Disclosure: Some links in this article are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
The Princeton Review MCAT Complete 7-Book Set vs. Kaplan MCAT Complete 7-Book Set – Which Books & Education Should You Buy?
Choosing the right prep materials for the Medical College Admission Test is one of the most critical decisions you will make in your pre-med journey. Both The Princeton Review MCAT Complete 7-Book Set and the Kaplan MCAT Complete 7-Book Set are heavyweight contenders in the Books & Education category. Each costs well over $50 on Amazon and promises to boost your score. But which one deserves a spot on your desk? This side-by-side comparison breaks down the content, practice materials, and value of each to help you decide.
Overview of The Princeton Review MCAT Complete 7-Book Set
The Princeton Review MCAT Complete 7-Book Set is a comprehensive package that includes 7 subject-specific books covering all four MCAT sections: Biology, Biochemistry, Physics, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Psychology & Sociology, and Critical Analysis & Reasoning Skills (CARS). This set is known for its digestible, student-friendly approach and its heavy emphasis on test-taking strategy. The books are designed to be used alongside the online resources, which include full-length practice tests and a digital question bank. Princeton Review has a reputation for helping students navigate the MCAT’s tricky passages with clever techniques.
- Includes 7 full-length print books covering every MCAT discipline
- Access to 4 full-length online practice tests with detailed scoring
- Online question bank with over 2,000 practice items
- Strategy-centric content with “MCAT Cracking” tips
- End-of-chapter practice questions with explanations
Overview of Kaplan MCAT Complete 7-Book Set
The Kaplan MCAT Complete 7-Book Set is a direct competitor and arguably the most widely used prep resource among pre-meds. It also contains 7 subject-specific books aligned with the AAMC MCAT content outline. Kaplan’s strength lies in its immense online infrastructure: students get access to over 6,000 practice questions, 9 full-length practice tests, and video explanations for every concept. The books themselves are dense, thorough, and heavily focused on content review rather than shortcuts. Kaplan is often the choice for students who want to leave no stone unturned.
- 7 content books mirroring the AAMC blueprint
- 9 full-length practice tests online (more than any competitor)
- 6,000+ digital practice questions with video walkthroughs
- Mobile-friendly study tools and flashcards
- Detailed science and CARS strategies integrated into lessons
Comparison Table: Princeton Review vs. Kaplan MCAT Sets
| Feature | The Princeton Review MCAT 7-Book Set | Kaplan MCAT 7-Book Set |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Books | 7 | 7 |
| Full-Length Online Tests | 4 | 9 |
| Online Practice Questions | 2,000+ | 6,000+ |
| Video Content | Limited (some online) | Extensive (video explanations) |
| Content Depth | Moderate (strategy-focused) | High (detail-focused) |
| CARS Section Focus | Strong (dedicated strategies) | Good (passage-based approach) |
| Mobile App | Basic | Full-featured |
| Best For | Students who want test-taking tactics | Students who want massive practice volume |
| Amazon Price (approx.) | $200 – $250 | $180 – $230 |
Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of writing but may change. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.