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ATI vs Kaplan NCLEX
Head-to-head comparison of the NCLEX study materials from Kaplan and ATI
When preparing for the NCLEX, choosing the right study materials and prep courses can significantly impact a nursing student’s success. This article provides an in-depth comparison of the NCLEX study materials and prep courses offered by Kaplan and ATI, two of the most popular providers in the field. By examining the strengths and weaknesses of each, prospective test-takers can make informed decisions on which program best suits their learning styles and needs.
To kick this comparison off, let’s look at the major advantages of using Kaplan to help you prepare for the NCLEX.
Realistic NCLEX Practice Questions
For most nursing students gearing up for the NCLEX, the key to success lies in consistently working through practice questions. Therefore, the authenticity of a company’s practice problems—regarding their content, difficulty, and length—is crucial.
NCLEX practice question from Kaplan
In our view, Kaplan offers more realistic practice materials compared to ATI. While both companies provide high-quality questions, Kaplan’s practice problems align more closely with what you can expect on exam day.
Their adaptive CAT program also seems to be slightly superior to ATI’s, offering a more accurate simulation of the test experience (similar to NCLEX Bootcamp).
High-Quality Video Lessons
Kaplan offers an abundance of content review materials, including live and pre-recorded lectures, whereas ATI lacks in this department. With ATI, most of your learning comes from the explanations of the practice problems. In contrast, Kaplan balances practice with extensive content review.
Example video lesson from Kaplan
Kaplan excels in delivering high-quality live and pre-recorded video lessons, as well as content review sessions, which we found exceptionally effective. In our opinion, Kaplan’s videos are second only to those from Nursing.com.
More Affordable Than ATI
Kaplan offers two different course options for nursing students to choose from: self-paced and live online. The self-paced courses costs around $425, while the company’s live online course costs closer to $525.
Similarly, ATI offers two primary packages as well: Virtual ATI (self-paced) and live review. The Virtual ATI self-paced course costs around $560, and the live review package costs around $620.
Therefore, you’ll likely save anywhere from $9o to $130 by opting to go with Kaplan for your NCLEX prep needs. Plus, Kaplan seems to be more aggressive with sales and discounts so you’ll most likely save even more.
Kaplan NCLEX Channel
In addition to practice materials, video lessons, and classes, Kaplan offers a comprehensive digital textbook and access to their NCLEX Channel. I won’t delve into the other extras like flashcards, because the NCLEX Channel is the real standout in my opinion.
The Kaplan NCLEX channel is amazing
The NCLEX Channel gives you open access to frequent live webcasts from Kaplan instructors. Most evenings, one of their teachers thoroughly explores a specific NCLEX topic.
These sessions are incredibly detailed and packed with solid advice and test taking strategies. All in all, I found these classes particularly valuable and engaging.
Content Access Period
With ATI, the duration of access to their materials is 12 weeks for their self-paced Virtual course.
In contrast, Kaplan provides a consistent 6 months of access. Therefore, Kaplan offers a longer period for studying, giving you more time to prepare, no matter which plan you select.
Money Back Guarantee
Kaplan offers a money back guarantee if you do not pass the NCLEX on your first attempt, whereas ATI only gives you an additional 12 weeks of access to their materials if you do not pass. Therefore, this category is another easy win for Kaplan.
Now that you have an idea of what Kaplan has to offer, let’s turn the tables and discuss the primary reasons you may want to consider using ATI to help you study for the NCLEX.
Personalized Support
When students purchase ATI’s Virtual-ATI prep course, they gain access to an expert ATI Nurse Educator. This dedicated educator offers personalized guidance and support throughout your NCLEX preparation.
ATI offers students personalized support
The benefit of having an expert advisor is invaluable, as they can provide tailored feedback, answer specific questions, and help students focus on their weak areas.
Additionally, the expert’s experience and insights can boost students’ confidence and enhance their understanding of complex concepts, ultimately increasing their chances of success on the exam.
Post-Course Study Plan
When students purchase ATI’s Virtual-ATI prep course, they receive a comprehensive post-review study plan. This personalized plan is designed to address their individual needs and areas of improvement identified during the course.
By following this tailored study plan, students can focus on reinforcing their knowledge and skills in specific areas. This targeted approach ensures that they are well-prepared and confident as they approach the NCLEX, increasing their likelihood of success on exam day.
While ATI’s NCLEX study bundles have their merits (namely their personalized support and post-course study plan), our team ultimately favors Kaplan.
Kaplan not only provides more realistic practice problems than ATI, but their video lessons, live classes, and additional resources like the Kaplan NCLEX channel make this an easy decision. Additionally, Kaplan offers a money-back guarantee if you don’t pass, adding extra peace of mind.
Plus, let’s not forget that the courses from Kaplan are also more affordable than ATI’s as well.
Although we like the NCLEX courses from both companies, our team believes Kaplan is the better prep option due to its realistic practice problems, high-quality video lessons, live classes, and additional resources like the NCLEX channel. Additionally, Kaplan offers a money-back guarantee if you don’t pass, providing extra assurance.
What is the difference between Kaplan and ATI for NCLEX prep?
The primary difference between Kaplan and ATI for NCLEX prep is that Kaplan offers more realistic practice problems, high-quality video lessons, live classes, and resources like the NCLEX Channel, while ATI provides personalized support through expert Nurse Educators and a comprehensive post-review study plan.
