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Can you use a 529 plan for SAT prep? The short answer is noYou cannot use a 529 plan to pay for SAT prep.
However, not everything is lost yet. While SAT prep courses can be expensive, they don't have to be. There are affordable options to help you prepare for the SAT.
Here's what you need to know:
Can you use a 529 plan for SAT prep?
You cannot use a 529 plan to pay for an SAT prep course. According to the IRS, “expenses for sports, games, hobbies, or non-credit courses are not eligible.” Because SAT courses generally do not qualify, they are not considered a qualified expense.
The full list of eligible 529 plan expenses can be found here.
Free SAT prep options
While you can't use 529 funds to cover SAT prep costs, you may be able to prepare for the test without spending a dime. Khan Academy is a free online platform that offers a wide range of study materials, including SAT test preparation materials.
If you use Khan Academy, you can connect the platform to your College Board account. From there, Khan Academy evaluates your subtest performance to determine where you should focus your learning efforts.
According to the platform, students who use the exercises offered by Khan Academy for at least 20 hours see a score increase of 115 points. With such an improvement, you may not have to pay for additional SAT prep courses.
Find out more about Khan Academy in our full review.
Paid SAT prep options
Although not every college and university requires a standardized test score, most do. For some students, an SAT prep course is a helpful tool for achieving a higher score. While an SAT prep course can be helpful, it can also be quite expensive.
Below is an overview of some of the SAT prep services and their costs:
- Chaplain: Kaplan offers a digital SAT course taught by instructors who scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT. It costs $640 and can be paid in installments.
- PrepScholar: PrepScholar offers an online prep course for $397. If you want personal support, tutoring packages start at $995.
- University tutors: If you're looking for on-demand support, the Varsity Tutors monthly membership could be the right solution. Packages start at $269 per month and include access to live classes.
- The Princeton Review: The Princeton Review offers an online course and one-on-one tutoring for students seeking a higher SAT score. The Digital SAT 1,400+ course costs $1,899. One-on-one tutoring starts at $175 per hour.
Based on the options above, you can see that SAT prep can cost hundreds or thousands of dollars. The best SAT prep options are designed to help students achieve the best possible score. However, it's always a good idea to shop around to find the best SAT test prep option for your situation.
Related:
Best exam preparation courses
Is SAT preparation worth it?
The college admissions process is increasingly competitive. If a college or university requires SAT scores as part of its admissions process, getting a high score is one way to tip the scales in your favor.
An SAT prep course can be a significant expense for any family. However, the reality is that no matter the price of your prep course, you have to commit to putting in the effort if you want to get a higher score.
For many students, starting with a free resource like Khan Academy is a good place to start. Take some time to work through the free materials. After using these free resources, opting for an SAT prep course could provide the additional support you need.
Related:
What is a Good SAT Score: Strategies for Success
The conclusion
Taking the SAT is often a large part of the college preparation process. If you're applying to colleges that require an SAT score as part of the admissions process, it may be worth working toward a higher score.
While some SAT prep courses are expensive, you won't be able to cover the cost with 529 funds. For students who need help preparing without paying for assistance, consider taking advantage of Khan Academy's free resources. However, if you need additional help, paying for a prep course out of pocket can help you take your score to the next level, especially if you work with a reputable SAT test prep service.
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