When preparing for standardized tests like the SAT and ACT, students are often faced with a multitude of prep options. Two of the most popular names in test preparation are PrepScholar and The Princeton Review.
Both have earned strong reputations for helping students improve their test scores, but each has its unique strengths and drawbacks.
Whether you’re aiming to boost your SAT score or ace the ACT, it’s important to choose the program that best fits your learning style, goals, and budget.
In this detailed comparison, we will break down the key differences between PrepScholar and Princeton Review based on various factors such as course structure, pricing, support, accessibility, and more.
By the end of this article, you should have a clearer picture of which program is right for you.
Quick Comparison Snapshot
| Feature | PrepScholar | The Princeton Review |
|---|---|---|
| Course Format | Online (Self-paced & some live) | Online & In-person |
| Live Classes | Available in higher-tier plans | Common in most packages |
| Practice Questions | 7,000+ | 2,000+ |
| Score Guarantee | 160+ points on SAT | Varies by program |
| Pricing | Starts at $397 | $299 to over $7,000 |
| Adaptive Learning | Yes | Limited |
| Accessibility | Worldwide (Online) | Worldwide (Online & In-person) |
1. Course Structure and Content
PrepScholar’s Approach
PrepScholar has revolutionized the test prep industry with its emphasis on personalization. The platform uses an advanced adaptive learning algorithm to create a tailored study plan for each student. This means that instead of following a generic study schedule, the course adjusts based on your strengths, weaknesses, and progress throughout the program.
- Personalized Learning: Upon starting your course, PrepScholar asks you to take an in-depth diagnostic test. This test helps the system gauge your current level and create a custom study plan that targets areas where you need the most improvement. This approach eliminates wasted study time and focuses on the subjects you truly need to work on.
- Interactive Lessons: The platform provides over 200 hours of lessons and instructional content. These lessons include video tutorials, interactive quizzes, and thousands of practice questions. Each video is designed to break down complex topics into easy-to-understand concepts.
- Progress Tracking: As you go through the lessons, PrepScholar tracks your progress. It provides detailed feedback on your performance, suggesting adjustments to your study plan if needed.
- Practice Questions: PrepScholar boasts an impressive library of more than 7,000 practice questions for both the SAT and ACT. This extensive question bank ensures that you have ample material to practice with and become familiar with the types of questions you’ll face on test day.
Princeton Review’s Approach
On the other hand, The Princeton Review (TPR) takes a more traditional approach to test prep. They offer a wide range of courses, from self-paced to live instruction, catering to different learning preferences.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: TPR’s courses include a mix of video lessons, quizzes, and reading material. The curriculum is designed to cover all sections of the SAT and ACT thoroughly, with a focus on strategy and problem-solving techniques.
- Live Classes: TPR stands out for its live instruction offerings. For students who want the benefit of direct interaction with instructors, TPR’s live online courses are a great option. They also offer in-person classes in select locations, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a classroom setting.
- Practice Tests: TPR offers practice tests that mimic the actual exams. They provide a few digital SAT practice exams and several ACT practice tests. Students also get access to personalized feedback after each test, helping them understand where they went wrong and how to improve.
- Mobile App: One of TPR’s benefits is its mobile app, which lets students study on the go. The app provides access to practice questions, lesson material, and progress tracking.
2. Pricing Comparison
When choosing between these two test prep giants, pricing is undoubtedly a critical factor. Let’s break down the cost of their offerings.
PrepScholar Pricing
PrepScholar offers straightforward pricing. While the exact cost depends on the plan and course type, it generally ranges between $397 and $799. Here’s a breakdown:
- SAT Online Prep (Self-Paced): $397
- ACT Online Prep (Self-Paced): $397
- Live Classes (Add-on): $100-200 extra depending on the package
PrepScholar’s pricing is relatively affordable compared to many other test prep services. There are no hidden fees, and the company also offers a 160-point improvement guarantee on the SAT, which means that if your score doesn’t improve by that margin, you’ll get your money back.
Princeton Review Pricing
Princeton Review, with its wide range of offerings, tends to be more expensive:
- Self-Paced Course (Online): Starts around $300 for the basic package.
- Live Online Courses: Prices range from $699 for the Essentials Course to over $1,500 for more advanced packages like the 1400+ SAT Prep course.
- Private Tutoring: Can go up to $7,000 or more, depending on the level of instruction.
While Princeton Review does offer some affordable options, its premium courses and live classes can be quite costly. That said, many students prefer the added value of live instruction and personalized tutoring, which accounts for the higher prices.
3. Personalization and Adaptive Learning
PrepScholar’s Adaptive System
One of PrepScholar’s standout features is its adaptive learning technology. The course is designed to continually assess your performance and adjust the study plan based on your progress.
This means that as you improve in one area, the program will automatically adjust to focus on areas that still need attention. It ensures that you don’t waste time revisiting topics you’ve already mastered.
PrepScholar’s system is particularly helpful for students who want a highly individualized approach. Instead of following a set curriculum, students get the flexibility to work at their own pace, focusing on what matters most to them.
Princeton Review’s Personalization
While Princeton Review also offers personalized study plans, they don’t have the same level of adaptability as PrepScholar. TPR’s courses are more structured, meaning that students follow a fixed syllabus.
However, TPR does offer score improvement guarantees, and their live instructors provide tailored feedback on areas where students need improvement.
If you’re the type of student who prefers a fixed schedule and structured curriculum, TPR’s traditional approach might appeal more to you.
4. Support and Customer Service
PrepScholar Support
PrepScholar offers various support channels, including email assistance and community forums where students can ask questions and engage with other learners. However, it’s important to note that PrepScholar does not provide the same level of one-on-one support as Princeton Review.
For students who are self-motivated and can work independently, PrepScholar’s support structure is often more than sufficient. The community forums provide a great opportunity for peer support, and the personalized feedback from the adaptive learning system is also invaluable.
Princeton Review Support
Princeton Review excels in providing direct, personalized support. Whether you’re in a live class or participating in a tutoring session, you’ll have access to experienced instructors who are available to answer your questions and provide guidance. TPR also offers phone support and a dedicated student portal for ongoing assistance.
Additionally, Princeton Review offers workshops and study groups for students, allowing them to engage with instructors and peers in a collaborative environment. This makes it an excellent option for students who prefer hands-on guidance throughout their test prep journey.
5. Flexibility and Accessibility
PrepScholar Flexibility
Since PrepScholar is entirely online, it offers the ultimate flexibility for students. Whether you’re studying from home, a café, or even while traveling, you can access the material at any time. You can choose when and where you study, making it an excellent option for students with busy schedules or those balancing other commitments.
Princeton Review Flexibility
Princeton Review also offers flexible online options, but if you choose their in-person classes or live instruction, you’ll have to adhere to specific schedules. If you prefer structured learning with deadlines, TPR’s live classes can be an excellent option. However, if flexibility is key to you, their self-paced options or online lessons may offer more freedom.
6. Test Score Improvement and Guarantees
Both PrepScholar and Princeton Review offer score improvement guarantees, which is a huge selling point for many students.
PrepScholar Score Guarantee
PrepScholar provides a strong guarantee: they promise at least a 160-point improvement on the SAT, or you get your money back. This guarantee reflects the confidence PrepScholar has in its adaptive learning system. It’s a compelling offer for students who are confident in their ability to follow a self-paced, online prep course.
Princeton Review Score Guarantee
Princeton Review also offers score improvement guarantees, but these are typically dependent on the course package chosen. For instance, students who opt for live online courses or private tutoring have a higher likelihood of seeing significant improvement. However, the specific terms of the guarantee can vary, so it’s essential to read the fine print.
Final Verdict: Why PrepScholar Wins for Many Students
While both PrepScholar and Princeton Review have their merits, PrepScholar tends to win out for students seeking a personalized, flexible, and affordable learning experience. Here’s why:
- Affordable: PrepScholar is far more budget-friendly than Princeton Review, with pricing starting at just $397 for the SAT and ACT courses. If you’re on a budget, PrepScholar offers incredible value for money.
- Personalization: The adaptive learning system that PrepScholar uses is one of the best in the industry. By tailoring your study plan to your strengths and weaknesses, it ensures that you’re always working on areas that need improvement, making your study time more efficient.
- Flexibility: With PrepScholar being entirely online, you can study at your own pace and on your own schedule. This is especially helpful for students who have busy lives or need to fit their studying around other commitments.
- Score Guarantee: The 160+ point improvement guarantee is a powerful feature, and it speaks to the effectiveness of PrepScholar’s method.
That being said, Princeton Review still has its advantages, especially for students who prefer more traditional, structured learning environments with live instruction.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision between PrepScholar and Princeton Review comes down to your learning preferences, budget, and goals.
If you’re looking for a flexible, personalized, and affordable online course, PrepScholar is a top contender. However, if you need more live interaction, workshops, and in-person instruction, Princeton Review might be a better fit.
Both services are highly reputable and can help you reach your test prep goals. Choose wisely, and good luck on your test prep journey!
FAQ’s
Which has better online tools?
PrepScholar’s platform is sleek, simple, and tailored for digital natives.
Which is better for consistent test prep over time?
PrepScholar encourages spaced repetition and long-term retention strategies.
Which one offers lifetime upgrades?
PrepScholar allows access to updates as long as your account is active.
Which is better if you only have a few weeks to study?
PrepScholar lets you skip ahead and focus on what really matters fast.
Why does PrepScholar win overall?
Because it’s smarter, cheaper, more flexible, and tailored specifically to you.