About Company
Kaplan Inc. is a global educational services provider dedicated to helping individuals achieve their academic and professional goals. Founded in 1938, the company offers a wide range of programs. These include test preparation, professional training, and higher education services. The company is renowned for its innovative and personalized learning solutions. It leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance educational experiences. With a commitment to accessibility and inclusivity, the company empowers learners worldwide to excel in various fields. Kaplan is helpful for preparing for standardized tests, advancing professional skills, or pursuing higher education. Its comprehensive approach ensures individuals receive quality education tailored to their unique needs, fostering success and lifelong learning.
History and Timeline
Kaplan Inc. has a rich history that spans over eight decades. The history marks its evolution into a global educational powerhouse. Founded in 1938 by Stanley Kaplan, the company initially focused on providing tutoring services for standardized tests. Over the years, the company has expanded its offerings to include various educational programs and services. Here is a timeline highlighting key milestones in its history:
- 1938: Stanley Kaplan established the company. He had a vision to assist students in preparing for the then-prominent New York State Regents exams. The focus was on individualized tutoring to help students excel academically.
- 1946: The company pioneers the concept of test preparation courses, broadening its reach beyond individual tutoring. This innovation lays the foundation for the company’s future growth and success in education.
- 1963: The Educational Testing Service (ETS) introduced the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT). The company responds by developing specialized SAT preparation courses. It anticipates the growing demand for standardized test prep services.
- 1984: Washington Post Company acquires Kaplan, recognizing the potential for expansion and synergy in the education sector. This acquisition provides Kaplan with the resources and support to develop and diversify its educational offerings further.
- 1991: The company goes digital, launching its first online courses. This strategic move reflects the company’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance learning experiences. It also helped the company reach a broader audience.
- 1995: The company became an early adopter of online education, offering various online courses. This move positions it as a leader in the evolving landscape of distance learning and online education.
- 2000: The company expands globally, establishing a presence in Europe, Asia, and Australia. This international expansion allows it to serve an increasingly diverse and global student population.
- 2010: The company continues to innovate with the launch of Kaplan University, offering online degree programs. This initiative marks the company’s entry into higher education. It provides accessible and flexible learning options for adult learners.
- 2013: Kaplan Test Prep introduces adaptive learning technology. It personalizes study plans based on individual strengths and weaknesses. This move reflects the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of educational technology.
- 2018: Graham Holdings Company, formerly known as the Washington Post Company, announces the sale of Kaplan University to Purdue University. As a separate entity, Kaplan continues to focus on its core business of test preparation and professional training.
- 2021: The company further expands its global footprint and portfolio of educational services. The idea is to adapt to the evolving needs of learners in the digital age. The company continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of education through innovation and adaptability.
Throughout its history, Kaplan Inc. has demonstrated resilience and adaptability. It evolved from a local tutoring service to a global education leader. The company’s commitment to providing quality educational services remains steadfast. It ensures that students worldwide can access effective learning solutions across various academic and professional disciplines.
Products and services
Kaplan Inc. stands as a multifaceted education company. It offers a comprehensive array of products and services tailored to the diverse needs of students, professionals, educational institutions, and businesses. From test preparation to professional development and institutional solutions, the company has established itself as a global leader in the education industry.
For Students and Professionals:
Kaplan’s flagship offering revolves around test preparation services. It covers a spectrum of standardized tests crucial for academic and professional advancement. It provides in-depth courses, practice materials, and personalized coaching from the SAT and GRE to the GMAT and MCAT. The goal is to help individuals excel in their exams.
In addition to test preparation, the company offers a range of professional development programs. These cater to individuals seeking to enhance their skills or pivot into new careers. With courses spanning finance, healthcare, IT, and more, Kaplan’s professional education arm addresses the evolving demands of the workforce. It equips learners with the knowledge and credentials to thrive in their chosen fields.
For those pursuing higher education, it provides comprehensive support for graduate school admissions. Services include admissions consulting, essay editing, and interview preparation. These ensure that aspiring students present their strongest applications to top-tier institutions.
The online learning platform offered by Kaplan extends accessibility. It allows students and professionals to engage with coursework at their own pace. The incorporation of adaptive learning technology ensures personalized study plans. It optimizes the learning experience.
For Educational Institutions:
Kaplan collaborates with schools, colleges, and universities globally. It offers a suite of solutions designed to enhance the educational experience. From K-12 to higher education, Kaplan’s institutional services cover a wide range of offerings:
- Curriculum Development: Kaplan works with educational institutions to design and implement effective curricula that align with academic standards and best practices. This includes the development of online courses, textbooks, and instructional materials.
- Teacher Training: The company provides professional development programs for educators. It equips them with the latest teaching methodologies and strategies to engage students effectively. These programs encompass both in-person and online training options.
- Assessment Solutions: The company offers assessment tools and services to evaluate student performance and guide instructional decisions. This includes the development of standardized tests, adaptive assessments, and data analytics to track student progress.
- Global Partnerships: It facilitates international collaborations, helping educational institutions establish partnerships, exchange programs, and joint ventures. This global perspective enriches the educational experience for students and fosters cross-cultural understanding.
For Businesses:
Kaplan recognizes the need for continuous learning and skill development in the corporate world. So, it extends the following services to businesses and organizations:
- Professional Training: Kaplan provides customized training programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of professionals within various industries. These programs cover leadership development, project management, and compliance training.
- Corporate Learning Solutions: The company offers tailored learning solutions for businesses, including online courses, workshops, and seminars. These solutions address the specific needs of organizations looking to upskill their workforce in a rapidly evolving business landscape.
- Talent Management: It assists businesses in talent development and management, helping identify and nurture key skills within their workforce. This includes talent assessment, succession planning, and leadership development initiatives.
Kaplan’s commitment to education spans a broad spectrum. It addresses the unique requirements of students, professionals, educational institutions, and businesses. It continues to adapt its offerings as a dynamic and innovative force in the education industry. The effort is to meet the evolving needs of learners worldwide. The company constantly attempts to foster success and lifelong learning across diverse domains.
Kaplan Inc.: A Global Educational Powerhouse
Kaplan Inc., founded in 1938 by Stanley Kaplan, has grown into a global educational services provider. It has a significant presence in North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. The company’s commitment to personalized learning, innovation, and accessibility has propelled it to the forefront of the education industry. It caters to the diverse needs of learners across continents.
Corporate Overview:
In North America, Kaplan has established itself as a leader in test preparation and higher education services. It features a comprehensive range of offerings, including SAT and GRE preparation, professional development courses, and graduate school admissions support. The company empowers students and professionals to achieve their academic and career goals. Its adaptive learning technology and online platforms enhance the learning experience. It provides flexible and personalized education solutions.
Kaplan North America:
Kaplan North America is the flagship region, encompassing the United States and Canada. The company’s roots in test preparation trace back to its founder’s vision of assisting students in navigating standardized exams. Today, Kaplan North America’s influence extends beyond test prep to cover a broad spectrum of educational services. Kaplan University, now Purdue University Global, exemplifies the company’s foray into online higher education. It offers diverse degree programs to adult learners seeking flexible and accessible education options.
The region continues to be a hub for educational innovation, with Kaplan at the forefront of developing adaptive learning technologies. It ensures that students receive tailored support to maximize their learning outcomes. The emphasis on digital learning platforms has allowed Kaplan North America to reach a wider audience. The institute provides educational solutions to individuals regardless of their geographical location.
Kaplan International:
In Europe, Kaplan International focuses on bringing world-class education to students across the continent. The company has a formidable presence in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and other European countries. It is marked by a commitment to providing international students with pathways to academic success. Kaplan International’s services span language education, university preparation courses, and study abroad programs.
The company’s language schools, including Kaplan International English, offer immersive language learning experiences for students. Those who are seeking to improve their English proficiency find them extremely helpful. These programs cater to individuals of all ages, from young learners to professionals. They foster linguistic development through innovative teaching methodologies and cultural immersion.
Kaplan International also plays a pivotal role in facilitating study-abroad experiences. It guides students through the process of applying to universities worldwide. Focusing on personalized support and comprehensive services has made Kaplan International a trusted partner. Students aspiring to pursue higher education in foreign countries find it quite effective.
Kaplan Asia:
In the dynamic educational landscape of Asia, Kaplan’s presence is marked by a commitment to academic excellence and innovation. The region includes operations in Singapore, Hong Kong, and India. Kaplan provides various educational services there, from test preparation to professional development.
Kaplan Asia has been a key player in meeting the growing demand for quality test preparation services in the region. The company’s courses prepare students for exams such as the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), and English proficiency tests. Kaplan’s adaptive learning technology tailors study plans to individual needs. It optimizes the chances of success for aspiring students.
Additionally, Kaplan’s influence in Asia extends to professional education, where the company provides individual training and development programs. People seeking to enhance their finance, healthcare, and information technology skills find it handy. Focusing on practical, industry-relevant knowledge positions the company as a valuable resource for professionals navigating competitive job markets.
Kaplan Oceania:
In Oceania, Kaplan’s reach extends to Australia and New Zealand, where the company delivers diverse educational services. Kaplan Oceania caters to the educational needs of students and professionals. It offers test preparation, vocational training, and higher education services.
Kaplan’s test preparation services in Oceania cover a broad spectrum of exams. It includes those required for entry into universities and professional courses. Practical, skills-focused programs mark the company’s presence in vocational education. All of them help prepare individuals for success in their chosen fields.
Kaplan Oceania provides pathways for students to attain degrees and diplomas in higher education through partnerships with reputable institutions. This collaborative approach ensures that students receive quality education. At the same time, they benefit from Kaplan’s expertise in facilitating accessible and flexible learning experiences.
In conclusion, Kaplan Inc.’s global footprint reflects its dedication to transforming lives through education. From North America to Europe, Asia, and Oceania, the company’s diverse offerings cater to the unique needs of learners across different continents and cultures. As technology and education continue to evolve, Kaplan remains at the forefront. It adapts its services to empower students and professionals on their educational journeys. It fosters success and lifelong learning worldwide.
Controversies
While Kaplan Inc. has played a significant role in the education industry, it has not been without controversies. One notable issue is the company’s scrutiny over the years regarding its for-profit higher education ventures. Kaplan University, now Purdue University Global, faced allegations of aggressive recruiting practices. There were also concerns about the quality of education provided.
In 2015, Kaplan agreed to pay a settlement of $1.3 million to resolve claims. There were allegations that it violated the federal incentive compensation ban by paying admissions recruiters based on the number of students they enrolled. This raised questions about the ethical implications of recruitment practices within the for-profit education sector.
Furthermore, like many for-profit educational institutions, Kaplan faced criticism about student outcomes and loan default rates. These prompted increased regulatory scrutiny. These controversies underscore the broader challenges within the for-profit education industry. They highlight the delicate balance between profit motives and ensure quality education outcomes for students. Kaplan has made efforts to address these concerns. However, these controversies contributed to ongoing discussions about accountability and transparency in the for-profit education sector.
