GRE Test Prep Companies Reviews

Kaplan Review: GRE Test Prep Companies

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

2026 GRE Test Prep Company Reviews

What's the Best GRE Prep Service Online?  If grad school is on your radar, the GRE might be, too. The Graduate Record Examination is a standardized test used by many graduate and business schools as part of their admissions process. And while more programs are going test-optional, a strong GRE score can still work in your favor - especially if you're trying to offset a lower GPA, win merit-based funding, or prove you're ready for an academically intense program. Whether you're eyeing a master's degree, a Ph.D., or even a specialized MBA, the GRE gives schools one more way to compare applicants - and offers you one more opportunity to stand out.

4.0

VERY GOOD

4

Very Good

  • 180+ hours of instruction and practice with most course options
  • 4-13 full-length, computer-based GRE practice exams, depending on package
  • 2,500+ question Qbank with detailed explanations and custom quizzes
  • Official Test Day Experience (simulated proctored exam)
  • GRE Channel with 40+ hours of live and recorded lessons
  • GRE prep books, including Math Foundations and Advanced Math (select plans)
  • Access to top-rated tutors and structured learning plans
  • Financing available through Affirm
  • Score guarantee with conditions (up to 325+ guaranteed with premium tutoring)

VERY GOOD

4.0

On the Kaplan website

If you're looking for a structured, full-service approach to GRE prep, Kaplan is tough to ignore. With nearly nine decades in the test-prep world, they've built a polished and professional program that's loaded with resources, practice tools, and live instruction. It's not the cheapest route, and their money-back guarantee comes with some fine print - but if you're motivated to hit a specific score, Kaplan has the depth to get you there.

Some definite advantages with Kaplan

Kaplan shines when it comes to structure. Live courses follow a clear schedule and are led by engaging instructors, while On Demand students can still access the full content library and GRE Channel. If you're the type who learns best from repetition and layered strategy, you'll have all the tools here. Plus, while their "Official Test Day Experience" might sound like marketing fluff, it's genuinely useful. You'll take a full-length GRE in a proctored setting that mirrors real testing conditions - a great way to get comfortable before the big day.

Pricing:

  • $199 for Qbank/Practice Test Bundle
  • $499 for OnDemand
  • $1,099 for Live Online
  • Tutoring + Live Online starting at $2,499
Best GRE Test Prep Courses

Wide range of study packages (and price points)

Kaplan offers several GRE prep packages, depending on how you learn best (and what you can afford):

  • Qbank & Practice Test Bundle - $199: If all you need are some full-length practice tests (4), a bunch of practice questions (2,500+) with in-depth explanations, and score reports that can help you know where to focus your studies, this is the Kaplan package for you.
  • On Demand - $499: Adding onto the Qbank tier, you get a self-paced course with 10 full-length practice tests, 180+ hours of instruction, and access to the GRE Channel for live and recorded lessons. A good pick if you want flexibility without losing access to in-depth tools.
  • On Demand Plus - $799: Adds in Kaplan's GRE Math Foundations and GRE Advanced Math books ($598 value) and bumps the practice test count to 13. Ideal if you want a stronger quant boost.
  • Live Online - $1,099: Includes 21 hours of scheduled live instruction with an expert instructor, supported by a team answering questions in real-time chat. Great if you need structure, but still want to study at home.
  • Live Online Plus - $1,399: Adds 3 hours of private tutoring and Kaplan's top-tier math prep books. Not cheap, but helpful if you want a bit of 1-on-1 guidance without committing to full tutoring.
  • Private Tutoring + Live Online Course - From $2,499: Comes with 10 to 40 hours of 1-on-1 tutoring, a full Live Online or On Demand course, and all the extras. Tutors assign homework, track progress, and personalize your entire GRE study experience.
  • Premium Tutoring + Live Online Course - From $3,500: Guarantees a 325+ or 10-point increase based on your baseline score (conditions apply). All tutors have 8+ years of experience and GRE scores in the 99th percentile.

A couple of ways you could save some money

Keep in mind: a 15% discount code was active at the time of our review, so prices may drop depending on when you sign up. Also, if you really need one of Kaplan's higher-tier prep packages but don't have that kind of money just sitting around, most of their services are eligible for financing through Affirm.

A few drawbacks

While Kaplan's GRE prep is well-developed and effective, the score guarantees come with requirements that aren't always front and center - and from what we could tell, they only come with the very top tier of service, which is a huge financial commitment. You'll need to complete that course as assigned and hit participation milestones to qualify. Also, Kaplan's higher price point can be a barrier if you're on a tight budget.

Fully-featured GRE prep for every budget

Kaplan's GRE courses are packed with structure, strategy, and premium content, making them a great fit for serious test-takers who want the works. Depending on the package you choose, you'll get expert instruction, tons of practice material, and smart features like a simulated test day. Just be prepared to pay for that level of quality - and make sure you meet the fine-print conditions if you're banking on a score guarantee.

On the Kaplan website

Continued from above...

What's the Best GRE Prep Service Online?

If grad school is on your radar, the GRE might be, too. The Graduate Record Examination is a standardized test used by many graduate and business schools as part of their admissions process. And while more programs are going test-optional, a strong GRE score can still work in your favor - especially if you're trying to offset a lower GPA, win merit-based funding, or prove you're ready for an academically intense program. Whether you're eyeing a master's degree, a Ph.D., or even a specialized MBA, the GRE gives schools one more way to compare applicants - and offers you one more opportunity to stand out.

The GRE is divided into three main sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. You'll also see an unscored or research section, which doesn't count toward your score but is used by ETS (the test-maker) to try out future questions. While that part is unpredictable, the rest of the test is very structured, and that's where GRE prep services can make a big difference. If it's been a while since you tackled geometry proofs or vocabulary in context, you're not the only one - and you don't have to go it alone, either.

GRE prep courses, tutoring, and study platforms come in all shapes and sizes. You'll find intensive programs that run like college classes, apps that help you build skills on the go, and self-paced courses with video lessons, quizzes, and full-length practice exams. Some platforms use adaptive learning technology to target your weak spots, while others give you a weekly schedule to follow. No matter what your learning style or timeline looks like, there's likely a GRE prep service that fits.

If you're someone who learns best with structure and accountability, a live or instructor-led course might be the right move. These kinds of GRE prep platforms offer both in-person and online classes with expert instructors, homework assignments, and regular check-ins to keep you on track. Prefer to study on your own time? Look for self-paced programs that you can access anytime, anywhere. Most of the time, you'll still get video lessons, practice questions, and score analytics - you just don't have to show up to class. And if you're aiming for a top-tier score or trying to overcome a particular weak area, private tutoring may be worth the investment. Some companies offer one-on-one sessions either as a standalone service or as part of a course bundle. It costs more, but it's often the fastest way to see improvement.

Not sure where to start? When comparing GRE prep services, consider these criteria:

To help you build confidence and improve your skills on the GRE, the experts at Top Consumer Reviews have evaluated and ranked some of today's most popular prep platforms. And while no course can guarantee a perfect score, the right one can absolutely help you walk into test day feeling ready to do your absolute best. Good luck on your grad school goals!

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GRE Test Prep Company FAQ

What is the GRE?
GRE stands for Graduate Record Examinations. This is a standardized test required by many graduate schools in the US and Canada. The scores that a student receives on their GRE test play a role in whether or not they are accepted into a potential graduate program. Sometimes the GRE is taken multiple times until a satisfactory score is received.
What subjects are included in the GRE test?
The GRE tests students on critical thinking, analytical writing, quantitative reasoning, and verbal reasoning. An individual score is given for verbal reasoning (130-170), quantitative reasoning (130-170), and analytical writing (0-6). The test questions consist of multiple choice, numeric entry, and essay writing.
How long is the GRE test?
There are six total sections on the GRE exam. It usually takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete the test from beginning to end. For verbal reasoning there are two 30-minute sections, each containing 20 questions. For quantitative reasoning there are two 35-minute sections, each containing 20 questions. The third section is analytical writing with two separately-timed tasks. One asks you to analyze an issue and one asks you to analyze an argument. After the third section, there is an optional 10-minute break for test-takers to get refocused for the remainder of the exam. You may be asked to complete an unscored, research section at the end of the test.
How long should I study for the GRE?
Most people would agree that you can't cram for the GRE. If you do, you'll likely get an unsatisfactory score that reflects how little effort you put in. It is recommended that you heavily study for at least 4-12 weeks before attempting the GRE. Many test prep courses are designed to help you study over the course of a year, to make sure you are familiar with the material and are able to obtain a high score on your first try.
How much does it cost to take the GRE?
The cost for the GRE test can vary slightly year to year. Most recently, the fee was $213 for test-takers within the United States. If you are signed up to take the GRE and need to reschedule, you'll pay a fee of approximately $50 to have the exam administered at another time.
How much does it cost to use a GRE test prep service?
Many GRE test prep services offer some free resources to get you started with your studies. For tutoring services or monthly subscriptions to books, practice tests, flash cards and more, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $2,000. Some of the most expensive courses include access to materials for a year or more and usually guarantee a certain test score. They include everything you need to succeed and feel confident when you take the GRE.
What types of study resources do GRE test prep services provide?
Not all test prep services offer the same study materials for the GRE. You'll find a mix of resources like practice tests, one-on-one tutoring, practice essay questions, vocabulary flashcards, diagnostic tests, strategy sessions, and more. The tools that you need to get a good score on the GRE are readily available through many different GRE test prep services.
How often can I take the GRE?
If you are unhappy with your GRE score, you can retake it every 21 days. However, you are only allowed to take it 5 times within a period of 12 months. Taking the test multiple times will not hurt your chances of getting into graduate school, since you can choose to only submit your highest score.

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