I studied 99% on my own with practice tests and books. I then did a few sessions with a private tutor to make sure I don't mess up verbal, and I got a 40 on my second attempt. 99% of your MCAT score will come from your own hard work, it is up to you if that 1% is really necessary.
I used a coach and it helped me push my score from ~500 to 521 on the sample tests in 12 weeks. She would text me everyday and make sure I was on track. My test day got rescheduled because of the snowstorm and she met with me every day for free so I would still feel ready. The exam was still difficult because it was long but I didn't feel nervous at all! I found her through craigslist but I think she runs this company now www.axilogy.com/
Some people liked it. For me it was a total waste of money. Did Kaplan my first time - got like a 26 or something. Three years later I took it without prep (during this time - I had taught/tutored kids on Chen and physics - so I guess it counts indirectly as studying).
