, and included resources. Both companies offer a range of packages, from basic self-paced courses to comprehensive packages with extensive tutoring. When evaluating value for money, it’s essential to consider the included resources, the quality of instruction, and the access period. It’s recommended to compare the specific features offered by each provider to determine which one aligns best with your needs and budget.
Support and Resources
Both Princeton Review and Kaplan provide students with various support resources, including online forums, tutoring services, and access to their customer support teams. Princeton Review offers additional resources like personalized score reports and office hours with instructors. Kaplan also provides access to student support services, including tutoring, and offers detailed answer explanations. The availability and quality of support can be essential for students who need extra help or have questions about the material.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Princeton Review If…
- You prefer a strong emphasis on test-taking strategies and techniques.
- You want access to a large number of practice tests.
- You are looking for a program with strong CARS (Critical Analysis and Reasoning Skills) preparation.
- You want a variety of course formats, including live online, self-paced, and in-person options.
Buy Kaplan MCAT If…
- You prefer a more structured and data-driven approach to studying.
- You want a program with a long-standing reputation and a wide range of resources.
- You value detailed explanations and a focus on content mastery.
- You prefer a more integrated approach to practice, with questions and explanations closely tied to the content.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between Princeton Review and Kaplan MCAT courses?
The main differences lie in their approach to content and test-taking strategies. Princeton Review often focuses on strategic test-taking techniques and offers a more streamlined content review. Kaplan tends to provide a more comprehensive review of the MCAT content, covering a wider range of topics in greater depth. Both offer extensive practice materials, but their emphasis differs.
Which course is better for students with a strong science background?
Students with a strong science background might find Kaplan’s in-depth content review beneficial. Kaplan’s course covers a broad range of scientific concepts. This helps solidify existing knowledge and address any gaps in understanding. However, students can also use Princeton Review, using the practice tests to focus on test-taking strategies.
Which course is better for students who struggle with time management?
Princeton Review’s emphasis on test-taking strategies, including time management techniques, can be particularly helpful for students who struggle with time constraints during the MCAT. Kaplan also provides strategies, though Princeton is known for it. They both offer practice tests to help students improve their pacing and efficiency.
What is the price difference between Princeton Review and Kaplan MCAT courses?
The prices vary based on the package and format. Generally, both companies offer a range of options with differing price points. These are based on the level of support, tutoring, and access to resources. Self-paced courses are typically less expensive. Comprehensive packages with tutoring are more costly. Check their websites for current pricing.
Do Princeton Review and Kaplan offer any guarantees or score improvement promises?
Both Princeton Review and Kaplan may offer score improvement guarantees or money-back guarantees under certain conditions. These guarantees typically come with specific requirements, such as completing the course and taking all practice exams. Check the terms and conditions of each provider’s guarantee. Be sure to check what is required to qualify.
How important is it to take practice tests, and how many are offered?
Practice tests are crucial for MCAT preparation. They allow you to familiarize yourself with the test format, build stamina, and identify areas for improvement. Both Princeton Review and Kaplan offer multiple full-length practice tests, as well as a variety of shorter practice questions. The number varies based on the course package.
Which provider offers better access to AAMC resources?
Kaplan often includes access to official AAMC practice materials, such as practice tests and question banks, as part of their comprehensive courses. Access to AAMC materials is essential for familiarizing yourself with the format and style of the real MCAT. Princeton Review also incorporates AAMC materials. However, Kaplan often includes more.
Final Verdict
Both Princeton Review and Kaplan provide excellent MCAT prep courses, each with unique strengths. Princeton Review excels in test-taking strategies and streamlined content, while Kaplan offers in-depth content review and extensive practice materials. The best choice depends on individual learning styles and needs. Consider your strengths, weaknesses, and learning preferences when deciding.
Winner: Kaplan MCAT