A recent study from Brown University found that standardized test scores, like the ACT, are a better predictor of college success than GPA. But what can a good ACT score do for you?
- Boost your chances of admission to selective schools
- Help with course placement
- Qualify for merit-based scholarships
If you want to score high on the ACT, you need to choose the best ACT prep courses online or in person for your skill level. Choosing the right ones will teach you skills that are useful in college and beyond, including:
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- time management
- discipline
- test-taking strategy
- handling pressure
When choosing which of the best ACT prep courses online/in person is right for you, you need to consider the following factors:
- cost
- format (online or in-person)
- self-paced vs. structured learning
In this post, we will list down the top ACT test prep programs in 2025 based on expert reviews, student feedback, affordability, and effectiveness.
Related:
- Options for Free ACT Test Prep and Study
- Free and Low-Cost Resources for College Admissions Test Prep
- Accredited Online Colleges Offering a Free Laptop or Discounted Laptop
- Easiest Online College Programs for Undergrads
Best Online ACT Prep Courses
The best ACT prep courses online offer flexibility, affordability, and expert instruction.
Top Picks for 2025
- The Princeton Review ACT Prep – Best for guaranteed score improvement
- Live online classes with expert instructors
- Comes with a score improvement guarantee—or your money back
- Kaplan ACT Prep Course – Best for personalized learning plans
- Adaptive learning technology that tailors study plans to your needs
- Includes adaptive practice tests to mimic real test conditions
- PrepScholar ACT Prep – Best for AI-driven progress tracking
- Creates a customized study schedule based on your strengths and weaknesses
- Uses AI-powered feedback to adjust lessons in real time
- Detailed progress tracking so you know exactly where to focus
Best Fit For:
It’s perfect for students who like guided instruction but also want the freedom to study on their own schedule.
Best ACT Tutoring Services
The best ACT tutoring services in 2025 are designed for students who need or want one-on-one instruction for personalized learning.
Top Picks for 2025
- Varsity Tutors ACT Tutoring – Best for customized learning plans
- One-on-one sessions with expert tutors
- Personalized study plans based on your needs
- Flexible scheduling to fit your routine
- Wyzant ACT Tutors – Best for affordable, flexible tutoring
- Browse and choose from thousands of tutors
- Different pricing options to fit any budget
- Manhattan Prep ACT Private Tutoring – Best for high scorers aiming for 30+
- Elite tutors with years of experience
- Specializes in advanced test-taking strategies
- Ideal for students aiming for Ivy League-level scores
Best Fit For:
If you need a personalized approach, struggle with specific sections, or just learn better with one-on-one instruction, tutoring is a solid option.
Best Free ACT Prep Resources
If you want something that is not out of budget (or requires no budget at all!), consider these free ACT practice tests and resources.
Top Picks for 2025
- ACT Official Free Practice Tests (ACT.org) – Best for real test practice
- Full-length official ACT tests straight from the source
- Comes with detailed answer explanations
- Khan Academy ACT Prep – Best for structured, self-paced learning
- Personalized study plans that factor in your strengths and weaknesses
- Video lessons that break down complex ACT topics
- Magoosh ACT YouTube Channel & Blog – Best for quick study tips & strategies
- Free expert-led video lessons covering all ACT sections
- Test-taking strategies to improve speed and accuracy
- Study guides and blogs with additional practice resources
Best Fit For:
Students looking for budget-friendly, high-quality ACT prep options.
Best ACT Prep Books for Self-Study
ACT prep books provide comprehensive content review and practice questions.
Here are the top self-paced ACT prep options:
Top Picks for 2025
- The Official ACT Prep Guide (ACT.org) – Best for real ACT practice
- Written by the official ACT makers, so the practice tests are 100% authentic
- Includes full-length practice tests, scoring guides, and strategies
- Barron’s ACT Premium Study Guide – Best for in-depth content review
- Detailed explanations for every ACT subject
- Advanced strategies to tackle harder questions
- Includes practice tests (in the book and online) for extra prep
- Kaplan ACT Prep Plus 2025 – Best for a mix of book + online resources
- Step-by-step answer explanations for tricky questions
- Online access with extra drills and video lessons
Best Fit For:
The best ACT prep books for high scores are for students who prefer independent, textbook-based learning. They’re also great if you want to focus on their weaker areas without distractions.
Best ACT Prep Apps for Mobile Learning
Not a fan of lugging around a big prep book? No worries—there are plenty of ACT prep apps for mobile learning that let you study on the go.
Top Picks for 2025
- Magoosh ACT Prep App – Great for video-based learning
- Short, engaging video lessons on key ACT topics
- A built-in vocabulary builder to boost your English score
- Ready4 ACT App – Perfect for personalized study plans
- AI-driven recommendations based on your strengths and weaknesses
- Progress tracking to keep you motivated
- ACT Daily Practice App (ACT.org) – Best for quick daily practice
- Official daily ACT questions with detailed explanations
- Helpful tips straight from the ACT creators
- Ideal for consistent, bite-sized studying
Best Fit For:
ACT apps are a great fit for students who prefer interactive practice over textbook reading. Still, they would work best when paired with full-length practice tests.
Best Affordable ACT Prep Options
You don’t need to drop hundreds of dollars to get a solid study plan.
Top Picks for 2025
- Mometrix ACT Prep Course ($39.99/month) – Best for full-length practice tests
- Includes full-length practice tests and strategy guides
- Covers all ACT subjects with detailed explanations
- Great for structured, low-cost studying
- Greenlight Test Prep ($30/month) – Best for video-based learning
- Engaging video lessons that break down tricky ACT topics
- Tons of practice drills to reinforce concepts
- Perfect if you learn best by watching instead of reading
- Udemy ACT Prep Courses ($10-$30 per course) – Best for flexible, on-demand learning
- Pay only for the sections you need help with (Math, English, Science, etc.)
- Video-based lessons you can watch anytime
- A great option if you want targeted ACT prep without a subscription
Best Fit For:
These affordable ACT prep classes are perfect for students who need structured study materials without paying for a full coaching program.
Best ACT Prep for High Scorers
These options are designed for students who want to fine-tune their skills and maximize their scores.
Top Picks for 2025
- Manhattan Prep ACT Advanced Course – Best for Ivy League hopefuls
- Designed for students aiming for 33-36 ACT scores
- Covers advanced test-taking strategies and high-level content
- Small class sizes for more personalized instruction
- The Princeton Review ACT 31+ Course – Best for guaranteed score improvement
- Comes with a guaranteed score increase (or your money back)
- Intense focus on high-difficulty ACT questions
- Perfect for students who need structured, high-scoring strategies
- CollegeVine ACT Strategy Workshops – Best for elite test-taking techniques
- Teaches efficiency, time management, and strategic guessing
- Helps students refine their approach for faster, more accurate answers
- Provides the best ACT study plans and strategies.
Best Fit For:
This level of prep is best for students who are already scoring in the high 20s and want to push into the 30-36 range.
ACT Prep for Students with Learning Differences
Standard ACT prep doesn’t work for everyone—especially if you have ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning challenges.
Top Picks for 2025
- Test Prep for the LD Student (ACT-approved) – Best for students using official accommodations
- Focuses on extended time strategies for students with ADHD, dyslexia, and processing disorders
- Teaches active reading techniques to improve comprehension
- Helps students navigate ACT-approved accommodations effectively
- Varsity Tutors Adaptive ACT Tutoring – Best for one-on-one customized learning
- Personalized tutoring based on your learning style and challenges
- Flexible scheduling for students who need extra time to process information
- Tutors experienced in working with neurodivergent students
- Magoosh ACT Special Education Strategies Course – Best for structured, step-by-step learning
- Breaks down ACT concepts into small, manageable lessons
- Uses visual aids, memory techniques, and adaptive strategies
- Great for students who need a self-paced approach with extra support
Best Fit For:
Students who need extra time, modified strategies, or additional support.
How to Choose the Best ACT Prep Option
The best ACT prep method depends on YOU. Here are some final tips to help you decide:
- Think about your learning style. Which is better: online vs. in-person ACT prep courses? The answer depends on your preference. Do you prefer structured classes, one-on-one help, or independent study?
- Set a budget. There are great free, affordable, and premium options available.
- Consider your target score. If you’re aiming for a top score, you might need an advanced course or tutoring.
- Look at course features. Do you want practice tests, live instruction, or AI-driven feedback?
Conclusion
- The best ACT prep courses online/in person will improve your test scores and college admissions chances.
- There’s no one-size-fits-all. You need to choose the right one based on budget, learning style, and test goals.