Best SAT and ACT prep courses in 2026
First checked October 11, 2026; rechecked October 23, 2026 · Sources: UWorld’s prices and Kaplan’s guarantee terms from their own pages; PrepScholar from its own posts; other prices as reported; test facts from College Board and ACT. Ratings are our editorial assessment from published details, not hands-on tests. See how we rank.
The best SAT prep starts free: Khan Academy and College Board’s Bluebook tests for the SAT, and ACT’s free practice tests. For paid prep, PrepScholar (4.3 / 5) is the pick for a personalized plan with a points guarantee, UWorld (4.2) the best-value practice for self-studiers, Princeton Review (4.2) for a 1400+ guarantee, and Kaplan (4.1) the most affordable route to live classes.
Our picks for the best SAT prep
Adaptive plan, six official SAT exams and a 160-point guarantee.
PrepScholar reviewLarge question bank with clear explanations; SAT, ACT and bundles. No live classes.
Start free on UWorld1400+ course with a guarantee; premium tutoring.
Princeton Review reviewOn Demand about $199; Live Online with 18 live hours; Unlimited Prep covers SAT and ACT.
Kaplan reviewOfficial SAT practice built with College Board, linked to Bluebook. SAT only.
Start free on Khan AcademyCheapest full paid course; self-paced only.
Magoosh reviewSide by side
| Course | Rating | Entry price | Live teaching | Guarantee | Covers ACT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PrepScholar | 4.3 / 5 | $397 | Tutoring extra | 160 points | Separate course |
| UWorld | 4.2 / 5 | $99 (QBank) | None | None | Yes, separate or bundle |
| Princeton Review | 4.2 / 5 | About $299 | 36+ hours (1400+) | 1400+ or 150 points | Yes |
| Kaplan | 4.1 / 5 | About $199 | 18 hours from about $699 | Higher Score (SAT) | Yes |
| Khan Academy | 4.1 / 5 | Free | None | None | No |
| Magoosh | 3.8 / 5 | About $129 | None | As reported | Separate plan |
Sources as above; checked October 23, 2026.
How to choose
- Not sure which test? Take a free official practice test of each first.
- Self-study on a budget: Khan Academy plus UWorld’s question bank.
- Need structure: Kaplan Live Online.
- Want a guarantee: PrepScholar or Princeton Review; read the conditions.
How we rated the best SAT prep
We rate each course out of 5 with the same rubric we use across the site: question bank 25%, practice exams 20%, lectures 15%, platform 15%, support 10% and value 15%, based on what providers publish. Free official practice from College Board and ACT comes first, since paid prep should add to it. We don’t accept payment for placement and don’t currently earn commissions.
Common questions about the best SAT prep
How do you rate SAT and ACT prep?
Out of 5, with the same six-category rubric we use across the site, based on published features, prices and terms rather than hands-on tests. Each review shows its breakdown.
Are these paid placements?
No. We currently earn no commission from any SAT or ACT provider, and no one paid for a placement.
What is the best SAT prep?
PrepScholar, at 4.3 / 5, for its adaptive plan, six official exams and 160-point guarantee; Khan Academy is the best free option.
What is the cheapest SAT prep?
Khan Academy and College Board’s Bluebook practice tests are free; Magoosh is the cheapest paid course at about $129.