Parents value that it's free, self-paced and strong on clear video explanations, especially for older students and specific courses like Algebra 2. Many say it works better as a supplement than a full program: it's lighter on review and practice, gives kids no daily plan, and needs a parent to keep things on track.
Parents love
Completely free
Clear video lessons
Self-paced, K–12
Common complaints
Not a complete curriculum on its own
Light on review and practice
Kids need structure to stay on track
Who it fits
Best for
Races ahead, loves puzzles. Move as fast as they can master it
Pictures and diagrams. Clear, colorful video lessons
Online. Runs online
Video lessons a big plus. Video lessons for every topic
Video lessons nice to have. Video lessons for every topic
Minimal: solo work. Self-paced; little parent help
Rusty. Lessons teach the concepts for you
Anxious about it. The program does the teaching
Master one topic, then move on. Master a skill before moving on
Less suited for
Mostly offline. Screen-based
These come straight from the scoring rules the quiz uses.
Similar programs
Mr. D MathTeacher-led video courses from Pre-Algebra prep to Calculus, self-paced or with live weekly classes
CTCMathShort online video lessons, K through Calculus, on one family subscription
Thinkwell MathLively video lectures by an award-winning professor, with auto-graded practice, Math 6 to Calculus
Questions parents ask
Is Khan Academy spiral or mastery?
Khan Academy is described as online, self-paced. It's mastery-based: each topic is taught in depth before moving on.
What grades does Khan Academy cover?
Khan Academy covers grades K–12.
How much does Khan Academy cost?
Free.
Is Khan Academy Christian or secular?
Khan Academy is secular: it has no religious content.
Is Khan Academy online?
Online. The program does the teaching.
Does Khan Academy have a placement test?
Yes, it's built in. Course challenge. Start a course and take the course challenge to skip what your child already knows.