Achieve Test Prep Reviews, Alternatives, Pricing, & Offerings in 2025

Achieve Test Prep helps busy adults earn college credits faster. They offer test prep courses for CLEP and DSST exams. This service lets you test out of college courses instead of taking them. Over 22,000 students use Achieve to reach their education goals quicker.

This article gives you honest insights about Achieve Test Prep. You’ll learn about their reviews, pricing, and how they compare to other tutoring platforms. Whether you’re a student or parent deciding on a tutoring service, this guide helps you make the right choice.

Achieve Test Prep Reviews and Testimonials

Achieve Test Prep has many reviews across different platforms. Students and parents share their experiences online. Here’s what we found:

Trustpilot

Trustpilot shows Achieve with a strong 4.7 out of 5 stars from 278 reviews. Students praise the instructors for explaining topics clearly. Many say they passed their exams on the first try. One student, Rasidat Fadehan, wrote: “I was able to comprehend your teachings which actually helped me with my exams. I passed using the details of your training.” Another student thanked Kelly Lawson for being patient and kind, even though she wasn’t a traditional college student.

However, some negative reviews appeared. One customer reported they were charged an $11,000 loan through Climb Credit without clear explanation. They said the process felt confusing and non-transparent. The customer mentioned that Achieve classes are not accredited, and this fact is buried in their website. They weren’t refunded even though they never attended classes.

TrustIndex

TrustIndex shows 641 customer reviews with a 4.2-star average. This lower rating compared to Trustpilot suggests mixed customer satisfaction. The platform captures feedback from a broader audience of students and parents who’ve used their services.

Better Business Bureau

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) gives Achieve a B rating. However, there are 96 complaints filed against the company. Many complaints likely relate to cancellation issues, hidden fees, and loan enrollment confusion. The BBB accredited Achieve in February 2025, but the high complaint count suggests customer service challenges remain.

Company Website Reviews

On their own website, Achieve shares success stories. Students share positive experiences about earning their RN degrees and advancing careers. Stories highlight how the program helped LPNs become RNs and paramedics transition into nursing. These testimonials show the human side of career advancement through their programs.

Is Achieve Test Prep Legit? Based on reviews, Achieve is a real company that helps thousands of students. However, reviews show concerns about transparency with loan financing, cancellation policies, and accreditation status. The company has both strong supporters and serious critics. Do thorough research before enrolling.

Summary: Achieve Test Prep gets solid ratings on Trustpilot (4.7/5) and decent ratings on TrustIndex (4.2/5). Students praise knowledgeable instructors and structured courses. However, multiple reviews mention confusing loan processes, unclear cancellation policies, and hidden non-accreditation details. The BBB B rating with 96 complaints shows the company has faced customer service issues.

Achieve Test Prep Pricing

Pricing Range

Achieve doesn’t show exact prices on their website homepage. Instead, they ask students to call for a custom quote. Their pricing depends on your education history and which exams you need. The company covers your exam fees (CLEP and DSST exams cost around $85-$100 each) as part of their program cost. They claim to have “no hidden fees” and transparent pricing.

Based on research, typical course costs range widely. Some sources suggest programs start around a few hundred dollars and go up to several thousand dollars depending on the number of exams and support needed. The company emphasizes flexibility in payment, suggesting pricing varies significantly based on individual situations.

What Students Say About Achieve Test Prep Pricing

Student reviews on pricing are mixed. Some say the cost is justified because they save money compared to taking full semester college courses (which cost $600-$1,782 per course). Others feel the pricing is high when combined with surprise loan charges. On Reddit, students mention that while test prep costs seem reasonable, the hidden loan financing caught them off guard.

Industry average for tutoring ranges from $25-$60 per hour. For credit-by-exam prep, platforms like SpeedyPrep charge as low as $30 per month for subscription access to all CLEP courses. This makes Achieve’s per-program pricing seem higher for individual students.

Hidden Costs

Achieve covers exam fees, but watch for these potential costs: Loan enrollment through Climb Credit is a major hidden cost many students report. Students mention being charged $11,000 through the loan company without clear upfront disclosure. No registration fees are mentioned, but payment plans and financing options may include interest charges. Cancellation fees exist—you must cancel in writing within 24 hours of signing up. After that window, cancellation becomes limited.

How Achieve Test Prep’s Pricing Works

Achieve offers flexible payment options to meet different budgets. You can pay upfront or use payment plans. They work with Climb Credit for financing options, though this partnership has drawn complaints. No subscription required—you pay for the program once. They mention offering “exclusive discounts and flexible payment options” but don’t list specifics online. Group discounts or special category discounts (military, low-income, etc.) are not clearly advertised on their website.

Free Trial

Achieve doesn’t advertise a free trial on their main website. However, they do offer a free consultation call with an Education Advisor to discuss your goals and create a custom plan. This is their closest option to a “free trial” of their services.

Refund Policy

According to Achieve’s website, you must submit a written cancellation request within 24 hours of signing up for a full refund. After 24 hours, cancellation is only permitted under limited circumstances. The company states they support your decision if circumstances change, but the strict 24-hour window is concerning.

What actual users say: Multiple Trustpilot reviews report refund problems. One customer said they paid in full but received only a $695 refund after fighting for it. Another reported being denied a refund entirely despite never attending classes. Reddit threads show students claiming Achieve withholds cancellation forms to prevent cancellations. One person said they were “harassed with calls and emails” a year later trying to collect payment for classes never taken.

Achieve Test Prep Alternatives

Many platforms offer online tutoring and test prep. You might look for alternatives if Achieve’s pricing is high, cancellation policies are strict, or you want more flexibility. Here are strong alternatives offering different strengths:

1. My Engineering Buddy

My Engineering Buddy (MEB) is a global 1-on-1 tutoring platform specializing in engineering, STEM subjects, and professional certifications. Unlike Achieve’s focus on credit-by-exam, MEB connects students directly with expert tutors.

Pros: Lower per-hour rates ($15-$60/hour), direct tutor communication, homework help beyond just exam prep, flexible scheduling, and better refund policies.

Cons: No formal degree programs like Achieve’s bridge programs, requires finding your own tutor fit.

2. Wyzant

Wyzant is a tutor marketplace with 1-on-1 online lessons in 300+ subjects. Tutors set their own rates, usually $35-$65 per hour.

Pros: Wide subject range, personalized tutor selection, money-back guarantee if unsatisfied in first 30 days or 6 hours (whichever comes first).

Cons: No structured bridge programs, tutor quality varies, higher rates for experienced tutors.

3. Chegg

Chegg offers homework help and tutoring. Subscription plans cost $15-$20 per month for homework answers. Live tutoring available separately.

Pros: Affordable for basic homework help, large network of tutors, 24/7 availability.

Cons: Not designed for structured exam prep like Achieve, focus on Q&A rather than teaching concepts.

4. Kaplan

Kaplan specializes in test prep (SAT, ACT, GMAT, GRE, etc.). They offer live classes and tutoring.

Pros: More established brand, strong test prep reputation, money-back guarantee for many programs.

Cons: Generally higher prices than Achieve, less focus on credit-by-exam programs.

5. University Tutors

University Tutors connects students with vetted tutors in many subjects. Rates typically $50-$150+ per hour depending on tutor expertise.

Pros: Flexible scheduling, experienced tutors, personalized approach.

Cons: Higher costs, no structured programs like Achieve offers.

6. Tutor.com

Tutor.com (by Princeton Review) offers 24/7 live help from certified tutors. Plans start around $39.99/hour.

Pros: Always available, many subjects covered, used by colleges and libraries.

Cons: Not specialized in credit-by-exam, subscription-based pricing.

How It Works?

For Students

Signup process: Visit www.achievetestprep.com and fill out a form or call 888-900-8380. An Education Advisor calls you to discuss your goals. They review your education history and recommend which exams you should take. You get a custom plan showing which credits you can earn.

How to connect with tutors: Once enrolled, you access live online classes taught by instructors. You can also request one-on-one tutoring included free with your program. Tutors answer questions during class and in dedicated tutoring sessions.

Process for scheduling sessions: Live classes meet weekly for 4-10 weeks depending on your program. Sessions are scheduled in advance. You attend from home via video conference. On-demand tutoring is also available by requesting help from a tutor.

For Tutors

To become a tutor at Achieve Test Prep, you need expertise in specific subjects like CLEP/DSST exams, nursing content, or dental hygiene. The company looks for people with teaching experience and real-world knowledge in their field. You’ll go through an application and interview process. Training is provided on Achieve’s curriculum and teaching methods. Tutors work remotely from anywhere.

The company mentions they look for passionate educators who want to help busy adults succeed. Pay rates for tutors are not clearly advertised but range between $15-$25 LPA based on job postings. Check their careers page to apply for tutor positions.

FAQs (For Tutors)

Can tutors set their own fee or is it fixed by the company?

Achieve likely sets tutor pay rates rather than allowing individual rate-setting. The company determines compensation based on experience and qualifications.

How much can a tutor expect to earn hourly?

Based on job listings, tutors earn roughly $15-$25 per hour depending on experience. This is lower than typical U.S. tutoring rates ($50+/hour) because many tutors work remotely from other countries.

How many hours of work can a tutor get per month?

Hours vary based on class schedules and student demand. Full-time tutors can expect steady work, while part-time positions vary. The company operates 7 days a week, offering shifts during business hours and 24/7 chat support positions.

Is it easy to get students?

With 22,000+ students already using Achieve, new tutors have a ready pool of potential students. However, you’ll be matched based on your expertise and availability. Competition with other tutors may affect booking frequency.

Tips to get more students on Achieve: Deliver excellent teaching that leads to high pass rates. Help students feel confident and understood. Encourage positive reviews. Communicate clearly about what you teach and when you’re available. Build rapport with students to get referrals.

What tutors like about Achieve: Based on Indeed and Glassdoor reviews (4.4/5 rating), tutors appreciate the remote work flexibility, supportive management, and diverse team of 120+ U.S. employees plus 130+ overseas staff. Many tutors enjoy the mission-driven work helping busy adults reach education goals. The company culture is described as “non-toxic” and “collaborative.”

What tutors dislike about Achieve: Some tutors mention lower pay compared to independent tutoring. Benefits for overseas contractors are limited. Tuition reimbursement or training advancement isn’t always clear. Some note slower project turnaround times.

Achieve Test Prep: Company Information

Founding: Achieve Test Prep was founded in 2008 by Mark Olynyk, a Human Resources expert with over 25 years of experience. The company started with a mission to help busy adults earn college credits faster.

Founder’s Details: Mark Olynyk is the President and founder of Achieve. He built the company from the ground up to address the needs of working adults returning to school. Michael Manross serves as Chief Operating Officer, and Fawzia Safdari is the Chief Marketing Officer. The leadership team has expanded as the company grew.

Mission: Achieve’s mission is to make higher education more accessible for busy, working adults. The company helps students earn college credits faster through credit-by-exam rather than traditional semester-long courses. They provide support, structure, and mentorship throughout the learning process.

Vision: The vision is a future where education fits into your life, not the other way around. Achieve envisions removing barriers that prevent working adults from advancing their careers through education.

Scale of Operation: Headquartered in Wayne, New Jersey (with a listed office in Kissimmee, Florida), Achieve now operates globally with 201-500 employees. The company has 120+ U.S.-based staff and 130+ employees in overseas locations. In 2021, they reported $30 million in annual revenue. They’ve helped over 22,000 students achieve their education goals.

Services: Achieve offers live online prep courses for CLEP and DSST exams, nursing bridge programs (LPN to RN, CNA to RN), dental hygiene prep, free one-on-one tutoring included with courses, mentorship programs, and college planning services.

Subjects Offered: Major subjects include Sociology, Human Growth and Development, College Algebra, Biology, Chemistry, History, Literature, Psychology, Business, Economics, Mathematics, and many CLEP exam subjects across humanities, sciences, social sciences, and business.

Unique Features: Live online instruction with real instructors (not pre-recorded), free one-on-one tutoring included, mentorship support, on-demand access, flexible schedules for busy adults, and credit transfer assistance to accredited colleges.

USP of Achieve Test Prep

• Live Classes with Real Teachers: Unlike many online platforms that use pre-recorded videos, Achieve offers live weekly classes. This creates community and real-time question answering. However, live class attendance is strict—you must commit to 4-10 weekly sessions.
• Credit Transfer Expertise: Achieve helps navigate credit transfers to your chosen accredited college. Over 2,900 colleges accept their CLEP credits. The company claims transparency in this process, but reviews show some confusion around accreditation for Achieve’s own courses (they don’t grant degrees).
• 93% Pass Rate: Achieve claims a 93% pass rate on CLEP and DSST exams. This high rate suggests effective teaching. However, this statistic isn’t independently verified, and pass rates depend on student effort.
• Included Tutoring and Mentoring: One-on-one tutoring is free and included with all programs. This adds value compared to competitors who charge extra for tutoring. However, availability and responsiveness of tutors isn’t guaranteed.

Drawbacks of Achieve Test Prep

• Non-Accreditation of Courses: Achieve is not an accredited institution. While CLEP exams are accredited, Achieve’s prep courses themselves are not. This fact is buried on their website. Many students don’t realize until late that Achieve doesn’t grant formal credentials—only prep services.
• Confusing Loan Enrollment: Multiple reviews mention $11,000 loans through Climb Credit that students didn’t fully understand. Some claim they didn’t knowingly agree to the loans. The CFPB has sued Climb Credit for predatory lending practices, which reflects poorly on Achieve’s partnership.
• Strict Cancellation Policy: The 24-hour cancellation window is very tight. After that, refunds are limited or denied. Reviews show students denied refunds for classes never attended, and some report being harassed for payment collection.
• Not a Real College Program: Students don’t earn degrees from Achieve—only test prep. You must still enroll in an accredited college to earn your actual degree. This can surprise students expecting a complete educational program.
• Limited Subject Range: Compared to general tutoring platforms, Achieve focuses only on credit-by-exam and specific bridge programs. If you need help with random subjects or ongoing college coursework, Achieve isn’t ideal.
• BBB Rating: The B rating on the Better Business Bureau with 96 complaints shows systemic customer service issues. Complaints center on cancellations, billing, and transparency.

Comparison with My Engineering Buddy

My Engineering Buddy (MEB) excels in areas where Achieve falls short. MEB offers more affordable hourly tutoring ($15-$60/hour) without complex loan financing. MEB tutors work directly with students on engineering, math, physics, and STEM subjects, plus professional certifications. MEB provides better refund policies and 24/7 customer support. For complex subjects and homework help, MEB offers personalized one-on-one attention. Unlike Achieve, MEB doesn’t lock students into structured programs—you pay only for the hours you use.

Testimonials from MEB users highlight quick turnaround times on difficult concepts. Students report that MEB tutors explain complex engineering topics in simple terms. One user noted: “MEB helped me understand thermodynamics when I was completely lost. The tutor broke it down step-by-step.”

For complex subjects and homework help, consider MEB if you prefer flexible scheduling and personalized tutoring over structured exam prep programs.

Customer Support and Policies

Achieve offers customer support by phone (888-900-8380) from 9am-5pm ET, seven days a week. They also offer 24/7 chat support. Response times aren’t guaranteed. The refund policy is strict: 24-hour written cancellation window only. Reviews show this policy is enforced rigidly, frustrating many students. No guarantees are clearly advertised (unlike Wyzant’s “money-back guarantee”). My Engineering Buddy provides 24/7 support with faster response times and more flexible refund policies.

Global Reach and Localization

Achieve is headquartered in New Jersey and operates globally with employees in 32+ countries. However, the platform isn’t tailored for specific regions—it’s built for English-speaking adults mainly in the USA, Canada, UK, and Australia based on credit transfer partnerships. No multilingual support is advertised. Classes are taught in English only. My Engineering Buddy similarly serves global students but focuses on engineering and STEM subjects, making it more accessible for international students in these fields.

Achieve Test Prep’s Future Plans

AI Integration: Achieve hasn’t publicly announced specific AI implementation plans. However, the broader test prep industry is moving toward AI-powered adaptive learning. Achieve may eventually add personalized study recommendations and AI-driven tutoring assistance. Currently, their platform relies on live instructors rather than AI tutors.

Expansion Plans: Achieve continues to grow internationally with remote hiring from 32+ countries. The company plans to reach more busy adults seeking education flexibility. They’re expanding bridge programs beyond nursing to other healthcare fields.

Technology Improvements: Expect better mobile apps and streamlined user interfaces for scheduling classes and accessing course materials. Virtual classroom technology may improve for better teaching experiences.

Program Expansion: Achieve may add more professional certifications (dental, healthcare admin, etc.) and expand dental hygiene programs. They’re likely to partner with more accredited colleges for credit transfer support.

FAQs About Achieve Test Prep

Q1. How does Achieve Test Prep compare to My Engineering Buddy?

Achieve focuses on credit-by-exam and bridge programs. MEB offers flexible 1-on-1 tutoring in engineering and STEM. Achieve has structured programs; MEB has flexible hourly pricing. For exam prep, Achieve works. For ongoing subject help, MEB is better.

Q2. Is Achieve Test Prep accredited?

Achieve is not an accredited institution. The CLEP exams they help you prepare for are accredited. Your degree comes from the accredited college where you transfer credits.

Q3. What’s the difference between CLEP and DSST exams?

Both let you test out of college courses. CLEP is more widely accepted (2,900 colleges). DSST is slightly less common (1,900 colleges). Both cost around $85-$100 to take.

Q4. Can I get my money back if I change my mind?

Only if you cancel in writing within 24 hours of signing up. After that, refunds are denied or severely limited, per company policy.

Q5. How long do classes take to complete?

Most programs run 4-10 weeks with weekly live sessions. This is much faster than traditional 16-week college courses.

Q6. Will all colleges accept my CLEP credits?

Over 2,900 accredited colleges accept CLEP credits. However, each college sets its own limits on how many transfer credits count toward your degree. Check with your specific college first.

Conclusion

Achieve Test Prep is a legitimate company helping over 22,000 students earn college credits faster. Their live instructors and included tutoring are strengths. However, strict cancellation policies, confusing loan financing, and non-accreditation concerns are weaknesses. Before enrolling, research thoroughly and ask direct questions about costs and refunds. For complex subjects and homework help beyond exam prep, My Engineering Buddy offers flexible, personalized tutoring with better refund policies and lower rates.