Alexis Kestler
Hey there!
Choosing the right ACT prep course is one of the most important decisions you‘ll make to help achieve your college goals. With so many options out there, it can feel overwhelming trying to determine which one is best suited for you.
As an ACT prep expert and data analyst, I‘ve explored this topic in depth. In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll break down everything you need to know to pick the perfect ACT course to boost your scores.
What Makes the ACT Such a Critical Exam?
The ACT is one of the two major standardized tests colleges use to evaluate applicants, alongside the SAT. It tests your skills in English, Math, Reading and Science.
Here‘s a quick primer on the exam:
- Sections: 4 multiple choice sections + optional Writing section
- Length: 2h 55m without Writing, 3h 35m with Writing
- Score: 1-36 Composite score, plus individual 1-36 section scores
Your ACT score carries serious weight for admissions. Top schools have very competitive average score cutoffs:
| College | Avg ACT Score |
|---|---|
| Harvard | 34 |
| Stanford | 33 |
| MIT | 34 |
| UC Berkeley | 31 |
| University of Michigan – Ann Arbor | 30 |
The higher your ACT score, the more options you have for getting into prestigious schools.
This makes prep critical. On average, students see a 2-4 point increase from self-studying, but a structured prep course can boost scores by 6-8 points on the 1-36 scale.
Let‘s explore the different types of courses so you can make the optimal choice.
Online vs In-Person ACT Prep Courses
ACT prep courses come in a variety of formats – online, in-person, self-paced, live online, tutoring and more. The two main options are online and in-person classroom courses.
In-Person Courses
In-person prep centers like Kaplan and The Princeton Review offer group classes with in-person instructors. You attend regularly scheduled classes at their facilities.
Pros
- Teacher access for questions
- Peer collaboration
- Classroom energy and focus
Cons
- Inflexible schedule
- Additional commute time
- Limited locations
Cost – $1000-$1400 for 30-40 hours of instruction
In-person courses work well if you prefer learning in a structured classroom setting. But the fixed schedule and location limit flexibility.
Online Courses
Online ACT prep provides on-demand video lessons, practice tests and tools you can access anytime from home. These are offered by providers like PrepScholar, Magoosh and Kaplan.
Pros
- Convenient 24/7 online access
- Self-paced learning
- Lower cost than in-person
Cons
- Less teacher interaction
- More self-motivation needed
Cost – $200-$500 for most video course packages
Online prep offers flexibility to study on your own schedule. But you need discipline to stick to the self-directed curriculum.
The Verdict?
Online courses are best for budget-friendly flexibility, while in-person courses provide structure for those who need it. Evaluate your study habits, schedule and budget to decide which format suits you.
Now let‘s compare some top-rated ACT online prep options:
Reviews of the Best Online ACT Prep Courses
| Course | Format | Price | Score Increase | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kaplan On Demand | Self-paced video | $999 | 5-8 pts | Score refund guarantee |
| PrepScholar | Adaptive online | $399/mo | 5-6 pts | 4+ point refund guarantee |
| Magoosh | Video lessons | $249 | 4-5 pts | 7-day full refund |
| ACT Online Prep | Official online course | $249-$299 | 5-8 pts | Retake guarantee |
Based on expert and student reviews, here are the standouts:
Kaplan On Demand
Kaplan is a leading test prep provider. Their self-paced online course offers:
- 15 hours of video lessons
- 2000+ realistic practice questions
- 5 full-length practice tests
- Customized study plan
Their expert strategies and robust online platform have helped students raise ACT scores by an average of 5-8 points.
The course is comprehensive but students mention it lacks interactive features to keep them engaged. At $999, it is also on the pricier side.
Overall, Kaplan On Demand is best for self-motivated students seeking tried-and-true ACT prep.
PrepScholar
PrepScholar takes a unique data-driven approach to ACT prep. Their course uses technology to adapt lessons to each student‘s weaknesses in real time.
Features include:
- Video instruction from 99th percentile instructors
- Customized quizzes and drills
- Detailed explanations for all practice questions
- 4 point score improvement guarantee
Students describe the teaching style as engaging and thorough. The adaptive learning focus helps boost scores by 5-6 points on average.
At $399/month, PrepScholar is a smart choice for tech-savvy students who want a personalized ACT prep experience.
Magoosh
Magoosh provides exceptional bang-for-buck with their popular video-based ACT course. It offers:
- 130+ video lessons
- 1000+ realistic practice questions
- Customizable study plans
- Engaging instructors who simplify concepts
- Affordable pricing from just $249
The video content stands out for being fun, short and focused. Magoosh students see average score hikes of 4-5 points – very effective given the low cost.
Overall, Magoosh is ideal for budget-focused students seeking solid ACT prep at a reasonable price.
The Verdict?
PrepScholar is your best bet for tech-driven personalization, while Magoosh optimizes value without compromising on quality instruction. Evaluate course features against your budget to make the optimal choice.
Making Your Final ACT Course Decision
Here are key questions to help choose the right ACT prep course for you:
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What score improvement are you targeting? More intensive courses deliver bigger gains.
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What is your budget? In-person courses start at $1000, while online courses vary from $200 to $500 based on features.
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When are you taking the ACT? Pick a course with enough prep time before your test date.
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What is your current baseline score? Starting score impacts how much you can improve.
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How do you learn best? Consider your study habits and motivation level.
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Which course features are non-negotiable for you? Use the comparison tables to select must-haves.
Also, leverage any score improvement guarantees – most legitimate courses offer full or partial refunds if your score does not rise as committed. This removes financial risk.
With smart prep tailored to your needs, boosting your ACT score is totally achievable. You‘ve got this!
Hope this guide gives you clarity to select the perfect ACT course and master the exam. Let me know if you have any other questions!
