My quest for the ideal Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) prep course led me to two strong frontrunners: Princeton Review vs. Blueprint MCAT. Since we already have existing in-depth reviews of the Blueprint and Princeton Review MCAT prep courses, I choose to compare the two in this in-depth review. I’ll compare their services so you can make an educated choice about your MCAT prep.
One of the most well-known practice test brands is Princeton Review MCAT. They provide all-encompassing programs that target the difficulties of getting into medical school. To acclimate you to the examination structure, they provide a variety of prep courses, such as full-length practice exams.
However, Blueprint is confident in its original technique. Their prep course aims to help you do well on the test by teaching you the necessary critical thinking and strategic abilities.
Which option would serve you best?
The main difference between Blueprint vs. Princeton Review MCAT Comparison
- While Blueprint is exclusively offered online, Princeton Review provides in-person and online options.
- The material in Princeton Review is more extensive and in-depth, while that in Blueprint is more recent.
- Blueprint’s lessons are more interactive and tailored to each student than Princeton Review’s lecture-based approach.
- Blueprint is less priced than Princeton Review.
Overall Comparison of Blueprint MCAT vs Princeton
| Aspect | Blueprint | Princeton Review |
| Course Delivery | Exclusively offered online | Offers both in-person and online options |
| Course Material | More recent, high-quality study guides and materials | More extensive and in-depth material |
| Teaching Approach | Interactive and tailored lessons | Lecture-based approach |
| Pricing | Generally, less expensive | Often more costly |
| Live Classes | 40+ hours of live instruction with two highly qualified instructors | Live online courses varying from 40 to 200 hours |
| Practice Tests | 15 full-length practice exams, 5 from official AAMC materials | Up to 16 full-length practice tests simulating the real MCAT |
| Additional Features | Adaptive learning platform and user-friendly design | Emphasizes practice resource, dynamic tests, and analytics |
| Score Guarantee | Offers a 515+ Course with a score guarantee of 515 or above | Offers various programs with score guarantees |
Key Features of Princeton Review
- High-quality Prep Books.
- Use of up to 16 full-length practice tests.
- Get individualized instruction and guidance.
- Access to more than 12 weekly sessions to delve deeper.
- The live online MCAT courses include 10-50 hours of instruction with a live instructor.
I've learned that Princeton Review’s MCAT prep course stands out as a top option in the test prep industry for students hoping to succeed in their medical school path. What makes Princeton Review MCAT Prep stand apart from the others are some of the following crucial features:
- Princeton Review MCAT Prep Books: The MCAT prep books sell in complex forms; they are thorough and helpful. Princeton review books are a great supplement to the live online course since they provide subject-specific content review with detailed explanations and illustrations.
- Princeton Review MCAT Practice Tests: Use of up to 16 full-length practice tests designed to simulate the real MCAT in terms of content and structure. Students may better understand their strengths and weaknesses thanks to the dynamic score reports.
- Princeton Review MCAT Classes: Students get individualized instruction and guidance thanks to the wide availability of live online course options varying in length from 40 to 200 hours and taught by a rotating roster of subject matter experts.
- Extra MCAT Study Resources: When it comes to MCAT prep, Princeton Review offers helpful extra materials. A standout option for high scorers is MCAT Topic Focus, which provides in-depth, instructor office-hours-style sessions on certain MCAT Students get access to more than 12 weekly sessions to delve deeper into topics of interest and have questions answered.
- Princeton Review Private MCAT Tutoring: The live online MCAT courses include 10-50 hours of instruction with a live instructor. The self-paced Online Course provides access to essential information for 50 hours. By combining video lessons with a half-length diagnostic MCAT, students can acquire a more accurate diagnostic exam base score and MCAT topic focus. The wealth of helpful practice questions makes this an excellent investment for individuals with lofty goals.
Key Features of Blueprint MCAT
- Comprehensive Prep Books.
- 15 full-length practice exams, 5 of which are from the official AAMC practice materials.
- Over 40 hours of live online classes in 16 sessions.
- Extensive library of practice questions, engaging video lessons. and the option for a self-paced course.
- 24-hour return window for course purchases.
As someone who has used several prep courses, I can attest that Blueprint MCAT is a top-tier service that provides a plethora of helpful features to ensure your success on the medical school admission exam. Some of the benefits of using Blueprint MCAT prep are as follows:
- Comprehensive Prep Books: Blueprint's MCAT prep books in hard form cover all areas, and are packed with reviews, practice questions and comprehensive explanations to supplement your primary studies.
- Realistic Practice Tests: Blueprint MCAT practice tests offer 15 full-length practice exams, 5 of which are from the official AAMC practice materials. You may be certain that the testing environment is identical to the actual thing.
- Engaging Live Classes: Two highly qualified professors will guide you through over 40 hours of live online classes in 16 sessions. Furthermore, you can move to the 515+ level if you need more time in class.
- Blueprint Private MCAT Tutoring: Blueprint provides one-on-one tutoring from MCAT experts with a 99th percentile score who are also excellent communicators and well-versed in the Blueprint method. The tutors will help you improve your MCAT score by reviewing the material you've already covered, asking you strategic questions, and helping you map out a study plan. While they may not know everything, they are an excellent test prep company because of their extensive library of practice questions, engaging video lessons. and the option for a self-paced course.
- Blueprint MCAT Refund Policy: Blueprint Private MCAT Tutoring provides a 24-hour return window for course purchases. You will be tied to the MCAT course if you do not cancel within one day of making the purchase. While their superior quality guarantees dedication, the limited time frame for withdrawing raises concerns, given the possibility of interruptions due to life circumstances.
Blueprint: How Is it Better Than Princeton Review?
After trying several prep courses for medical school, I can say with authority that Blueprint has some advantages over Princeton Review MCAT. In Blueprint Prep vs. Princeton Review the Blueprint program is more recent, with high-quality study guides that include exhaustive reviews and plenty of practice questions. The 15 full-length practice tests, which use official AAMC materials, ensure identical testing experience.
Two highly qualified instructors provide interactive live sessions totaling 40+ hours of instruction.
Want extra time in class? You may quickly level up to 515+. From my own experience, I can say that Blueprint is the finest MCAT prep course because of its personalized approach, extensive materials, and realistic exam simulation.
Princeton Review: How Is it Better Than Blueprint?
The Princeton Review MCAT course stands out due to its innovative design. Their MCAT preparation books provide students with extensive information, including clear explanations and images. If you want to succeed in med school, you may take advantage of up to 16 sample exams that mimic the real thing.
Blueprint or Princeton Review offers online courses, but Princeton Review courses enrich Princeton Review by providing in-person training. Expert instructors in various fields lead live, interactive online classes emphasizing group and individual training.
Although Blueprint has advantages, Princeton Review is the best option because of its comprehensive resources, dynamic practice tests, and individualized sessions.
For anyone interested in learning more about the Magoosh MCAT review, we have an extensive article that delves into an in-depth evaluation of the service’s study guides, practice materials, and general efficacy in assisting students in their preparation for the MCAT.
Pricing Comparison
After researching Princeton Review and Blueprint MCAT, I discovered that the two courses had different price structures. Based on my research, I can say that although Princeton Review is often more costly, Blueprint offers more affordable possibilities. Make an informed decision about whether Princeton Review or Blueprint fits your requirements better.
Blueprint MCAT Pricing
From what I’ve seen of Blueprint MCAT and Princeton Review, there are just three simple course selections with Blueprint. For a minimum investment of about $2,000, you may enroll in their Online Course, which offers self-paced learning throughout 6, 9, or 12 months. Second, there is the Live Online Course, which is very much like the Online Course but has 40+ hours of live classes and typically costs approximately $2,600 with discounts.
The Blueprint 515+ Course is the most comprehensive choice, with 80 hours of live teaching, 12 months of material access, and a score guarantee of 515 or above for roughly $3,500. Compared to similarly rated services such as Princeton Review and Kaplan tests, Blueprint’s pricing is reasonable and in the same ballpark
The Princeton Review MCAT Pricing
MCAT prep services, such as Princeton Review and Blueprint, provide all-encompassing preparation for the intimidating MCAT exam. There is a wide variety of Princeton Review’s MCAT prep courses.
You may enroll in their Self-Paced Course for around $1,999 if you want flexible learning with online content and books. Priced at about $2,799 and offering 40 hours of live teaching, the Live Online Course is a popular option.
The MCAT 513+ program, which guarantees a score of 513 or better with 123 hours of live coaching, costs around $3,499. The MCAT 515+ Immersion is the most comprehensive option, costing $7,390 (full tuition, housing, and food).
So, Which is Better Blueprint or Princeton?
Blueprint is the most cost-effective option between Princeton Review and Blueprint MCAT after investigating both firms. The course selection at Princeton Review is more extensive but comes at a hefty price of between $1,999 and $7,390 for the most comprehensive plan. Although Princeton Review has more course options, their prices are often greater than Blueprint’s.
Your requirements should be your priority when deciding on a platform. Choose between self-paced learning and live teaching with video lessons. The course’s length and the availability of practice questions are essential factors.
If you require thorough preparation and a guaranteed MCAT score, the 515+ Course from Blueprint is a well-rounded and affordable alternative. Remember that the end purpose is to choose a test preparation firm that meets your individual needs for success on the MCAT channel.
You can read about the best prep courses in our detailed post. If you’re a pre-med student or want to improve on the MCAT, this guide will help you choose the finest prep courses for your specific requirements.
Quality of Learning and Value for Money
My research into the relative merits of Princeton Review and Blueprint MCAT for MCAT prep has led me to conclude that both are worth your time and money.
While Princeton Review stands out for its thorough material and seasoned teachers, Blueprint MCAT shines because of its adaptive learning platform and user-friendly design. Each offers advantages that better accommodate certain learning styles.
Princeton Review MCAT
For those looking for the best MCAT prep course available, Princeton Review comes highly recommended. They are informative, correct, and taught by qualified specialists, giving students faith in their abilities and ability to achieve their objectives.
Princeton Review offers thorough overviews of MCAT subjects, delivered through time- and effort-saving courses. There are a variety of delivery methods for these courses, such as self-paced and live online formats, to accommodate various learning styles. Tutors provide each student with individualized attention, ensuring they get the help and direction they need via multiple channels.
Nothing beats Princeton Review’s full-length practice exams for accurate progress monitoring and skill development in test-taking. Students may use the results of these diagnostic exams as a starting point to measure their progress throughout the semester. Students may buy with complete confidence knowing their grades will improve.
The courses could be more costly without a discount coupon, but they’re worth it because of how well they work. You’ll learn a lot and feel more prepared for the MCAT, so it’s money well spent.
To provide students an advantage in the medical school admissions process, Princeton MCAT prep also includes an Admissions Advantage section. In addition to preparing students for the MCAT subjects, this course also helps them develop the analytical and statistical abilities they’ll need to succeed.
Compared to other different MCAT prep options like Kaplan MCAT prep, Princeton Review’s courses excel in their practice resource, including practice questions and exams. This practice resource aligns closely with the main MCAT, providing students a real test experience.
Blueprint Prep MCAT
I found Blueprint Prep MCAT to be of top-notch quality. They are experts at helping pupils who are having difficulty by providing them with in-depth courses and valuable learning materials. Their strategy relies on advanced analytics and an in-depth understanding of MCAT essentials.
The Blueprint Prep course offers value for money compared to other suppliers. Unlike other MCAT prep providers like Princeton Review MCAT and Kaplan MCAT prep, their quizzes might need some tiny tweaks, but that’s a minor complaint in light of how great everything else is.
With its flexible and learner-centric strategy, Blueprint Prep MCAT can meet the needs of even the pickiest of pupils. They provide various study choices, such as aself-paced course, live online sessions, and full-length practice tests. Among the many MCAT-related topics in their curriculum are organic chemistry and statistical reasoning skills.
Among Blueprint’s many strengths is the thoroughness of their diagnostic exams, which provide students with a snapshot of their present proficiency and help them zero in on specific places where they may strengthen their skills. For those looking to improve their MCAT performance, they provide extensive practice material in the form of MCAT practice exams that emphasize real test-like questions.
With admissions advantage sessions and an online study planner, Blueprint Prep MCAT goes above and beyond the call of duty to help students succeed. Those hoping to improve their MCAT score and get entry to medical schools may rest assured thanks to the score increase guarantee.
Main Problems of these Test Prep Platforms
As someone who has thoroughly studied the Princeton Review and Blueprint MCAT systems, I can point out some significant drawbacks. Although there are many benefits to using these platforms, some downsides should be considered. Let’s check out the negative aspects.
Blueprint MCAT
There are a few things I didn’t like about Blueprint Prep’s MCAT course, but that’s due to my preferences. To begin, there is the issue of the quizzes becoming monotonous and making the learning process less engaging. Another thing that bothered me was the little emphasis placed on explaining test results compared to Princeton Review MCAT courses. Students may find it challenging to make informed judgments about what needs strengthening.
The video lessons moved far too quickly to feel like I was retaining anything. In addition, the practice exams seemed quite different from the actual AAMC exams, with far more emphasis on material than thinking abilities. Those hoping for a well-rounded education may seek it elsewhere.
According to one Trustpilot reviewer, the QBank questions offered by Blueprint Prep also fell short of the mark. The user said that the course content looked to include inconsistencies, leaving them unsatisfied after spending money on the program.
Poor customer service and unpleasant reactions to questions contributed to consumers’ discontent. Due to their bad experience, prospective students may seek alternative MCAT prep choices.
Some advantages of the Blueprint Prep MCAT course include self-paced learning style and video lessons, but the course falls short in practice exam quality, explanations, and customer support. Still, it’s a top-notch MCAT prep, so it’s an excellent option to think about. Before committing to an MCAT preparation course, it’s essential to do some in-depth research and think about what kind of learner you are.
Princeton Review’s MCAT
After taking Princeton’s Review MCAT prep course, I discovered a few significant drawbacks that would-be enrollees would do well to remember. To begin with, even with reductions, the cost of their courses was high. However, the price of an MCAT prep option should not be the only criterion for choosing one.
I had many problems, one of which was that the course material needed to be more evident. Getting in-depth information on their instructors and required readings before joining was tough. Because of this, I had to depend on the opinions of others, which prevented me from making a well-informed choice.
One Trustpilot reviewer also complained that the site needed to be faster to respond, which might be an issue for customers attempting to get what they need quickly. It may also be troublesome for certain students if PayPal is not an approved payment option.
After signing up, another customer said the UI needed to be more precise and intuitive. They felt unprepared since the course required them to cover all relevant subjects sufficiently. Even after paying more for the course, more was needed to get a handle on the material.
One customer expressed dissatisfaction due to the need for a return policy. They were unsatisfied since they had no guarantees of success, particularly after seeing their GRE score remain the same from their practice examination to the real thing.
In addition, technological troubles in their virtual classroom made even their free webinars unpleasant. Even with modern browsers and applications, the platform had problems.
Before settling on your idea of the best MCAT prep course, it is crucial to analyze the available possibilities thoroughly. It is essential to evaluate Princeton Review’s MCAT prep to those of other leading suppliers like Kaplan MCAT. Consider the course’s structure, availability of sample tests, and live online sessions to determine which format will work best for you.
Final Verdict
After signing up, another customer said the UI needed to be more precise and intuitive. They felt unprepared since the course required them to cover all relevant subjects sufficiently. Even after paying more for the course, more was needed to get a handle on the material.
One customer expressed dissatisfaction due to the need for a return policy. They were unsatisfied since they had no guarantees of success, particularly after seeing their GRE score remain the same from their practice examination to the real thing.
In addition, technological troubles in their virtual classroom made even their free webinars unpleasant. Even with modern browsers and applications, the platform had problems.
It is essential to evaluate Princeton Review’s MCAT prep to those of other leading suppliers like Kaplan MCAT. Consider the course’s structure, availability of sample tests, and live online sessions to determine which format will work best for you.
FAQ
Is the Princeton Review better than Blueprint MCAT?
The MCAT prep courses offered by Princeton Review and Blueprint MCAT are both high-quality and feature-rich. It’s up to the learner to decide what works best for them in terms of things like learning style, course curriculum, and class schedule.
Is Blueprint Prep good for MCAT?
With self-paced online courses, video lessons, and practice exams, as well as top-notch MCAT prep options, Blueprint MCAT is a solid option for MCAT prep.
Is the Princeton Review worth it for MCAT?
Study materials provided by Princeton Review’s MCAT courses include practice questions, full-length practice tests, and a score increase guarantee. Comprehensive live online or self-paced courses may interest certain students.
Is Princeton Review harder than the actual MCAT?
Although Princeton Review’s practice exams are known to be difficult, they serve to prepare pupils for the actual test better. To help you do your best on test day, the degree of difficulty is a near match to that of the main MCAT.
