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Kaplan Review

Tuesday, June 6th

2023 GMAT Test Prep Course Reviews

Kaplan Review 3 Star Rating

Kaplan

3 Star Rating
  • Cost: From $99 to $2,499

Kaplan has GMAT prep courses in the form of full courses or practice tests and questions. Kaplan advertises on their platform that their services are used in over 36 countries by 2 million+ students each year.

GMAT study options

Students can choose one or more of the following options when signing up for Kaplan:

  • Self-Paced Course ($599+)
  • Self-Paced PLUS Course ($799+)
  • Live Online Course ($1,249+)
  • Live Online PLUS Course ($1,649+)
  • Manhattan Prep In Person Class (1,399+)
  • One-On-One Tutoring ($2,499+)
  • Study Pack ($299+)
  • Practice Test - 4 pack ($149+)
  • Adaptive QBank ($99/month)

Over 140 hours of instruction

The Kaplan courses include over 140 hours of instruction and practice material for members. As you go through the material, the program recognizes your strengths and weaknesses, to adapt to your level and build from there. In addition, students are able to take 9 different full-length practice tests to identify areas they need to work on and experience what the GMAT might be like. They also have access to over 5,000 practice questions and GMAT prep books with extra practice and review.

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Higher score guarantee

As the GMAT is modified every few years, the Kaplan study course adapts to these changes to keep their content relevant to the most updated test. Kaplan guarantees that you'll get a higher score on your GMAT if you are taking it again after becoming a first-time Kaplan student. If you don't score higher than your baseline proctored exam score or official test score, they will either let you continue using their platform for free or give all of your money back. This should be reassuring for students paying a lot of money to use Kaplan's program.

Mixed feedback

We were concerned to see that Kaplan only has a C- rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB). We found quite a few complaints from students that paid money and adjusted schedules for test prep classes that were later cancelled. However, as far as course material and the effectiveness of using Kaplan to prepare for the GMAT, they receive overall great responses from users.

Improve scores quickly

Our main hangup with Kaplan is that we found them to be expensive. If you have other resources up your sleeve for reviewing GMAT material before taking it your first time, this might not be a price-friendly starting place. We are disappointed by their low BBB rating, but we see the appeal in the materials offered here for students who need to improve their scores quickly. If you are needing to improve your GMAT score and aren't concerned about the cost, Kaplan is a good place to go.

Who Has the Best GMAT Test Prep Program?

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) is a test that predicts how well students might perform in their MBA (Masters in Business Administration) program. The test scores are sent to graduate schools to assist with admission decisions. Students are assessed in their algebra, arithmetic, geometry, grammar, and multi-source data analysis skills.

For students hoping to get into certain business schools, their performance on the GMAT is critical. Having to retake such a long test - to improve a score - quickly adds up over time.

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...

Each GMAT test costs around $250 and scores are sent to five different schools. Students will want to be well-prepared and get a satisfactory score the first time so they don't have to deal with the time and money it takes to complete the GMAT again.

The best way to secure a good GMAT score is to study all the relevant material ahead of time so you know what to expect. There are many fantastic online test prep resources specifically for helping students be successful when taking the GMAT. It may cost some serious time and money to use the materials found through a professional online program, but the confidence and knowledge you'll gain will be well worth it.

There are quite a few GMAT test prep services to choose from out there. Before buying a membership for one of them, we suggest you keep the following criteria in mind:

  • Cost. Is the price of the course reasonable for the amount of material you're getting? How do they compare to other GMAT test prep courses?
  • Instruction Method. Do you get one-on-one tutoring? Are there lectures you can watch for full concept explanations? Is everything online at your own pace?
  • Use of Materials. How long will you have access to the materials on the site? Will you have enough time to go through all the materials offered before taking the GMAT?

TopConsumerReviews.com has reviewed and ranked the best GMAT test prep programs available today. We hope this information helps you feel confident and improve your score when you take the GMAT!

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