The Ultimate Guide to the 7 Best GMAT Prep Courses of 2025

Your GMAT score can make or break your business school application. With prep courses ranging from less than $100 to over $3,000, choosing the wrong one isn’t just frustrating—it’s expensive.

We’ve tested the best GMAT prep courses to help you avoid wasting time and money. Our expert reviews cut through the marketing hype to match you with the perfect program for your learning style, budget, and goals.

Overview

• Best Overall GMAT Prep Course: Manhattan Prep
• Best for Live Learning: Princeton Review
• Most Budget-Friendly: Peterson’s
• Best for MBA Applications: Magoosh
• Best Math Prep: Target Test Prep 
• Most Comprehensive Program: Kaplan
• Most Personalized Study Plans: PrepScholar 

Best Overall: Manhattan Prep 

Manhattan Prep GMAT earns our top spot by combining elite 99th-percentile instructors with the most comprehensive and strategy-focused curriculum available.

✅Pros

• Comprehensive study materials
• High-quality instructors
• Flexible learning options
• Adaptive learning platform
• Quantitative focus
• Post-course support
• Score-improvement guarantee
• Plenty of practice exams and practice questions
• Mobile app
• Free trial

❌Cons

• High cost
• Heavy load
• Complicated progress tracking

🎯Why We Chose It

When you’re putting time and money into GMAT prep, you need resources that actually boost your score. Manhattan Prep delivers with a structured approach that builds real skills, not just test tricks.

Its study materials and strategy guides break down each section step-by-step. A full syllabus outlines exactly what to study next, so you never feel lost. In fact, the GMAT Navigator tool tracks progress and highlights areas for improvement, so you’re covered from beginning to end.

Manhattan Prep’s Dynamic Question Set Builder lets you create custom practice sets from over 1,000 questions, focusing on your weak areas. Those aiming for elite MBA programs can try targeted exercises designed for top business schools, like Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton.

Manhattan Prep offers flexible study options, including in-person, live-online, and self-paced courses. This means you can prep in a way that fits your schedule without sacrificing quality. If you need to study on the go, Manhattan’s mobile app has 1,100 practice questions and 800+ drills. When you’re ready to test what you’ve learned, six computer-adaptive practice tests help you get comfortable with the real exam format.

In this program, every instructor has not only scored in the 99th percentile but has proven teaching skills that can translate their success to yours. Whether you take live classes or private tutoring, the instruction is interactive, engaging, and tailored to your needs.

Where Manhattan Prep stands out the most, though, is its emphasis on math.

You get a double five-hour “Foundations of Math” workshop to help if you need extra support before tackling tougher concepts.

The folks at Manhattan are so confident you’ll excel in their program that the course comes with a score-improvement guarantee: a 655+ score or a 70-point increase or your money back. And with 597 five-star reviews out of 688 on Trustpilot, the results speak for themselves.

Of course, quality comes at a price. While it’s a solid investment for those aiming high, budget-conscious students might balk at Manhattan’s cost. But you get what you pay for: a rigorous program that leaves nothing out.

Overall, if you’re serious about the GMAT and willing to put in the work, Manhattan Prep offers one of the most effective programs available. Try its free GMAT starter kit and see why so many MBA students trust Manhattan Prep with their goals.

Best for Live Learning: The Princeton Review 

Princeton Review GMAT stands out for its small, engaging classes and personalized feedback, which make it perfect for students who thrive in a structured, real-time learning environment.

✅Pros

• Top-rated live instruction
• One-on-one tutoring 
• Flexible formats
• Comprehensive study materials
• Engaging practice videos and drills
• User-friendly online platform
• Section-based prep
• Free trial

❌Cons

• High cost
• Undeveloped math program
• Short course access
• No mobile app
• In-person tutoring access limited

🎯Why We Chose It

The GMAT isn’t just another test—it’s a strategic battle against tricky wording, time pressure, and questions designed to trip you up. If you’ve felt that same deer-in-headlights moment, The Princeton Review‘s live instruction might be your lifeline. With self-paced, live-online, and tutoring options to choose from, there’s no structure The Princeton Review can’t provide.

It’s hands-down one of the best options if you learn best from live instruction, offering 18–30 hours of expert-led classes designed to sharpen your problem-solving skills in real time. Its instructors—they have office hours!—don’t just lecture at you; they ask guiding questions, helping you reach the answer on your own. So, by test day, you actually understand the material instead of just memorizing it.

For those who need one-on-one attention, Princeton Review’s private tutoring option is even better. Your tutor customizes your study plan based on your strengths and weaknesses, making sure you spend time on what actually matters instead of spinning your wheels on stuff you already know. If you live in the right area, you can even get tutoring in-person—but online is also an option.

The resources you get with The Princeton Review are substantial. You’ll have access to six full-length practice GMATs, over 4,400 practice questions, and over 2,500 adaptive drills.

Princeton’s DrillSmart Technology adjusts question difficulty based on how you’re doing—just like the actual GMAT does. So if you’re crushing sentence correction but struggling with critical reasoning, the system notices and adapts. Many students find Princeton’s verbal and integrated reasoning prep particularly helpful, with strategies that make these sections less intimidating.

The user-friendly online platform includes the GMAT Score Report Tool, which helps you analyze your performance and track your improvement. The platform is designed to be intuitive, so you can easily manage your study sessions and stay on track.

Now, I won’t sugarcoat it—Princeton Review isn’t cheap. It’s a lot more expensive than self-paced options like Magoosh and Peterson’s Prep, especially considering the 120-day access period for self-paced courses is shorter than Magoosh’s full year.

The quantitative lessons, while thorough, may not be as advanced as courses like Manhattan Prep or Target Test Prep, which have a strong math focus.

Another considerable downside is its lack of mobile app. It’s 2025. My dry cleaner has an app. This should too.

But if you learn better when the material is presented to you live, in important chunks, these drawbacks are minor. For interactive learners, Princeton Review’s live instruction delivers results that make the investment feel like one of the smartest decisions of your MBA journey.

Try the free practice test today and take the first step toward your dream GMAT score.

Most Budget-Friendly: Peterson’s

Peterson’s GMAT Test Prep is the best budget-friendly option because it offers affordable access to essential GMAT preparation tools, including full-length practice tests with detailed explanations.

✅Pros

• Affordable
• Variety of resources
• Strong foundational content
• Subscription model
• Mobile app
• Live, on-demand tutoring
• Historic record of performance

❌Cons

• Limited practice tests
• Not recommended for advanced prep
• Tutoring quality
• User interface is less polished

🎯Why We Chose It

At just $39 a month, Peterson’s GMAT Test Prep is one of the most budget-friendly GMAT prep options out there. That’s less than the cost of a dinner date—except instead of swiping right on a date, you’re swiping right on your future.

Peterson’s subscription model means you’re not locked into a long-term contract, so you can use it for as long as you need—and no more.

Now, just because it’s affordable doesn’t mean it skimps on resources. Peterson’s gives you three full-length GMAT practice tests, each broken down by content level with detailed explanations. You also get 490 practice questions, interactive lessons, videos, and even a monthly essay review—a feature you’d usually find in pricier courses.

And if you like studying in bite-sized chunks, its mobile app offers diagnostic tests, mini quizzes, and flash cards for on-the-go practice. You could be waiting for your coffee and casually mastering sentence correction at the same time.

One amazing feature I was surprised to find at this price level is the live, on-demand tutoring. You get up to 270 minutes of live, online tutoring, available 24/7. That means whether you’re stuck on a tricky quantitative problem at two a.m. or need last-minute verbal strategies before test day, there’s always someone ready to help. No need to schedule sessions weeks in advance—just log in and start learning.

And if you’re the type who values experience, Peterson’s has been in the test prep game since 1966, helping students succeed for over 50 years. That’s some serious street cred!

Of course, like everything else, Peterson’s isn’t perfect. With only three full-length practice tests, Peterson’s doesn’t offer as many simulations as Kaplan or Princeton Review, which include six or more. If you’re looking for deep dives into advanced quantitative concepts, you might find Manhattan Prep or Target Test Prep more rigorous.

The tutoring quality is decent, but the lack of detailed tutor credentials might be a concern for those seeking highly specialized instruction. Also, the user interface isn’t as sleek as Magoosh or Princeton Review—it’s functional, but it won’t win any design awards.

But the bottom line is, if you watch your wallet AND want solid GMAT prep, you might find that this budget option gives you exactly what you need without the premium price tag.

Sign up for Peterson’s today and take the first step toward your dream score.

Best for MBA Applications: Magoosh

Magoosh GMAT Prep goes beyond test prep by offering exclusive MBA application resources, including insider advice on building a strong MBA brand, real applicant profiles, and expert guidance on essays and resumes.

✅Pros

• Entirely self-paced
• Comprehensive MBA application support
• Affordable pricing
• Comprehensive resources
• Adaptive learning technology
• Customizable study schedules
• High-quality mobile app
• Score guarantee
• 7-day free trial
• Great customer support

❌Cons

• Entirely self-paced
• Fewer full-length practice tests
• Limited live instruction
• Weaker quantitative section
• No in-person option
• Limited live instruction

🎯Why We Chose It

Magoosh GMAT Prep isn’t just about acing the test—it goes a step further by helping you stand out in the ultra-competitive MBA application process.

Its Premium + Admissions plan gives you personalized guidance long after you’ve taken the GMAT. You’ll get weekly tasks tailored to your application deadlines, over 30 expert-led MBA application videos, and access to 70+ real applicant profiles, essays, and resumes. Whether you’re crafting your personal statement, polishing your resume, or figuring out how to address a weak spot in your application, Magoosh has you covered.

It even offers insider advice on how to build a compelling MBA brand—a level of support you won’t typically find with most GMAT prep courses.

Another thing to love about Magoosh is that while it isn’t the absolute cheapest option (Peterson’s wins that round), at $249 for six months, it’s one of the best values on the market—especially compared to high-end programs like Kaplan or Princeton Review.

Despite the lower price, Magoosh doesn’t skimp on resources. You’ll have access to over 200 video lessons, 800+ practice questions, and two diagnostic tests covering math, verbal, and data insights. All available on a mobile app that makes it easy to study anywhere, anytime.

One of Magoosh’s biggest strengths is its adaptive learning technology, which tracks your progress and pinpoints weak areas so you can focus on what actually needs improvement. This pairs well with the customizable study plans, allowing you to follow a one-month or six-month schedule that fits your timeline.

To sweeten the deal, Magoosh offers a 50-point score-improvement guarantee, meaning if your score doesn’t go up by at least 50 points, you get your money back. Plus, there’s a seven-day free trial, so you can try it out risk-free.

The biggest downside? Only two full-length practice tests, whereas Princeton Review offers six. If you’re the kind of person who needs repeated full-test simulations, you may want to supplement with official GMAT practice exams.

Also, there are no live classes—unlike Manhattan Prep or Kaplan, Magoosh is entirely self-paced. There’s no in-person or one-on-one tutoring, so if you thrive on personal feedback, you’ll have to look elsewhere. You’ll notice that fact is listed above as both a pro and a con. Well, it depends on the student, doesn’t it?

Magoosh’s quantitative section is not as tough as the real GMAT. If math is your weak spot, you might need extra practice from a course like Target Test Prep.

But don’t let these few issues disqualify Magoosh. If you’re looking for affordable, flexible, and effective GMAT prep with bonus MBA application support, Magoosh is a smart choice.

Try Magoosh’s free seven-day trial today and see why it’s a top choice for GMAT prep and MBA success.

Best Math Prep: Target Test Prep (TTP)

Target Test Prep stands out for its laser-focused approach to mastering the quantitative section, offering in-depth lessons, thousands of practice questions, and advanced problem-solving strategies.

✅Pros

• Comprehensive quantitative coverage
• Personalized study plans
• Structured, linear learning path
• Smart analytics and error trackers
• Realistic GMAT-style problems
• Great for all skill levels
• User-friendly interface
• Affordable pricing
• Risk-free trial and money-back guarantee

❌Cons

• Limited verbal and integrated reasoning focus
• No mobile app
• Time intensive
• No one-on-one tutoring

🎯Why We Chose It

If you’re serious about improving your GMAT quantitative score, Target Test Prep is one of the best investments you can make. Unlike general prep courses that divide attention between quantitative and verbal, TTP goes all-in on math, offering an incredibly detailed and structured approach to mastering every aspect of the quantitative section.

I know I said Manhattan Prep is good for math, and it is—it’s good at everything—but Target Test Prep’s focus on quantitative elements is unmatched.

With 2,200+ instructor-led video lessons, over 4,000 quant-specific practice questions, and 47 chapters covering every GMAT math topic in depth, it’s no surprise that TTP consistently helps students boost their scores.

But it’s not just about throwing a ton of content at you and hoping for the best. TTP’s structured, linear learning path ensures that you master one concept before moving to the next, eliminating knowledge gaps and building confidence along the way.

Flexibility is another huge plus. Unlike some courses that lock you into rigid programs, TTP offers multiple self-study plans that cater to different timelines. Whether you need a monthly subscription for flexible prep, a four-month dedicated plan, or a six-month deep dive, you can choose what works best for you. TTP even offers its OnDemand program with 400+ hours of live masterclasses or a premium Live Instruction + OnDemand option for those who prefer guided learning.

Its AI-powered coaching and smart analytics make sure you’re focusing on the right areas, tracking your mistakes and constantly refining your approach. And because real test performance matters, TTP’s practice questions closely mirror official GMAT difficulty levels, making test day feel like just another study session.

Plus, with affordable monthly payment plans and a five-day free trial, there’s no pressure to commit up front.

While Target Test Prep has many strengths, there are a few downsides. TTP’s biggest weakness is its limited verbal and integrated reasoning (IR) content. While its quantitative materials are top-tier, those looking for well-rounded GMAT prep may need to supplement with another course.

It also lacks a dedicated mobile app, which might be a downside for students who like to study on the go. And while the structured approach is great for learning, it does require a significant time commitment, which may not be ideal for those looking for a quick prep solution.

That said, if quantitative is your weak spot, TTP gives you everything you need to turn it into a strength. With hundreds of five-star reviews and a 130+ point score-improvement guarantee, it’s clear this course delivers results.

Most Comprehensive Program: Kaplan GMAT Prep

Kaplan GMAT Prep stands out for its comprehensive combination of structured curriculum, advanced analytics, and multiple learning formats, as well as its extensive collection of official GMAT practice questions and study materials spanning all test sections.

✅Pros

• Comprehensive study materials
• Structured course format
• Small-group live classes & video lessons
• Focus on test-taking strategies
• Foundations of math pre-course
• Personalized study plans
• Content access period
• Expert instructors
• Score-improvement guarantee

❌Cons

• High price
• Cumbersome progress tracking
• Practice test difficulty
• No mobile app
• Similarity with Manhattan Prep

🎯Why We Chose It

Facing the GMAT without proper preparation is like showing up to a marathon in flip-flops—you might finish, but you won’t be happy with your performance. That’s where Kaplan GMAT Prep comes in.

Kaplan offers one of the most complete study packages on the market. When you sign up with Kaplan, you get access to materials directly from the test makers themselves, including six full-length adaptive practice tests from GMAC that closely mirror what you’ll face on test day. The massive question bank houses over 5,000 practice problems that adapt to your skill level, ensuring you’re always working at the edge of your abilities.

You’re not just getting recorded videos with Kaplan, though there are more than 25 of them, led by a pool of 99th percentile instructors, whom you can also learn from live.

Kaplan’s small-group live classes offer real-time help when you get stuck. I’ve heard from students who were initially hesitant about group learning but ended up forming study partnerships that lasted beyond their GMAT journey. For those needing extra attention, Kaplan’s one-on-one tutoring includes a personalized battle plan targeting your specific weaknesses.

Unlike some programs that excel in one area but fall short in others, Kaplan delivers balanced coverage across all GMAT sections. Its 12-week structured program gives you a clear roadmap to follow, eliminating the guesswork of what to study next.

If math makes you sweat, the optional Foundations of Math pre-course extends your plan to 16 weeks, building your confidence from the ground up before tackling the harder concepts.

Kaplan’s six-month access period gives you breathing room that other programs don’t offer. You can spread your studying across half a year rather than cramming everything into a stressful 120 days or less. Its score-improvement guarantee (either 655+ or a 70-point boost) shows you can trust Kaplan’s methods.

Sure, Kaplan isn’t perfect. Its pricing sits at the higher end, its progress tracking could use an update, and it lacks a dedicated mobile app. Some students find the practice tests tougher than the real thing, which can be discouraging or motivating depending on your perspective.

Also, since Kaplan has owned Manhattan Prep since 2009, you might find some of its services to be extremely similar.

But when test day arrives, you want the confidence that comes from comprehensive preparation. Don’t leave your business school future to chance. Visit Kaplan’s website today and take its free practice test to see where you stand.

Most Adaptive Learning: PrepScholar GMAT

PrepScholar GMAT sets itself apart with its cutting-edge adaptive learning algorithm that creates a truly personalized study experience based on your strengths and weaknesses.

✅Pros

• Adaptive learning technology
• Comprehensive curriculum
• Personalized study plans
• Flexible schedule
• Detailed progress tracking
• Affordable pricing
• Tutoring options
• Score improvement guarantee
• Free 5-day trial

❌Cons

• Limited focus on quantitative improvement
• Expensive in-person tutoring
• No live instruction
• Might not be challenging enough for high scorers
• No mobile app

🎯Why We Chose It

Studying for the GMAT can get in the way of work, life, and everything in between. That’s where PrepScholar GMAT works its magic.

PrepScholar’s adaptive learning technology takes the guesswork out of studying by tailoring a plan specifically for you. After a smart diagnostic assessment, the platform analyzes your strengths and weaknesses across 30+ GMAT skills and builds a personalized curriculum to help you focus on what actually needs improvement. Weekly reports, progress trackers, and customized feedback keep you on track.

With over 1,000 real practice questions, 10 strategy lessons, and 30+ skill-focused lessons, students get a deep dive into GMAT content, paired with highly detailed video explanations that break down complex concepts into digestible, easy-to-understand lessons. Whether you’re struggling with data sufficiency or sentence correction, PrepScholar’s structured lessons ensure nothing gets left behind.

Another great feature of PrepScholar is its flexible study schedule. PrepScholar offers three course options to fit different study needs: GMAT Online Prep for a budget-friendly quick start, Complete GMAT Online Prep, a fully personalized and in-depth prep experience, and 1-on-1 Tutoring + Complete GMAT Online Prep for students who need help from tutors.

If you’re unsure which route to take, you can explore a five-day free trial before committing. With prices starting at just $139 and a 60-point score-improvement guarantee, PrepScholar provides some of the best value on the market.

Of course, there are a few things to watch out for. While PrepScholar provides solid coverage of all GMAT sections, some students may find its quantitative section less in-depth compared to specialized programs like Target Test Prep. Also, its one-on-one tutoring options can get pricey.

Unlike Kaplan or Princeton Review, there’s no dedicated mobile app, though the platform is mobile friendly.

Probably the biggest downside to PrepScholar is that it’s simple. It’s not a rigorous program, like Kaplan or Manhattan, and advanced students might actually be bored.

Still, these drawbacks don’t take away from what PrepScholar does exceptionally well—helping students build an efficient, customized study plan that maximizes results. With 130 out of 157 five-star reviews on Trustpilot, students praise its supportive teachers and game-changing strategies.

If you want a course that adapts to your needs, PrepScholar GMAT is a smart investment in your future.

How We Chose the Best GMAT Test Prep

This section discusses the methodology I used for picking the best GMAT prep courses.

Flexible Scheduling and Adaptable Formats

When choosing the best GMAT prep courses, we focused on programs that offer flexible scheduling and adaptable formats to fit different learning styles. Not everyone studies the same way—some people thrive with structured live classes, while others prefer self-paced study. That’s why we prioritized options that cater to both.

We prefer courses that offer live-online classes for students who need real-time interaction with instructors. But each prep course should also have an on-demand course for those who prefer studying at their own pace. Those that offer tutoring, while expensive, provide a human backup for those areas you find tricky.

Some take flexibility even further with an adaptive online platform that builds a customized study plan based on your strengths and weaknesses. You can study whenever it fits your schedule, and weekly progress reports help keep you on track.

A variety of learning materials is also essential. Some programs make on-demand videos and tutorials available not only for self-paced courses, but live-online and tutoring as well. Not to mention, we love a mobile app.

By selecting courses with varied formats, we made sure there’s an option for everyone—whether you need a strict schedule or the freedom to study on your own time.

Personalized Instruction

When choosing the best GMAT prep courses, we made personalized instruction a top priority. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for everyone, so we focused on programs that tailor learning experiences to individual needs.

Adaptive learning technology, which creates a custom study plan based on your strengths and weaknesses, is a game changer. These platforms adjust as you progress, ensuring you focus on areas that need the most work.

Live classes include instructors who provide real-time feedback and answer questions on the spot. One-on-one tutoring is an essential part of a comprehensive plan for those who want a completely customized learning experience.

Whether you prefer self-paced study, interactive live classes, or personal coaching, we looked for courses that offer options to match your learning style. Personalized instruction ensures you don’t waste time on what you already know and get the help you actually need.

Pricing and Plans

Finding the right GMAT prep course means balancing quality with what you can afford. We carefully evaluated pricing structures to include options that work for various budgets without sacrificing essential features.

The most budget-friendly options have plans starting at just $39. This makes quality GMAT preparation accessible to students with tight financial constraints while still providing excellent services.

But it’s not just about the price but also the value. Some of the more expensive courses include more learning materials. On-demand programs are usually the most affordable and include recorded videos, slide-based tutorials, flash cards, and more. What we love is when prep courses throw in all the on-demand materials with their live-online and tutoring packages. That’s a real value.

We also looked at programs offering free trials, money-back guarantees, and score improvement promises, as these features provide added security for your investment.

Expert Instructors and Tutors

We made sure that each GMAT prep course offers guidance from top professionals who’ve not only aced the test but also know how to teach it effectively. The best programs feature instructors who scored in the 99th percentile and combine their deep understanding of the GMAT with the ability to explain complex concepts in simple, actionable ways.

Whether through live classes, one-on-one tutoring, or self-paced video lessons, these expert instructors provide the strategies and insights you need to succeed. Their firsthand experience with the test means that you’re learning proven techniques, not just theory.

Additional Resources

Preparing for the GMAT goes beyond just taking a prep course. A comprehensive study strategy involves leveraging multiple resources to maximize your understanding and performance. Here are some of the best free resources available to help you achieve your target score:

• GMAT Club Forum: a top-rated app for GMAT preparation, offering practice tests, courses, discussions, and expert advice.
• Free or low-cost practice tests: 
  • GMAT Official Starter Kit
  • McGraw-Hill
  • Test Prep Practice
  • Kaplan
  • Manhattan Review
  • Magoosh 
  • GMAT Club
  • E-GMAT 
• Khan Academy GMAT Lessons are a great resource for mastering problem-solving and data sufficiency skills.

Your Next Steps

Choosing the right GMAT prep course depends on your learning style, budget, and goals. If you thrive with structure, a live class keeps you on track. A self-paced course can help you study at your own pace. Personalized tutoring will provide targeted support.

No matter your approach, the key is to start now. For top-tier strategies from expert instructors, check out Manhattan Prep. If live, expert-led instruction is more your style, Princeton Review is a great choice. Or, if you’re on a budget but still want quality, explore Peterson’s affordable plans and start your GMAT journey today.

FAQs

What is the best study plan for the GMAT?

The best GMAT study plan depends on your schedule and learning style. A structured plan includes daily practice, review sessions, and full-length mock tests. Adaptive courses like Manhattan Prep adjust to your strengths and weaknesses, helping you focus on areas that need the most work.

What is the best source to prepare for GMAT?

The best GMAT prep sources include official GMAT practice tests, prep books, and online courses with interactive lessons. Programs like Manhattan Prep, PrepScholar, and Kaplan offer expert-designed lessons, while the GMAT Official Guide provides real test questions for practice.

Is 3 months enough to study for the GMAT?

Yes, three months is enough to study for the GMAT if you follow a solid study plan. Focus on weak areas, take regular practice tests, and use a structured course like PrepScholar or Magoosh to stay on track. For higher scores, more time may be helpful.