Manhattan Online Vs. Kaplan Incalss

[gmatcat]

Hi...

I have decided to enroll in a GMAT pore class to prepare for the test. I took the test last month and did poorly. I think I need structured training and lots of practice and thus a class would help. However I am unable to decide between the Manhattan online vs. Kaplan in class course. I prefer in class studying but Kaplan is not letting me sit in to try a class out. I have hear mixed reviews for Kaplan. I have never taken a virtual class and I am not sure how it is. Any suggestions will be helpful. Has anyone taken both or one of them...how did you find them? Please help!

[Stuart@KaplanGMAT]

Let's assume for the sake of my reply that you're choosing between 2 reputable companies (I'm clearly going to be biased toward Kaplan, so I'm just going to address the live vs online question).

When choosing between a live course and an online course (again, assuming both are reputable), I'd always recommend a live one. You get so much extra out of having a well-trained live resource (i.e. your teacher) and the ability to interact with your primary source for information (you can ask your computer questions, but if it starts answering back, you're in trouble!) that the live course will pretty much always be preferable.

As for specific testimonials toward Kaplan live or MGMAT online, I'll let others provide those.

[Ian Stewart]

Speaking in general terms (nothing below should be construed to refer to either of the companies mentioned in the original post):

I agree with Stuart that a live class is, all other things being equal, more rewarding than an online one, not only for the reasons he mentions, but also because it gives you the opportunity to meet others who are in a similar position to you- people preparing for the GMAT and applying to MBA programs. I think there can be a lot of value there.

That said, I'd add two caveats:

-working with a good private tutor can be a more efficient way to learn GMAT material. With a tutor, lessons can proceed at your pace and focus on your weak areas;

-the amount you'll learn from a class depends very much on the quality of the teacher. Unless you have a trustworthy recommendation about the teacher who will actually teach your class, I'd insist on having the opportunity to sit in on a half hour of one lesson, or to meet the instructor in advance. Considering how much you're likely to pay for a GMAT class (no matter what company you choose), I think it's an entirely reasonable request.

[gmatcat]

Thanks you Stuart and Ian.

I took a Manhattan online class (sample) and although the teacher was great, I found it a little difficult to learn in that style. I wish they had actual classes in Toronto.

I will go for a class room session and will look up Kaplan and Veritas.

If anyone has taken any of these courses please let em know how went. I have not heard much about it on this forum.

Thanks.

[lunarpower]

Hi...

I have decided to enroll in a GMAT pore class to prepare for the test. I took the test last month and did poorly. I think I need structured training and lots of practice and thus a class would help. However I am unable to decide between the Manhattan online vs. Kaplan in class course. I prefer in class studying but Kaplan is not letting me sit in to try a class out. I have hear mixed reviews for Kaplan. I have never taken a virtual class and I am not sure how it is. Any suggestions will be helpful. Has anyone taken both or one of them...how did you find them? Please help!

just fyi, our online classes _are_ interactive; they take place on a platform called "Elluminate Live," which is a fantastic tool with virtual whiteboards, virtual hands that can be raised, etc.
the instructor, and all students, have microphones with the opportunity to talk and interact with each other; the only thing that's missing is faces.

we allow sit-ins for class #1, so that you can see what you're getting into. this is especially important for the online class environment, in which some students thrive but others don't (or are distracted beyond utility). you're welcome to check the schedule of online classes at our website to find days/times that work for you.

we also offer recordings of previous classes to anyone currently enrolled in a class (and to students who have made certain purchases). these are not interactive, of course, but they are available on the website 24 hours a day.

when you make your decision, be sure to weigh all factors equally: the reputation and recommendations behind each company; the flexibility offered by each company in letting you sample the course offerings (including sitting in on class #1 for free); the suitability of the different types of offerings (live vs. online) for YOU; etc.

good luck in your preparation!

[Priester]

gmatcat, Have you decided on a class to take? I am in the same boat, and am having trouble deciding. I have also heard good things about Oxford review seminars.