Preparing for the SAT can be a challenging task, but selecting the right prep course can make a significant difference in your scores.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the best resource that suits your needs.
This article highlights six SAT prep courses recommended by experts, aiming to help you make an informed decision. Whether you prefer a self-guided study approach or need comprehensive classroom instruction, these courses offer various features to cater to your learning style.
1) Princeton Review
Princeton Review offers a variety of SAT prep courses tailored to different needs.
One popular option is their Digital SAT Essentials, which includes 18 hours of expert instruction and six exclusive digital practice tests.
You also get unlimited access to SAT Advantage LiveOnline Sessions.
Princeton Review’s SAT 1400+ course and SAT 1500+ course guarantee score improvements based on their namesake.
They aim to help you achieve a score of at least 1400 or 1500.
Additionally, the self-guided SAT course includes over 280 video lessons and 3,200 practice questions.
Detailed score analysis helps you understand your strengths and weaknesses.
Personalized feedback from tutors provides action steps for improvement.
Princeton Review courses have received positive feedback, with users noting significant score improvements after completing their programs.
Their methods combine practice with effective strategies to ensure you are well-prepared for the test.
Considering different pricing options, Princeton Review offers packages for various budgets.
Whether you’re looking for basic prep or a more intensive course, you can find an option that suits you.
2) Kaplan Test Prep
Kaplan Test Prep offers a range of SAT preparation courses tailored to meet different needs and budgets.
If you’re looking for flexibility, Kaplan provides an On Demand SAT course priced at $199.
This option includes pre-recorded video lessons and practice questions, but does not offer contact with an instructor.
For those who prefer live interaction, Kaplan’s Live Online SAT course is a strong choice.
Priced at $799, this course features live group classes and interactive practice sessions.
It’s designed to provide structured guidance and support from qualified instructors.
If you want more personalized attention, consider the Live Online Plus option.
At $1,099, this course includes everything in the Live Online course, along with additional one-on-one tutoring sessions.
This can be especially helpful if you need focused assistance on specific areas.
Kaplan also has a barebones package for students on a tight budget.
Priced just under $200, this package covers the basics and is a good entry point for SAT prep.
Another advantage of Kaplan is the access to multiple realistic practice tests, which simulate the actual exam environment.
This can help you become familiar with the format and timing of the SAT, reducing test day anxiety.
By choosing Kaplan, you can take advantage of a variety of resources, from classroom instruction to online materials.
They’ve got options whether you need just the basics or more intensive support.
Check out more details on Kaplan’s SAT prep courses here.
3) PrepScholar
PrepScholar offers targeted and adaptive SAT prep.
The program is designed to customize study plans based on your strengths and weaknesses.
One standout feature of PrepScholar is its personalized learning experience.
You get access to interactive lessons and practice questions tailored to your needs.
This ensures efficient and effective study sessions.
PrepScholar provides one live class package.
This includes 9 hours of classroom time.
Pricing starts at $900, making it a bit pricier compared to some other options.
You can also benefit from their vast library of online resources.
These include practice tests, instructional videos, and detailed answer explanations.
This helps reinforce your learning and identify areas for improvement.
If you prefer self-guided study, PrepScholar can be an excellent choice.
It allows you to work at your own pace, making it suitable for students with busy schedules.
PrepScholar’s approach focuses on maximizing score improvements.
Their curriculum is built around actual SAT questions and test-taking strategies.
This practical focus helps you become more comfortable with the test format.
Explore PrepScholar if you are looking for a customizable, albeit more expensive, option for SAT prep.
4) Khan Academy
Khan Academy offers a free, comprehensive SAT prep course.
It’s ideal for self-guided learning and covers all sections of the SAT.
You can find practice questions, video lessons, and detailed explanations.
Since it’s free, it’s accessible to everyone.
You don’t need to worry about subscription fees, making it a great option if you’re on a budget.
Khan Academy’s SAT prep is linked with College Board, which ensures that the materials are up-to-date and relevant.
This partnership guarantees that you’re practicing with high-quality content.
The platform also provides personalized study plans based on your strengths and weaknesses.
This helps you focus on areas that need improvement.
Another benefit is the flexibility.
You can study at your own pace, making it easier to fit prep time into your busy schedule.
In addition to practice questions, Khan Academy offers practice tests that mimic the real SAT experience.
These are essential for building test-taking stamina and confidence.
Khan Academy provides resources for other subjects too.
If you’re looking for support in areas like math or science, this platform can be a one-stop resource.
Check out Khan Academy’s official SAT prep page for more details and to get started with your preparation.
5) Barron’s SAT
Barron’s SAT is a well-known prep tool for students aiming to excel on the SAT.
Their guides offer in-depth reviews and a variety of practice tests.
You can find options for both print and digital formats, meeting different study preferences.
Their 2023 Premium Study Guide includes eight practice tests.
It helps you get a comprehensive review of all test sections.
This guide also offers helpful strategies tailored to the SAT format.
For those looking ahead, the 2025 Digital Study Guide is available.
This edition features 1800+ practice questions and four practice tests.
It is perfect for students preparing for the digital version of the SAT.
You can also access their online resources providing FAQs, updates on changes to the SAT, and registration information.
These resources are ideal for staying updated on the latest developments.
Barron’s materials are praised for their thorough explanations and realistic practice questions.
They aim to build your confidence through consistent practice and review.
This can boost your readiness for test day.
Their guides are written by experienced educators who know what students need to succeed.
By using Barron’s SAT prep materials, you are guided through every part of the test with expert advice and practice.
6) Magoosh
Magoosh offers a comprehensive SAT prep course with several benefits.
It provides a large number of study resources for a low price.
Their courses are designed to help you prepare effectively for the SAT.
The self-paced Premium package is popular.
Priced at $129, it gives you 12 months of access to all their content.
This includes lessons, quizzes, and full-length practice tests.
Magoosh adds personalization to your study routine.
They provide curated study plans and progress-tracking tools.
This helps you stay on track and measure your improvement over time.
Their instructors are experienced.
Chris Lele, a UCLA graduate, has over 10 years in SAT tutoring.
Mike McGarry, with degrees from Harvard, has more than 20 years of teaching experience.
Many students find Magoosh’s resources valuable.
They offer hundreds of hours of lessons and practice questions.
The platform is user-friendly, making it easier to navigate through the materials.
You also get access to video explanations for difficult questions.
This helps in understanding complex problems and learning efficient solving methods.
With these features, Magoosh is a strong option for your SAT preparation.
For more detailed reviews, you can check out the Magoosh SAT Prep Review or another Magoosh SAT Prep Review.
These reviews provide deeper insights into the course’s strengths and weaknesses.
Visit Magoosh to explore their offerings directly.
Understanding the SAT Structure
The SAT is a standardized test with multiple sections, each focusing on a different skill set.
Scoring is done on a scale, and understanding the score range is essential for setting goals.
Sections of the SAT
The SAT has four main sections: Reading, Writing and Language, Math (with calculator), and Math (no calculator).
Each section tests specific skills:
Reading: This part includes passages from literature, historical documents, social sciences, and natural sciences.
You must read the passages and answer questions about them.
Writing and Language: Here, you will correct errors in sentences, improve paragraphs, and understand grammar and usage.
Math (no calculator and with calculator): These sections cover algebra, problem-solving, data analysis, and some advanced math topics.
One part lets you use a calculator, while the other does not.
Scoring System
The SAT is scored on a scale of 400 to 1600.
Each section (Reading and Writing, Math) is scored between 200 and 800.
Your total score is the sum of these two section scores.
Essay scores, if applicable, are separate and do not factor into the 1600 score.
The SAT uses a method called equating to ensure consistency in scoring, which adjusts for slight differences in difficulty across various test versions.
This means a particular scaled score represents the same level of achievement, regardless of the test date.
Understanding this structure helps you prepare effectively, focusing on each section’s unique demands and the scoring system.
Benefits of Using Expert-Recommended Prep Courses
Expert-recommended prep courses offer structured learning paths with high success rates.
They provide thorough content coverage to ensure you are well-prepared for every aspect of the SAT.
Proven Success Rates
When you choose prep courses recommended by experts, you benefit from proven success rates.
These courses have been tested and refined over the years.
Programs like Kaplan and Princeton Review are known for consistently helping students achieve higher SAT scores.
Their long-standing reputation is supported by numerous positive reviews and success stories.
You’ll have access to methodologies and strategies that have been statistically shown to improve test results.
These courses often include practice exams that mimic the actual SAT, giving you a realistic sense of what to expect.
This helps reduce test anxiety and boosts confidence.
Using these established prep courses can increase your chances of scoring higher on the SAT by leveraging data-driven approaches developed from years of student performance analysis.
The feedback from previous students helps these courses continually improve and stay current with any changes in the SAT format.
Comprehensive Coverage
Comprehensive coverage means that these courses cover all sections of the SAT thoroughly.
Courses like those from Kaplan and PrepScholar provide materials and lessons for every part of the test, including Math, Evidence-Based Reading, and Writing.
You will learn test-taking strategies that apply across different sections.
This all-encompassing approach ensures you won’t have gaps in your knowledge or skills.
These courses also include diagnostic tests, personalized study plans, and extensive practice questions.
Programs like Magoosh are praised for their user-friendly platforms and affordable options, making quality prep accessible.
The focus on detailed explanations and step-by-step instructions helps you understand complex topics more easily.
An expert-recommended course provides you with a structured study schedule, keeping you on track and ensuring you cover all necessary content before test day.
Strategies for Maximizing Your SAT Prep
Create a Study Schedule
Break down your study time into manageable chunks.
Allocate specific times for each section of the SAT.
Consistency is key, so stick to your schedule.
Utilize Interactive Resources
Use platforms like Khan Academy’s Official Digital SAT Prep to access practice questions, videos, and lessons.
These resources are aligned with the actual test format.
Take Regular Practice Tests
Simulate real test conditions by taking full-length practice tests.
This helps you get used to the format and timing.
Aim to take at least one practice test every two weeks.
Focus on Weak Areas
Identify your weak areas through practice tests and focus your study time on these sections.
Tools like PrepScholar’s Ultimate SAT Study Guide offer targeted practice for specific skills.
Join Study Groups
Collaborate with peers who are also preparing for the SAT.
This can provide motivation and different perspectives on problem-solving.
Use High-Quality Prep Courses
Consider enrolling in well-reviewed prep courses.
For example, PrepMaven offers a range of structured courses that can meet different needs and budgets.
Review and Revise
Consistently review your notes and past test results.
This will help reinforce what you’ve learned and identify any persistent weaknesses.
Stay Healthy
Get plenty of sleep, eat well, and exercise regularly.
Proper nutrition and rest can significantly impact your performance.
Avoid cramming the night before the test.