The move toward test-optional admissions has not eliminated the value of strong SAT scores. Colleges still use scores for merit scholarships, class placement, and program eligibility. A higher score can also strengthen an application if GPA or extracurriculars are less competitive.
Whether you’re aiming for a perfect 1600 or looking to improve by a few hundred points, a quality prep course provides structure, expert instruction, and accountability that self-study alone may lack.
We reviewed more than 10 SAT prep programs using the following criteria:
- Score improvement: Documented gains or score-guarantee policies.
- Instructor quality: Teaching experience and test-score credentials.
- Course design: Number of full practice tests, lesson structure, and adaptive learning tools.
- Flexibility: Online or in-person options, self-paced access, and mobile support.
- Cost and value: Transparent pricing and refund options.
- Student feedback: Verified user reviews and independent test results.
Each provider below excels in at least one area, making it a strong choice depending on your goals and budget.
Provider | Best For | Format | Score Guarantee | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Students seeking structured instruction | Online or In-Person | Up To 150 Points | $1,799+ | |
Comprehensive curriculum and practice | Online or In-Person | Varies By Plan | $680+ | |
Lower-cost, but one of the top online options | Online | Yes | $397+ | |
One-on-one tutoring | Online | Varies | Varies | |
Self-paced and free prep | Online | No | Free |
Best for High Score Guarantee: The Princeton Review
The Princeton Review is one of the most recognizable names in college test prep. They have a variety of learning options, including one-on-one tutoring for the SAT and advising on the college application process.
Their Digital SAT 1400+ course comes with a money-back guarantee that is designed to help you score in the 95th percentile of test takers. The course comes with 36+ hours of instruction conducted online or in a live classroom setting. It also comes with on-demand tutoring at no extra charge, helping students who need additional support.
The Princeton Review’s versatile offerings make it affordable for students of all backgrounds. The Digital SAT 1400+ costs $1,899 but students who can’t afford the full payment can enroll for just $299. Individual tutoring for SAT test prep starts at $175 per hour.
Best for Interacting with Instructors: Kaplan
Kaplan is another well-known company that offers SAT test prep courses. With decades of experience, Kaplan has perfected the formula for helping students raise their test scores.
The Live Online SAT Prep course is designed with the new Digital SAT format in mind. The 18+ hour course is taught by instructors who have scored in the 99th percentile themselves. Each session comes with a chat feature that allows students to interact directly with their instructor. This is useful for students who need help understanding difficult concepts or want advice on how to develop a test-taking strategy that works for them.
The course starts at $640 and can be broken down into installments for students who can’t cover the full cost upfront. For students who need more accountability, Kaplan also operates test centers in 46 states where they offer in-person courses.
Read our full Kaplan Test Prep review.
Best for Test Prep and Admissions Advising: PrepScholar
A lot of test prep courses offer extra support when it comes to overall college admissions. PrepScholar takes the cake when it comes to combining advising with SAT test prep. Founded by two Harvard grads who earned perfect SAT scores, PrepScholar strives to help students achieve their best. Tutors on staff have scored in the 99th percentile too.
The Complete SAT Online Prep course takes this expertise to help students increase their odds of getting into a top school. The course comes with 7100+ realistic test questions and comes with a 5-day trial. This, combined, PrepScholar’s Complete Admissions Package, is designed to help students increase their scores while developing a strategy to navigate the entire college admissions process.
The course starts at $397, making it one of the most affordable SAT test prep options out there. For students who need more support, PrepScholar offers one-on-one tutoring packages starting at $995.
Read our full PrepScholar review here.
Best for Month-to-Month Test Prep: Varsity Tutors
One of the biggest challenges with accessing SAT test prep courses is the cost. Even with payment plans, the cost can be prohibitive for students and their parents. This is where Varsity Tutors shines.
Varsity Tutors operates a membership-based study platform. Students who join the platform get access to an unlimited number of courses, ranging from SAT test prep to French. This can be a good investment for high school students who need help preparing for other exams, like AP tests.
Memberships start at $269 per month and give students access to live, instructor-led courses. Courses are offered in varying durations, allowing students to fit them into their current test-taking timeline.
Read our full Varsity Tutors review here.
Best for Free Study Materials: Khan Academy
For students who’d like to create their own customized SAT test prep program, nothing beats Khan Academy. The platform is free to use and comes with a variety of study materials.
One neat feature Khan Academy offers is the ability to assess past test performance. Students can connect it with their College Board account which is the company that administers the SAT. Its artificial intelligence tool can evaluate a student’s results and create a study plan based on areas they need to work on.
Khan Academy is completely free, making it a good resource for any study to add to their test prep schedule.
How To Choose The Right SAT Prep Course
While enrolling in an SAT test prep course can be a good way to boost your score, there are a few things to consider when choosing a course.
- Determine how much time you need. Some courses are designed to be like boot camps, and cram study material in a short window of time. Other SAT test prep programs are spread out over several weeks. Figure out how much time you need to prepare for the test and how much time you can allocate toward studying for it.
- Figure out what format works for you. Self-paced courses are often the more affordable option but they aren’t ideal for every student. You might need the structure and accountability provided by a live course taught by an instructor. Figure out which learning style suits you the best.
- Shop around. Many test prep courses offer the same features – realistic questions, practice tests, and the ability to ask questions to tutors. Not all courses, however, are priced the same. Once you know your study timeline and your preferred learning style, shop around. Find a course that provides what you need and fits into your budget.
One final thing to consider is whether or not you actually need to take the SAT. You might be better suited for the ACT instead.
Does SAT Prep Work?
Research suggests that structured prep can improve scores by 60–120 points on average, depending on time invested and prior performance. Students who combine self-study with professional courses often see the greatest gains.
That said, results vary widely. The best programs offer diagnostic tools that adapt lessons over time, rather than fixed study schedules.
Is SAT Test Prep Worth It?
With college becoming more and more competitive, enrolling in a SAT test prep course can help you improve your score. While college entrance exams like the SAT aren’t the only thing determining whether or not you’ll get accepted, a good score can certainly help.
That being said, going through a test prep program won’t guarantee you’ll actually see an improvement in a score. There are a number of other factors that can affect how you perform on test day too. However, the best SAT courses can also help you plan for a great test day.
SAT test prep can help but remember it isn’t a shortcut to getting a good score. You’ll still need to put in the work to get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I start SAT prep?
Start at least three months before your test date—earlier if aiming for a top-tier score.
Should I take both the SAT and ACT?
If you’re unsure which exam fits your strengths, take an official practice test for each. Some colleges superscore only the SAT, others accept either.
Do colleges prefer one prep provider over another?
No. Colleges don’t see which program you used—only your final score.
Can I retake the SAT after test prep?
Yes. Many students take it twice, using the first attempt to set a baseline and the second to maximize results.
Are free prep resources enough?
Khan Academy and free materials are a good start, but paid programs can add structure and personalized instruction.
Editor: Colin Graves Reviewed by: Robert Farrington
Amanda is a financial writer and researcher who covers financial aid, investing, cryptocurrency, and economic trends. Drawing on years of analysis across markets and technology, she helps readers understand how innovation and policy shape personal finance decisions.
A summa cum laude graduate of Syracuse University, Amanda brings an international perspective informed by experience in Washington, D.C., the Middle East, and the private sector. Her work reflects a commitment to accuracy, transparency, and practical insight—core values that guide The College Investor’s mission to make finance accessible to everyone.
Â