8 Best SAT Prep Courses in 2024 (Expert Reviewed)
Updated March 7, 2024
The top prep courses for SATS are:
- PrepScholar
- Kaplan
- Prep Expert
- Magoosh
- Princeton Review
- Khan Academy
- Testive
- College Board Official SAT Study Guide
The Best SAT Prep Courses Online
There are several SAT prep courses that are available. Here are some of the best SAT courses available online.
1. PrepScholar
PrepScholar's SAT prep course stands out for its adaptive learning platform.
While it may come at a higher price point, the personalized and comprehensive nature of the course, including score predictor tools, makes it a valuable investment.
The course materials, including video lessons and detailed explanations, contribute to a comprehensive learning experience.
PrepScholar's emphasis on adapting to individual progress ensures that students receive targeted guidance.
This makes it an effective choice for those seeking tailored and dynamic SAT preparation.
2. Kaplan
Kaplan's SAT prep course offers a well-rounded and flexible approach to test preparation.
With a range of in-person and online options, it caters to various learning styles and schedules. Its Live Online classes run throughout the academic year.
While the price may be higher compared to some competitors, Kaplan delivers on course materials, providing extensive resources and experienced instructors.
The personalized study plans help students target specific areas for improvement.
The inclusion of expert support ensures that students have access to guidance when needed, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the course.
3. Princeton Review
The Princeton Review's SAT prep courses stand out for their comprehensive approach to test preparation. You can choose from an online Essentials course to an intensive Summer Camp option.
It offers a wealth of course materials. These include video lessons, practice exams and adaptive drills. You can also find in-person classes in metropolitan areas like New York.
The personalized study plans cater to individual strengths and weaknesses, ensuring a tailored learning experience.
The inclusion of expert support enhances the overall value of the course, providing students with guidance from experienced instructors.
While it may be on the higher end in terms of cost, the Princeton Review's reputation for quality test prep makes it a solid investment for those aiming for top SAT scores.
4. Prep Expert
Prep Expert, founded by Dr. Shaan Patel, a perfect scorer on the SAT, offers an engaging and results-driven SAT prep course.
While it is relatively pricier, the course materials, including live online instruction and on-demand lessons, are designed for maximum impact.
The personalization comes in the form of small class sizes, allowing for individual attention.
The course includes expert strategies from someone who has mastered the SAT. This adds a unique perspective to the preparation process.
Prep Expert's commitment to student success makes it a compelling choice for those aiming for top scores.
It’s also a great choice for learners who have limited time for revision before their SAT assessment.
5. Magoosh
The course includes video lessons, practice questions and detailed explanations.
While it may not have the same level of personalization as some other courses, its user-friendly interface and score predictor tools make it a practical choice.
It works well for students on a budget seeking a flexible study schedule. Plus lessons can be accessed via its mobile app, making it a convenient learning option.
6. Khan Academy
Khan Academy's SAT prep course distinguishes itself as a free and accessible option.
This makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious students. It is best for self-motivated independent learners.
The personalized practice recommendations based on diagnostic tests contribute to a customized learning experience.
While it may lack the in-depth personalization of some paid courses, Khan Academy compensates with its user-friendly interface.
It is designed in collaboration with the College Board, the creators of the SAT.
The platform's commitment to inclusivity and quality content makes it a valuable resource for self-motivated learners.
7. Testive
Testive's SAT prep course combines personalized learning with innovative technology.
The course adapts to individual strengths and weaknesses, providing a targeted and efficient study plan.
While the price may be a consideration, the inclusion of expert coaching and personalized feedback adds significant value.
Testive's use of adaptive learning software ensures that students focus on areas that need improvement, optimizing the study experience.
For those looking for a tech-savvy and personalized approach to SAT preparation, Testive stands out as a promising option.
8. College Board Official SAT Study Guide
The College Board's Official SAT Study Guide is an indispensable resource for any SAT taker.
While not a traditional prep course, it provides authentic practice tests and in-depth explanations of correct answers.
The affordable cost and direct connection to the test creators make it a valuable supplement to other prep courses, offering a realistic preview of the actual exam.
Visit College Board Official SAT Study Guide
What Is the SAT Test?
The SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) is a standardized test. It is widely used for college admissions in the US.
While not all colleges require the SAT, many prestigious institutions still consider it a crucial part of the application process.
The test is designed to assess a student's readiness for college. It is divided into two main sections: Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and Math.
Ways to Prepare for the SAT Test
There are numerous options for preparing for the SAT tests. Here are some of the options:
Practice Papers
Engaging in regular practice with official SAT papers and additional practice tests is an effective way to familiarize yourself with the test format.
It also helps to hone your time management skills and identify areas that may require additional focus.
It provides a hands-on experience that can boost confidence and readiness for the actual exam.
Revise Subjects
Thoroughly revising the specific subjects covered in the SAT, including mathematics, reading and writing, is essential.
Reviewing key concepts, formulas and strategies ensures a solid foundation and better performance on test day.
This approach allows for targeted improvement in areas where the student may feel less confident.
Take a SAT Prep Course
Enrolling in a SAT prep course provides structured guidance, expert instruction and a comprehensive curriculum tailored to the SAT format.
You can find the best SAT prep classes in person or online.
The best SAT prep courses online often include practice exams, personalized study plans and valuable test-taking strategies.
This provides a systematic and strategic approach to achieving the best possible score on the SAT.
How to Choose a SAT Prep Course
There are lots of different ways to choose a SAT prep course. These include:
Step 1. Consider the Price
Selecting the best SAT courses begins with a consideration of price.
Striking a balance between budget constraints and the comprehensiveness of the course content is crucial.
Look for options that offer the most value for your investment, ensuring that the cost aligns with the quality of preparation provided.
Step 2. Length of the Course
The duration of the SAT prep course is a critical factor to consider.
Choose a program that aligns with your study timeline, allowing thorough preparation without unnecessary haste.
Choosing a course with a suitable length ensures you can cover topics in depth and master necessary skills at a comfortable pace.
Step 3. Access to Experts
The availability of experts can significantly enhance your SAT preparation experience.
Look for a course offering access to knowledgeable instructors who provide personalized guidance, address specific challenges and offer valuable insights.
This ensures a more comprehensive understanding of the material and increases your chances of achieving your target SAT scores.
Step 4. Success Rate
Researching the success rates of different SAT prep courses is crucial for making an informed decision.
Analyze the track record of each program, considering how well previous students have performed.
Choosing a course with a proven history of helping students succeed increases your confidence that the preparation provided will effectively contribute to your own success.
The best online SAT prep courses vary based on individual learning styles and preferences.
Some popular options include Kaplan, The Princeton Review, Khan Academy, Magoosh and PrepScholar.
Consider factors such as personalization, course materials, expert support and pricing to find the best online SAT prep for your needs.
Effective SAT preparation involves a combination of thorough subject revision, regular practice with official SAT papers and, for many, enrollment in a reputable online SAT prep course.
Establish a study schedule, focus on weak areas and use practice tests to improve time management and familiarity with the test format.
The ideal time to start SAT prep is typically the latter part of high school, often during junior year.
This allows sufficient time to cover necessary topics, take practice tests and address areas needing improvement before the actual exam.
Starting early reduces stress and provides a more comprehensive preparation experience.
The College Board's Official SAT Study Guide is widely considered one of the best prep books as it contains authentic practice tests and detailed explanations.
Other popular choices include books from Kaplan, The Princeton Review and Barron's.
Choose one that suits your learning style with comprehensive coverage of SAT content.
The cost of SAT prep can vary significantly. Online courses range from free (like Khan Academy) to a few hundred dollars (for example, Magoosh).
In-person classes and private tutoring tend to cost more, often exceeding a thousand dollars.
Consider your budget, desired level of personalization and the prep provider’s reputation.
SAT prep books are widely available and can be purchased from various retailers.
Popular options include online marketplaces such as Amazon, bookstores like Barnes & Noble and educational supply stores.
Additionally, many prep courses provide their study materials as part of the course package.
The cost of the best SAT prep classes varies based on factors like the course provider, format (online or in person) and duration.
On average, classes can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.
Look for discounts, scholarships or bundled packages to make the investment more cost-effective.
Final Thoughts
Recognizing the importance of SAT prep is crucial, especially when aiming for admission to prestigious colleges in the US.
The SAT serves as a vital component of the college application process, making thorough preparation essential for success.
Investing in a SAT prep course emerges as one of the most effective strategies for conquering the exam.
Top SAT prep courses provide structured guidance, comprehensive study materials and expert insights, significantly enhancing your chances of achieving a competitive score.
A well-structured prep course equips you with the knowledge and skills needed for the SAT.
It also opens doors to some of the most prestigious educational institutions, paving the way for a successful academic journey.
