What is the MCAT exam?

MCAT is short for "Medical College Admission Test". If you're looking to become a doctor, you'll need a competitive score on this test to get into the med school of your choice. The test is 7 hours and 30 minutes long, and it evaluates your skills in the areas of problem-solving, critical thinking, scientific concepts and more.

How much does the exam cost?

That depends on where you take the exam. In the United States, expect to pay $320. Prices can go up from year to year too.

Why should I use a MCAT test prep program?

Not only is the test expensive, but you're limited to how many times you can take it: three times in a single testing year, four times in two consecutive years, and seven attempts total over your lifetime. Plus, you might have to delay your entry into med school if you don't get a good score in time for admissions. A test prep program can help you get the best score possible the first time you take it, or improve your score right away if you didn't do well on your first attempt.

Is there a guarantee that I'll get the score I need if I use a test prep program?

Some MCAT test prep providers will refund your money if your score doesn't improve by a certain number of points or if you don't get at or above a particular minimum score. To be eligible for those guarantees, you'll usually have to provide proof that you completed their entire prep program, as well as your before-and-after scores.

Can I study the materials at my own pace?

That depends on the type of MCAT test prep you select. Obviously if you choose anything with a live feature (e.g. tutoring, face-to-face classes, and so on), you'll be constrained to those scheduled times. But, the majority of MCAT test prep materials are designed to be used at your convenience, since you'll likely be fitting in your studies around school and work.

Are MCAT test prep programs offered in-person or online?

Whichever you prefer. If you live in a metropolitan area, you're more likely to find options for in-person classes and face-to-face tutoring, but even if you can only attend virtual lessons there are programs that offer them. Alternately, if you don't have the time for (or interest in) live test prep, you'll have many choices among 100% online platforms that let you study when and where you wish.

How much will I spend to get an effective MCAT test prep program?

It's a wide spectrum: from $10 for a single practice test to $6499 for a summer intensive or bootcamp experience. Fortunately, there are several MCAT test prep options that give you ample practice questions, instructional videos, and full practice exams for under $500.

How can I tell which MCAT test prep is right for me?

Start by thinking about your ideal learning environment: is it face-to-face with a skilled instructor, or is it on a tablet or mobile device while you commute to and from work or school? Decide which of those delivery methods is the best fit for you, and choose a program with that structure that fits your budget. Finally, it's always a good idea to see what other students have said about the MCAT test prep you're considering, to ensure that it's truly helping people prepare for - and score well on - the exam.

Best MCAT Test Prep Courses for December 2025

Item: The Best MCAT Test Prep Courses - Summary Reviews
Rating: 5
Author: Top Consumer Reviews

Tuesday, December 9th We evaluate products and services based on unbiased research. Top Consumer Reviews may earn money when you click on a link. Learn more about our process.

2025 MCAT Test Prep Course Reviews

Where is the Best Place to Find MCAT Test Prep? The MCAT, short for the Medical College Admission Test, is one of the most important steps in getting into medical school. It tests students on science knowledge, reasoning skills, and how well they can apply what they've learned in potential real-world situations. Medical schools use MCAT scores to decide who gets in because the test helps show which students are most likely to succeed in the demanding medical school environment. A good score can open the door to your dream school and bring you closer to a career in medicine. Because of this, many students look for extra support to help prepare for test day.

5.0

EXCELLENT

Best Option

Magoosh

Cost from $379 to $399 depending on length
1 type of course
1 or 12 month program lengths

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EXCELLENT

5.0

On the Magoosh website

Magoosh offers one of the most affordable MCAT test prep programs, with prices starting at just $379. The course includes video lessons, full-length practice exams, and 24/7 tutor support by email, with no extra charge for help from experts. With a strong 4.7-star rating on Trustpilot and a 10-point score improvement guarantee that's easy to qualify for, Magoosh stands out as the top choice for students who want flexible, high-quality MCAT test prep without the high cost.

4.5

GREAT

Great

Prep 101

Costs $2,695 plus shipping
1 type of course
Limited time program

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GREAT

4.5

On the Prep 101 website

Prep101 is a full-featured MCAT test prep course that gives you 146 hours of live instruction, a personal coach, and access to more than 12,000 practice questions along with printed workbooks and video content. The cost is $2,695 plus a $50 shipping fee, and while there is no score guarantee, most students report large score improvements and strong support from instructors. With a nearly perfect 4.9-star rating on review sites and a wide mix of study tools, Prep101 stands out as a top choice for students who want a guided yet flexible way to study.

4.0

VERY GOOD

Very Good

Blueprint

Cost from $999 to $3,599, depending on discounts
3 types of courses
Video, module, and flashcard learning

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VERY GOOD

4.0

On the Blueprint website

Blueprint is a popular choice for MCAT test prep with options like a self-paced course, a live class with score guarantees, and a bundle focused on practice exams. Each plan comes with access to thousands of questions, video lessons, live help, and learning tools that adjust to your progress. Although Blueprint earns strong reviews for instructor-led classes, the high prices and mixed results for self-guided users keep it just short of being a top pick.

3.5

GOOD

Good

Kaplan

Cost from $1,599 to $3,599 per course
4 types of courses
Video and practice test learning style

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GOOD

3.5

On the Kaplan website

Kaplan offers a well-known MCAT test prep program with four different learning paths, including on-demand videos, live online classes, in-person sessions, and private tutoring. Each course includes thousands of practice questions and detailed video instruction, with an optional book set for students who prefer reading. While Kaplan earns praise for its strong video content and trusted name, it still has strict rules for its score guarantee and some negative feedback about missing study tools.

3.4

GOOD

Good

The Princeton Review

Cost from $1,299 to $3,499 for entire course
3 types of learning
Limited time program

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GOOD

3.4

On the The Princeton Review website

The Princeton Review offers three MCAT test prep plans, including a top-tier 515+ Course with 123 hours of live instruction, AI-guided scheduling, and access to 8 books plus 17 practice tests. While it has strong features like expert teachers and personalized study plans, the program can feel overwhelming due to its heavy workload and strict rules for the score guarantee. With solid ratings from review sites but mixed feedback about the MCAT-specific experience, The Princeton Review is best for students ready to commit to a more intensive course.

3.0

AVERAGE

Average

Varsity Tutors

Cost estimated around $50 to $100 per hour
Online and in-person tutoring
Graduate school tutor database

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AVERAGE

3.0

On the Varsity Tutors website

Varsity Tutors offers MCAT test prep through personalized one-on-one tutoring from a large pool of instructors, some with experience from top schools like Yale and Stanford. You can choose online or in-person sessions, but the pricing is hidden until after a phone consultation. While Varsity Tutors earns high marks from the Better Business Bureau and has strong tutor reviews, those concerns about pricing transparency and a lack of refunds keep it from ranking higher in our review.

2.0

SUBPAR

Subpar

Wyzant

Costs between $20 and $645 per hour
Online and in-person tutoring
Graduate school tutor database

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SUBPAR

2.0

On the Wyzant website

Wyzant is a tutoring site with over 700 MCAT specialists and full-price transparency, letting you choose one-on-one help that fits your budget and learning needs. Tutors on the site often have high MCAT scores, medical school experience, and flexible teaching styles, with rates ranging from $20 to $645 per hour. While it has a strong BBB rating and a first-hour refund policy, poor reviews about tutor reliability and session quality bring Wyzant's score for MCAT test prep down in our review.

1.9

SUBPAR

Subpar

Uworld

Cost from $599 to $999 per course
2 types of courses
Flexible courses

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SUBPAR

1.9

On the Uworld website

Uworld offers two MCAT test prep options with tools like digital and print books, thousands of practice questions, and an adaptive study planner. While the program is priced lower than most, starting at $599, it comes with a limited refund policy that includes a cancellation fee and no score guarantee. Even with an "A+" BBB rating, recent user reviews point to concerns about app glitches, lackluster customer support, and study materials that fall short, making Uworld a less reliable choice for MCAT test prep.

1.5

WEAK

Weak

MCAT Prep

Costs from $49.95 per month or $799 one time
2 types of courses
Videos, practice tests, and workbooks

Read Full Review

WEAK

1.5

On the MCAT Prep website

MCAT-Prep has been around for over 30 years and uses a mix of online tools and printed materials to help students study for the MCAT. It offers two self-paced courses, including a fully digital Crash Course and a Home Study Package that comes with books, tests, and even one-on-one coaching from an MD. While the prices are reasonable, the lack of trusted reviews and almost no refund options make it harder to recommend MCAT-Prep compared to its higher-ranking rivals on our list.

1.0

POOR

Poor

Peterson's

Costs from $39 to $49 per month
1 type of course
1-6 month program lengths

Read Full Review

POOR

1.0

On the Peterson's website

Peterson's offers one MCAT test prep course that includes flashcards, practice tests, and basic tutoring. The cost ranges from $39 to $49 per month depending on your plan, but there is no refund or score guarantee once you pay. With a low Better Business Bureau rating and very few positive reviews online, Peterson's MCAT test prep offerings should raise concerns for students looking for reliable sites to trust for their med school exams.

Continued from above...

Where is the Best Place to Find MCAT Test Prep?

The MCAT, short for the Medical College Admission Test, is one of the most important steps in getting into medical school. It tests students on science knowledge, reasoning skills, and how well they can apply what they've learned in potential real-world situations. Medical schools use MCAT scores to decide who gets in because the test helps show which students are most likely to succeed in the demanding medical school environment. A good score can open the door to your dream school and bring you closer to a career in medicine. Because of this, many students look for extra support to help prepare for test day.

MCAT test prep has changed a lot over the years. In the past, students had to rely on big, heavy textbooks or sign up for expensive in-person classes that only met at specific times and locations. These options made it hard for students to study, especially considering most applicants for medical school need more flexible schedules around work and other college classes. Before, you had to plan your entire day around your in-person prep course, and if you missed a session, it was tough to catch up. Old-school MCAT test prep programs also didn't offer much customization, so students were stuck reviewing topics they already knew or rushing through material they didn't fully understand. Now, MCAT test prep has gotten an online overhaul and there are plenty of ways to study for your exam.

Whether you're looking for a full course, private tutoring, or just some extra practice questions, there are dozens of websites ready to help. These platforms let you log in from your laptop or phone and start studying from anywhere, without needing to drive across town or sit in a crowded classroom (unless you want to). Online prep courses often include video lessons, quizzes, flashcards, and score predictions so you always know where you stand. And because everything is digital, you can go back and review lessons whenever you want. This makes online MCAT test prep one of the smartest choices for future med school students who want both quality and convenience.

Now, with so many MCAT test prep companies online, how do you know which ones to trust? The best options give you access to detailed lessons, practice exams, and explanations that help you understand your mistakes. Some services offer personal tutors or live instruction, while others are self-paced so you can study whenever you want. Look for programs with strong customer reviews, success stories, and helpful features like progress tracking and review questions.

If you're still not sure where to start planning your MCAT test prep, don't sweat it. We've put together a few factors to help you make the best choice. Here's what you might want to keep in mind:

Cost. When you're planning for med school, there are lots of costs to keep in mind. Picking an MCAT test prep program that fits your budget can help you get what you need without blowing your med school budget. See if the cost vs. value for your chosen program allows you to get the full course you need.
Time commitment. Make sure that your chosen MCAT test prep offers a program that works within your schedule. Whether you need a longer program or one that allows you to cram, the best MCAT test prep for you will be tailored to your ideal time commitment.
Score guarantee. Many services come with various refunds and "score guarantees" that help you feel more confident in your final test. Be aware of how the score guarantees work at your ideal MCAT test prep site: there are probably quite a few eligibility requirements to qualify for a refund or for another round of prep materials.
Customer satisfaction. Finally, check out your chosen MCAT test prep service with other students. Looking for third-party reviews or verified feedback on sites like the Better Business Bureau, Trustpilot, or Sitejabber, will help you know if you're choosing a service that turns out real-life results for medical school.

To make sure you have the best chance possible for getting into medical school, Top Consumer Reviews has researched and rated the best MCAT test prep sites and programs available today. No matter where you're at on your med school prep journey, you'll be able to find the right service to get you into your dream school!