Best ACT Prep Courses (2026): Top 5 Ranked & Reviewed

The ACT has changed. The Enhanced ACT — now the standard format on national test dates — is shorter and less of a pure speed test than it used to be. Choosing the right prep course can still be the difference between a “good” score and a scholarship-winning score.

Enhanced ACT update (2026): The Enhanced ACT is now in effect for national testing. The test is about 75 minutes shorter with roughly 44 fewer questions, the Science section is optional (the Composite is based on English, Math, and Reading, with Science reported separately if taken), and Math answer choices dropped from 5 to 4. Enhanced weekend national testing became standard in September 2025, and school-day administrations moved to the Enhanced format in spring 2026. The score scale (1-36) is unchanged. Make sure any course or practice set you buy is built for the Enhanced ACT.

We’ve analyzed the top providers to help you decide.

Quick Summary: The Winners

• Best Overall: Princeton Review - The most comprehensive curriculum with the best score guarantees (31+).
• Best for Official Practice: Kaplan - The official partner of the ACT. You can’t get more realistic than this.
• Best Value: Magoosh - Incredible quality for a fraction of the price (~$129).
• Best for Adaptive Learning: PrepScholar - A smart algorithm that customizes your study plan week by week.
• Best for Strategy: Prep Expert - Learn the “Shark Tank” secrets from perfect scorers.

1. Princeton Review: The Heavy Hitter

If you are aiming for the Ivy League, Princeton Review is your safest bet. Their 31+ Course is legendary for a reason: it works. They guarantee you will score at least a 31 (provided you start with a 26), or you get your money back.

• Why we love it: The AI-driven drills are excellent, and the live instructors are consistently top-notch.
• Watch out for: The price. It’s an investment.

2. Kaplan: The Official Choice

Kaplan is the official partner of the ACT. This means their practice tests and questions are developed in conjunction with the test makers. If you suffer from test anxiety, practicing with Kaplan is the best way to simulate the real exam day experience.

• Why we love it: The “Kaplan Method” for pacing is essential for the time-crunched ACT.
• Watch out for: The self-paced course can feel a bit dry compared to the live classes.

3. Magoosh: The Budget Champion

Don’t let the low price fool you. Magoosh is a powerhouse. Their video explanations are arguably the best in the industry—every single question has a video showing you exactly how to solve it.

• Why we love it: The mobile app lets you study anywhere. Plus, the +4 point guarantee is generous for a ~$129 course.
• Watch out for: No live classes in the basic plan. You need to be self-motivated.

4. PrepScholar: The Smart Algorithm

PrepScholar treats test prep like a science. Their algorithm constantly assesses your strengths and weaknesses. If you are great at Math but terrible at Science, the system will stop wasting your time on Math and drill you on Science until you improve.

• Why we love it: It’s the most efficient way to study. You never waste a minute.
• Watch out for: It’s text-heavy. If you hate reading lessons, look elsewhere.

5. Prep Expert: The Strategy Master

Founded by Shark Tank winner Shaan Patel, Prep Expert focuses on “hacking” the test. They teach you strategies to eliminate wrong answers and solve problems without doing the full math.

• Why we love it: The strategies are unique and effective for breaking through score plateaus.
• Watch out for: It’s expensive, and the “boot camp” style is intense.

Conclusion

• Go with Princeton Review if you want the highest score possible and have the budget.
• Go with Kaplan if you want the most realistic practice.
• Go with Magoosh if you want to save money without sacrificing quality.