ACT Test Prep Courses Reviews

Who's better?

Prep Expert vs Peterson's

We've analyzed the best ACT Test Prep Courses to help you find the right solution for your needs.

2025 ACT Test Prep Course Reviews

Here you can see how Prep Expert and Peterson's match up head-to-head in a battle for the Best ACT Test Prep Courses in 2025.

Winner

Prep Expert

  • 6-week ACT course for $209 to $299 (with 30% discount) or about $34.80 per week
  • Live online classes taught by instructors who scored in the top 1% on standardized tests
  • 4-point ACT score improvement guarantee or your money back

Prep Expert delivers top-notch ACT prep with a no-nonsense approach focused on results. You'll get live online classes from instructors who scored in the top 1% on standardized tests, backed by a serious 4-point improvement guarantee. At $209 to $299 for their 6-week course (about $35/week with discount), you're getting structured discipline rather than a choose-your-own-adventure approach. We think Prep Expert is perfect for students who thrive with scheduled classes and expert guidance.

Peterson's

  • $135 for 6 months of access
  • Up to 4.5 hours (270 minutes) of live online tutoring included
  • Monthly writing/essay review service

Peterson's ACT prep combines digital lessons with live tutoring for $135, but you'll get less than half the practice questions most competitors offer. If you're on a tight budget and need some tutoring included, this might work for you, but most students would benefit from spending just $20 to $30 more for a rival platform's service. With virtually no customer feedback about their ACT program and no free trial to test it before buying, we can't tell you much about the actual quality of this prep option - earning Peterson's a disappointing rating.

As admissions grow more competitive, a standout ACT score can be the difference between an acceptance and a painful rejection - and it can unlock thousands in scholarship money. Whether you're a junior taking the exam for the first time or a senior chasing a last-minute bump before deadlines, the right prep partner can reshape how you study, how you test, and how you feel on test day. Start early, stay consistent, and lean on expert guidance so your effort turns into a score that opens doors.

Students at every level turn to test prep for all kinds of reasons. Some self-driven learners just want structured practice to keep them on schedule, while anxious test-takers look for targeted strategies to steady nerves and build confidence. Parents worried about college admissions often value the accountability that's built into working with a pro. The right program can also bridge the gap between classroom learning and exam demands - turning scattered effort into a focused plan.

The ACT prep landscape ranges from low-cost, self-paced tools to premium packages taught live by top scorers. If you want flexibility, you'll find on-demand video lessons you can watch anytime; if you prefer structure, twice-weekly live classes offer real-time feedback. The most robust programs add one-on-one tutoring and customized study plans that target your weak spots - though that level of support usually comes with a steep price. Before you choose, think about your learning style and budget, and check for a free trial or score guarantee to make sure the program fits.

When shopping for an ACT test prep service online, keep these considerations in mind:

After evaluating the most popular ACT test prep services on the market, Top Consumer Reviews has ranked the top performers to save you time and guesswork. Find your perfect match today - and watch your ACT score soar!

Slide Down Image Left Slide Image FAQ Image Slide Image Twirl Image

ACT Test Prep Course FAQ

How much should I expect to pay for an ACT prep service?
It really depends on the service and package you choose. ACT prep services range widely in price, from around $129 for a self-paced digital program to $1,799 for premium packages with live instruction. Most budget-friendly options cost between $150-$400 for six months of access. If you want one-on-one tutoring, expect to pay anywhere from $35 to over $350 per hour depending on the tutor's qualifications.
What's the difference between self-paced and live instruction programs?
Self-paced programs let you study whenever you want with pre-recorded videos and practice questions at your own speed. Live instruction programs have scheduled online classes with real teachers who can answer your questions on the spot. Self-paced is cheaper (around $130-$300) and more flexible, while live classes (usually $500-$900 a package) offer more accountability and personalized help.
How many practice questions should a good test prep service offer?
Look for services with at least 1,000 practice questions, though some programs offer as many as 2,000-4,300 questions. Quality matters as much as quantity - official ACT practice questions are gold. Some services offer questions with video explanations, while others provide detailed text-based answer breakdowns.
Do ACT prep services actually improve scores?
Yes, most reputable services report average score improvements of 3-4 points for students who complete their programs. Some even offer score improvement guarantees, offering your money back if you don't improve. Your results will depend on how much effort you put in - students who complete more practice questions typically see bigger score jumps.
How long will I have access to the materials?
Most self-paced services provide access for 6 or 12 months, which gives you plenty of time to prepare and retake the ACT if needed. One popular service offers a full year for $129, while another provides 6 months starting at $159. Some programs let you extend access to two years for an additional fee, which is great if you're starting early.
Will the ACT prep be aligned with current test regulations?
It should! The ACT format is subject to periodic updates, so you need prep materials that reflect the current test version. Look for services that specifically mention being aligned with the most recent ACT format. Outdated materials could waste your time preparing for question types that no longer appear on the test or miss new elements that have been added.
What support options should I look for in an ACT prep service?
The best services offer multiple ways to get help when you're stuck. Look for options like 24/7 messaging with tutors, email support, or scheduled office hours. Premium services may include direct access to instructors via video chat. Also check if the service provides detailed explanations for practice questions and personalized feedback on your progress.
Is it worth paying for tutoring or can I succeed with self-paced options?
Self-paced options work great if you're disciplined and don't struggle too much with specific ACT subjects. Many students improve 3-4 points with just self-paced programs that cost $130-$300. However, if you have trouble staying motivated or need help with particular sections, investing in some tutoring (starting around $35/hour) or a live class program can make a big difference in your results.

Compare Any 2 Products

Magoosh
Prep Scholar
Kaplan
Prep Expert
The Princeton Review
Compass
Achievable
Peterson's
Varsity Tutors
Wyzant
vs
Magoosh vs Prep ScholarMagoosh vs KaplanMagoosh vs Prep ExpertMagoosh vs The Princeton ReviewMagoosh vs CompassMagoosh vs AchievableMagoosh vs Peterson'sMagoosh vs Varsity TutorsMagoosh vs WyzantPrep Scholar vs KaplanPrep Scholar vs Prep ExpertPrep Scholar vs The Princeton ReviewPrep Scholar vs CompassPrep Scholar vs AchievablePrep Scholar vs Peterson'sPrep Scholar vs Varsity TutorsPrep Scholar vs WyzantKaplan vs Prep ExpertKaplan vs The Princeton ReviewKaplan vs CompassKaplan vs AchievableKaplan vs Peterson'sKaplan vs Varsity TutorsKaplan vs WyzantPrep Expert vs The Princeton ReviewPrep Expert vs CompassPrep Expert vs AchievablePrep Expert vs Peterson'sPrep Expert vs Varsity TutorsPrep Expert vs WyzantThe Princeton Review vs CompassThe Princeton Review vs AchievableThe Princeton Review vs Peterson'sThe Princeton Review vs Varsity TutorsThe Princeton Review vs WyzantCompass vs AchievableCompass vs Peterson'sCompass vs Varsity TutorsCompass vs WyzantAchievable vs Peterson'sAchievable vs Varsity TutorsAchievable vs WyzantPeterson's vs Varsity TutorsPeterson's vs WyzantVarsity Tutors vs Wyzant Wyzant vs Varsity TutorsWyzant vs Peterson'sWyzant vs AchievableWyzant vs CompassWyzant vs The Princeton ReviewWyzant vs Prep ExpertWyzant vs KaplanWyzant vs Prep ScholarWyzant vs MagooshVarsity Tutors vs Peterson'sVarsity Tutors vs AchievableVarsity Tutors vs CompassVarsity Tutors vs The Princeton ReviewVarsity Tutors vs Prep ExpertVarsity Tutors vs KaplanVarsity Tutors vs Prep ScholarVarsity Tutors vs MagooshPeterson's vs AchievablePeterson's vs CompassPeterson's vs The Princeton ReviewPeterson's vs Prep ExpertPeterson's vs KaplanPeterson's vs Prep ScholarPeterson's vs MagooshAchievable vs CompassAchievable vs The Princeton ReviewAchievable vs Prep ExpertAchievable vs KaplanAchievable vs Prep ScholarAchievable vs MagooshCompass vs The Princeton ReviewCompass vs Prep ExpertCompass vs KaplanCompass vs Prep ScholarCompass vs MagooshThe Princeton Review vs Prep ExpertThe Princeton Review vs KaplanThe Princeton Review vs Prep ScholarThe Princeton Review vs MagooshPrep Expert vs KaplanPrep Expert vs Prep ScholarPrep Expert vs MagooshKaplan vs Prep ScholarKaplan vs MagooshPrep Scholar vs Magoosh
See the Best ACT Test Prep Courses in Your State
Only the Best Reviews

NOLA.com

This Louisiana native is trying to help Black students ace the ACT ...

Long before Angelica Harris founded her own test-prep company, she was an ambitious New Orleans teen determined to attend a top university.

Sun, 09 Nov 2025

Only the Best Reviews

The Gazette

ACT continues to partner with test-prep operators despite reports of ...

Standardized testing giant ACT Inc. of Iowa City continues to partner with Asian test-preparation operators, despite widespread cheating at overseas education centers it licenses. The maker of America ...

Wed, 07 Sep 2016

Only the Best Reviews

CBS News

Top ACT And SAT Prep In South Florida

Failing the SAT or ACT tests to get into college is a fear of many college-bound students. In order to prepare for these tests, one option is to take test prep classes. These classes address not just ...

Fri, 30 Oct 2015

Only the Best Reviews

Chattanooga Times ...

Class Notes: Free ACT test prep available for Hamilton County ...

Hamilton County Schools is offering a free online ACT preparation course for high school seniors to help boost the scores of the Class of 2019. Seniors who register by March 8 for the April 13 ACT ...

Sun, 03 Mar 2019

Only the Best Reviews

Business Wire

Wiley Announces Partnership with ACT to Enhance Test Prep Solutions ...

HOBOKEN, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--John Wiley & Sons Inc. (“Wiley”) today announces a partnership with ACT, the nation’s leader in college and career readiness, to enhance both organizations’ test prep ...

Mon, 09 Nov 2015

Only the Best Reviews

KTHV

Arkansas ACT & SAT prep experts share tips to help students improve ...

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The ACT and SAT exams are tests that high school students might get a bit nervous about. The new school year began for many the week of August 14— and the first ACT and SAT exams ...

Tue, 22 Aug 2023

Top Products.  

Top Reviews.  

Top Consumer Reviews.

Reviews 

Browse through thousands of reviews.

Social Media 

Like us?  Follow us!  We'd love to have you join our community.

Newsletter 

Stay up to date with the latest reviews. We'll keep you informed, and we'll never sell your information to anyone.