John Polstein

John Polstein has played a primary management role in Kaplan's transformation into the global educational services company it is today. Specifically, he has spearheaded the diversification of the test prep division's offerings into overseas markets, bar review and "boutique" test prep services. Under Polstein, Kaplan has furthered its leadership position in the test prep market, growing to more than twice the size of its nearest competitor. Today, Kaplan Test Prep provides test preparation for more than 90 standardized exams, and delivers courses in 25 countries outside the US. Kaplan has secured its place as the leading provider of licensing test preparation to medical professionals, particularly international doctors who need to pass rigorous boards to practice in the U.S., as well as a leader in preparing law school graduates for the bar exam.

Polstein has also catalyzed Kaplan Test Prep's digital transformation, helping the division secure its leadership in online and mobile offerings and more recently, oversaw the division's entry into new economy skills training. Under Polstein's leadership, Kaplan acquired Dev Bootcamp, originator of the short-term, immersive coding school model, establishing Kaplan as a leader in software developer bootcamps. He also oversaw the division's launch of Metis, which offers intensive data science programs for individuals seeking to pursue or accelerate a career in data science.

Prior to his current role, Polstein held a variety of positions within the company, overseeing test prep centers and helping to standardize and streamline operations around the country. Since joining Kaplan in 1992, he first served as the Director of Pre-College Programs, then moved into field management running the Manhattan test prep center (the country's largest) and from there, advanced to the roles of Regional Director and Regional Vice President overseeing the Northeast region. He assumed leadership for the test prep division in 1998. Through all his efforts at Kaplan, Polstein has dedicated himself to helping students meet and exceed their goals and enhance their opportunities for success.

Polstein received his B.A. from Amherst College and his M.B.A. from Harvard Business School.