Comparison of Top AP Physics 1 Review Courses
If you are taking the AP Physics exam and thinking about which prep course to use, then you’ve come to the right place. Here, we will review popular prep courses in terms of their study resources, standout features, and price to help you make the right decision.
| Features | UWorld | Princeton Review | Kaplan | Prep Scholar | Albert.io |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Practice Questions | 400+ (Detailed explanations) | 380+ | No specific set | Unspecified | 700+ (Answer explanations) |
| Video Lessons | 100+ | Pre-recorded sessions | None | None | Outdated |
| Progress Tracking | Advanced analytics & score predictions | Basic reports | None | General feedback | General feedback |
| Study Resources |
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None |
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| Customizability | High | Limited | None | High | Limited |
| Standout Features |
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None |
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| Price* | $149 (All-inclusive) | $499 (live sessions) | $399 (scheduled sessions) | $480 (Weekly sessions) | $19-$79 (Qbank only) |
*Given the dynamic nature of market trends, the prices listed in the table are subject to change. For the most current information, please consult the respective prep providers.
Why Is UWorld the Best AP Physics 1 Review Course?
UWorld’s AP Physics 1 course offers comprehensive coverage of the content, digital and print study guides, video lessons, a question bank, and customizable study tools with a thorough focus on the unique learning styles and needs of students.
UWorld’s expert-led video lessons break down complex AP Physics 1 concepts into short, fun, and focused content.
- Aligned with the AP Physics 1 course and exam description (CED) to reflect the latest exam trends.
- Full coverage of all the key concepts such as Mechanical waves and sound, Rotational motion, Thermodynamics, Fluid mechanics, Electrostatics, and more.
UWorld’s AP Physics 1 practice test with practice questions mirrors the real exam in format and difficulty.
- Personalized study experience.
- Includes a real-time progress tracker.
Available in both print and digital versions, UWorld’s AP Physics 1 study guide complements video lessons, question bank, and practice tests.
- Covers all key topics such as Kinematics, Dynamics, Energy, Momentum, Electric circuits, and more.
- Rich visuals, charts, and diagrams.
Crafted by PhDs and AP specialists, UWorld content is always up to date and aligned with the AP Physics 1 CED.
- Precise and easy to understand.
UWorld’s digital tools make studying efficient and enjoyable.
- Smart Study Planner creates a personalized schedule.
- Flashcards reinforce key terms and concepts.
- Digital Notebook helps organize notes for easy review.
UWorld’s real-time analytics help you refine your study plan.
- Tracks progress across topics with detailed insights.
- Identifies strengths and weaknesses for targeted improvement.
- Helps students stay focused and motivated.
Beyond AP exams, UWorld is trusted by professionals in medicine, law, nursing, and accounting.
- Renowned for its high-quality educational resources.
- Provides tools that ensure long-term academic and professional success.
Princeton Review
Princeton Review is a good choice if you are looking for a thorough and user-friendly resource. However, it has a few limitations.
| Pros | Limitations1 |
|---|---|
|
Textbooks and online resources are available, a plus for both kinesthetic and virtual learners. |
Expensive at $499. |
|
Comprehensive coverage of the curriculum with 380+ practice questions and additional drills. |
Lack of in-depth answer explanations. |
|
Provides guidance for handling different types of questions and test-taking strategies. |
Basic performance tracking. |
Kaplan
Kaplan doesn’t provide any AP Physics 1 exam review course, study resources, or video lessons, so it is not an option for students preparing for the exam.
Prep Scholar
Prep Scholar provides one-on-one support, tutoring, and topic-wise feedback.
| Pros | Limitations2 |
|---|---|
| Includes thorough coverage of the content with an extensive question bank. | Heavily text-based with no in-depth notes on topics and concepts. |
| Offers focused feedback to students after every class and topic. | Expensive, with prices ranging from $499 to $3,200. |
| Very flexible, allowing students to study at their own pace. | No video resources, which is a disadvantage for visual learners. |
Albert.io
Albert.io offers a large number of practice and assessment questions and emphasizes practice-based learning for students.
| Pros | Limitations3 |
|---|---|
| Affordable at $19-$79 per subject. | Quality concerns since the content is created by freelance writers, not AP subject matter experts. |
| 700+ practice questions and 200+ assessment questions for a comprehensive study experience. | Limited video resources and no additional study resources. |
| Self-paced, letting students set their own study schedule. | General feedback that doesn’t target strengths and weaknesses. |
Why Is It Important To Study AP Physics 1?
Taking AP Physics 1 in high school helps strengthen your high school transcript and develop essential skills that are beneficial for higher education and future job opportunities.
Earn College Credits and Save on Tuition
Scoring high on the AP Physics 1 exam can earn you college credit, helping you bypass some courses in your undergraduate and reduce the tuition fees.
Skill Development for Future Success
Studying AP Physics 1 can strengthen your analytical, critical, and problem-solving skills, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the rigors of college and future careers.
Competitive Edge in College Admissions
There are a lot of factors that set your college application apart: high school GPA, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, personal essays, and, most importantly, AP scores. Scoring high on the AP Physics 1 exam demonstrates your capability to handle a challenging course load, thus making you an ideal candidate for handling complex college coursework.
Prepares Students for Careers in Engineering and Technology
AP Physics 1 provides you with a knowledge base to excel in careers in engineering and technology. It helps you develop all the essential skills to have a solid career in STEM, data science, research, architecture, astrophysics, and more.
Fosters Global Awareness
AP Physics 1 fosters an understanding of key global issues, from energy sustainability to technological advancements, empowering students to contribute toward solving these challenges through a scientific lens.
References
- 1Reddit user. (n.d.). Is AP Physics I Princeton Review book good enough? Reddit. Retrieved on April 25, 2025 from https://www.reddit.com/r/APStudents/comments/i8679l/is_ap_physics_i_princeton_review_book_good_enough/
- 2Weng, W. (n.d.). [Facebook post]. Facebook. Retrieved on April 25, 2025 from https://www.facebook.com/w1nn1.weng/posts/pfbid02QBVLjkhjJf74ePNhVRKdgmBhgFiXsMmqqWKbDXyrYdAeSog4RxZMNSBdXNRoZRecl?rdid=XBpkIhMJc5sumCtX
- 3Black, Ian. (n.d.). Is Albert.io AP prep worth it? Quora. Retrieved on April 25, 2025 from https://qr.ae/pAFQbZ
