Thinking about tackling the MCAT? You’re not alone! Each year, thousands of students dive into this tricky exam on their journey to becoming doctors.
But don’t sweat it—there are plenty of fantastic study options to help you ace it!
The right MCAT prep course can seriously boost your score and confidence come test day. Whether you’re all about self-paced studying or live online classes, there’s a program that’ll match your style and your wallet.
Let’s check out five top-rated MCAT courses to help you shine on this crucial exam.
1) Kaplan MCAT Prep
Looking for a solid MCAT prep course? Kaplan’s got your back.
They’ve got a range of options that fit any study style or schedule!
Their MCAT Prep Course is quite popular.
It features 42 hours of live online lessons led by instructors who’ve scored over 520 on the MCAT.
Talk about brain power!
Prefer to study on your own terms? Their on-demand course lets you learn at your own pace, with a library of video lessons and practice questions ready when you are.
Got your sights set high? Check out their 515+ Score Guarantee program.
It aims to help you hit that jaw-dropping 515 or higher score.
Need a little extra help? Kaplan also offers one-on-one tutoring and specialized courses focused on the CARS and PREview sections of the exam.
Their materials are top-notch, packed with practice questions and full-length practice tests—just what you need to get familiar with the real exam.
Just a heads up—it can be a bit pricey, but if you’re serious about acing the MCAT, it might just be worth every penny.
2) Princeton Review MCAT
Want to tackle the MCAT like a champ? Princeton Review could be your perfect match.
They offer several MCAT prep options tailored just for you.
Their MCAT Ultimate course is a crowd favorite, delivering 123 hours of live instruction to cover everything you need for test day.
And, if you’re also curious about cybersecurity, check out their 7 ethical hacking courses to consider that can really amp up your skill set.
Aiming even higher? Don’t miss the MCAT 515+ Immersion course.
It’s an intensive 195-hour program with unlimited tutoring—ideal for those striving for a stellar score.
Can’t make it to in-person classes? No worries! Princeton Review’s online MCAT prep course hits the mark, offering all the great content right from your couch.
Pressed for time? Their Winter Bootcamp is a whirlwind 6-week program that promises a 513+ score.
Plus, you get practice tests and study materials to solidify your learning!
3) Blueprint MCAT
If you’re on the hunt for a top-tier MCAT prep course, Blueprint MCAT might be just what you need.
This program blends online courses and tutoring to match your study preferences.
Blueprint’s courses come loaded with features, including a hefty stash of practice questions and full-length tests.
Plus, they throw in all the official AAMC resources to boost your prep!
Want a tailored experience? Their one-on-one tutoring pairs you with an expert who knows the MCAT inside and out.
Worried about the price? Sure, Blueprint isn’t the cheapest option out there.
Still, many students believe the investment pays off, especially with their 515+ Score Guarantee showing confidence in their program.
The cherry on top? They offer study plans that help you carve out a schedule fitting your life, making it easier to juggle MCAT prep with everything else on your plate.
4) Altius MCAT Prep
If personal attention’s your thing, Altius MCAT Prep has a unique twist on studying.
They focus on providing personalized support through dedicated 1-on-1 mentoring.
Your mentor will have scored 515+ on the MCAT, ensuring you learn from someone who’s been through it all.
Their small group classes are a fantastic perk.
With just 6-8 students per class, you’ll get loads of chances to ask questions and engage.
It’s way more hands-on than most MCAT courses.
Altius is also known for offering super realistic practice tests.
Their full-length exams are said to closely mimic the real MCAT experience, prepping you thoroughly for test day.
Want in-person classes? Altius has over 140 locations across the US, so you’re likely to find one nearby.
Not within reach? No sweat—they’ve got online options too.
While it might be on the pricier side, many students rave about the value of the personal attention and realistic practice materials—maybe a lifeline for MCAT prep!
5) Examkrackers MCAT
Examkrackers offers a durable MCAT prep course that many students find genuinely helpful.
Their materials are all about teaching you the core concepts you need to nail the test.
The Examkrackers Complete Study Package includes in-depth study guides for all MCAT topics.
Plus, you’ll access practice questions and full-length exams to gauge your progress.
One perk about Examkrackers is their affordable KrackU on-demand course, priced at about $500 and offering video lessons you can watch whenever you like.
For those who love live classes, Examkrackers has got that covered too! Their live online course is slightly pricier, including instructor-led sessions and additional study materials.
They’ve recently ramped up their offering with more practice exams added to their live online course, giving you even more opportunities to test your skills before the big day.
Why Choose an MCAT Study Course
Choosing an MCAT study course can offer huge benefits for aspiring med students.
They provide a clear game plan and expert guidance to help tackle this challenging exam.
Benefits of Structured Learning
MCAT prep courses can really amp up your chances of scoring big.
You’ll get a structured study plan that covers all the important areas—no more guessing what to focus on!
Courses usually come with practice tests that closely mimic the real exam.
This helps you get comfortable with the format and timing.
Plus, many of these courses offer detailed feedback on your performance, letting you identify areas that need a little TLC.
By simulating the actual test environment, you can build confidence and reduce any test-day jitters.
If you’re keen on securing a high score, consider exploring the best SAT prep courses available as part of your overall study strategy.
You’ll also benefit from pro tips on test-taking techniques that can save you precious seconds on exam day.
Many courses even offer personalized help if you find yourself stuck on tricky topics.
Comparing Self-Study and Guided Courses
Self-study might seem like the budget-friendly route, but it does come with challenges.
You might miss key topics or waste time on material that won’t be on the test.
Guided courses give you a structured roadmap.
They ensure you cover everything that truly matters.
Plus, learning from experienced instructors adds a whole new layer of understanding.
And let’s be real: going through this journey with fellow students can be super motivating.
You can share tips, tricks, and encouragement along the way.
Some courses even throw in score guarantees.
If you don’t hit your target score, you might score free extra help—or even a refund!
Key Features to Look For
When picking your MCAT prep course, keep an eye out for quality materials and practice opportunities.
These aspects are key in building your knowledge and test-taking skills.
Course Materials
Look for courses with up-to-date, comprehensive study materials.
You want textbooks, engaging video lessons, and review sheets that cover all MCAT topics. Blueprint has some fantastic video lessons designed to break down tough concepts.
Check if the course includes flashcards or mobile apps—these handy tools can make studying a breeze, especially on the go.
Don’t forget to consider access time.
Some courses, like Princeton Review, offer unlimited access to materials, which can be invaluable if you need a little extra study time.
Practice Tests and Assessments
Practice tests are your best friends when it comes to MCAT success.
Look for courses that offer plenty of full-length practice exams. Kaplan and UWorld are both known for their quality practice tests.
Ensure the tests mimic the real MCAT format.
This helps you get familiar with both the style and timing of the exam.
Check if the course provides detailed score reports—they can help you spot areas that need some love and keep track of your progress.
Some courses also offer quizzes or section tests as well, allowing for quick review sessions that are handy when time is short!
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about MCAT prep courses and resources? Here are some common FAQs to help you navigate your MCAT study journey.
What are some top-rated MCAT prep courses currently available?
Kaplan MCAT Prep is a favorite among students for its comprehensive study materials and practice tests.
Princeton Review MCAT is another highly recommended option, featuring a score improvement guarantee and expert instructors.
Blueprint MCAT earns high marks for its engaging video lessons and adaptive learning platform.
Can you recommend any free resources for MCAT preparation?
Khan Academy is a goldmine of free MCAT prep materials, offering video lessons and practice questions at no cost.
The AAMC also shares some free resources on their website, including sample questions and a complimentary practice exam.
Are there benefits to taking an in-person MCAT prep course over an online one?
In-person courses can give you that sweet face-time with instructors, allowing for direct interaction where you can ask questions and get immediate feedback.
They also create a structured environment, which can help you stay focused and on track during your prep.
What are the advantages of using Kaplan for MCAT prep?
Kaplan offers an extensive range of study materials, including books, videos, and practice tests.
Their instructors are top-notch, with many scoring in the 90th percentile or higher on the MCAT.
Kaplan also uses adaptive learning technology to customize your study plan based on your specific needs.
How does Blueprint MCAT course compare to other study options?
Blueprint stands out for its high-quality video lessons that simplify complex topics.
They also offer a vast question bank with over 4,000 practice questions, giving you loads of opportunities to assess your knowledge.
Plus, Blueprint gives you access to 15 full-length practice tests, a number that trumps many other prep companies!
What do Reddit users suggest for the best MCAT prep in 2024?
Many Redditors rave about Blueprint for its engaging content and user-friendly platform.
Kaplan also pops up often, thanks to its thorough materials and experienced instructors.
Some even recommend blending resources from different prep companies to create a well-rounded study strategy.