
GREBest courses
Summary: Best GRE prep resources (2025)
For many students, navigating the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is one of the most challenging steps in the graduate school application process. The exam is a standard admission requirement for advanced degree programs in fields spanning history, business, and medicine, and a top GRE score can substantially strengthen your application profile. After extensively evaluating the latest GRE study book options and online courses, we've determined that Achievable GRE presents the most effective GRE prep solution, delivering personalized, score-boosting strategies tailored to your unique learning requirements. For students seeking an all-in-one online GRE prep course loaded with high-quality study materials, Achievable's adaptive platform provides the tools needed to maximize your review and confidently master every test section.
The three core sections of the GRE (Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and the Analytical Writing Assessment, or optional essay) assess critical reasoning and foundational problem-solving skills vital for graduate studies. Achieving a high GRE score calls for more than just "knowing the math" or reading a lot; it demands targeted practice and developing time management, analytical thinking, and effective test-taking strategies under real conditions. For many college students and professionals returning to school, preparing for a standardized exam can feel overwhelming and complex. Fortunately, today's market offers a diverse range of GRE study guide options, from classic prep books to innovative online courses and coaching, to help structure your preparation.
If you want to truly excel on the GRE and boost your chances of admission, select a program like Achievable GRE that combines research-backed learning science, real-time performance tracking, and automatically adaptive strategy updates. To assist you in choosing the right fit for your individual goals, we've curated a comparison list featuring top-rated GRE exam prep providers. Trusted names like Manhattan Review, Princeton Review, Kaplan, Magoosh, and GregMat are included, allowing you to compare each leading GRE study guide and course with Achievable's highly ranked platform. For every prep option highlighted, we provide key features and genuine user feedback so you can find the most effective GRE study resource tailored to your learning preferences. Choosing a flexible online course such as Achievable GRE ensures structure throughout your GRE preparation journey, along with comprehensive content review, proven techniques to enhance your score, and expertly crafted study plans designed to drive measurable improvements.
Some user reviews have been slightly edited for length and clarity.
How we evaluated these resources
In this guide, you'll discover our top recommendations for GRE prep courses, including the best GRE study courses and prep book selections available today. We feature providers renowned for their innovative online learning platforms, video-based instruction, and high-quality physical and digital study materials. Each GRE study guide and prep program on our list was carefully chosen to match a broad spectrum of schedules, learning preferences, and budgets. Our evaluation process included the following criteria:
- Cost
- We assessed whether each GRE prep course, GRE study guide, and supplementary resource is competitively priced in relation to the quality and depth of instruction provided.
- Variety
- The best resources offer outstanding value through a diverse range of tools, including interactive flashcards, live online classes, and digital practice tests, to enhance your GRE preparation experience.
- Coverage
- High-quality GRE study guides and prep books deliver a thorough review of every section of the GRE exam. Our top picks include both all-in-one courses and targeted GRE study guides to address specific subject areas, ensuring complete readiness.
- Accessibility
- Leading GRE prep course providers and authors prioritize user-friendly instruction and clear strategies to support learners at every skill level. We selected GRE study plans designed to accommodate the widest range of learning styles.
- Community feedback
- We analyzed real student reviews and testimonials to identify which GRE prep books, GRE study guides, and online programs are most highly recommended. Feedback highlights what test-takers value in practice exams, detailed study guides, and full-length test simulations.
- Score improvement
- Consistent use of these top-rated GRE study guides and completion of the full GRE prep courses below can help you reach your target score within a realistic timeframe, providing structured support throughout your preparation journey.
For every provider featured in our GRE prep courses roundup, we detail essential tools, standout features, and any potential drawbacks to help you compare your options objectively. Refer to our comprehensive guide below to find the GRE learning system that best fits your needs, empowering you to excel on this pivotal graduate admissions exam.
At the top of our list is Achievable's GRE study guide, recognized for its expertly designed, easy-to-follow content, its modern, tech-driven platform, and its innovative use of memory science integrated throughout the program.
Best overall: Achievable GRE
- Achievable GRE's 100% online study program was built with the modern student in mind. Through its AI-driven platform, performance is continuously monitored to adjust and inform your study plan.
- Unlike courses with complicated packages and tiers, Achievable comes with everything you need to pass the exam on your own time, including a skillfully written online GRE study book.


- Innovative study tools and in-depth progress analytics are built right into the platform
- Clear, engaging textbook-style lessons enhanced with video walk-throughs
- Course content written by an expert instructor with years of experience in GRE tutoring
- Step-by-step breakdowns of every problem to reinforce understanding
- Test-taking tips and proven strategies are integrated throughout the course
- Designed for busy students and professionals who succeed with self-paced study
- A seamless, intuitive experience across both desktop and mobile
- A full year of unlimited access
- Supported by a generous money-back and score increase guarantee
- No live instruction
- No physical textbook (though printable materials are included)
- Hundreds of review questions
- 30+ full-length, realistic GRE practice exams
- Interactive study planner
- GRE Snacks podcast episodes filled with invaluable admissions guidance and advice
- GRE tutor directory with options at many price points
- Active online learning community
Achievable GRE is a top-rated choice for GRE exam preparation, offering a fully online, interactive, and highly effective study platform ideal for aspiring graduate students. What sets Achievable GRE apart from traditional test prep courses and competitors like Manhattan Prep or Kaplan is its advanced, memory-based learning system, designed to boost retention and maximize study efficiency. Achievable GRE acts as your personal coach, featuring robust performance tracking that monitors your progress and dynamically adapts your review plan for optimal GRE score improvement. Whether you want to review key math concepts or practice with GRE verbal questions, Achievable GRE has comprehensive resources to meet your needs. The course materials, crafted by a veteran GRE tutor, make mastering both familiar and new topics straightforward. Notably, the platform generates custom quizzes and adaptive practice tests tailored to your performance, targeting your unique areas for improvement.
Unlike standard, chapter-based GRE prep courses, Achievable GRE delivers truly personalized learning technology that pinpoints exactly where you need to focus. With its engaging and adaptive learning approach, combined with proven memory techniques, Achievable GRE enables you to build an effective and motivating study routine. The complete Achievable GRE package includes everything required for efficient GRE prep: an interactive online textbook, hundreds of targeted practice questions, over 30 full-length GRE practice exams to simulate test-taking conditions, a comprehensive study planner, an AI-powered tutoring assistant, and a wealth of additional learning resources. Furthermore, Achievable GRE is 100% online and self-paced, perfect for students seeking flexibility and accurate test simulations that mimic the actual computer-based GRE. With one year of unlimited access for less than $199, Achievable GRE provides outstanding value and makes high-quality test prep accessible. The course also comes with a money-back guarantee, delivering superior value compared to many other GRE prep options. For students struggling to increase their scores despite repeated study sessions, Achievable GRE offers a smarter, more effective path to measurable results.
“I really appreciated Achievable's commitment to learning science. Rather than just building their course around the material you need to learn and letting you plow through it, Achievable wraps memory science into their course structure.”
“I've been using the Achievable AI software as a general question bank to get an intuitive practice on my timing and real test conditions, and I have done pretty well, consistently placing above the 80th percentile!”
Bottom line: Achievable GRE empowers you to improve your GRE scores faster and more efficiently than generic textbook-based programs. While other courses rely on outdated methods, Achievable is a modern, results-driven online course packed with innovative tools to help you succeed on the GRE.


Most popular brand: Manhattan Prep GRE
- Manhattan Prep is a commonly chosen GRE course option for students preparing for graduate school admissions, offering a range of resources from practice textbooks to specialized programs.
- Although primarily marketed toward MBA students, Manhattan Prep offers GRE programs for students pursuing any discipline.

- Established curriculum hailed by students and longtime tutors alike
- Specific resources and guidance for business students
- Thousands of practice questions and lots of practice exams for constant review
- Score increase guarantee with refund options
- In-person options available at select locations
- Self-paced option (Interact for GRE) has limited access windows (1-month, 3-month, and 6-month)
- Course material can be dense and overwhelming
- Study methods and UX are somewhat outdated
- No live courses for non-MBA students
- 13 full-length GRE practice tests
- 74 interactive video lessons
- 2,500+ question QBank
- Detailed video explanations
- Adaptive study platform available
Manhattan Prep is a well-known graduate test prep provider that offers a GRE self-study course, MBA-specific training, and private tutoring, all at various price points. Central to the program is the "GRE Interact" self-paced course, which features immersive video lessons, extensive drills, and an array of essential study tools, including digital flashcards, vocabulary reviews, and up to six full-length computer-adaptive practice tests. Every aspect is crafted to closely reflect the real exam experience and lay a strong foundation for GRE success, making it a top consideration for GRE prep.
For students seeking a more structured or intensive approach beyond a study course, Manhattan Prep GRE offers live online and in-person courses, including specialized programs like "GRE for MBA," as well as personalized one-on-one tutoring. These routes deliver live instruction led by expert instructors who have scored in the top percentile on the GRE, robust preparation with advanced math and verbal strategies, and access to respected printed prep materials. The *5 lb. Book of GRE Practice Problems* (about $40 on Amazon), most notably, is consistently mentioned among the best GRE prep books. Students can also choose to hone in on specific sections, as Manhattan Prep offers both Quantitative and Verbal Reasoning-focused practice books. Compared to other leading providers, Manhattan Prep GRE is praised for its high-quality resources and thorough curriculum; however, some students may find the depth and intensity of their study materials to be overwhelming, particularly if they seek more targeted or concise GRE prep options. Feedback often highlights that Manhattan Prep excels in math practice but may be less effective for verbal preparation.
“I consider Manhattan's *5 lb. Book of GRE Practice Problems* to be the single best book available. I have taught dozens of GRE courses from it. Also, all of Manhattan's subject-specific books I've looked at (I've only glanced at them, not taught from them) have been excellent.”
“Manhattan is great for math! Consensus I've heard concerning Manhattan is that it's good for math, not so much for verbal. I would try to focus on ETS material where you can...”
Bottom line: With nearly twenty years as a leading resource, Manhattan Prep is an excellent choice for students wanting an in-depth program; however, its rigorous approach may feel demanding for those who prefer a streamlined or fast-track study plan.
Most customizable: Kaplan GRE
- Kaplan, a household name in test preparation, offers a range of study options for the GRE, from a self-study course to one-on-one tutoring.
- Students can choose to invest in one of their live online courses or purchase one of their GRE study books, which come with access to the QBank, for a small fraction of the cost.

- Fairly affordable on-demand course ($299)
- No shortage of practice questions for a thorough GRE review
- Textbooks can be purchased separately starting at around $20
- Live Online students benefit from direct teacher interaction
- Self-paced lessons do not automatically come with a prep book
- Live Online option is pricey
- QBank & Practice Exam course only comes with 4 practice exams
- Practice tests are not always the most accurate
- Only the tutoring package comes with a score guarantee (325+ total or 10+ increase)
- 4+ full-length practice exams
- Customizable 2,500+ question QBank
- In-depth explanations for each question
- Detailed score reports and performance insights
- 180+ hours of online instruction and practice (On Demand course)
- 30+ hours of exclusive recorded lessons (On Demand course)
- Official Test Day Experience (On Demand Course)
Kaplan GRE prep is a regular choice among graduate exam preparation options, offering a number of GRE courses to suit virtually every study preference. Whether you are a self-motivated learner or prefer interactive instruction, Kaplan GRE programs deliver robust support. The Kaplan GRE On-Demand course features over 180 hours of online preparation, including extensive video lessons, rigorous practice questions, and a massive QBank enabling you to tailor your study. This customizable QBank gives access to thousands of Kaplan GRE questions, helping students thoroughly practice all GRE concepts. The course also includes several full-length, computer-based Kaplan GRE practice tests designed to authentically simulate the real exam's adaptive testing environment for a highly realistic GRE experience.
For those seeking structured, scheduled support, the Kaplan GRE Live Online option provides approximately 21 hours of instructor-led classes, along with full digital access to Kaplan GRE study materials, practice exams, and prep books, which are also included in the self-paced offering. For optimal guidance, Kaplan GRE tutoring packages combine expert one-on-one instruction with customized study plans tailored to unique strengths and weaknesses. Overall, Kaplan GRE's study solutions aim to provide students with a comprehensive toolkit designed to boost confidence and optimize results on the official GRE.
When it comes to accuracy and difficulty, however, feedback on Kaplan GRE test simulations is mixed; some students have noted that Kaplan's GRE practice tests are more challenging than the actual exam and sometimes feature questions that are worded unnaturally. In addition, one key drawback of the Kaplan GRE course is its elevated price point, especially for the premium packages beyond the self-study plan.
“[Kaplan] worked for me. I just used their online question bank for math...I've recommended it to several people simply because I find the online question banks very convenient.”
“I found that Kaplan makes their questions a lot harder than the official ETS practice questions. If you are able to get through them, that's great, but it's kind of counterintuitive”
Bottom line: The Kaplan GRE prep experience is designed to empower a wide spectrum of learners, offering options from detailed self-paced courses to engaging live instruction and personalized test prep resources. Be aware that some users find Kaplan GRE practice tests to be tougher or less representative of actual exam scoring.
For extra practice drills: The Princeton Review GRE
- From popular study books to hours of professional, one-on-one tutoring, The Princeton Review offers test preparation options for a variety of learners.
- Princeton Review's live courses are suitable options for students who need extra support and can commit a significant amount of study in a relatively short amount of time.

- Nearly all packages come with a score increase guarantee
- Detailed score analyses dashboard included for all programs
- Lots of practice questions with helpful explanations
- Book can also be purchased for disciplined self-studiers for around $36
- Most expensive option on the list of top providers
- The self-led option does not come with the book included
- Practice tests do not always reliably capture the rigor of the actual test
- Full-length practice exams (amount varies based on package)
- Live online instruction, depending on the package
- Private tutoring is also available
The Princeton Review GRE program offers a range of study options tailored to different schedules, paces, and target scores. As a reputable name in test preparation, The Princeton Review GRE offers a variety of course formats for individuals seeking a more structured GRE experience. The Self-Paced course features dozens of hours of engaging video lessons, thousands of practice questions and drills, and access to up to eight full-length adaptive practice exams, all available on your own terms.
For students who prefer even more structure or are aiming for the highest GRE scores, the Princeton Review GRE also offers advanced packages like the Fundamentals course and the premium 162+ course. These options include live online or in-person instruction, additional targeted Quantitative and Verbal sessions, and extensive adaptive practice materials designed to closely mirror the ETS exam. Performance reports help track your progress in real time. Princeton Review sweetens the deal with a GRE score improvement guarantee (or a money-back promise under certain conditions), making their acclaimed prep programs particularly appealing to highly motivated and disciplined test-takers. Students benefit from repeated exposure to authentic, ETS-style questions, although feedback suggests that question difficulty may vary across sections. While the official Princeton Review GRE prep book is available for individual purchase, enrolling in a full prep program is a significant financial commitment, so budget-conscious learners may want to explore alternative GRE study book options.
“The Princeton 1014 question bank will be very useful. It's a little bit on the easier side, but definitely use it to understand questions and for practice.”
“Princeton mocks are usually a bit deflated compared to the real thing, so don't stress too much about the dip.”
Bottom line: The Princeton Review GRE remains a leading option for students demanding constant access to dynamic practice questions, robust GRE study book content, and personalized feedback. However, those with limited study time or who are seeking a low-cost alternative to the GRE prep book may find better value elsewhere.
For video-based instruction: Magoosh GRE
- Magoosh is an online test prep platform recognized for its comprehensive admissions guides, extensive digital tools, and flexible study options across multiple standardized exams.
- Its affordable, self-paced courses are well-suited for busy learners, though many students may need to supplement them with additional materials to achieve a more complete and well-rounded review.

- 290+ video lessons for visual learners
- Many questions are accompanied by video explanations
- Curated study schedules
- Live instruction available
- Mobile-friendly app
- Practice tests can be wordy and hard to understand at times
- Limited access periods
- Fewer practice tests than similar options
- 1,600+ practice questions
- Up to 6 practice tests
- Curated study schedules
- Data-driven score prediction and smart progress tracking
- Online help from GRE tutors ("Ask an expert")
- Score improvement guarantee
The Magoosh GRE course is a comprehensive online GRE prep program designed for students seeking flexible and affordable test preparation. As a fully self-paced GRE study solution, Magoosh GRE offers hundreds of video lessons covering all major GRE sections. The course features an extensive question bank with over 1,000 GRE practice questions, most accompanied by detailed video and text explanations to help reinforce key concepts. With its intuitive, customizable dashboard, Magoosh GRE tracks your progress and provides personalized study recommendations, making it easier to focus on your target areas. With the Premium plan, Magoosh GRE students gain access to full-length computer-adaptive GRE practice tests that simulate the official exam experience. Additional resources include vocabulary flashcards, score predictors, and access across devices (laptop, tablet, or phone), making it convenient for students with busy schedules to study on the go.
Magoosh GRE is best suited for self-motivated learners who prefer a flexible, cost-effective GRE prep course with strong practice resources rather than live instruction. However, some students find the scoring on Magoosh's practice tests challenging and not always reflective of the actual GRE, which can be discouraging for those seeking precise benchmarks of their readiness. Another limitation is that Magoosh GRE's course access is relatively short: Premium plans typically offer just one month of study time. This may not suit students who wish to prepare gradually over several months or throughout the year, which is common for candidates balancing intensive graduate exam prep with other academic commitments.
Bottom line: Magoosh GRE is an accessible and affordable GRE prep solution, particularly ideal for students who thrive with video-based instruction and self-guided learning. Test-takers recommend supplementing the Magoosh GRE course with official ETS practice materials, as the practice tests provided may not always mirror the exact content and phrasing of the actual exam.
For a low-cost study aid: GregMat
- GregMat, a provider that focuses almost exclusively on the GRE, has garnered considerable attention online for its affordable GRE study plans.
- While GregMat offers engaging live and recorded classes as well as practice tools, their resources are best used to review content from more in-depth courses.

- Interactive live classes, all of which are recorded
- Thousands of practice problems
- Lots of test-taking tips and skills shared
- Best used as a crash course to supplement, not replace, another study plan
- The website is somewhat confusing and hard to navigate
- Subscription costs can add up, especially if students go beyond the 1 or 2-month study plans
- Very few full-length practice tests
- Vocab and quant memorization tools
- Access to videos anywhere, anytime on the GregMat App
GregMat is an online GRE prep platform designed to keep studying simple, affordable, and accessible, taught by a semi-anonymous online instructor. For a low monthly fee (typically under $10), students gain access to a broad set of resources. These include around ten live classes each week, an extensive library of recorded lessons, structured one- and two-month study plans, and a variety of practice materials such as quizzes, mini-tests, full-length exams, problem sets, vocabulary tools, and writing practice features. For more intensive prep, students can upgrade their subscription to include PrepSwift exam strategy insights, take an intensive "I'm Overwhelmed" course, or book a tutoring session.
What sets GregMat apart is its focus on clear strategies and straightforward instruction rather than expensive, material-heavy prep. Its study plans guide learners through a step-by-step process, starting with quantitative fundamentals and then progressing to verbal reasoning, vocabulary, writing, and test-taking skills. For budget-conscious students, newcomers who want structure, or anyone who prefers a flexible, self-paced approach, GregMat offers strong value relative to pricier competitors. That said, it works best as a short-term "crash course" or a supplement to more comprehensive programs, as it offers fewer built-in tools than some other prep platforms. Some users also feel that GregMat's teaching style can be unintuitive, so it's wise to preview the provider's free online videos before subscribing.
“Solo-studying through Manhattan Prep's books, I didn't really learn a lot about test-taking strategies, but hearing Greg talk about the test flipped a switch in my head.”
“[It's worth it] 100% for verbal...For Quant, it's great for concept buildup and strategies. But if you're aiming for close to 170, I feel it falls a bit short. I needed some extra practice from other sources.”
Bottom line: GregMat is often highlighted as a popular choice for online GRE prep. While it offers a solid study program at a very affordable price, students who require more thorough, self-directed preparation may want to consider pairing it with an additional course.
Why Achievable is the top choice for GRE preparation
Achievable GRE delivers a next-generation, user-friendly GRE prep course that transforms the way students prepare for the GRE exam. The Achievable GRE platform is expertly designed to make studying more efficient, less stressful, and more effective than traditional or legacy test prep providers. This comprehensive GRE preparation program features a full-length, expertly crafted curriculum paired with robust digital study tools, all offered at a highly competitive price, making it one of the best GRE prep solutions for future master's and doctoral candidates.
Many people prepare for the GRE on their own, often falling into two common traps: relying solely on textbooks or spending extra money on rigid prep courses. Fortunately, Achievable's platform provides the ideal balance of flexibility and guidance to build the skills and knowledge needed for a strong score. The adaptive and interactive Achievable GRE online platform acts as your personalized GRE instructor and dedicated tutoring resource, seamlessly guiding you through every section of the GRE while pinpointing the precise areas where you need focused improvement.
Here's how Achievable GRE stands out among top GRE prep courses:
- Achievable GRE: Adaptive, intelligently tailored GRE study plans that dynamically adjust to your strengths and weaknesses using advanced learning analytics
- Others: Standard, static courses that lack meaningful customization for individual students
- Achievable GRE: Proven, memory science-based study techniques designed to enhance retention and recall of crucial GRE concepts
- Others: Outdated review approaches that can hinder consistent progress and mastery
- Achievable GRE: Clear, student-friendly digital textbooks written in an accessible language to support all levels of test-takers
- Others: Dense and overly complicated materials that increase the challenge of an already demanding exam
- Achievable GRE: Modern, mobile-optimized platform ensures seamless GRE test prep on any device, anytime, and anywhere
- Others: Traditional test prep formats that restrict flexibility for students needing convenient, on-the-go learning options
With Achievable GRE's expertly developed study materials, powerful data-driven progress tracking, and fully personalized online support, you gain the optimal strategy to boost your exam confidence, maximize study efficiency, and significantly improve your chances of achieving your goal GRE score on your first attempt.
Why choosing the right test prep course matters
There are numerous options to consider when selecting the best GRE prep courses, and finding the right GRE study guide is important for obtaining your highest possible score. The most effective GRE exam prep resources combine expert study materials, comprehensive GRE practice test offerings, and robust student support. As you develop your GRE study plan and evaluate top providers, keep these proven prep strategies in mind:
- Decide if you learn best with a structured GRE study guide or if a flexible, self-paced online course, often featuring visually engaging lessons and interactive content, is better suited to your learning style
- Review your GRE test dates and dedicate ample time each week to your GRE exam prep, ensuring you have sufficient preparation before exam day
- Set specific goals for your target score, whether you aim to reach the top percentile or want to increase your score by a defined margin to meet program requirements
- Confirm that your selected GRE prep courses include full-length digital GRE practice tests that accurately replicate the latest exam format and difficulty, and regularly practice with official-style mock questions
To launch your GRE preparation with maximum effectiveness, begin with a diagnostic GRE practice test to determine your baseline score. This crucial step will help customize your GRE study plan and focus your efforts where they are needed most. Additionally, consult up-to-date GRE admission statistics from your target graduate programs to establish the score range required for competitive applications. By choosing a reputable GRE exam prep course and supplementing it with a comprehensive GRE study guide, you can significantly enhance your readiness and improve your chances of academic success.
Wrapping up
When comparing today's top GRE prep courses, focus on each program's unique strengths, the overall quality of its study materials, and the availability of realistic GRE practice tests. It's also important to weigh the total cost alongside each provider's history of strong student outcomes. Set a clear target score and research your options thoroughly, paying close attention to features such as score guarantees, interactive digital tools, live instruction, and regularly updated content. No matter which GRE study plan you choose, make sure to incorporate reputable digital learning resources and apply proven test-taking strategies to maximize your progress.
After evaluating all the leading choices, we've determined that Achievable offers the best overall GRE exam prep based on all the factors listed above. Its personalized, convenient, and highly effective approach provides exceptional value. Additionally, the course is equipped with everything you need to improve your score, eliminating the need to worry about package tiers or expensive add-ons. With Achievable, you'll benefit from streamlined study materials, reduce the time needed to prepare, and significantly improve your chances of reaching your target GRE score. Best of luck as you begin your GRE prep journey and choose the course that fits your needs!
