Kaplan MCAT Prep Review: Is It Worth the Money?
Kaplan is one of our top picks for students who want a structured study plan, plenty of practice, and access to experienced MCAT instructors.
Our Verdict
Kaplan takes much of the guesswork out of preparing for the MCAT. You get practice exams, video lessons, review books, and a study plan designed to keep you on track.
We particularly like the extensive practice materials and flexible course options. The biggest drawback is the price, especially if you want live instruction or private tutoring.
Best for: First-time MCAT students and anyone who wants more structure and accountability.
Explore Kaplan MCAT Courses →Kaplan MCAT at a Glance
*Includes official AAMC exams in qualifying packages. Features and access vary by course.
What’s Included With Kaplan MCAT Prep?
Kaplan includes more than enough material to prepare for the MCAT. Here’s what we like most about its study resources—and where we’d make improvements.
1. Full-Length Practice Exams
Kaplan offers up to 21 full-length practice exams, including official AAMC tests.
These help you build the timing and endurance needed for an exam that lasts more than seven hours, including breaks.
Our Take: One of Kaplan’s strongest features. We’d recommend taking practice exams throughout your preparation, then spending time reviewing every missed question.
2. Customizable MCAT Qbank
Kaplan’s Qbank includes more than 3,000 questions that you can use to practice specific subjects.
If you’re struggling with physics but doing well in biology, you can focus on physics instead of wasting time reviewing material you’ve already mastered.
Our Take: We like the ability to target weaker subjects. It’s a more productive approach than simply completing questions for the sake of volume.
3. Video Lessons & Content Review
Kaplan offers more than 90 content review videos covering important MCAT topics.
These are helpful when you need to refresh material from earlier science courses or understand a concept that isn’t clicking.
Our Take: Videos are useful for reviewing difficult concepts, but we’d avoid spending too much time watching lessons without practicing questions afterward.
4. Kaplan MCAT Review Books
Kaplan’s seven-book review set covers the major subjects tested on the MCAT, including biology, chemistry, physics, biochemistry, and CARS.
The books are particularly helpful if you prefer reading detailed explanations and taking notes.
Our Take: The books are excellent reference materials. However, we wouldn’t recommend reading every chapter cover to cover unless you genuinely need that much content review.
Kaplan MCAT Course Options
Kaplan offers several different ways to prepare. The best option depends on your budget, schedule, and how much instruction you need.
On Demand
Study on your own schedule with recorded lessons, practice questions, and online resources.
Best if: You’re disciplined and don’t need scheduled classes.
Live Online
Attend scheduled classes with instructors while completing independent study assignments.
Best if: You want accountability and opportunities to ask questions.
515+ Course
A more intensive program for students targeting a competitive MCAT score.
Best if: You’re aiming for a 515+ and meet the program’s eligibility requirements.
Private Tutoring
Work directly with an instructor to address weaknesses and improve your test-taking strategy.
Best if: You need targeted help and have the budget for one-on-one instruction.
Not Sure Which Kaplan Course to Choose?
Compare Kaplan’s self-paced, live online, and tutoring options to find the right fit for your schedule and budget.
Compare Kaplan MCAT Courses →Kaplan MCAT Pros and Cons
What We Like
- ✓ Extensive Practice: Up to 21 full-length exams and thousands of practice questions.
- ✓ Structured Study Plans: Helps students stay organized.
- ✓ Excellent Review Books: Seven books covering major MCAT subjects.
- ✓ Flexible Learning: Self-paced, live classes, and tutoring.
- ✓ Instructor Support: Available for students who need extra guidance.
What Could Be Better
- ✕ Expensive: Live classes and tutoring can cost significantly more.
- ✕ Too Much Material: Easy to get overwhelmed without a realistic schedule.
- ✕ Limited Individualization: Standard courses aren’t the same as private tutoring.
- ✕ Time Commitment: Getting full value requires consistent studying.
Kaplan vs. Other MCAT Prep Courses
Kaplan isn’t your only option. Blueprint and Princeton Review also offer structured MCAT preparation, and both are worth comparing before you enroll.
| Feature | Kaplan | Blueprint | Princeton Review |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-Paced Course | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Live Instruction | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Private Tutoring | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Review Books | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Study Planner | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Score Guarantee | Eligible Courses | Eligible Courses | Eligible Courses |
Course features vary by package and may change.
Who Should Choose Kaplan MCAT?
Kaplan Is a Great Fit If…
- You’re preparing for the MCAT for the first time.
- You struggle to organize your study schedule.
- You want access to instructors.
- You prefer learning with books, videos, and practice exams.
- You have the budget for a structured course.
Consider Alternatives If…
- You’re working with a tight budget.
- You only need help with one or two subjects.
- You’re comfortable creating your own study plan.
- You don’t have time to use most of the materials.
- You prefer a smaller, more focused course.
How Much Does Kaplan MCAT Prep Cost?
Kaplan’s pricing depends on the course format, access period, and amount of instructor support.
Self-paced courses are generally the most affordable, while live instruction, intensive programs, and private tutoring cost more.
Our Recommendation: Don’t automatically choose the most expensive package. If you’re comfortable studying independently, the self-paced course may provide everything you need. Pay extra for live instruction only if you’ll benefit from the additional structure.
Does Kaplan Offer a Higher Score Guarantee?
Kaplan offers score guarantees on qualifying MCAT courses, but the terms vary by program.
Students may need to attend classes, complete assignments, and meet other requirements to remain eligible.
We recommend reading the full guarantee terms before purchasing, particularly if the guarantee is one of your main reasons for choosing Kaplan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kaplan MCAT prep worth it?
Kaplan can be worth the investment if you want a structured study plan, extensive practice materials, and access to instructors. Independent students may find cheaper alternatives sufficient.
Is Kaplan MCAT harder than the real MCAT?
Third-party practice exams can feel more difficult than official AAMC materials. However, difficulty varies by test and student. Use official AAMC exams as an important benchmark for readiness.
How many Kaplan MCAT practice exams are included?
Qualifying Kaplan packages offer up to 21 full-length practice exams, including official AAMC tests. Check your course package for the exact number included.
How many practice questions does Kaplan include?
Kaplan advertises more than 3,000 questions in its customizable Qbank. Additional questions may be available through practice exams and other course materials.
Does Kaplan include official AAMC materials?
Qualifying Kaplan courses include official AAMC preparation resources. The exact materials depend on the package.
How long should I study for the MCAT?
Many students prepare over approximately three to six months, although your timeline depends on your starting knowledge, target score, and available study hours.
Is Kaplan better than Blueprint?
Kaplan is a strong choice for structured preparation and traditional review materials. Blueprint is also worth considering if you prefer its online learning tools and study experience.
Final Verdict: Is Kaplan MCAT Worth It?
Kaplan is one of our favorite options for students who want a structured approach to MCAT preparation.
We particularly like its extensive practice exams, seven-book review set, and flexible course options. It’s expensive, but students who need structure and instructor support may find it worth the investment.
Our recommendation: Kaplan is an excellent choice for first-time MCAT students and anyone who struggles to stay on track studying independently.
Explore Kaplan MCAT Prep Courses →Visit Kaplan to compare current courses, pricing, and enrollment options.
