Kaplan vs Magoosh Gre: Which Prep Course Is Best?
Staring down the barrel of the GRE? You’re not alone. Preparing for the Graduate Record Examinations can feel overwhelming, but choosing the right prep course can make all the difference. Two of the most popular options vying for your attention are Kaplan and Magoosh GRE, each promising to boost your scores and get you into your dream school.
This in-depth comparison of Kaplan vs Magoosh GRE will break down everything you need to know. We’ll explore their strengths, weaknesses, pricing, and features. This will help you decide which course aligns best with your learning style, budget, and overall goals for the GRE.
Whether you’re a seasoned test-taker or a complete beginner, understanding the nuances of Kaplan and Magoosh is crucial. Let’s dive in and find the perfect GRE prep match for you, and get you one step closer to your academic aspirations.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Kaplan | Magoosh |
|---|---|---|
| Practice Tests | Yes | Yes |
| Video Lessons | Yes | Yes |
| Live Classes | Yes | Yes |
| Interactive Study Plan | Yes | Yes |
| Adaptive Learning | Yes | Yes |
| Mobile Apps | Yes | Yes |
| Question Bank | Yes | Yes |
| Personalized Feedback | Yes | Yes |
| Score Predictor | Yes | Yes |
| Writing Practice | Yes | Yes |
| Study Timers | Yes | Yes |
| Customer Support | Yes | Yes |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Cost
- Kaplan: Kaplan offers various GRE prep options, ranging from self-paced courses to live online classes, with prices varying accordingly. Generally, their programs tend to be on the higher end, reflecting the comprehensive nature of their materials and instructor support. However, they often have sales and promotions.
- Magoosh Gre: Magoosh is known for its more affordable pricing, offering a range of subscription plans, including shorter-term and longer-term options. This makes it accessible to students with different budgets and preparation timelines. They provide a lot of value for the price.
- Winner: Magoosh
Content Quality
- Kaplan: Kaplan provides extensive and detailed content, including comprehensive textbooks, practice questions, and video lessons. Their materials are generally aligned with the official GRE format and cover a wide range of topics. Some users find the sheer volume of content overwhelming.
- Magoosh Gre: Magoosh offers a focused and streamlined approach, with well-organized video lessons, practice questions, and study guides. Their content is generally considered to be of high quality, though some users may find it less in-depth than Kaplan’s.
- Winner: Kaplan
Practice Tests
- Kaplan: Kaplan provides a good number of full-length practice tests that simulate the GRE experience. These tests are designed to be realistic and provide a strong baseline for your score. However, some users report that Kaplan’s tests can be slightly harder than the actual GRE.
- Magoosh Gre: Magoosh offers a decent number of practice tests, including a diagnostic test to assess your baseline score. The tests are generally considered to be representative of the actual GRE.
- Winner: Kaplan
Video Lessons
- Kaplan: Kaplan provides high-quality video lessons taught by experienced instructors. These videos cover a wide range of topics and are often well-produced. The live online classes also provide opportunities for direct interaction with instructors.
- Magoosh Gre: Magoosh’s video lessons are generally concise and focused, covering key concepts and strategies. They are taught by experienced instructors and can be accessed on-demand.
- Winner: Kaplan
User Interface & Accessibility
- Kaplan: Kaplan has a well-designed user interface that is easy to navigate. Their platform is accessible across multiple devices. However, some users have reported occasional technical issues.
- Magoosh Gre: Magoosh has a user-friendly and intuitive interface. Their platform is also accessible across multiple devices. The platform’s simplicity makes it easy to focus on studying.
- Winner: Magoosh
Personalization & Adaptive Learning
- Kaplan: Kaplan offers some personalized learning features, such as score predictions and progress tracking. They may not have the same level of adaptive learning as some other platforms.
- Magoosh Gre: Magoosh uses adaptive learning technology to tailor your study plan based on your performance. It adapts the difficulty of questions as you improve.
- Winner: Magoosh
Instructor Support
- Kaplan: Kaplan offers a high level of instructor support, including live online classes, office hours, and email support. This can be beneficial for students who prefer a more interactive learning experience.
- Magoosh Gre: Magoosh provides email support and may include some live Q&A sessions. However, the level of instructor support may be less than Kaplan’s.
- Winner: Kaplan
Score Guarantee
- Kaplan: Kaplan often offers score guarantees, promising a score improvement or a refund. This can provide peace of mind to students. The details of the guarantee vary depending on the course.
- Magoosh Gre: Magoosh does not typically offer a score guarantee.
- Winner: Kaplan
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive Curriculum | Kaplan |
| Affordability | Magoosh |
| Video Lessons | Magoosh |
| Live Classes | Kaplan |
| User Experience | Magoosh |
What They Have in Common:
- Practice Tests: Both Kaplan and Magoosh offer a range of practice tests that simulate the actual GRE exam, allowing students to familiarize themselves with the format and assess their progress.
- Video Lessons: Both providers include video lessons covering various GRE topics, offering visual and auditory learning experiences to enhance comprehension.
- Mobile Apps: Kaplan and Magoosh both provide mobile apps, enabling students to study on the go and access materials from their smartphones or tablets.
- Question Bank: Both Kaplan and Magoosh offer extensive question banks with practice questions covering all GRE sections, enabling students to practice comprehensively.
- Writing Practice: Both providers offer resources for writing practice, including prompts and feedback, helping students improve their analytical writing skills.
Kaplan Vs Magoosh GRE Buying Guide
Kaplan: Course Structure and Content
Kaplan offers a structured approach to GRE preparation, providing comprehensive course materials designed to cover all sections of the exam. Their courses typically include live online classes, on-demand video lessons, and extensive practice questions. The content is meticulously crafted, focusing on both fundamental concepts and advanced test-taking strategies. Kaplan’s curriculum is known for its detailed explanations and in-depth coverage of each topic, making it suitable for students who prefer a highly structured learning environment. They offer a range of courses, from self-paced options to intensive boot camps. The structured format aims to provide a clear roadmap for your GRE journey.
Magoosh GRE: Course Structure and Content
Magoosh takes a different approach, prioritizing flexibility and affordability. They provide a vast library of video lessons, practice questions, and quizzes, all accessible online. Magoosh’s content is well-organized, with a focus on bite-sized lessons and targeted practice. Their platform utilizes adaptive learning technology, adjusting the difficulty of questions based on your performance. This personalized approach allows you to focus on your weaknesses and strengthen your understanding efficiently. Magoosh’s user-friendly interface and mobile accessibility are key features.
Kaplan: Practice Tests and Simulations
Kaplan offers a robust selection of practice tests and simulations designed to mimic the actual GRE exam. These tests are timed and scored, providing a realistic assessment of your progress. Kaplan’s practice tests closely resemble the format, content, and difficulty level of the official GRE. They analyze your performance to identify areas for improvement and provide detailed feedback. Kaplan also provides a detailed score report after each practice test. Kaplan’s simulations are important for building confidence and improving time management skills. This allows you to become familiar with the exam environment.
Magoosh GRE: Practice Tests and Simulations
Magoosh provides a wide array of practice questions and full-length practice tests to help you prepare for the GRE. These tests are designed to simulate the actual exam experience. Magoosh’s practice tests are adaptive, adjusting to your skill level. The platform offers detailed explanations for each question, helping you understand the reasoning behind the correct answers. Magoosh provides a comprehensive performance analysis, highlighting your strengths and weaknesses. Magoosh’s practice tests are accessible on various devices, allowing you to practice anytime and anywhere.
Kaplan: Cost and Value
Kaplan courses generally come at a higher price point compared to Magoosh. However, the cost reflects the comprehensive nature of their courses, including live classes and extensive instructor support. The value proposition depends on your learning style and budget. If you prefer a structured learning environment with direct interaction with instructors, Kaplan may be worth the investment. Kaplan often provides additional resources and materials to enhance your preparation. You should consider the long-term benefits of a higher score.
Magoosh GRE: Cost and Value
Magoosh is known for its affordability, offering a more budget-friendly alternative to Kaplan. They offer various subscription plans, providing access to a wealth of resources at a reasonable price. The value lies in their comprehensive video lessons, extensive practice questions, and adaptive learning platform. Magoosh is an excellent choice for self-motivated students who prefer a flexible and cost-effective approach. Magoosh often has sales and promotions, making it even more affordable. Their focus is on high-quality content at a competitive price.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Kaplan If…
- You prefer structured, in-depth lessons and a comprehensive curriculum.
- You want access to live classes and personalized instructor support.
- You value a well-established test prep brand with extensive experience.
Buy Magoosh GRE If…
- You prefer a more affordable and flexible online learning experience.
- You are self-motivated and comfortable with self-paced study.
- You want a strong emphasis on video lessons and a user-friendly platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary differences between Kaplan and Magoosh?
The main differences lie in their approach. Kaplan offers a structured, instructor-led approach with live classes and comprehensive materials, often at a higher price. Magoosh prioritizes flexibility and affordability with a self-paced, online platform featuring video lessons and adaptive practice. Kaplan is more traditional while Magoosh is a more modern approach. The best choice depends on your learning style and budget.
Which platform offers a better selection of practice questions?
Both platforms offer a substantial number of practice questions. Kaplan provides a large number of questions, closely mirroring the official GRE format and difficulty. Magoosh also has a vast question bank, with adaptive learning technology to customize your practice. Both provide in-depth explanations. The volume is comparable, the focus is different.
Is Kaplan better for students who prefer a structured learning environment?
Yes, Kaplan is generally better suited for students who thrive in a structured environment. Their courses provide a clear curriculum with live classes, scheduled lessons, and instructor support. This structured approach helps students stay on track and receive guidance throughout their preparation. Kaplan’s structured courses are excellent for learners who benefit from a set schedule.
Does Magoosh offer a more affordable option than Kaplan?
Yes, Magoosh is typically the more affordable option. They offer various subscription plans at a lower cost than Kaplan’s comprehensive courses. Magoosh’s pricing makes it accessible to a wider range of students. The price difference reflects the different structures.
Are the practice tests offered by Kaplan more realistic than those of Magoosh?
Both Kaplan and Magoosh offer realistic practice tests. Kaplan’s practice tests closely mirror the official GRE format and difficulty, giving you a good idea of what to expect on test day. Magoosh’s practice tests are also designed to be representative of the actual exam. Both platforms provide valuable practice.
Which platform is better for self-motivated learners?
Magoosh is often a better choice for self-motivated learners. Its self-paced format, flexible online access, and extensive video lessons allow students to study at their own pace. Magoosh’s user-friendly interface and adaptive learning features also contribute to a positive learning experience. Kaplan can be used, but the structure is less beneficial.
Does Kaplan or Magoosh provide better support for students?
Kaplan generally provides more direct support through live instructors and personalized feedback. Magoosh offers email support and a robust help section. Kaplan’s live classes and instructor interactions offer a more supportive experience for some students. The level of support is a key difference.
Final Verdict
Kaplan provides a structured and comprehensive approach, while Magoosh offers flexibility and affordability. Kaplan is ideal for students who thrive in a structured environment and desire direct instructor interaction. Magoosh is an excellent choice for self-motivated learners seeking a cost-effective and flexible preparation method. The best choice ultimately depends on individual learning preferences, budget, and desired level of support.
Winner: Magoosh GRE