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Target Test Prep vs Kaplan

Tuesday, December 10th

2024 GMAT Test Prep Course Reviews

Target Test Prep Review 5 Star Rating

Target Test Prep

5 Star Rating
  • Self-led GMAT prep at $149 per month, $449 for 4 months or 6 months
  • 40 hours of integrated live-classes for $1,599
  • Tutoring offered at $350 per hour
  • 4,000+ practice questions
  • Smart-analytics
  • 110-point Score Improvement Guarantee
  • 5-day trial for $1
Top Consumer Reviews Best-In-Class Blue Ribbon Award

Target Test Prep is a well-regarded test prep service that excels in a range of mid-to-high cost (but high quality) test prep, and their GMAT offerings are no different. While their self-led and online plans range in price from reasonable to the premium option, you can be assured that - whatever you choose - you're going to be getting some quality materials. Target Test Prep's high-quality, stellar reviews, and wide range of offerings all work together to earn them the number one spot on our list; whatever your individual needs, you should consider Target Test Prep as you study for the GMAT.

Kaplan Review 3 Star Rating

Kaplan

3 Star Rating
  • Self-study toolkit at $359
  • On-demand course for $999
  • Advanced course for $1,399
  • Executive assessment course at $1,499
  • Live-online "GMAT complete” course offered at $1,599
  • GMAT bootcamp at $2,599
  • Tutoring offered at $2,450
  • Foundations of Math and trial classes offered free

Having acquired Manhattan Test Prep in 2009, Kaplan sources their GMAT preparation offerings through them. This means that - in addition to Kaplan's fairly well-regarded (and ubiquitous) test prep - you will have access to Manhattan Test Prep's very highly-qualified (and well-compensated) tutors and instructors. In short, Kaplan's GMAT prep is above-average in terms of tutor and instructor quality, even as their self-led offerings are extensive yet standard for the price point among their competitors.

What's the Best GMAT Test Prep Online?

The question is a critical one, because choosing the right study schedule and test prep materials can make-or-break your plans for a good GMAT score, and - subsequently - admittance into a prestigious (or even standard) MBA school. In fact, 9 out of 10 new MBA enrollments are made using a GMAT score, and it's accepted by more than 7,000 programs around the world.

Although it is still widely used, keep in mind that some MBA programs utilized the pandemic to phase out their standardized testing requirements. If you're focusing on one particular school, it might be wise to check their requirements. If they likely still use the GMAT, the materials you'll find here will go a long way towards simplifying your test prep decision making process.

The Best GMAT Test Prep Courses Compare GMAT Test Prep Courses Compare GMAT Test Prep Course Reviews What are the best GMAT Test Prep Courses Best GMAT Test Prep Course Reviews

GMAT Test Prep Course FAQ

GMAT is short for "Graduate Management Admission Test". Most MBA programs require you to take this exam prior to admission, to assess the likelihood that you'll be successful as a student. It covers math skills that include algebra, arithmetic, and geometry; integrated reasoning like data analysis and interpretation; verbal reasoning which includes reading comprehension and editing abilities; as well as analytical writing.
That depends on where you take the exam. In the United States, it typically costs 4250.
The test is expensive, and you can only take it up to five times in any 12-month period. Using a reputable GMAT test prep program can help you get the best possible score, whether you're taking it for the first time or as a retake hoping for improvement.
Some GMAT test prep providers offer a guarantee that your score will increase, and they will refund your fees if it doesn't. You'll need to provide proof of your before-and-after test scores, and you'll have to demonstrate completion of the test prep program you chose.
Most of the time, yes. Whether you're cramming for a testing date in the near future or giving yourself ample time to prepare, you can probably work through the test prep materials according to your schedule. The most advanced GMAT test prep programs let you access your study materials from your laptop, tablet, or even a mobile phone app.
Both! Many have options for classes in major metro areas, virtual instruction sessions, or one-on-one tutoring. You can also choose a test prep program that is 100% online, for the convenience of 24/7 access and studying whenever (and wherever) you like.
Prices range from $99 for a basic study guide to $2699 for private tutoring. You can get a comprehensive study plan that includes initial skills assessments, practice tests, video lessons and plenty of practice questions from several different reputable providers for $250-$500.
Only you can determine how you learn best. Do you need the flexibility of being able to study on-the-go when you're not busy with work or school? Or do you learn more easily with live instruction? Once you know what delivery method you prefer, you'll have no problem finding an effective GMAT test prep program to guide your studies.
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Continued from above...

The Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) is meant to assess an applicant's general suitability for graduate study, particularly in regards to business and MBA performance. The GMAT distinguishes itself from the more generalized GRE insofar as its quantitative reasoning assessments are much more in-depth, and it de-emphasizes verbal reasoning assessment.

The GMAT consists of four sections: an Analytical Writing Assignment (AWA) that lasts 30 minutes, a multiple choice Integrated Reasoning (IR) section that consists of 12 questions and lasts 30 minutes, a Quantitative section of 31 questions that lasts 62 minutes, and a Verbal section of 36 questions that lasts 65 minutes. In short the test is extensive, and as such it will pay dividends to make some common sense preparations and study plans beforehand.

In spite of what some of the advertisements might say, there is no magic bullet to an improved GMAT score. While some highly rated test prep materials can certainly help, they are only one half of the equation, the other half being a realistic assessment of your needs, your timeframe, and the work needed to reach your goals. As you search for some appropriate GMAT prep that fits your budget and timeframe, it is important to take a deep breath and remember that - as long as you put in the work - you will in all likelihood improve your score.

In any case, as you start preparing for the GMAT gauntlet, here are some tips we've found for you to keep in mind:

  • Time: How much time do you have available for GMAT test preparation? Do you have time for a class? One-on-one tutoring? Or would a self-paced study program work best? If you're honest with yourself about how much time you will devote to test preparation, you'll be more likely to succeed.
  • Cost: Preparing for the GMAT can be expensive. While personalized programs can give you tailored focus on areas of need, they also come with a higher price tag. Self-paced programs can offer a more rounded approach at a lower fee.
  • Know your schedule: Many companies on our list offer intensive (and expensive) GMAT study plans in the form of live-online and tutored test prep. While potentially an excellent resource, your success therein is likely dependent on whether you are able to dedicate the needed time to take advantage of the live-online format. If you are studying on the side or are just plain busy, consider avoiding the classroom format, and shopping for a mixture of self-led test prep and free resources.
  • Score guarantees: Many services offer score guarantees in the form of improvement promises or score minimums. While potentially reassuring, keep in mind that there are often requirements and caveats around the guarantee. Often, test prep companies will ask for pre-established baseline scores and the completion of all course materials before you can take advantage of such guarantees.

Searching for test preparation materials is often - let's be frank - a terrible experience. The field of GMAT test prep hosts an entire industry sustained by the dangling of higher-test scores in front of often financially-insecure graduates behind huge costs. Even so, there are good companies out there offering reasonably priced and well-supported GMAT materials. Here at Top Consumer Reviews, we've done the legwork to help you find them. So, while searching for GMAT test prep is certainly not fun, we're certain that our curated list of high-quality and well-rounded test prep will help make the process a whole lot easier.

The Best Reviews of GMAT Test Prep Courses