The 6 Best Online MCAT Prep Courses
- The best MCAT test prep option depends on each student.
- MCAT prep courses are a good fit for students who seek structure and community.
- You can find self-paced and guided online MCAT prep course options.
- Many MCAT prep courses guarantee a score improvement or your money back.
While the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) can appear daunting at first blush, an MCAT prep book or course can help you succeed on test day. MCAT scores range from 472-528, with 500 representing the average score. With the right preparation, you stand a better chance of earning the score you need to get into the schools you want.
Below, we delve into the six best online MCAT prep courses for future test-takers.
1. MCAT Self Prep
MCAT Self Prep offers two main programs: a free online self-guided course and sessions with elite tutors starting at $149. The free course features 10 content modules, 150 lessons, and over 300 hours of videos that students can watch at double speed to save time. The course also features a Facebook group, a question of the day, and opportunities to communicate with tutors.
MCAT Self Prep is a good fit for self-disciplined students who would benefit from a little bit of community support.
Course Options:
- The MCAT Self Prep eCourse: Free
- Basic Pro: $9
- Advanced Pro: $99
- Deluxe Pro (Includes All Mastery Courses): $999
- CARS Strategy Course: $599
- Science Strategy Course: $599
- Individual Mastery Courses: $19.99-$99.99
2. Blueprint
The average student who completes Blueprint’s MCAT test prep course raises their score by 13 points. Formerly known as NextStep, Blueprint delivers a customizable MCAT prep experience. Students can access on-demand videos and live office hours five days a week. They can also use Blueprint’s study planner tool to manage their time.
Over 50 of Blueprint’s tutors scored above 520 when they took the MCAT. First-time students who complete the course and do not increase their score receive their money back.
Course Options:
- MCAT Live Online (6-Month Plan): $2,199
- MCAT Live Online (9-Month Plan): $2,599
- MCAT Live Online (12-Month Plan): $2,899
- MCAT Online Course (6-Month Plan): $1,699
- MCAT Online Course (9-Month Plan): $2,099
- MCAT Online Course (12-Month Plan): $2,399
3. Magoosh
Magoosh’s MCAT prep course prides itself on accessibility, offering both mobile and desktop platforms that work on Android, iOS, PCs, and Macs. Magoosh provides more than 380 lessons, which include nearly 750 practice questions. Students in the course can email their tutors. Magoosh offers a seven-day free trial that includes 60 videos and 16 practice questions.
Magoosh offers free prep for any student who qualifies for AAMC’s Fee Assistance Program.
Course Options:
- Premium (1 Year): $299
- Premium + Study Plan (1 Year): $399
4. The Princeton Review
The Princeton Review offers several in-person and online MCAT prep options. Disciplined students can enroll in a self-paced online program, while students seeking the support of an in-person community can pursue a winter bootcamp or the popular MCAT 510+ program. Students can also receive private tutoring for $183 per hour.
The Princeton Review’s MCAT prep courses provide students with test-taking tips, on-demand videos, content modules, and practice tests.
Course Options:
- Self-Paced: $1,499
- Essentials: $2,599
- Ultimate: $2,599 (also available in person)
- MCAT 510+: $3,149
- 515+ Immersion: $6,699
5. Kaplan
Kaplan MCAT prep courses include an on-demand, self-paced option, a live online option, a five-week bootcamp, and an in-person option. Each course includes eight books, 16 practice tests, an adaptive bank of practice questions, and as much as 700 hours of guided learning. Students who complete a Kaplan course and do not improve their scores can get their money back.
Kaplan offers monthly payment plans with 0% APR for each course.
Course Options:
- On Demand Course: $1,799
- On Demand Course Plus: $2,299
- Live Online Course: $2,499
- Live Online Course Plus: $2,999
- Bootcamp (5+ Weeks): $6,999
- In-Person Course: $2,899
6. Altius
Since 2005, more than 160,000 students have participated in Altius’s MCAT prep courses. The company offers both self-paced and 24/7 one-on-one mentorship options. The mentorship option primarily serves students looking to score above 515. Altius’s prep curriculum receives a double-blind peer review from doctorate-holders.
Altius also offers a 30-day money back free trial period for its MCAT prep courses. The company guarantees a 90th percentile score or 12-point score increase for all students who complete a silver, gold, or platinum one-on-one program.
Course Options:
- Premier Self-Paced MCAT Course: $999
- Elite Package: $2,499
- Elite + 10 Package: $3,499
- Silver Package: $3,699
- Gold Package: $4,999
- Platinum Package: $6,999
Can You Take the MCAT Online?
No, you cannot take the MCAT online. The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), which administers the MCAT, does not believe it can ensure equity and test integrity through remote exams. As such, students must take the MCAT at an AAMC-approved location. Learners can take the test at hundreds of locations across Canada, the United States, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the AAMC has created additional health and safety protocols. Spots in each test are limited, so make sure to sign up far in advance to ensure you get a seat. The MCAT takes over seven hours to complete and consists entirely of multiple-choice questions across four sections.
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