Magoosh MCAT Prep Review: Budget-Friendly & Flexible

| | May 9, 2025

Crushing the MCAT isn’t just about how smart you are—it’s about how smart you prep. That’s where Magoosh comes in. It’s an affordable, online-only MCAT prep program that’s gotten pretty popular with pre-meds who need something flexible and effective that doesn’t break the bank.

But should you trust it with your future med school dreams?

Let’s find out.

Magoosh MCAT Prep

magoosh sat prep
Value
Practice material
Live instruction
Lesson quality
User interface
Student support

Summary

Magoosh MCAT Prep offers affordable, flexible study tools for independent learners at $399 for a year, making it ideal for self-starters who want quality content without paying for expensive live classes or tutoring. However, it’s not the best fit for students who need structured guidance or more advanced, in-depth instruction.

3.5
Pros
  • Budget-friendly 12-month access to all materials
  • Flexible, self-paced study format
  • Helpful analytics and progress tracking
  • Mobile app for studying anywhere
  • 10-point score-improvement guarantee
  • Custom study schedules from 1–6 months
  • Email support from MCAT experts
Cons
  • No live instruction or classes
  • Fewer practice questions than premium competitors
  • No physical books or materials
  • Only 3 full-length practice tests
  • Limited 1-on-1 support options
  • Self-discipline required without structured classes

Who Is Magoosh MCAT Prep For?

🎯Magoosh was built specifically for students who need a more wallet-friendly option without sacrificing quality content.

Magoosh’s MCAT prep costs $399 for twelve months of access, which is significantly lower than many competitors like Kaplan or Princeton Review that charge over $1,800 for similar-length programs.

🎯If you’re the type who thrives with independent study and prefers learning at your own pace, you’ll appreciate Magoosh’s flexibility.

Study at midnight in your pajamas or squeeze in quick review sessions between classes; the platform adapts to your schedule, not the other way around.

🎯Magoosh also works well for repeat test-takers.

Maybe you’ve already taken the MCAT and need targeted review in specific areas rather than a comprehensive course. The customizable study plans and analytics help you focus on your weaknesses without wasting time on concepts you’ve already mastered.

Who is Magoosh MCAT Prep NOT for?

If you need the structure and accountability of live classes or crave extensive one-on-one tutoring, Magoosh might leave you wanting more. The platform assumes you have the self-discipline to stay on track without regular scheduled sessions or in-person guidance.

Those students who want super deep, advanced content may find Magoosh insufficient. Magoosh covers everything you need to know—but it’s built for efficiency and affordability.

Magoosh MCAT Course Options and Pricing

The thing about Magoosh that immediately stands out is its simplicity. Unlike other prep companies that offer confusing tiers of packages, Magoosh keeps it straightforward with just three options (or two and a half, depending on how you look at it).

Course FeaturesPrice


Free Trial 
  • 7 days of access60 content review videos created by MCAT experts
  • 16 practice questionsEmail assistance from tutors


  • 100% free(no strings)



    1-Month Premium
  • 1 month of access
  • Customizable study plan
  • 380+ content review videos
  • 740+ questions
  • 3 full-length practice tests
  • +10 total score guarantee
  • 24/7 email support from MCAT tutors
  • Pause any time




  • $379



    12-Month Premium
  • 12 months of access
  • Customizable study plan
  • 380+ content review videos
  • 740+ questions
  • 3 full-length practice tests
  • +10 total score guarantee
  • 24/7 email support from MCAT tutors 
  • Pause any time


  • $399(or 4 monthly payments of $99.75)

    What Does Magoosh MCAT Prep Include?

    So what exactly do you get for your money with Magoosh? Let’s break down the key components that make up their MCAT prep package.

    ➡️Video Lessons

    Magoosh’s 380+ video lessons break down complex topics into manageable chunks. These are concise, focused tutorials averaging 3–10 minutes each, taught by experts who know how to make even organic chemistry mechanisms stick in your brain.

    The videos cover all MCAT subjects: biology, biochemistry, general chemistry, organic chemistry, physics, psychology, sociology, and CARS (critical analysis and reasoning skills). Each lesson includes helpful visuals, clear explanations, and real-life applications to help you understand not just what to know, but why it matters for the MCAT.

    What really sets these videos apart is that they’re designed for actual learning, not just passive watching.

    They highlight high-yield topics and frequently tested concepts, so you’re focusing on what’s most likely to appear on your exam.

    Magoosh MCAT Prep Review: Budget-Friendly & Flexible 5

    ➡️Practice Questions

    Practice questions are where the rubber meets the road in MCAT prep, and Magoosh provides over 740 to test your knowledge. Each question comes with detailed explanations that not only tell you the right answer but also walk you through the reasoning process. The questions mirror the AAMC’s style and difficulty, preparing you for what you’ll encounter on test day.

    You can practice in timed or untimed modes, and Magoosh’s algorithm tracks which types of questions you struggle with most.

    While 740+ questions might seem like plenty, it’s worth noting that some competitors offer 2,000+ practice questions. However, Magoosh focuses on quality over quantity, making sure each question tests important concepts rather than padding their numbers with low-yield material.

    Magoosh MCAT Prep Review: Budget-Friendly & Flexible 6

    ➡️Custom Study Schedules

    While experts debate whether you need 250, 300, or 400 study hours, they all agree on one thing: spreading out your studying works better than cramming. That’s exactly what Magoosh helps you do.

    Its flexible one- or six-month plans break your studying into manageable chunks—think 15–25 hours weekly rather than burning out with 40+ hours. If you’re starting six months early (smart move!), you can follow the 26-week plan that covers biology every week and rotates through other subjects.

    Here’s a fun coincidence: if you study about 20 hours weekly for 26 weeks with a small boost of 8 extra hours somewhere, you’ll hit exactly 528 total hours—matching that perfect MCAT score!

    ➡️Full-Length Practice Tests

    Taking full-length practice tests is crucial for building MCAT stamina, and Magoosh includes three complete exams. These tests simulate the actual MCAT experience, with the same timing, format, and difficulty level you’ll face on test day.

    The tests integrate with Magoosh’s analytics system, which provides detailed breakdowns of your performance across different subjects and question types.

    This helps you identify patterns in your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to adjust your study focus accordingly.

    While three tests are fewer than what some premium competitors offer, they’re well-constructed and provide valuable practice. For most students, these tests, combined with the AAMC’s official practice exams (purchased separately), provide sufficient full-length practice.

    ➡️Email Support from Tutors

    If you have a question about a tricky concept or need clarification on a practice problem, Magoosh’s email support connects you with MCAT experts who can help untangle those confusing topics.

    Unlike some prep companies that use generic customer service chat bots, Magoosh provides access to actual content experts who understand the nuances of MCAT material.

    Response times typically range from 24 to 48 hours, which isn’t immediate, but it does provide you with thoughtful, accurate answers.

    This support system helps fill the gap left by the absence of live classes, so at least you get a lifeline when you’re truly stuck. However, it’s not the same as having an instructor you can ask questions in real time, so be prepared for some delayed gratification.

    ➡️Score Predictor

    One of the most anxiety-inducing aspects of MCAT prep is wondering where you stand—is all this studying actually paying off? Magoosh’s Score Predictor tool helps answer that question by analyzing your performance on practice questions and tests.

    The predictor uses sophisticated algorithms to estimate your likely score range based on how you’re performing within the Magoosh system.

    While no predictor is perfect (and Magoosh recommends taking official AAMC practice tests for the most accurate predictions), this tool helps gauge your progress and can either ease your anxiety or provide a needed reality check to adjust your study approach.

    Magoosh MCAT Prep Review: Budget-Friendly & Flexible 7

    ➡️Mobile App Access

    Life as a pre-med student means studying whenever and wherever you can. Magoosh’s mobile app (available for both iOS and Android) turns those otherwise wasted moments into productive study time.

    The app gives you access to all video lessons and practice questions, syncing your progress across devices. This means you can watch a biochemistry lesson during your bus commute or knock out some practice questions while waiting for your laundry.

    Unlike some competitors whose mobile offerings feel like afterthoughts, if they offer one at all, Magoosh’s app is fully featured and user-friendly. The interface is clean and intuitive, making it easy to navigate even on a smaller screen.

    ➡️Smart Review and Progress-Tracking Tools

    Studying without tracking your progress is like driving without a map—you might be moving, but are you getting closer to your destination? 

    Magoosh’s analytics dashboard provides clear visuals of your performance across different subject areas and question types.

    The system identifies your weak areas automatically, suggesting targeted review to address knowledge gaps. You can see your accuracy rates, time spent per question, and improvement over time—all helping you study smarter, not just harder.

    The “Smart Review” feature prioritizes content you’re struggling with, so that you don’t waste time repeatedly reviewing material you’ve already mastered. If you’re an efficiency-minded student, these tools transform random practice into strategic improvement.

    Magoosh MCAT Prep Review: Budget-Friendly & Flexible 8

    Materials and Study Tools

    Magoosh doesn’t include any physical books or materials with its program. Everything is digital, which means no heavy textbooks to lug around—but also no offline resources if that’s your preference.

    The digital approach has its advantages. Content updates happen automatically, so you’re studying the most current information. The integrated platform keeps everything in one place: lessons, questions, flash cards, notes, and performance data.

    Magoosh’s digital flash cards cover high-yield terms and concepts, which helps reinforce important information through spaced repetition. The note-taking feature lets you save important points from videos or questions for later review.

    The mobile app deserves special mention again here—it transforms your smartphone into a complete MCAT prep solution. During those unexpected pockets of free time, you can pull out your phone and make meaningful progress instead of scrolling through social media.

    For visual learners, the video explanations that accompany each practice question are particularly valuable. Instead of just reading about why an answer is correct, you can watch an expert walk through the solution step-by-step.

    Score Guarantee

    Putting your money on the line for test prep is a big decision. Magoosh offers some peace of mind with its +10-point score-improvement guarantee—if you don’t improve your MCAT score by at least 10 points, you can request a full refund.

    Of course, there are some requirements to qualify: 

    • You must have taken the exam before studying with Magoosh.
    • Your old score must be from the new MCAT, which was first administered in 2015.
    • Provide a copy of your “Before” score report when you sign up. A scan or screenshot of your official score report is fine.

    It’s worth noting that first-time test takers won’t be eligible, though they’re still covered by the standard seven-day refund policy if they find the program doesn’t meet their needs.

    User Experience and Platform Design

    Honestly, even the most comprehensive content won’t help if the platform is a headache to use. Thankfully, Magoosh shines in this department with a clean, intuitive interface that makes navigation simple and stress-free.

    The dashboard presents a clear overview of your progress, with easy access to all features. The color-coded performance metrics help you quickly identify which areas need attention.

    Unlike some competitors’ cluttered interfaces, Magoosh’s minimalist design reduces distractions and cognitive load—something your already-taxed pre-med brain will appreciate.

    Customization options abound, from filtering practice questions by subject to adjusting study schedules. The platform remembers where you left off, so you can seamlessly continue your lessons across different devices.

    Performance analytics are presented through easy-to-understand visualizations rather than overwhelming data tables. At a glance, you can see your accuracy rates, time-management patterns, and progress toward completion goals.

    For tech-savvy students who value efficient design, Magoosh’s platform feels modern and responsive, with quick loading times and smooth video playback—small details that make a big difference during long study sessions.

    Does Magoosh Offer Tutoring?

    This is where Magoosh’s budget-friendly approach shows its limitations compared to premium competitors. There are no live classes where you can ask questions in real time, no scheduled office hours with instructors, and no one-on-one tutoring sessions included in the base package.

    For many self-sufficient learners, the email support system provides adequate help for occasional roadblocks. However, if you know you benefit significantly from live instruction or direct coaching, this might be a sticking point that requires careful consideration.

    If personal tutoring is something you think you’re going to need as you prepare to take the MCAT, our list of the best MCAT tutors can help you get started.

    How Does Magoosh Compare to Other MCAT Prep Courses?

    Let’s put Magoosh side-by-side with the big names in MCAT prep to see how it measures up.

    FeaturesMagooshKaplanPrinceton ReviewBlueprintAltius
    Price $399$1,699+$2,399+$3,239+$2399+
    12-month access
    Installment payment option
    7-day money-back guarantee❌ (within 72 hrs)
    +10-point score guarantee
    3+ full-length practice tests
    On-demand video lessons
    Personalized study schedules
    Email tutor support❌ (only with live)❌ (only with live)
    Live classes
    1-on-1 tutoring included
    Mobile app
    AAMC fee assistance support

    Where Magoosh truly shines is value for money. No other reputable MCAT prep course offers comprehensive content coverage at such an affordable price point. For self-motivated students who don’t need live instruction, the savings can be substantial without sacrificing essential content.

    The decision ultimately comes down to your learning style and budget. If you thrive with independence and have limited funds, Magoosh provides the most bang for your buck. If you need structure and extensive support, the premium options might be worth their higher cost.

    Final Verdict: Is Magoosh MCAT Prep Worth It?

    Magoosh MCAT Prep is a solid choice for self-starters on a budget.

    For $399, you get a full year of access to quality video lessons, practice questions, and smart study tools—perfect for independent learners with busy schedules. The mobile app and flexible study plans make it easy to prep anytime, anywhere.

    While it’s not the best for those who need live instruction or tons of full-length practice tests, it offers great value for most students aiming for strong scores without spending thousands.

    If you’re ready to study smart and save big, grab Magoosh’s 12-Month Premium—and let your future self say thank you.

    For more help choosing the best MCAT course for you, see our list of the best MCAT prep courses as well as our list of the best personal tutoring programs for the MCAT.

    FAQs

    How much is Magoosh MCAT prep?

    Magoosh MCAT prep costs $399 for 12 months of access. The program often runs sales that drop the price to around $299. This is much cheaper than other MCAT prep courses that can cost $2,000 or more.

    Is Magoosh good for the MCAT?

    Yes, Magoosh is good for self-motivated students who learn well independently. It covers all MCAT subjects with over 380 videos and 740+ practice questions. Students who need live classes or extensive tutoring might need a different program.

    Does Magoosh offer live MCAT classes?

    No, Magoosh doesn’t offer live MCAT classes. The program is completely self-paced with video lessons you watch on your own schedule. It does provide email support from tutors if you have questions.

    How many practice tests are included with Magoosh?

    Magoosh includes three full-length MCAT practice tests. These tests simulate the real MCAT experience with similar timing and questions. While this is fewer than some competitors, the tests are high-quality and helpful for preparation.

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