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MasterClass Costs: What Exactly Is Included?

Catherine Cooke

1 June, 2023

MasterClass cost review

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If you are considering MasterClass, then finding out all about its costs is essential before deciding if this famous online learning platform is actually for you. In this MasterClass pricing guide. I’ll try to explain to you in detail; It’s different membership plans, What exactly is included?, What’s its refund policy? And much more. If you are looking for a more detailed MasterClass review you can read it here.

Overview Of MasterClass Costs

MasterClass works only with subscription plans that are billed annually. Its subscription plans start with the Individual membership costing $10 a month that is billed annually at $120. If you are looking for more devices to access MasterClass at the same time and the option to download classes for offline viewing, you can consider either the Duo plan costing $180 annually or the Family plan for $240 annually. All plans give you full access to 180+ classes that range across 11 categories. Its categories include; Food, Design & Style, Arts & Entertainment, Music, Business, Sports & Gaming, Writing, Science & Tech, Home & Lifestyle, Community & Government and Wellness. All membership plans come with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, in case you change your mind and want to request a refund.

Note: MasterClass subscriptions may be subject to local government taxes, which means a tax will be added to the final price. The tax amount will vary by country, state, territory and even city.

Registering with MasterClass

Registrating with MasterClass is super easy and straightforward. Once you land on the homepage, all you need to do is enter your email address and click on GET STARTED (see image below).  

MasterClass Registration

Then you are taken to choose one of its subscription plans; Individual, Duo or Family plan. All memberships give you full access to its thousands of classes across a dozen categories. The distinct difference between the plans are that the Duo and Family plans, allow you to download for offline viewing and more than one device can use the MasterClass platform at the same time.Masterclass pricing plan

Finally, you will be taken to a secure order page where you just need to add your card number, expire date and CVC and then click on PLACE SECURE ORDER (see image below). Then you are ready to start exploring MasterClasses class categories and exploring its thousands of classes on a wide variety of topics.

MasterClass secure payment

What does MasterClass Cost?

MasterClass offers annual membership plans only, which are divided into 3 different plans:

  • Individual: $10/month ($120 when billed annually)
  • Duo: $15/month ($180 when billed annually)
  • Family: $20/month ($240 when billed annually)

Masterclass membership plans

MasterClass Membership Plans

Individual Plan (formerly the Standard Plan)

The individual membership plan is ideal for the single user. You will get access to thousands of classes which you can watch and enjoy on your TV, phone or tablet. With this plan, you can only have 1 account and watch from only 1 device at a time. Sadly, there isn’t the option to download any classes to watch online. The individual annual plan is $120 a year, which when you consider that you are likely to take one class a month it works out at $10 a month per class.

Duo Plan (formerly the Plus Plan)

The Duo membership plan is perfect for a couple or two friends or family members. Like the individual plan you will get full access to thousands of classes which you can watch on your TV, phone or tablet. The Duo plan is 1 account which you can access from 2 devices at the same time. This plan allows you to download and watch offline which is perfect if you plan to use MasterClass on your commute or when travelling. The Duo annual plan costs $180 annually which works out at $15 a month.

Family Plan (formerly the Premium Plan)

Finally, the Family plan that’s perfect for a family or group of friends. Like the other plans you will get full access to thousands of classes which you can watch from your preferred device (TV, phone or tablet). The Family plan is 1 account which you can access from 6 devices at the same time, think of it like a Netflix account, I share one with my family which we all enjoy watching at the same time. Like the Duo membership you can download and watch classes offline. The Family plan works out at $276 annually that’s $23 a month.

Is MasterClass Free?

Sadly, MasterClass doesn’t offer any free trials. But it does offer a bunch of free video lessons. They are around 10 minutes long and some they currently offer are from celebrity instructors like Anna Wintour and Chris Voss.

MasterClass Sneak PeekThese sneak peek teasers of the class aren’t quite the same as trying the MasterClass platform for free, but it does help to give you a better idea of what to expect from the platform.

MasterClass Free Classes

Watch Free MasterClass

However, if you are looking for a wider variety of free courses or classes, it would be best to check out platforms Udemy or Skillshare who offers a free trial.

What’s included in a MasterClass membership?

Every MasterClass membership includes the following to ensure you have a full learning experience: Unlimited access to 150+ instructors, Watch anywhere, anytime, Audio-only mode, Sessions by MasterClass, Downloadable class guides and 14-day guest passes.

MasterClass Whats Included?

What’s included in every MasterClass membership?

Sessions byMasterClass

MasterClass has introduced a whole new way of learning, with Sessions. It’s a hands-on learning format where you can learn from the world’s best following a flexible 30-day curriculum, completing real-world projects and receive meaningful feedback.

MasterClass Sessions

MasterClass Sessions

Some of the current available sessions are from Christina Aguilera where you will learn how to elevate your singing and stage presence. Other Session include ‘Create 8 award-worthy bakes with Joanne Chang’ and ‘Perfect 12 negotiation tactics with Chris Voss’. The best part about Sessions is that they are included within your MasterClass subscription. Sessions can be enjoyed on desktop and iOS.

Christina Aguilera Sessions

Downloadable Workbook

With each class, you are provided with a PDF workbook which is downloadable. The workbook is stylishly put together and has a helpful summary of everything said in the video. It is a practical resource which you can reference back, and it summarizes all the main points. That means if you aren’t keen on taking notes you’ve got it all in front of you.

MasterClass Brndon McMillan downloadable workbook

Playlists

Playlists are a way to explore the entire catalog and learn from more than one instructor. It mixes and matches Masterclass classes based on a topic or theme like ‘The Kitchen’ or ‘Big Ideas’. These pre-made collections of lessons are an excellent way to dive a little deeper into multiple classes.

MasterClass Playlist The Kitchen

Community

MasterClass has created a hub where you can interact with fellow students and ask any questions or engage in discussions. There are some students who really take full advantage of this feature, giving feedback and are an active part of the community. But there are other cases where the discussions seem to be standing still and don’t have any interaction.

MasterClass App

The Masterclass app allows you to stream anytime, anywhere and at your own pace. The content quality is excellent, and its videos play seamlessly. Even on the smaller screens of an iPhone or Android you still have that cinematic feel. It is available for both iOS and Android users and has an audio online function as well as an offline viewing, so you can enjoy a podcast style learning experience. The MasterClass App has high rating with both Apple at 4.9 and a 4.4 with Google Play.

The MasterClass App

MasterClass Guest Pass

With each MasterClass membership, you will be entitled to sharing a Guest Pass with a friend or loved one. In my case, I felt spoiled and was given 3 to share out. The Guest Pass gives your lucky friend or loved one a free 14-day access to the platform. The recipient is free to cancel at anytime and will only be charged if they subscribe when the free trial ends. But if they do change their mind within the 30-days of activating the Guest Pass they will get a full refund, just like you do when you subscribe to MasterClass.

MasterClass Guest Pass

> You can sign up for a MasterClass membership here

MasterClass Offers

Several times a year, MasterClass runs a special 2 memberships for the price of 1 promotion. This means you can buy one annual membership and gift another one to a friend, colleague or loved one. At the time of writing this article MasterClass was running this offer. So if you are lucky enough to be signing up when this promotion is running, I say go for it.

MasterClass offers 2 memberships for price of 1

MasterClass for Businesses

Like many other online learning platforms, MasterClass is no different and offers plans for Businesses. You can invest in your team or business by contacting sales to choose the plan for your business.

MasterClass for Business

MasterClass for Businesses

MasterClass offers discounts on groups purchasing more than 5 annual memberships. Its discounts vary from 5-35% from memberships between 5-1000 seats. The final prices will depend on your team size and needs, if you are interested in MasterClass for Business you can contact sales.

> Check out MasterClass For Businesses here

MasterClass Social Impact

MasterClass has had a very positive impact on underprivileged social groups and believes everyone should have the opportunity to learn from the best. It is working in a very active way to help communities who don’t have the access or resources for a MasterClass membership. Since 2019 MasterClass has given out 718 free annual memberships to nonprofits, 150k + to currently or formerly incarcerated individuals and 315k + to undeserved communities.

MasterClass Social Impact

If you’re an organization that supports one of the communities that could benefit from the gift of learning then you can submit an application to the MasterClass team here.

Accepted Payment Methods & Currencies

You can purchase your MasterClass annual membership using a credit card or PayPal. The available credit cards are Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover.

If you are having any problems with the payment going through using any of these payment methods, then do check you haven’t made a typo, or you may need to refresh your browser and clear your cache. If that still doesn’t work, then logging out of your account and logging back in may work

How to Cancel a MasterClass Membership?

If you decide that you don’t want to continue your MasterClass membership, you can cancel your membership renewal through your account page. All you need to do is follow these 3 easy steps:

  1. Log into your account through www.masterclass.com
  2. Once logged in, click on your Profile Menu in the top-right corner and click on settings.
  3. Scroll down on account settings and click the Cancel Membership button under the membership section of the page.

Once guided through these steps to cancel your membership, your membership will not continue at the end of your current subscription plan. If you have any doubts or questions you can contact MasterClass here.

MasterClass Refunds

MasterClass does offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. So if you do decide that MasterClass isn’t the online platform for you, then you can submit a request to MasterClass for a refund here. The refund process is really straightforward and in my experience I was super impressed with how quickly and smooth it was. After submitting my request, I was quickly contacted by MasterClass (the same day) who informed me my refund would be within my account in 5-10 business days. I received the refund 5 days later. So if you are hesitant on how whether or not you will receive a refund, don’t be, as it is a really smooth and easy process.

Most Popular MasterClasses

I did some researching into the top-performing classes at MasterClass, mainly because I was curious to see which ones users are most enjoying and I might like to try myself.

1. Anna Wintour Creativity and Leadership

Anna Wintour Teaches Creativity and Leadership MasterClass

The most popular MasterClass among learners is from Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Anna Wintour who gives unprecedented access to her world, teaching you how to lead with vision and creativity and without apology. Anna introduces her MasterClass by opening up about early experiences that shaped her leadership style today and takes you to her offices at Vogue and gives advice to upcoming talent and designers on how to succeed. The MasterClass is 2 hours 36 minutes and comprises 12 video lessons.

2. Annie Leibovitz Photography

MasterClass Annie Leibovitz Photography

We then have the MasterClass by Annie Leibovitz the American portrait photographer. In this MasterClass Annie brings you into her studio, and you are taken along onto her shoots to be given a real insight into what it takes to be a successful portrait photographer. During the MasterClass each video lesson focuses on a different part of her talent and experience from portrait photography to creating concepts, the studio vs location and much more. The MasterClass is 3 hours 4 minutes and comprises 15 video lessons.

3. Brandon McMillan Teaches Dog Training

Masterclass Brandon McMillan

Brandon McMillan is an expert trainer who dedicated to building relationships between humans and animals. During this MasterClass, Brandon focuses each video lesson on his simple and effective training system to help you develop trust and control with your dog. From using commands and learning to improve your dog’s behavior along with a lifelong bond. His MasterClass is made up of 15 video lessons totaling 2 hours and 58 minutes.

4. Chris Voss Teaches the Art of Negotiation

MasterClass Chris Voss Teaches the Art of Negotiation

Chris Voss was a former FBI hostage negotiator who has had experience with persuading kidnappers, bank robbers and terrorists to do things his way. In this MasterClass he teaches you communication skills and strategies to help you get more of what you want every day. Chris begins his MasterClass with ‘Tactical empathy’ and other video classes include ‘Body Language & Speech Patterns’, ‘The Value of No’ and more. The MasterClass is 3 hours 4 minutes and comprises 18 video lessons.

5. Gordon Ramsay Teaches Cooking II: Restaurant Recipes at Homes

Gordon Ramsay Teaches Cooking II Restaurant Recipes at Home

Our next MasterClass is brought to you by Gordon Ramsay, with his second MasterClass ‘Restaurant Recipes at Home’. Gordon teaches you how to cook restaurant-inspired dishes with tips for time-saving prep and show stopping presentation. Each video lesson will focus on a recipe, there are 13 in total. The MasterClass is 4 hours 13 minutes and comprises 15 video lessons.

6. Kelly Wearstler Interior Design

Kelly Wearstler Interior Design

Kelly Wearstler style has helped reshape modern American design and has had the biggest influence on the rise of designer hotels. She is an award-winning designer and during this MasterClass takes you behind the scenes to demystify interior design. Kelly begins this MasterClass with an introduction and talks about how a good design can help us live and feel better. Its video lessons focus on different parts of interior design from Starting a Project, Living With Color, Lighting: Enhancing Your Space and much more. The MasterClass is 2 hours 13 minutes and comprises 17 video lessons.

7. Neil deGrasse Tyson Teaches Scientific Thinking and Communication

MasterClass Neil deGrasse Tyson

The next most popular MasterClass is by renowed astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson who is one of the most popular figures in modern science. His MasterClass opens your mind to scientific literacy, to distill data and navigate bias to discover objective truths. Neil begins his video lessons with what you know is not as important as how you think. The video lessons focus on topics like The Frontier of Science, The Scientific Method, Cognitive Bias and much more. His MasterClass is engaging and inspiring consisting of 13 video lessons that total 2 hours 14 minutes.

8. Neil Gaiman Teaches The Art of Storytelling

Masterclass Neil Gaiman Teaches the Art of Storytelling

This is Neil Gaiman’s first ever online class, and he teaches you how he conjures up new ideas, convincing characters and vivid fictional worlds. Neil is an award-winning author who has spent more than a quarter of a century crafting vivid, absorbing fiction. During his MasterClass he explains why he loves to teach and how he wants you to tell stories that matter. His video lessons include Developing the Story, Short Fiction, Worldbuilding and much more. The Masterclass is made up of 19 video lessons that are 4 hours 29 minutes long.

MasterClass Alternatives

After reading this article on MasterClass costs, you may have decided that MasterClass isn’t for you. It could be for any of the following reasons:

  • I was looking for an individual course and not a membership or subscription plan
  • I want something more budget friendly
  • I want to earn a validated certificate when I complete the course

If that is the case, then I put together some alternative online learning platforms for you to consider.

Mindvalley

Mindvalley is a platform a little different from others, it focuses on personal transformation. Similarly to MasterClass its content is really motivating and engaging. It’s easy a pleasure to watch and easy to digest.

Mindvalley alternative to MasterClass

Its personal growth programs are called Quests and you have the option to purchase one individually, or you can sign up for the ‘All Access’ membership that you can pay for monthly ($99) or annually ($499.20).

Skillshare

If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to MasterClass, then Skillshare could be your answer. This elearning platform still works with a subscription plan and its annual plan costs $167.88 (working out at $13.99 a month). It’s a platform that’s aimed at creatives and entrepreneurs and has a catalogue of 35,000+ courses.

Skillshare a cheaper alternative to MasterClass

Skillshare a cheaper alternative to MasterClass

Be aware that Skillshare doesn’t issue completion certificates, but some of its courses are created by top industry professionals and big companies like MailChimp, Google or Moz.

Coursera

If it is important for you to receive an accredited certificate on course completion, then Coursera may be a good option as it partners with secondary educational institutions like Stanford, The Imperial College of London or Duke University.

Coursera is an alternative to MasterClass for its accredited certificates

Coursera is an alternative to MasterClass for its accredited certificates

You can join most Coursera courses for free, however, if you are looking to get a certificate, you will need to pay for the course (or program). There are different types of elearning programs available: individual courses (cost $29 to $100), Specializations (cost is $39 to $89 a month), Coursera yearly subscriptions ($399) and complete degrees (starting at $15,000).

Udemy

If are looking to purchase an individual course instead of the subscription model, then Udemy is one of the best alternatives. Its courses vary from a few hours worth of material or months or content, but it requires only a one off payment. Udemy’s range of courses are diverse and there really is no limit to what you could learn with categories like “Finance & Accounting” to “Lifestyle”.

Udemy is an individual course alternative for MasterClass

Udemy is a one-off payment alternative for MasterClass

If you are looking for a career change or gain a new professional skill or want to dabble in an exciting new hobby like cake decorating, then Udemy has it all. Plus, you will have access to close to 600 free courses.

LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning offers over 21,000+ courses and learning paths on topics related to Business, Technology and Creative subjects. Its bite-sized videos and in-depth content is available for offline viewing and taught by real-world professionals.

LinkedIn Learning Landing Page

LinkedIn Learning is a professional alternative to MasterClass

It offers an annual ($239.88) and monthly plan ($39.99/month) which gives you unlimited access to the platform and for every LinkedIn Learning course you successfully complete you will receive a certificate of completion.

Datacamp

Datacamp offers a variety of subscription plans for individual learners. You can choose from three different plans (Free, Standard and the Premium). Its plans will give you access to 350+ courses on topics like data science and analytics.

Datacamp learning methodology

Datacamp is a free plan alternative to MasterClass

Datacamp’s courses are designed and created by its 260+ team of expert instructors from top institutions like Duke University. All its courses are interactive, and you can learn at your own pace.

MasterClass Costs: Last Thoughts

I am hoping now you have a clearer idea of MasterClasses pricing and membership plans. It is important before purchasing a memebership to consider exactly what you are looking for, and your budget, let me briefly summarize.

MasterClass is best for:

  • High Quality: As I have mentioned before its video quality is superb, and no expense has been spared on the camerawork, lighting and sound in producing these cinematic style video classes. It really makes the watch highly engaging and absorbing.
  • Inspiration: If you are looking to get inspired by some legendary and famous teachers, then MasterClass really has this one covered. You will definitely leave its classes pumped, ready and motivated.
  • Reasonably Priced: For $120 annually it may seem a little steep at first, but when you break it down to paying $15 per month, it doesn’t seem quite as much. Especially given the fact you have access to 180+ classes and new ones are added monthly.
  • Downloadable: If you do want to be able to download classes and watch offline you can do so with the app or if you have family and friends who want the membership aswell, it may be worth considering the Duo or Family membership plans.
  • Money-Back Guarantee: Remember you are entitled to a full refund within 30 days of purchasing your membership if you do change your mind.

MasterClass Costs: FAQ

How much does MasterClass cost?

MasterClass provides three plan options: Individual ($120 per year), Duo ($180 per year), and Family ($240 per year). All plans are billed annually and full payment for the year is paid upfront, there are no monthly options available. All plans give you full access to the MasterClass catalog of classes, the key difference is that the Duo and Family plan allows you to connect more than one device at a time, so multiple users can enjoy the MasterClass platform.

How to get MasterClass for free?

The simple answer is no. Although they have started adding sneak-peeks of some classes, which is a handful of video classes you can watch for free. If that doesn’t quite give you the full MasterClass experience, I would suggest signing up to one of its plans and utilizing its 30-day money-back guarantee. If you decide within that first month that MasterClass isn’t for you, after requesting a refund, you’ll get your money back.

How much is MasterClass monthly?

MasterClass doesn’t offer any of its membership plans to be paid on a monthly basis, all plans are paid upfront for the whole year. On the MasterClass platform it shows you the monthly cost, which may confuse some users, so please be mindful the MasterClass membership will be billed annually. You can choose from one of the following plans; Individual: $10/month ($120 when billed annually), Duo: $15/month ($180 when billed annually) and Family: $20/month ($240 when billed annually).

Can I buy 1 month of MasterClass?

MasterClass doesn’t give you the option to buy a membership for just 1 month as all 3 plans it offers are paid for on an annual basis. If you are hesitant to financially commit, keep in mind that there is a 30-day refund policy after the day of purchase, so if you do change your mind you will get your money back.

Please leave a comment below if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to help you out.

Article Updates:

06/01/22 – MasterClass Pricing Plans

05/19/22 – LinkedIn Learning Alternative

04/28/23 – How much does MasterClass cost: FAQ

04/04/23 – Overview of MasterClass Costs Updated

03/19/23 – MasterClass buy 1 month: FAQ

02/17/23 – Accepted Payment Methods Updated

02/09/23 – MasterClass Monthly: FAQ

02/03/23 – MasterClass Costs: FAQ

01/25/23 – Last Thoughts: MasterClass is best for

01/15/23 – Added Mindvalley Alternative

12/18/22 – Is MasterClass Free? Updated

11/30/22 – How to Cancel a MasterClass Membership?

11/24/22 – MasterClass 2-FOR-1 Cyber Monday Offer

11/16/22 – Is MasterClass Free?

11/16/22 – MasterClass 2-for-1 promo bar

10/07/22 – How to cancel MasterClass membership?

09/27/22 – Most Popular MasterClasses (Kelly Wearstler, Neil deGrasse Tyson & Neil Gaiman)

09/13/22 – Updated MasterClass subscription plans

09/11/22 – Most Popular MasterClasses (Chris Voss & Gordon Ramsay)

09/06/22 – Most Popular MasterClasses

09/01/22 – Most Popular MasterClasses

08/22/22 – MasterClass Guest Pass

08/20/22 – Updated What’s included in a MasterClass membership?

08/05/22 – General Update

07/31/22 – General Update

07/14/22 – General MasterClass Costs Update

06/30/22 – The MasterClass App updated

05/11/22 – Updated Overview of MasterClass costs

05/09/22 – Updated MasterClass up to 35% promo bar

05/04/22 – MasterClass up to 35% promo bar

04/04/22 – Datacamp Alternative

03/28/22 –  MasterClass Sessions

03/24/22 – What’s included in a MasterClass membership?

03/10/22 – Plans & Promo

03/02/22 – MasterClass memberships

01/23/22 – Sessions by MasterClass

09/13/2021 – MasterClass for Business and MasterClass Refunds

08/06/2021 – Masterclass memberships

Catherine Cooke

Hey. I am Catherine and I have been working as a freelancer for many years now. In 2005, I graduated from a BA honours in Art & Design from BCU and then went onto complete a Master’s Degree in Teaching from UEL. The skills I gained from learning and teaching have led me to create Upskillwise, a place for learners like myself to find the best possible resources and courses to train and upskill themselves, either personally or professionally. If you have a question, please feel free to ask me anything or leave me a comment.
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Anonymous
Anonymous
4 days ago

The point of view of your article has taught me a lot, thank you.

Heidi Smith
Heidi Smith
6 months ago

Its too bad that you can’t pay for this by month instead of annually because some people cannot afford hundreds of dollars every year because they have bills to pay and groceries that they need throughout the year for their families and children.

Esther
Esther
1 year ago

Hi Catherine, I’m very interested in joining Master Class. Can I pay on a month to month basis?

Muhsketchy
Muhsketchy
1 year ago

Would Masterclass be a good choice for someone who is interested in learning how to sing?

Muhsketchy
Muhsketchy
1 year ago

Can u upgrade to Premium or Plus at any time?

Mariana
Mariana
1 year ago

Is there any feedback in classes such as Storytelling or creative Writing or Photography?

Joe
Joe
1 year ago

Thnx for the review. I got impatient with the MasterClass web site looking for the basic info on cost etc – your article was succinct, informative & very helpful.

JOANNE E. KURDEKA
JOANNE E. KURDEKA
1 year ago

I would like to know how to acess my acct? I want to find out the status of my account

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