When it comes to preparing for the GMAT and other graduate admissions exams, students often find themselves overwhelmed by the numerous options available. Two names that frequently come up in the conversation are Manhattan Prep and Kaplan. While they are both reputable test prep providers, many prospective students wonder: Is Manhattan Prep Kaplan? In this article, we'll explore the relationship between Manhattan Prep and Kaplan, compare their offerings, and help you determine which might be the best fit for your test prep journey.
Understanding Manhattan Prep and Kaplan
Before diving into whether Manhattan Prep is Kaplan, it's essential to understand what each organization offers individually. Both have established themselves as leaders in the test prep industry, but they operate differently and cater to different student needs.
What is Manhattan Prep?
Manhattan Prep is an independent test prep company founded in 2000, renowned for its rigorous curriculum and highly experienced instructors. It specializes in GMAT, GRE, LSAT, and other graduate admissions exams. Manhattan Prep is known for its comprehensive curriculum, strategic approach, and high-quality practice materials. The company is owned by Kaplan, Inc., a division of the Washington Post Company, since 2009.
What is Kaplan?
Kaplan, founded in 1938, is one of the most well-known and extensive test prep companies globally. It offers a wide range of courses for exams including the GMAT, GRE, LSAT, MCAT, and SAT, along with professional licensing exams. Kaplan is recognized for its broad course offerings, online and in-person classes, and extensive practice resources. Its longstanding reputation has made it a top choice for students seeking flexible and comprehensive test prep solutions.
Is Manhattan Prep Part of Kaplan?
The short answer is: Yes, Manhattan Prep is owned by Kaplan, Inc. In 2009, Kaplan acquired Manhattan GMAT, the division responsible for Manhattan Prep's GMAT courses and materials. Since then, Manhattan Prep has operated as a distinct brand within Kaplan, maintaining its identity, curriculum, and teaching quality while benefiting from Kaplan's extensive resources and infrastructure.
The Relationship Between Manhattan Prep and Kaplan
Although Manhattan Prep is part of Kaplan, it functions semi-independently. This arrangement allows Manhattan Prep to preserve its unique teaching style, curriculum focus, and brand identity, especially for GMAT preparation. Kaplan provides the backend support, marketing, and access to extensive practice questions and technology, but Manhattan Prep continues to develop its specific courses and materials.
Differences Between Manhattan Prep and Kaplan
While both are under the Kaplan umbrella, there are notable differences that can influence a student's choice:
- Curriculum Focus: Manhattan Prep is known for its highly strategic, content-rich courses with a focus on deep understanding and problem-solving techniques. Kaplan offers a broader range of courses with varying levels of depth, often emphasizing test-taking strategies alongside content review.
- Teaching Style: Manhattan Prep courses tend to feature intensive, instructor-led classes with a focus on high-level reasoning and analytical skills. Kaplan provides both live online and in-person classes, often with more flexible schedules and a mix of self-paced and instructor-led options.
- Practice Materials: Manhattan Prep offers high-quality, challenging practice questions and exams designed to simulate the actual GMAT experience. Kaplan's practice resources are extensive and include adaptive questions, practice tests, and online tools, catering to a wider range of prep needs.
- Price Point: Generally, Manhattan Prep courses are priced slightly higher than Kaplan's, reflecting their focus on intensive instruction and premium materials. However, pricing varies depending on the course format and location.
Which Is Better for Your MBA or Graduate School Admission?
The decision between Manhattan Prep and Kaplan depends on your individual learning style, goals, and budget. Here's a comparison to help you decide:
When to Choose Manhattan Prep
- You prefer a rigorous, strategy-focused approach with in-depth instruction.
- You have a solid foundation in math and verbal skills and want to refine advanced techniques.
- You value high-quality, challenging practice questions to push your limits.
- You are willing to invest more in a premium prep experience.
When to Choose Kaplan
- You are looking for flexible scheduling with a variety of course formats (online, in-person, self-paced).
- You prefer a broader range of courses, including affordable options or bundled packages.
- You want extensive practice resources and adaptive learning tools.
- You are a beginner or need foundational review before tackling advanced concepts.
Additional Factors to Consider
Beyond curriculum and teaching style, consider the following when choosing between Manhattan Prep and Kaplan:
- Course Format: Both offer live classes, online courses, and self-study options. Determine which format fits your schedule and learning preferences.
- Instructor Quality: Manhattan Prep emphasizes highly qualified instructors often with advanced degrees. Kaplan's instructors also vary but tend to have diverse backgrounds and extensive test experience.
- Pricing and Budget: Compare the costs and available discounts or packages. Some students find Kaplan more budget-friendly, especially with promotional offers.
- Student Support: Look for available tutoring, Q&A sessions, and additional resources to support your study plan.
Conclusion
To sum up, Manhattan Prep is indeed part of Kaplan, Inc. Since its acquisition in 2009, Manhattan Prep has maintained its reputation for quality, strategic test prep, especially for the GMAT, while benefiting from Kaplan's extensive resources. Whether Manhattan Prep or Kaplan is the better choice for you depends on your learning preferences, budget, and specific goals. Both brands offer excellent options, so consider your needs carefully and choose the program that aligns best with your test prep journey. With the right preparation, you'll be well on your way to achieving your target scores and gaining admission to your desired graduate program.
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