Is Khan Academy Worth It? An Honest Review -Sep 2025

Khan Academy is fantastic if you want free, structured lessons in math, science, finance, and other school-style subjects

This isn’t a sponsored post. I don’t work for Khan Academy, and I’m not here to glorify it. I’ll call it like it is — the good, the not-so-good, and the “meh.”

10 second version of this review: Khan Academy is fantastic if you want free, structured lessons in math, science, finance, and other school-style subjects. It’s organized and might not get lost in millions of videos as you might with Youtube.

However, if you’re after practical, niche, career-focused skills like digital marketing, design, or coding, Coursera or Skillshare is a better fit — and you can try it free.

Try Skillshare for FREE (30 days)

Try Coursera for FREE (7 days)

Get My Insider Reviews & Recommendations”

I’ve spent thousands of hours testing learning platforms, book services, and productivity tools — so you don’t have to waste time or money on the wrong ones. Join 200+ smart readers getting my honest breakdowns, comparison guides, and exclusive insights you won’t find in these public articles

If we were both rushing to a meeting and had only 60 seconds, this is how the conversation would be.

You: “Hey, quick one — my kid’s struggling with math. Is Khan Academy worth it?”

Me: “Absolutely. It’s free, structured, and super solid for math, science, economics — the kind of fundamentals schools teach. Short lessons, tons of practice, and it’s all high quality.”

You: “Nice. But what if I want to pick up something more advanced, like data science or business strategy?”

Me: “That’s where Coursera shines. Khan Academy builds the foundation — algebra, stats, econ. But Coursera’s great if you want university-level courses or professional certificates you can use for your career. They partner with top universities and companies, so you get both depth and credibility.”

You: “So Khan for fundamentals, Coursera for serious professional stuff?”

Me: “Exactly. And Khan’s free, so there’s zero reason not to start there.”

If you’ve ever Googled how to solve an algebra problem, understand compound interest, or prep for the SATs, chances are Khan Academy popped up in your search results. And if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably wondered — is Khan Academy actually worth spending time on?

In this review, I’ll break down what Khan Academy is, who it’s best for, what I like (and don’t like) about it, and whether it really holds up in 2025 as a free alternative to all those fancy paid courses. If you want to also read my reviews and comparisons on the other paid platforms, you can find it here.

Disclosure: Some of these may be affiliate links. I may earn a coffee or two when you buy a subscription (at no extra cost to you). I live in Denmark, and at the current discounts and the Danish prices, probably only a shot of Espresso.

First, What Exactly Is Khan Academy?

Khan Academy started back in 2008 when Sal Khan began tutoring his cousin in math using YouTube videos. That simple idea turned into one of the biggest nonprofit educational platforms in the world.

Today, Khan Academy offers free video lessons, exercises, and quizzes covering:

• Math (from basic arithmetic to calculus and linear algebra)
• Science (biology, physics, chemistry, even electrical engineering)
• Economics & Finance (macroeconomics, personal finance, investing basics)
• Test prep (SAT, LSAT, Praxis, MCAT sections, and more)
• History, Arts & Humanities (art history, world history, civics)
• Computing (programming basics, computer science, algorithms)

All of it is completely free. No credit card, no upsell wall after three lessons, no trial period. Just free learning, funded by donations from people and companies who believe in the mission.

That alone makes it stand out in a world where even “free” platforms eventually throw paywalls at you.

My Experience and First Impressions

The first time I properly tried Khan Academy, I went in with low expectations. I mean, how good can something be if it’s free, right?

But I was surprised. The lessons are clear, the exercises are thoughtfully designed, and the whole system feels like it was built with students in mind — not as a marketing funnel to upsell you later.

That said, the experience does vary depending on what subject you’re tackling. For example:

• Math and test prep content is excellent — polished, comprehensive, and easy to follow.
• Some humanities and “niche” topics feel a little more surface-level. Don’t expect a deep dive into philosophy or advanced literature here.

Still, for most learners, it’s more than enough.

What Makes Khan Academy Stand Out

Here are the biggest strengths I noticed:

1. It’s Free, and Actually Free

No hidden fees. No “subscribe for more advanced lessons.” You get access to everything, whether you’re a kid learning fractions or an adult brushing up on statistics.

2. The Explanations Are Clear

The teaching style of most instructors is conversational, approachable, and non-intimidating. Even complex topics like calculus or finance are explained in a way that feels doable.

3. Practice-Driven Learning

Unlike YouTube tutorials, Khan Academy gives you structured practice problems and instant feedback. You’re not just watching — you’re doing.

4. Personalized Dashboard

When you sign in, Khan Academy recommends lessons based on what you’ve already learned. This makes it feel like a guided journey instead of a random playlist of videos.

5. Great for Test Prep

Their SAT prep program is actually in partnership with the College Board. It adapts to your strengths and weaknesses, and the questions are similar to what you’ll actually face on test day.

The Downsides (Yes, There Are Some)

As much as I admire the platform, Khan Academy isn’t perfect.

• Not Always “Deep Enough” — If you’re looking for grad-school level depth in certain subjects (e.g., computer science or economics), you’ll probably outgrow it fast.
• Some Content Feels Uneven — Math is rock solid. But certain humanities subjects feel more like an overview than a full course.
• Limited Interaction — There’s no live teacher, no peer discussion, no community vibe like you’d find in forums or cohort-based courses. You’re learning solo.
• Motivation Can Be Hard — Because it’s free, there’s no financial “skin in the game.” If you’re the type who needs accountability, you might abandon it halfway.

Subject-by-Subject Breakdown

Let’s zoom in a bit. Here’s how Khan Academy stacks up depending on what you want to learn:

Math

This is Khan Academy’s bread and butter. The progression from arithmetic all the way to calculus is smooth, logical, and ridiculously helpful. If math ever intimidated you, this is the place to rebuild from the ground up.

Science

Pretty good overall. Physics and biology are well-structured, though not as detailed as a full university course. Great for high school or first-year college level learners.

Economics & Finance

The personal finance section is one of my favorites. It covers basics like compound interest, loans, and saving — the kind of stuff schools should teach but usually don’t.

Test Prep

The SAT prep deserves a special mention. It’s personalized, adaptive, and completely free — something other platforms charge hundreds of dollars for.

Computing

You’ll find intro-level coding, algorithms, and even SQL. Great for beginners, but if you want to become a software engineer, you’ll eventually need more advanced platforms. For example, these are the modules in a Python course. This can get you comfortable with Python but won’t make you an expert Python programmer.

How It Compares to Paid Platforms

This is the big question: Why pay for something like Coursera, Udemy, or Masterclass when Khan Academy is free?

Here’s my video comparing the top 6 platforms for learning — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsrU2KK4CWQ

Here’s how I’d put it:

• Khan Academy — Best for foundational skills, school-level subjects, and self-paced learners who want a structured but free option.

• Coursera/edX — Better if you want university-backed certificates or career-ready courses with recognition.
• Udemy — More practical, skills-based courses (like Excel, coding, or marketing), though quality varies wildly.
• Masterclass— More about inspiration and storytelling than academic rigor.

So, Khan Academy isn’t necessarily a “replacement” for everything. But it is unbeatable value for anyone building fundamentals.

Here’s my detailed Skillshare review, and a video version here!

Here’s my full review of Masterclass

Here’s my full review of Coursera

Here’s my full Udemy review

The New Kid on the Block: Khanmigo (AI Tutor)

One of the most interesting recent additions is Khanmigo, their AI-powered tutor (built with GPT-style tech). It’s still in early stages, but the idea is to give students a 24/7 learning companion that explains concepts, answers questions, and even quizzes you.

It’s not flawless — sometimes it rambles or oversimplifies. But the potential here is huge. Imagine having a patient, always-available tutor that never gets tired of your “dumb” questions. That’s the future Khan Academy is betting on. Unlike the academy, this is a paid service. It costs $4 month or $44 if paid annually.

Who Is Khan Academy For?

From my perspective, here’s who benefits the most:

• School Students — Especially middle and high schoolers struggling with math or prepping for the SAT/LSAT.
• Adults Refreshing Basics — If you’ve forgotten algebra or want to understand finance better, this is gold.
• Self-Motivated Learners — People who are disciplined enough to study without a teacher breathing down their neck.
• Parents & Teachers — Khan Academy doubles as a free teaching aid. Many schools already integrate it into classrooms.

Who it’s not ideal for:

• People who need formal certification for their resume.
• Learners who thrive on discussion, debate, or live classes.
• Advanced professionals looking for specialized, cutting-edge topics.

Final Verdict: Is Khan Academy Worth It in 2025?

Absolutely. For what it offers — and the fact that it costs nothing — Khan Academy is one of the best learning resources out there.

Is it perfect? No. Some areas feel shallow, and motivation can be a hurdle without structured accountability. But if you’re willing to put in the effort, it’s one of the most accessible, democratized ways to learn pretty much anything from algebra to art history.

If you’re a student, a parent, or just someone curious about the world, I’d say yes — it’s worth your time.

And hey, even if you only dip into one or two courses, you’ve lost nothing but a bit of time. Compare that with a $200 online course you never finish, and suddenly Khan Academy looks even better.

My Closing Thoughts

In a world drowning in subscription services, pop-up ads, and endless paywalls, Khan Academy is refreshingly different. It’s not trying to squeeze money out of you — it’s genuinely trying to make education free and accessible.

And for that reason alone, I think everyone should give it a try.

Khan Academy FAQ

What are the disadvantages of Khan Academy?
Khan Academy is fantastic for foundational learning, but it’s not perfect. Some topics don’t go deep enough for advanced learners. You won’t get accredited certificates or official qualifications. It also lacks the “human” element — no live teachers or peer discussions — so if you need interactive feedback, you might find it limited.

Is Khan Academy actually helpful?
Yes. For school subjects and standardized test prep, it’s one of the best free tools available. The lessons are clear, structured, and backed by tons of practice exercises. Studies have shown students who consistently use Khan Academy see measurable improvements in their performance.

What’s better than Khan Academy?
It depends on your goals. If you need professional certificates or university-level depth, Coursera or edX might be better. If you want creative or niche career skills (e.g., design, marketing), platforms like Skillshare or Udemy shine. For pure academic foundations, Khan Academy is hard to beat because it’s free and comprehensive.

Does Elon Musk support Khan Academy?
Yes. Elon Musk and the Musk Foundation have supported Khan Academy with funding in the past. Other major donors include Bill Gates and Google. This backing has helped keep the platform free for learners worldwide.

Does Khan Academy give certificates?
No. You can earn “badges” within the platform to track progress, but these aren’t recognized certificates. If you’re after credentials to put on your CV or LinkedIn, you’re better off with Coursera, edX, or LinkedIn Learning.

Is Khan Academy good for adults?
Definitely. While many think it’s just for school kids, lots of adults use Khan Academy to brush up on math, economics, finance, or computer science basics. It’s particularly good if you’re switching careers and need to patch knowledge gaps.

Can Khan Academy replace school or college?
Not really. It’s an excellent supplement, but it doesn’t replace formal qualifications, social learning, or in-depth research projects. Think of it as a powerful support tool, not a substitute.

Is Khan Academy good for test prep?
Yes. In fact, Khan Academy is the official practice partner for the SAT. Students can build personalized study plans and practice with real test-style questions. It’s free and highly effective if used consistently.

What subjects does Khan Academy cover?
Math (from kindergarten to calculus), science, computing, economics, history, and test prep (SAT, LSAT practice via partner sites). It keeps expanding, but it focuses mainly on academic subjects.

How does Khan Academy compare to YouTube learning?
YouTube has endless content, but you spend time sifting through creators and figuring out what order to watch. Khan Academy, on the other hand, gives you a structured pathway, practice exercises, and progress tracking — no wasted time searching.

Can you tell me more about Khan Academy?

It is a well-established online learning platform known for its free, high-quality learning material — a great resource for students and teachers alike.The platform was founded by Salman Khan, also known as Sal Khan, with the goal of providing a free, non-profit education to anyone, anywhere.

Khan Academy’s online learning platform serves as a personal tutor for students, providing instruction and practice exercises in various subjects, including math, physics, and chemistry.With its comprehensive curriculum, Khan Academy is an excellent tool for homeschooling and traditional schooling, allowing parents and teachers to track student progress and identify areas for improvement.

Benefits for High School Students

Khan Academy offers a wide range of courses and learning material tailored to high school students, including algebra, geometry, and linear algebra.

The platform’s video lessons and practice exercises make it an excellent resource for students who are struggling with certain subjects or need extra instruction.

Khan Academy’s focus on individualized learning allows high school students to learn at their own pace, exploring new topics and reviewing material as needed.

By using Khan Academy, high school students can gain a better understanding of complex subjects, improve their grades, and develop essential skills for college and beyond.

Khan Academy’s Content and Features

Khan Academy’s content is created by experts in their respective fields, including Sal Khan, and is designed to be engaging and easy to understand.

The platform features a wide range of subjects, including math, science, and humanities, with courses tailored to different grade levels and learning styles.

Khan Academy’s practice exercises and quizzes provide students with immediate feedback and help them track their progress, identifying areas where they need improvement.

The platform’s tools and features, such as its grade-level curriculum and progress tracking, make it an excellent resource for teachers and parents who want to support their students’ learning process.

Learning Experience and Effectiveness

Khan Academy’s learning experience is designed to be fun and engaging, with video lessons and interactive exercises that make learning enjoyable and effective.

The platform’s focus on individualized learning allows students to learn at their own pace, reviewing material as needed and exploring new topics in-depth.

Khan Academy’s effectiveness has been proven through numerous studies and reviews, with many students and teachers reporting improved grades and increased understanding of complex subjects.

By providing a comprehensive and supportive learning environment, Khan Academy helps students develop essential skills and build confidence in their abilities.

Comparison to Other Learning Platforms

Khan Academy is one of many online learning platforms available, but its non-profit status and comprehensive curriculum set it apart from other sites.

Compared to other platforms, Khan Academy offers a wide range of free courses and learning material, making it an excellent resource for students who cannot afford paid platforms.

While other platforms may offer more advanced features or specialized courses, Khan Academy’s focus on individualized learning and its commitment to providing a free, high-quality education make it an excellent choice for students of all ages and skill levels.

In comparison to other online learning platforms, Khan Academy is a great resource for kids and adults alike, providing a fun and engaging learning experience that is both effective and accessible.