Target Test Prep and Manhattan Prep represent two very different approaches to GMAT preparation. TTP's self-paced, technology-driven platform at $499 contrasts sharply with Manhattan Prep's instructor-led live course at $1,799. Both have strong track records, but they serve different types of learners.
| Feature | Target Test Prep GMAT Maximum | Manhattan Prep GMAT Live Course |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $499 | $1,799 |
| Practice Questions | 4,000+ | 2,500+ |
| Video Lessons | 800+ | 60+ |
| Live Class Hours | 0 | 27 |
| Access Period | 4 months | 6 months |
| Score Guarantee | Score improvement guarantee | Repeat course free if not satisfied |
The GMAT Focus Edition has changed the test prep landscape, and both Target Test Prep and Manhattan Prep have adapted their programs accordingly. Choosing between them comes down to your learning style, budget, and how much structure you need in your preparation.
Target Test Prep GMAT Maximum ($499) is a self-paced, adaptive platform that guides you through GMAT content systematically. The platform adjusts to your performance, spending more time on areas where you're struggling. TTP is known for their thorough, concept-based approach — they don't just teach you tricks, they help you understand the underlying principles.
Manhattan Prep GMAT Live Course ($1,799) features live instruction from expert teachers who scored in the 99th percentile on the GMAT. The live format allows for real-time interaction, personalized feedback, and collaborative learning. Manhattan Prep's instructors are among the best in the industry.
Both courses are excellent in terms of content quality. TTP's strength is their systematic, thorough coverage of quantitative topics. Their approach builds understanding progressively, which leads to lasting skill development.
Manhattan Prep excels across both quantitative and verbal sections. Their strategy guides are considered industry-leading, and their live instruction adds a dimension of understanding that self-paced platforms can't fully replicate.
Both courses have been updated for the GMAT Focus Edition, which features a new format with three sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, and Data Insights. TTP and Manhattan Prep both cover the new Data Insights section, which combines data sufficiency with multi-source reasoning.
TTP provides extensive practice questions organized by topic and difficulty, with detailed explanations for every question. Their adaptive platform ensures you're always practicing at the right level.
Manhattan Prep offers full-length practice tests, a question bank, and their acclaimed strategy guides. Their practice tests are well-calibrated to the actual GMAT Focus Edition.
Manhattan Prep's live instruction format provides built-in support — you can ask questions in real time and get immediate feedback. They also offer office hours and additional tutoring options.
TTP provides email support and a community forum, but lacks the real-time interaction of live instruction. For self-motivated learners, this isn't a limitation. For students who need more guidance, it could be.
Choose Target Test Prep GMAT if: You're self-motivated, you want thorough concept-based learning, budget is a factor, or you need flexibility in your study schedule.
Choose Manhattan Prep GMAT if: You learn best with live instruction, you want expert teachers available for real-time questions, you need strong verbal preparation, or you prefer a structured class format.
Both are excellent choices. Target Test Prep delivers remarkable value at $499 — their systematic approach and adaptive technology make it one of the best self-paced GMAT courses available. Manhattan Prep's live instruction and expert teachers justify the premium for students who thrive in a classroom setting. If budget is a factor, TTP is the clear choice. If you value live instruction and can invest in the premium experience, Manhattan Prep is worth it.