Choosing the right NCLEX prep course is a pivotal decision for any nursing student. Two of the heavyweight contenders in NCLEX prep are NCLEX Academy and Kaplan. Both programs boast an impressive array of features designed to help students pass the NCLEX exam, but which one will get you to your goal faster? In this detailed comparison, we’ll dissect the unique offerings of both NCLEX Academy and Kaplan, helping you make an informed choice to accelerate your path to becoming a licensed nurse.
1. Comprehensive Content Review
The depth and breadth of content review are crucial for the NCLEX. NCLEX Academy offers an extensive library of video lectures, written material, and practical examples that cover every conceivable subject area on the exam. This comprehensive approach ensures that you have a robust understanding of the nursing material. In contrast, Kaplan provides a similarly widespread content review but places a stronger emphasis on test-taking strategies, believing that understanding how to take the test can be as important as the content itself.
2. Personalized Study Plans
Both NCLEX Academy and Kaplan offer personalized study plans, but their methods differ. NCLEX Academy’s adaptive learning technology tailors your study plan based on your performance, focusing on areas that need improvement, which can expedite your study process. Kaplan, however, provides a more traditional one-size-fits-all study calendar that suggests what you should study each day, which might not be as efficient for every student’s unique needs.
3. Practice Questions and Tests
An ample amount of practice questions and tests is essential to prepare for the NCLEX. NCLEX Academy shines with their expansive question bank and several full-length adaptive practice tests that mimic the structure and style of the actual NCLEX. Kaplan also offers a substantial number of practice questions and has computer-adaptive tests. However, NCLEX Academy’s practice materials are often praised for being more reflective of the NCLEX’s evolving formats and question types.
4. Pass Rates and Guarantees
One significant factor in choosing a prep course is understanding their success rates and what they guarantee. NCLEX Academy boasts impressive pass rates and offers a pass guarantee, promising additional support if you do not pass on your first attempt. Kaplan also has strong pass rates and provides a money-back guarantee if you attend all sessions and complete all assignments but still do not pass the NCLEX.
5. Accessibility and Convenience
The convenience of preparing wherever and whenever you can should not be underestimated. NCLEX Academy provides flexibility with its online platform accessible on various devices, allowing you to study on the go. Kaplan also delivers with mobile-friendly content and on-demand lectures, yet some students have noted that the Kaplan mobile experience could be more intuitive.
6. Cost and Affordability
Preparing for the NCLEX is an investment in your future, and cost can be a significant decision factor. Generally, NCLEX Academy is known for its affordability with various pricing tiers to suit different budgets. Kaplan’s pricing also spans multiple tiers, but it tends to be at a higher price point. Always consider what each package offers in terms of features and support when weighing cost against value.
7. Additional Support – Beyond Test Prep
Support from instructors and access to resources beyond mere test prep can be a real bonus. NCLEX Academy often prides itself on providing learners with access to nurse educators for individual questions and mentoring. Kaplan does offer live instruction options and office hours, but some learners have expressed that the support can feel less personalized than that of NCLEX Academy.
8. Student Reviews and Testimonials
When opting for an NCLEX review course, looking into what past students have said can provide useful insights. Testimonials for NCLEX Academy often highlight the personal touches and motivational components of the course. Kaplan’s reviews frequently mention the effectiveness of their practice questions and resources. Scrutinize these testimonials for points that resonate with your learning preferences.
9. Study Tools and Resources
Unique study tools can make a world of difference in absorbing material. NCLEX Academy offers innovative resources such as mnemonics, flashcards, and simulation labs that might lend a new dimension to your prep experience. Kaplan focuses on high-yield content and efficient drills to boost retention and speed, which may appeal to those who favor a straightforward approach.
10. Ongoing Engagement and Updates
The NCLEX exam is frequently updated, and so should prep courses. NCLEX Academy touts its commitment to keeping courses current and engaging through regular updates and incorporating new, clinically relevant content. Kaplan equally updates their curriculum but may do so on a less frequent schedule. Whichever course you choose, ensure they commit to the most up-to-date materials and methods.
In conclusion, NCLEX Academy and Kaplan both provide robust and effective preparation for the NCLEX. NCLEX Academy might be more suitable for those who appreciate a personalized approach and want comprehensive content paired with adaptive learning. Kaplan, on the other hand, may be preferred by those who prioritize test-taking strategies and a structured study schedule. Consider your learning style, budget, and the unique offerings of each course as you decide which path will help you pass the NCLEX faster and pave the way for a successful nursing career.
