The SAT exam remains a major test that can open doors to scholarships, colleges, and future opportunities. And for decades, preparing for it has been synonymous with stress, boredom, and high costs. This is where Linus comes in. Created by gaming industry veterans and backed by a $5 million seed round led by Owl Ventures (the world’s largest edtech investor), Linus combines teaching methods with the power of engaging and game-like experiences to transform how students study for this crucial exam.
Even though Linus initially launched only on the web in January, it has helped over 10,000 students prepare for the March SAT date, primarily through word-of-mouth. And now, with new iOS and Android apps fully optimized for phones and tablets, Linus is doubling down on its mission to bring students a fun, free, and effective experience wherever they are.
Linus uses fun, challenges, and rewards to keep students returning. And decades of gaming expertise inform interactive lessons, bite-sized challenges, and memorable characters, turning test prep into an engaging, game-like experience.
By making SAT concepts into story-driven narratives, Linus helps students form stronger mental connections and improve retention. By integrating friendly competition and collaboration, the daily habit of test prep becomes more manageable and fun.
The platform is 100% free, removing financial barriers to high-quality prep. Lessons adapt to each student’s strengths and weaknesses, maximizing outcomes and confidence. Linus meets students on their devices, ensuring real engagement and better results.
KEY QUOTES:
“In the gaming industry, we’ve had to master engagement because players choose to play—they’re not forced to. We’ve applied that same philosophy to SAT prep, meeting students where they are—on their devices—and making the experience so compelling they actually want to keep coming back. It’s a win for everyone—teachers, administrators, and parents as well—because when students are genuinely excited about a platform, outcomes improve, and the entire experience becomes more rewarding for all.”
– Niko Vuori, Founder & CEO of Linus
“What got us really excited about Linus is the immediate and enthusiastic response from learners since the platform’s January launch. In just a matter of weeks, they’ve reached a meaningful slice of the test-taker population—and so much of it happened organically. This kind of traction shows how powerfully their game-inspired approach resonates, and we believe it signals a broader shift in edtech, where true engagement meets proven pedagogy.”
– Tory Patterson, Co-Founder & Managing Director at Owl Ventures
