{"id":12765,"date":"2026-02-17T15:47:54","date_gmt":"2026-02-17T20:47:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mcclatchymhstg.wpenginepowered.com\/careers-education\/?p=12765"},"modified":"2026-05-15T16:33:47","modified_gmt":"2026-05-15T21:33:47","slug":"best-act-prep-courses","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.miamiherald.com\/careers-education\/best-act-prep-courses\/","title":{"rendered":"Best ACT Prep Courses: Reviewing the Top Options"},"content":{"rendered":"

When I reviewed the best ACT prep courses, I focused on one thing that actually raises scores: taking practice tests and testing strategies. A landmark study published in Science<\/em> found that students who used practice tests retained about 50%<\/a> more information after one week than those who simply restudied.<\/p>

With that in mind, I tested each ACT prep course hands-on, working through practice questions, reviewing explanations, and comparing how closely the material matched the real ACT<\/a>. I paid special attention to ACT math, the science section, pacing, and whether the tools truly help improve ACT scores.<\/a><\/p>

Here is what I found: a side-by-side comparison, followed by a deeper breakdown of each course.<\/p>

Which ACT Prep Course Is Right for You?<\/strong><\/h2>
  • Pick UWorld if\u2026<\/strong> you want the most realistic ACT practice and learn best by drilling high-quality questions with clear, visual explanations.<\/li>
  • Choose PrepScholar if\u2026<\/strong> you want a structured weekly study plan and official ACT tests that tell you exactly what to work on next.<\/li>
  • Go with Achievable if\u2026<\/strong> you prefer reading over videos and want an efficient, self-paced program without extra fluff.<\/li>
  • Pick Prep Expert if\u2026<\/strong> you need live classes, accountability, and strong test-taking strategies taught by an instructor.<\/li>
  • Choose Kaplan if\u2026 <\/strong>you want a traditional ACT prep experience with official questions and optional tutoring.<\/li>
  • Go with Magoosh if\u2026 <\/strong>you want affordable, flexible ACT prep with video explanations that fit a busy schedule.<\/li> <\/ul>