
ALEKS Math
General Summary
- Adaptive, online math program using AI assessment
- Covers math content from grades 3-12 (with some newer K-2 options)
- Self-paced with personalized learning path for each student
- Subscription-based with various pricing tiers
- Mastery-based approach with regular progress assessments
Adaptive Learning: Personalized Math Instruction
Parents appreciate the way ALEKS targets each student's specific needs:
"I could not be more pleased with ALEKS... I've used ALEKS for three years with both my son who struggled in math and my son who was gifted in math... [I've] seen almost unbelievable jumps in one son's abilities while the other son was able to soar 2-3 grade levels above his own grade."
TheHomeSchoolMom Review
"It avoids the repetition of mastered material that drives gifted learners nuts while assuring they really do know what they think they know."
Quarks and Quirks Blog
Independent Learning: Self-Directed Progress
The ability for students to work independently is frequently mentioned as a benefit:
"Pros: Independent work (does not require Mom)... Moves at the student's pace."
TheHomeSchoolMom Review
"We use ALEKS as a review tool, not a primary learning tool. [My son] LOVES using ALEKS to review what he has already learned at the end of each term."
TheHomeSchoolMom Review
Instruction Limitations: Teaching vs. Practice
Many parents note that ALEKS works better for practice than for initial instruction:
"ALEKS doesn't provide much instruction and [it] works better as supplemental practice, according to many reviewers."
Orison Orchards
"ALEKS is great for review of topics that have been taught… [but] doesn't work as well as a primary way to learn new material."
The Well Trained Mind Forum
"Second, written examples and instructions just don't cut it all the time. While for some learners it may be sufficient, it's just not for my son."
Quarks and Quirks Blog
Knowledge Checks: Frustration with Assessments
A common complaint involves ALEKS's periodic assessment system:
"Why does it take so much time, even if you already know it? If you make a single mistake on a knowledge check you have to do it all again."
TheHomeSchoolMom Review
"A big frustrating jumble of poorly explained math lessons, and ONE mistake in a lesson can make you redo the ENTIRE lesson!... [During] a knowledge check... ONE SIMPLE MISTAKE can lead to FIVE ENTIRE QUIZZES OF QUESTIONS TO BE GONE!"
TheHomeSchoolMom Review
Engagement: Plain Interface and Motivation
The basic interface can be a hurdle for some students:
"The program lacks manipulatives and graphics that benefit visual and kinesthetic learners. No teaching videos."
Orison Orchards
Educators note the program's clear sweet spot for different age groups:
"At too low of a level (arithmetic and pre-algebra), students are so intimidated by learning mathematical notation that any online learning platform is going to be an additional barrier to learning. ALEKS is more of a hindrance than a help. In the elementary algebra and intermediate algebra levels, ALEKS excels."
Reddit - r/matheducation
Special Needs: Mixed Response for Diverse Learners
ALEKS can be beneficial for some students with learning differences:
"For me, the reason it works so well is that it takes the pressure off of the timed classroom-style math classes. It helps me because I worry less about my speed and more about what I am doing with math."
The Easterner
But others report it can be counterproductive:
One Reddit user identified their child as neurodiverse and shared that ALEKS's style was actually "doing more harm than good" for their child, who would get extremely upset when the system made them redo topics due to small mistakes.
Reddit - r/matheducation
Who Thrives With ALEKS Math?
Well-Suited For:
- Independent, self-motivated learners
- Students who need targeted gap-filling or skills practice
- Families seeking a supplement to other math instruction
- Learners who benefit from immediate feedback and mastery-based progression
- Students who prefer text-based learning over videos
Consider Alternatives If:
- Your child needs visual or video instruction for new concepts
- Your student gets easily discouraged or has test anxiety
- You're seeking a complete curriculum with thorough teaching components
- Your child needs a more engaging, game-like interface
- You have a very young learner (below grade 3)
Our Bottom Line
ALEKS Math excels as an adaptive practice and assessment tool that provides targeted, personalized math learning paths. While it's highly effective for reinforcing concepts and filling knowledge gaps, many families find it works best as a supplement rather than a standalone curriculum, especially for visual learners or those needing more initial instruction. The program's strength is its ability to identify precisely what a student knows and doesn't know, though the assessment method can frustrate some learners. For the right student—particularly self-motivated, independent learners—ALEKS can be a powerful tool for mastering mathematics at an individualized pace.
Subjects covered
Core subjects: Mathematics (covering basic arithmetic, pre-algebra, Algebra 1 and 2, geometry, trigonometry, precalculus, and statistics)
Grade levels: Content suitable for grades 3–12
Special offerings: Early elementary courses (ALEKS Adventure for grades 1-2) and a high school Chemistry course
Adaptive learning: Personalized learning paths based on individual student assessments
Teaching Format
Print-based: Primarily a hands-on curriculum delivered through physical components including teacher's manuals, student packets, and decodable readers
Implementation format:
- Parent-led, requiring daily one-on-one teaching
- Scripted lessons with step-by-step instructions for parents
Assessment methods: Progress tracking through daily lessons and mastery-based progression; no formal tests included
Lesson structure: Each lesson typically includes reviewing prior concepts, introducing new phonics sounds or rules, practicing with letter tiles or flashcards, and reading aloud from corresponding readers
Flexibility: Adaptable to child’s pace and interests; optional activities suggested in the manual
Interactive components: Engaging materials such as flashcards, activity pages, and games to cater to various learning styles
Pricing
Monthly subscription: $19.95 per month, per student
6-month plan: $99.95 for 6 months (approximately $16.67 per month)
12-month plan: $179.95 for 12 months (approximately $15 per month)
Family Discounts: Available for multiple children; costs decrease per student when bundled together
Free Trial: Allows up to 3 hours of use within a few days for new users
Parent Involvement
Monthly subscription: $19.95 per month, per student
6-month plan: $99.95 for 6 months (approximately $16.67 per month)
12-month plan: $179.95 for 12 months (approximately $15 per month)
Family Discounts: Available for multiple children; costs decrease per student when bundled together
Free Trial: Allows up to 3 hours of use within a few days for new users