Khan Academy is a widely recognized free educational platform offering high-quality courses in various subjects, including college preparation. Whether you’re a homeschooler, a high school student, or a parent looking for college readiness resources, Khan Academy’s College Prep courses provide excellent tools for standardized test prep, college admissions guidance, and academic success. This guide explores the best college prep courses available on Khan Academy and how to utilize them effectively.
Why Use Khan Academy for College Preparation?
Khan Academy’s College Prep resources are designed to help students excel in standardized tests, strengthen their academic skills, and navigate the college application process. Benefits of using Khan Academy for college prep include:
- Completely Free: All courses and materials are accessible at no cost.
- Self-Paced Learning: Students can learn at their own speed and review concepts as needed.
- Comprehensive Test Prep: Official SAT, LSAT, and AP course prep with in-depth explanations.
- Personalized Learning Pathways: Adaptive learning tools help students focus on areas needing improvement.
- College Admissions Guidance: Step-by-step guides for applications, financial aid, and essay writing.
Best Khan Academy Courses for College Prep
1. SAT Prep – Official College Board Partnership
- Course Link: https://www.khanacademy.org/sat
- Why It’s Useful: Developed in collaboration with the College Board, this SAT prep course provides full-length practice tests, personalized study plans, and interactive exercises to help students improve their scores.
- Key Features:
- Full-length SAT practice tests with instant scoring.
- Personalized study recommendations based on previous test results.
- Video explanations for each question type.
2. AP Exam Preparation
- Course Link: https://www.khanacademy.org/ap
- Why It’s Useful: Khan Academy offers AP courses across multiple subjects, including AP Calculus, AP Biology, AP U.S. History, and more.
- Key Features:
- Topic-specific lessons aligned with AP curriculum.
- Practice quizzes and exams for each AP subject.
- Video walkthroughs of sample free-response questions.
3. College Admissions & Financial Aid Guidance
- Course Link: https://www.khanacademy.org/college-careers-more/college-admissions
- Why It’s Useful: This course helps students understand college applications, write compelling personal statements, and explore financial aid options.
- Key Features:
- Step-by-step college application guides.
- Tips for writing strong college essays.
- Detailed breakdowns of financial aid and scholarship opportunities.
4. LSAT Prep (Law School Admission Test)
- Course Link: https://www.khanacademy.org/prep/lsat
- Why It’s Useful: Official prep course in partnership with the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), helping pre-law students prepare for the LSAT.
- Key Features:
- Diagnostic tests to determine strengths and weaknesses.
- Logical reasoning, analytical reasoning, and reading comprehension practice.
- Simulated LSAT practice exams.
5. Core Subject Courses for College Readiness
- Course Link: https://www.khanacademy.org/math
- Why It’s Useful: Strengthening skills in core subjects like math, science, and writing is essential for college success.
- Key Subjects Covered:
- Algebra, Geometry, and Calculus
- Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
- English Grammar, Reading, and Writing
How to Make the Most of Khan Academy College Prep Courses
1. Set Up a Personalized Study Plan
Khan Academy’s adaptive technology creates custom learning plans based on initial assessment tests. Use this feature to focus on weak areas and track progress over time.
2. Practice with Realistic Timed Tests
For SAT and LSAT prep, taking full-length timed practice tests helps simulate actual test conditions and improve pacing.
3. Utilize Video Explanations
If a concept is difficult to grasp, watch step-by-step video explanations that break down complex problems into easy-to-understand segments.
4. Review Mistakes and Re-Take Practice Quizzes
One of the best ways to improve is to analyze incorrect answers and retake quizzes until mastery is achieved.
5. Apply College Admissions Guidance
Follow Khan Academy’s college application roadmap to stay on track with deadlines, essay writing, and scholarship applications.
Related Resources from BADA Education
For more homeschool and college prep guidance, check out:
- How to Begin Your Homeschooling Journey
- Homeschool Support Groups in WA
- How to Use Unit Studies in Your Homeschool
