Kaplan vs Magoosh
An honest side-by-side comparison of two of our top test prep services picks — pricing, strengths, weaknesses, and who each one is really for.
Kaplan
Ranked #1 of 15 in this directory
Comprehensive test prep with decades of proven results
Magoosh
Ranked #3 of 15 in this directory
Affordable online test prep with video lessons and practice
Our pick: Kaplan. Our editors rank Kaplan higher overall in Test Prep Services — but Magoosh can be the better fit depending on your budget and use case below. How we review
Compare the details
| Kaplan | Magoosh | |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing model | Paid | Paid |
| Starting price | See website | See website |
| Category | Sat Act | Gre Gmat |
| Editorial rank | #1 of 15 | #3 of 15 |
Strengths
Kaplan
- ✓Covers nearly every major standardized test in one platform
- ✓Score improvement guarantee or money back
- ✓Live online and in-person class options available
- ✓Extensive practice question bank with detailed explanations
- ✓Structured study plans keep students on track
Magoosh
- ✓Significantly more affordable than most competitors
- ✓Score improvement guarantee with money-back option
- ✓Clear and concise video explanations for every question
- ✓Mobile app allows studying anywhere
- ✓Covers multiple exams in one affordable subscription
Watch out for
Kaplan
- !Premium courses can be expensive compared to alternatives
- !Self-paced materials sometimes feel less engaging
- !Some students find the interface dated compared to newer platforms
- !Live class schedules may not fit all time zones
Magoosh
- !No live instruction or classroom interaction
- !Practice question pool is smaller than premium competitors
- !Limited personalized support without tutor add-on
Best use cases
Kaplan
- →High school students preparing for SAT or ACT with structured guidance
- →Graduate school applicants needing comprehensive GRE or GMAT prep
- →Students who want the security of a score improvement guarantee
Magoosh
- →Budget-conscious students preparing for the GRE or GMAT
- →Self-disciplined learners who prefer video-based instruction
- →Students who need mobile-friendly prep for studying on the go
About each tool
Kaplan
Kaplan is one of the most established names in test preparation, offering courses for virtually every major standardized exam. With live online classes, self-paced options, and an extensive question bank, Kaplan provides structured study plans and score improvement guarantees backed by over 80 years of experience.
Magoosh
Magoosh offers budget-friendly test prep for GRE, GMAT, SAT, ACT, LSAT, and more through video lessons and adaptive practice questions. The platform is entirely online with mobile access, making it convenient for students who prefer self-paced study without the high cost of traditional prep courses.
Still deciding? Browse all 15 options with honest pros, cons, and pricing.
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