Kaplan vs Princeton Review for the MCAT: A Head-to-Head in 2026
Compare Kaplan and Princeton Review for MCAT prep. Evaluate curriculum, support, score guarantees, and pricing to find your fit.
TL;DR
- Kaplan offers extensive course formats and pricing from $2,699 to $6,599 as of 2026.
- Princeton Review's MCAT 515+ Course starts at $3,499, featuring score guarantees and hybrid formats.
- Both Kaplan and Princeton Review provide hybrid, in-person, and online options.
- Princeton Review guarantees score improvements for immersive and ultimate courses.
- Kaplan's top-tier offering, the MCAT Bootcamp Online, costs $6,599.
Kaplan vs Princeton Review for the MCAT
When comparing Kaplan and The Princeton Review for MCAT preparation, both offer comprehensive resources but differ in price points, course formats, and guarantees. Kaplan provides a broader range of options through its live online, in-person, and hybrid models, catering to diverse learning needs.
Why This Matters
Preparing for the MCAT is pivotal to medical school admissions. Choosing the right prep brand affects your study efficiency, budget, and potentially, your test scores. Understanding differences in course structure, pricing, and support can guide you in selecting a prep plan that aligns with your goals.
Curriculum and Content
Kaplan's courses, such as the MCAT Bootcamp Online, focus on comprehensive content coverage and include 1,000 hours of study material, catering to various learning styles. Meanwhile, Princeton Review's MCAT 515+ Course offers targeted content aimed at scoring 515 or higher, with extensive practice tests and advanced strategies.
- Kaplan: Extensive resources; emphasis on varied content delivery; format choices include video, live online, and in-person.
- Princeton Review: Advanced strategy focus; powered by a 515+ score guarantee framework; available in hybrid and in-person modalities.
Support and Tutoring
Both brands emphasize strong student support, with options for personalized tutoring, yet differ in execution. Kaplan's methods are available both as private, personalized tutoring sessions and structured courses. Princeton Review integrates individualized coaching into its general curriculum.
- Kaplan: Offers private tutoring with customization options. Explore Private Tutoring + Live Online solutions.
- Princeton Review: Support integrated with regular courses; personalized options are emphasized through immersive programs.
Score Guarantee
A score guarantee is a significant commitment. Princeton Review guarantees a score of 515+ for its premium courses, indicating confidence in the efficacy of its resources. Kaplan also offers guarantees but varies by course level.
- Kaplan: Guarantees available; varies by course complexity.
- Princeton Review: Direct score guarantees for courses like MCAT Ultimate Course.
Price Comparison
Pricing ranges significantly between the two providers. Kaplan's courses range from $2,699 to $6,599. Princeton Review’s pricing for their MCAT 515+ Course begins at $3,499, with more substantial options priced significantly higher for immersive experiences.
- Kaplan: Multiple formats priced from $2,699 to $6,599, like Live Online.
- Princeton Review: Ranges from $3,499 for standard courses to $7,000 for immersion programs.
Format and Availability
Flexibility in format caters to different learning preferences. Kaplan offers options like hybrid models and extensive online resources. Princeton Review’s offerings include immersive in-person experiences as well as comprehensive online courses.
- Kaplan: Strong on digital platforms and diverse course lengths (Live Online for 12 months).
- Princeton Review: Emphasis on robust in-person and hybrid formats.
How to Choose Between Kaplan and Princeton Review
Consider your learning style, budget, and the importance of a score guarantee. Pick Kaplan for diverse course lengths and formats with comprehensive content. Choose Princeton Review for advanced score guarantees and immersive, strategic learning environments. Assess each program's merits against your study habits and score aspirations.
Common questions
Does Kaplan offer a score guarantee for MCAT courses?
Yes, Kaplan offers a score guarantee for several of its MCAT courses, although specifics vary by course.
Is Princeton Review's MCAT 515+ Course worth the investment?
Yes, the MCAT 515+ Course from Princeton Review is designed to elevate scores significantly, featuring an advanced strategy focus with a 515+ score guarantee.
How does the cost of Kaplan's MCAT courses compare to Princeton Review's?
Kaplan's MCAT courses range from $2,699 to $6,599, whereas Princeton Review courses start at $3,499 and can go up to $7,000 for immersive programs.
What formats do Kaplan and Princeton Review offer for MCAT prep?
Kaplan offers live online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Princeton Review provides in-person, hybrid, and immersive program options.
Is online tutoring available through Kaplan and Princeton Review?
Yes, both Kaplan and Princeton Review offer online tutoring options, integrated within their course structures.
Which provider offers more comprehensive student support?
Both offer strong support networks; however, Kaplan provides more personalized options through private tutoring, while Princeton Review emphasizes integrated support.
Are there free MCAT resources available similar to those from Kaplan and Princeton Review?
Yes, [MCAT Free Prep](/courses/mcat-free-prep-free) by Khan Academy offers video resources and is available at no cost.
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