Top 5 FAQ - #3 Comprehensive Prep: What’s the difference between Teacher-Led and On-Demand? 🤔
Let's paint a picture: You're gearing up for your MCAT prep. It's not about 'if' or even 'when' you'll take the MCAT—you may already know that part. The challenge now is 'how.' How do you start studying? If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. According to the AAMC, 65% of test-takers in 2023 had difficulty determining how to begin studying for the MCAT exam. What’s causing this confusion? It's not the lack of information—as there’s plenty available— it’s knowing how to sift through it without falling into analysis paralysis.
With that in mind, I’m here to help answer a question that every Kaplan MCAT student has to wrestle with as they begin their MCAT prep… Which course is right for me? On-Demand Course or Teacher-Led Course?
Unlike the MCAT itself, there isn’t a wrong answer here, but there definitely can be a better answer depending on your situation. Let’s compare the two choices!
What’s Comprehensive Prep?
All of our comprehensive courses, including On-Demand and Teacher-Led, provide all the content and resources you’ll need between now and test day to rock your MCAT. This includes:
- MCAT-focused content videos and readings
- MCAT-specific strategy and high-yield science lessonsÂ
- Topic-specific practice questions available in short pre-built quizzes and/or an extensive QBank (3000+ questions)
- Full-length practice exams available through our test-like interface (11 Kaplan Exams)
- All AAMC practice materials (Including an additional 5 Scaled Practice Tests)
As I said earlier, the challenge isn't the amount of material available—it's how to organize these resources into a comprehensive study schedule. This makes it more likely that you will complete your assignments efficiently. It’s always easier to follow a preset plan than to figure it out as you go along. In fact, 75% of 2023 test-takers reported using a study plan while prepping for the MCAT.
At Kaplan, we know the difference a structured study plan has on student success. We’re encouraged to see that three-quarters of students are already benefiting from this approach. That's exactly why our On-Demand and Teacher-Led comprehensive courses provide personalized and flexible study schedules for you to work through until your test day.
What’s the Difference between Teacher-Led and On-Demand Prep?
On the surface, the difference might seem simple. In our Teacher-led courses, you'll experience MCAT Strategy and High-Yield Science lessons live, in a dynamic classroom setting with a dedicated team of instructors. Contrast this with our On-demand courses, where you can learn at your own pace through high-quality, pre-recorded lessons.
But what truly sets our Teacher-led courses apart?
- Instant Feedback and Support: It’s no coincidence that our live classes cover strategy, high-yield science, and guided practice. These topics are not only complex but also crucial for boosting your MCAT score. By teaching these lessons live, students can ask for help right when they need it, ensuring no question goes unanswered.
- Live Class Accountability: There's something about scheduled classes—they're going to happen whether you're prepared or not. This structure ensures you stay on top of your homework and keeps your prep on track.
- Community of Like-minded Peers: You’re not just attending classes; you're joining an MCAT score incubator. Your classmates are as driven as you are, providing an environment that motivates and challenges you.
- Continued Support: After the MCAT, your teaching team doesn’t just disappear. We follow up. How did your test day go? What was your score? We're with you beyond the classroom.
Come meet some of our teaching teams in on of our Free Class Sessions!
