What’s the Best GRE Prep For You?

• The best GRE prep course depends on your goals, learning style, timeline, and target score. 
• You can choose from live online classes, on-demand courses, and private tutoring.
• Kaplan GRE prep courses are highly rated for their expert instructors, adaptive study plans, and comprehensive practice tools.
• Choosing the right GRE prep helps you stay focused, build confidence, and reach your highest potential on test day.

The best GRE prep course sets you up for success on test day, but the right option depends on what you need to succeed. Just like researching graduate schools, finding the right GRE prep takes time and reflection. Think about how much time you have to study, how soon you’re testing, and how you learn best–whether that’s with a live instructor, at your own pace, or through one-on-one support. 

Kaplan recommends studying for 2-3 months for the GRE, averaging 10-15 hours per week. That’s a major time investment, so choosing a high-quality GRE prep course is essential. In this guide, we’ll break down the best GRE prep options so you can choose the one that fits your goals.

A good GRE score can be a key factor in getting accepted to competitive graduate programs, especially in fields like business, psychology, and engineering. While admissions committees consider multiple factors (like GPA, letters of recommendation, and personal statements), your GRE score provides a standardized measure of academic readiness.

• It’s one of the few components judged equally across all applicants.
• It can help offset a lower GPA or limited experience in your field.
• Competitive programs often use GRE scores as an initial screening tool.
• Some merit-based scholarships and funding decisions are influenced by GRE performance.

What’s considered a “good” GRE score depends on your goals. Most top-tier programs look for scores in the 160+ range for Verbal and Quant sections. But even a modest score increase–50 to 10 points–can significantly improve your chances of admission or make your application more competitive.

Ultimately, a strong GRE score doesn’t guarantee acceptance, but it does open doors and strengthen your application. With the right prep, it’s one part of the process you can control.

When exploring your GRE prep options, there are several key factors to consider to help you find the best GRE prep course for your needs, including:

• When do you plan to take the GRE? 
• How many weeks or months do you have to prepare?
• How much time can you realistically study each week?
• What type of learning environment works best for you–live instruction, self-paced, or one-on-one support?
• Do you have a specific budget for GRE prep?
• What GRE score are you aiming for based on your target graduate programs?

After thinking through your answers, you’ll be in a stronger position to choose a GRE prep course that fits your timeline, study habits, and score goals. Whether you prefer the flexibility of studying on your own, the structure of live classes, or the support of a tutor, there’s a prep option designed for you.

Choosing the right GRE course isn’t just about test prep, it’s about finding a format that matches the way you learn best. Think about how you study most effectively, how much accountability you want, and what kind of support will help you stay on track. Ask yourself:

• Do you feel more confident with instructor guidance, or do you prefer learning independently? If you benefit from structured lessons and live interaction, an instructor-led course is a great fit. If you’re self-driven and prefer to study on your own time, an on-demand course might suit you better.
• Would you thrive with one-on-one attention or in a group setting? Personalized tutoring can help target your specific needs, while group courses offer structure, peer interaction, and live instruction.
• Can you stick to a set schedule, or do you need more flexibility? If you’re juggling work or school, you may prefer a self-paced option. If consistency helps you stay motivated, a live course with a set schedule can offer that structure. 
• Is a virtual learning environment right for you? Live online classes combine the benefits of classroom learning with the convenience of studying from home–no commute required. 

By identifying how you learn best, you can choose a GRE prep course that not only fits your lifestyle but also helps you perform at your best on test day.

There’s no single best way to prepare for the GRE, just the best option for your goals, schedule, and learning style. Below are the most effective GRE prep methods, from personalized tutoring to flexible self-paced courses:

The right GRE prep book can provide structure, practice, and confidence as you get ready for test day. Whether you’re studying on your own or supplementing a course, a high-quality book should include content review, practice questions, test-taking strategies, and access to online resources for computer-based GRE prep.

Here are three of the most recommended GRE prep books for 2025-2026:

No matter which option you choose, the best GRE prep is GRE prep that you’ll devote consistent time and focus to. You’ve already made a great decision–you’re going to graduate school–now choose to study for the GRE and help your application shine.

Using free GRE prep resources is an excellent way to begin preparing for the exam. No matter which tools you choose, make sure they come from a trusted source and accurately reflect the real GRE format. Free GRE prep can help you establish a baseline score, identify areas that need improvement, and help you decide which paid resources or courses might be the best fit. These tools can also be used to supplement a current GRE course.

Kaplan offers several free GRE prep resources, including:

• Free GRE Practice Test: Take a realistic, full-length GRE practice test to see your current score range and pinpoint areas of improvement.
• Free GRE Question of the Day: Daily GRE practice questions with full explanations.
• Free GRE Study Plans: Follow a study plan created by GRE experts. Options include: 3-month, 2-month, or 1-month timelines.
• Free GRE Events: Join free trial classes and information sessions to explore GRE prep formats, meet instructors, and learn more about the test.