During the COVID-19 pandemic, several universities dropped their standardized testing requirements, giving hope for fairer admissions. However, this year, many schools have reversed course and brought back test requirements.
But do you really need to take the test? Yes! SAT prep isn’t just about suffering through practice tests—it’s about unlocking opportunities. Here’s why:
- Colleges still care about SAT scores: While some schools are test-optional, many still use SAT scores to decide admissions. And if your GPA isn’t perfect, a high SAT score can make a huge difference.
- Scholarships: A high SAT score can earn you thousands of dollars in scholarships. Imagine cutting down student loan debt just by taking a test.
- It helps you stand out: If two students have similar GPAs, extracurriculars, and essays, a better SAT score can be the tie-breaker.
Preparing for the SAT, however, can be overwhelming. And with so many organizations claiming to offer the best SAT prep courses online—courses, books, apps, tutors—it’s easy to get lost.
That’s where this guide comes in. We’re breaking down the top SAT test prep programs in 2025—from online courses to affordable self-study resources. No fluff, just solid recommendations to help you crush this test.
Related:
- Options for Free ACT Test Prep and Study
- Best ACT Test Prep Options
- Free and Low-Cost Resources for College Admissions Test Prep
- Accredited Online Colleges Offering a Free Laptop or Discounted Laptop
Best Online SAT Prep Courses
The best SAT prep courses online are great because they’re flexible, affordable, and packed with expert instruction.
Top Picks for 2025
- The Princeton Review SAT Prep – It comes with a score improvement guarantee, so if your score doesn’t go up, you may be eligible for a refund or a free retake.
- Kaplan SAT Prep Course – Known for its personalized learning approach, Kaplan offers adaptive practice tests that adjust to your progress. If you struggle with certain topics, it focuses on those areas to help you improve efficiently.
- PrepScholar SAT Prep – This course stands out for its highly customizable study plans and detailed progress tracking.
Who Should Take Online SAT Prep?
If you like having a structured study plan but need flexibility, online SAT prep is a great option.
Best SAT Tutoring Services
If you struggle with self-study or have specific weaknesses, pick one of the best SAT tutoring services in 2025. A good tutor will focus on your weak spots and give you personalized strategies.
Top Picks for 2025
- Varsity Tutors SAT Tutoring – This service offers one-on-one tutoring with expert instructors who tailor lessons to your specific needs.
- Wyzant SAT Tutors – You can choose from a wide range of SAT tutors at different price points. Whether you want a budget-friendly option or a top-tier tutor, you can find one that fits your needs.
- Manhattan Prep SAT Private Tutoring – If you’re aiming for a 1400+ score, this is one of the best options. Their tutors are highly qualified, but the service is pricey.
Who Should Choose SAT Tutoring?
If you need one-on-one guidance, struggle with test anxiety, or just want someone to keep you accountable, tutoring is a solid investment.
Best Free SAT Prep Resources
The good news is you don’t have to spend a lot of money. Several free SAT practice tests and resources offer high-quality study materials.
Top Picks for 2025
- Khan Academy SAT Prep (Official College Board Partner) – It provides personalized study plans, full-length practice tests, and interactive lessons that help you improve step by step.
- College Board SAT Practice Tests – They’re the most accurate way to practice. They come with answer explanations so that you can learn from your mistakes.
- Magoosh SAT Blog & YouTube Channel – Magoosh offers tons of free strategy videos, study tips, and lessons.
Who Should Use Free SAT Prep?
They’re especially useful for students on a budget and those who are self-motivated and can stay on track without a structured course.
Best SAT Prep Books for Self-Study
Books give you the freedom to study at your own pace, and many of them come with practice tests, strategies, and detailed answer explanations. Let’s explore some of the top self-paced SAT prep options.
Top Picks for 2025
- The Official SAT Study Guide (College Board) – This book comes with eight official SAT practice tests. Because the test creators make it, the questions closely match what you’ll see on test day.
- Barron’s SAT Premium Study Guide – Some of the practice questions are harder than the actual SAT, which can help you prepare for tricky questions.
- Kaplan SAT Prep Plus 2025 – This book includes both a physical guide and online practice materials. The explanations are very detailed, making it a great resource for students who need extra help understanding concepts.
Who Should Use SAT Prep Books?
If you prefer structured, independent learning or just want a break from screens, SAT prep books are a solid choice.
Best SAT Prep Apps for Mobile Learning
If you’re always on your phone anyway, why not use it for SAT prep? SAT prep apps for mobile learning let you study anytime, anywhere.
Top Picks for 2025
- Magoosh SAT Prep App includes video lessons, quizzes, and a vocabulary builder. It’s a great tool if you like learning in short, bite-sized sessions.
- Ready4 SAT App uses AI to create personalized study plans with your strengths and weaknesses in mind.
- Daily Practice for the SAT (College Board) gives you a new SAT question every day, which is a great way to build a habit of consistent practice.
Who Should Use SAT Apps?
If you want to fit in quick study sessions throughout the day, SAT prep apps make studying easy and convenient.
Best Affordable SAT Prep Options
If you want quality SAT prep but don’t want to spend a fortune, these affordable SAT prep classes offer great value for a lower price.
Top Picks for 2025
- Mometrix SAT Prep Course ($39.99/month) – This course includes full-length practice tests, strategy lessons, and video explanations—all for a budget-friendly price.
- Greenlight Test Prep ($30/month) – A great low-cost option with video-based lessons and practice drills to reinforce what you’ve learned.
- Udemy SAT Prep Courses ($10-$30 per course) – If you prefer on-demand learning, Udemy offers affordable SAT prep courses that you can access anytime.
Who Should Choose Affordable SAT Prep?
They’re ideal for students who want extra support without paying for premium courses or private tutoring.
Best SAT Prep for High Scorers
If you’re aiming for a 1400-1600 SAT score, you need more than just basic prep—you need advanced strategies, tougher practice questions, and expert-level test-taking techniques.
Top Picks for 2025
- Manhattan Prep SAT Advanced Course – This course focuses on advanced problem-solving techniques, time management, and high-difficulty practice questions.
- The Princeton Review 1400+ Course – This course includes rigorous practice tests, expert-led strategies, and detailed feedback.
- CollegeVine SAT Strategy Workshops – CollegeVine focuses on efficiency, pattern recognition, and strategy-based learning to help students maximize their scores.
Who Should Use This?
Students aiming for top 10% SAT scores to gain admission to elite colleges like Stanford, MIT, and Ivy League schools.
SAT Prep for Students with Learning Differences
Students with learning disabilities need specialized prep that will help them learn in a way that works for them—whether through extended time strategies, adaptive learning techniques, or step-by-step problem-solving methods.
Top Picks for 2025
- Test Prep for the LD Student (College Board Approved) – This program helps navigate extended time accommodations and provides targeted strategies for dyslexia, ADHD, and processing speed challenges.
- Varsity Tutors Adaptive SAT Tutoring – Offers customized, one-on-one tutoring tailored to each student’s unique needs. Tutors specialize in accommodations-based strategies, helping students build confidence and reduce test anxiety.
- Magoosh SAT Special Education Strategies Course – This course breaks down test-taking the best SAT study plans and strategies based on individual needs.
Who Should Use This?
Students who need extra time, modified strategies, or additional support.
How to Choose the Best SAT Prep Option
Not all SAT prep methods work for everyone. Some people learn best from structured classes, while others prefer self-study.
Here’s what to consider:
- Cost: Some courses cost hundreds of dollars, while others are completely free. Know your budget!
- Online vs. in-person SAT prep courses: Do you want an in-person class, an online course, or a self-study approach?
- Learning style: Do you need a tutor? A video-based course? A good old-fashioned book?
- Practice tests: The best prep includes lots of realistic SAT practice tests.
- Score goals: Aiming for an Ivy League school? You’ll need a high-scoring prep program. Just trying to hit an average score? A more affordable option might be enough.
Conclusion
- Choose an SAT prep option based on budget, learning style, and test goals.
- The right study plan can mean the difference between a good college and your dream college.
- Whether you choose the best SAT prep courses online or in person, regular practice and a structured study plan will help you see real improvement.