Making Money as an Online Tutor

Online tutoring is one of the world’s fastest-growing industries. You can make a nice buck if you invest your time and remain open to learning. By treating it as an online tutoring business, you can maximize your income and reach more students.

Some educators start their careers by first signing up to tutoring platforms. There are many factors that affect how much you can make. A lot of these factors are within your control.

What is Online Tutoring?

Online tutoring is a modern approach to education where students receive instruction and guidance from qualified tutors through digital platforms. These platforms can include video conferencing software, online whiteboards, and messaging apps. This method allows students to learn from the comfort of their own homes, at their own pace, and at times that fit their schedules. Online tutoring has revolutionized the way education is delivered, making it more accessible and flexible for both students and tutors.

Definition of Online Tutoring

Online tutoring is an instructional setting where a tutor provides academic support and guidance to students through digital means. This can be done one-on-one or in a group setting. The use of technology facilitates communication, collaboration, and knowledge sharing between the tutor and the student. Whether it’s through video calls, interactive whiteboards, or instant messaging, online tutoring leverages digital tools to create an effective learning environment.

Benefits of Online Tutoring for Students and Tutors

Online tutoring offers numerous benefits for both students and tutors. For students, the advantages include:

• Flexibility and Convenience: Students can access tutoring services from anywhere, at any time, as long as they have a stable internet connection. This flexibility allows them to fit tutoring sessions into their busy schedules.
• Personalized Attention: Online tutoring provides one-on-one attention, which can be particularly beneficial for students who need extra support or have specific learning needs. Tutors can tailor their teaching methods to suit each student’s unique requirements.
• Access to a Wider Range of Tutors: Online tutoring platforms connect students with tutors from all over the world, offering a broader range of expertise and teaching styles. This means students can find the perfect tutor for their needs, regardless of geographical location.

For tutors, the benefits include:

• Flexibility and Autonomy: Tutors can create their own schedules and work at times that suit them, allowing for a better work-life balance. This flexibility is especially valuable for those who have other commitments or prefer to work from home.
• Increased Earning Potential: Online tutoring can provide tutors with a higher earning potential, as they can reach a wider audience and work with multiple students simultaneously. This can lead to a more stable and lucrative income.
• Opportunities for Professional Development: Online tutoring platforms often provide tutors with access to training and resources, helping them develop their teaching skills and stay up-to-date with industry developments. This continuous learning can enhance their effectiveness as educators.

How Much Do Online Tutors Earn?

Once you’ve built a book of business and are generating consistent revenue, you have the potential to earn $100 thousand yearly from tutoring jobs. Many tutors also find opportunities to work with high school students, helping them with subjects like math and science. There are several factors that go into earning this amount of money. These include:

• subject matter
• teaching experience
• education
• location

If you have a college degree and previous teaching experience, you can earn a nice buck each year.

Factors Affecting Online Tutoring Income

Several factors can influence an online tutor’s income, including:

• Qualifications and Experience: Tutors with higher qualifications and more experience can command higher rates. A teaching degree or certification can significantly boost earning potential.
• Subject and Level of Expertise: Tutors who specialize in high-demand subjects, such as math and science, may be able to charge higher rates. Expertise in niche subjects can also attract students willing to pay a premium for specialized knowledge.
• Location and Time Zone: Tutors who can work with students in different time zones may increase their earning potential by offering sessions at times that are convenient for a global audience.
• Online Platform Fees: Some online tutoring platforms charge tutors a fee for using their services, which can affect overall income. It’s important to consider these fees when setting rates and choosing platforms.

Job Requirements for Online Tutoring

Job requirements vary widely depending on the services provided or the platforms used to teach students. If you are self-employed, there are no requirements.

But some clients who want English taught as a second language may require a couple of years’ experience or be TESOL/TEFL accredited. This is a certification that qualifies someone to teach English to non-native speakers.

You may also need a degree and experience if you want to assist graduate students pursuing advanced degrees.

Do Tutors Need Degrees

You can be a high school or college student and tutor. You’ll need to have extensive knowledge of the subject you're teaching.

But, most tutoring companies require a bachelor’s degree. This is especially true if you want to earn by teaching students as part of an SAT prep course.

The more experience combined with a degree you have, the greater the earning potential.

Necessary Skills and Qualifications

To become a successful online tutor, individuals typically require:

• Strong Subject Knowledge: A deep understanding of the subject matter they wish to teach is essential. This ensures they can provide accurate and effective instruction.
• Excellent Communication Skills: The ability to clearly explain concepts and engage with students is crucial. Good communication fosters a positive learning environment and helps students grasp complex topics.
• Interpersonal Skills: Building rapport with students and understanding their needs is important for effective teaching. Patience, empathy, and a passion for helping others learn and succeed are key traits.
• Time Management: Tutors must be able to work independently and manage their own time effectively. This includes scheduling sessions, preparing materials, and staying organized.
• Familiarity with Digital Tools: Proficiency with digital platforms and tools, such as video conferencing software and online whiteboards, is necessary for conducting effective online tutoring sessions.
• Teaching Degree or Certification: While not always required, having a teaching degree or certification can enhance credibility and attract more students. It also demonstrates a commitment to professional standards in education.

By understanding and leveraging these factors, aspiring online tutors can maximize their earning potential and build a successful tutoring business.

Online Tutoring Jobs

Students from emerging economies require tutoring. This is especially true when it comes to English as a second language. Tutoring now occurs between individuals who live on opposite sides of the world. Teaching online offers flexibility and the opportunity to reach students from around the world.

There are many online platforms you can use to find students. Here is a list.

TutorMe

TutorMe pays a flat hourly wage. Staying on the platform is based on your ability to help students with test prep and course materials. You'll also be judged on previous clients' ratings.

You’ll be assisting K through 12 students 24 hours a day.

TutorMe only accepts a small percentage of applicants. They require a degree or enrollment in a top-tier university.

VIPKid

VIPKid services Chinese citizens who want to learn American English.

VIPKid is highly selected as to who they’ll hire, so it may be challenging to have your application selected. You must have at least one year of teaching experience and be eligible to work in the U.S. or Canada.

They offer above-average pay and bonuses. There's plenty of room for career growth and plenty of students available to tutor.

 It is limited to English classes.

Smarthinking

Smarthinking focuses on:

• language
• reading
• writing

In addition to tutoring, Smarthinking also offers online courses to help students improve their skills.

Smarthinking requires you to have at least two years of teaching experience, and applicants must have a degree in the subject they want to teach.

They assist students in:

• kindergarten
• high school
• college
• workplace

Smarthinking is a trusted brand with over 150 subjects, so you’re bound to find something to teach.

Wyzant

Wyzant has an automated application system that helps you get started quicker. Wyzant provides an excellent opportunity for tutors to start their own tutoring business by setting their rates and creating personalized profiles. You’ll need to do several tasks like:

• pass a quick exam
• create a profile
• speak with a Wyzant representative

Once approved, you can start tutoring students within a couple of days.

You set your pay rate. When setting your rate, you’ll need to consider Wyzant’s 25 percent commission that it charges. So, bump up your pay accordingly.

Because you set the rate, you can generally make more money per hour than tutors on other platforms.

You’ll earn more money once you start acquiring great ratings. The downside is students come and go.

Chegg

Chegg is one of the largest providers of tutoring jobs. They cater to students in middle school and grad school.

You’ll need to have at least one degree or be enrolled in a four-year program.

Chegg is the best option for international tutors. It accepts applicants from all over the world and pays above average per-hour rates.

It also has a broad range of subject matter. One downside is that students can schedule as little as a five-minute session, which cuts into your pay.

Chegg has an arduous application process.

Skooli

Skooli lets you set your own schedule. All you must do is sign in to view tutoring requests and schedule your sessions.

While online, you’ll be able to receive instant tutoring inquiries. This lets you earn money immediately.

Skooli provides a virtual whiteboard that allows you to visually demonstrate concepts. You’ll be tutoring K through 12. Subjects include:

• business courses
• languages
• test preparation

Skooli does require teaching credentials and has a fixed hourly rate for each student.

Tutor.com

Tutor.com is sponsored by the Princeton Review. It pays more per hour than most video tutoring companies.

You’ll create your own schedule. You can also agree to on-the-spot tutoring sessions. Once comfortable, prepare to meet many new clients because the company has universal recognition.

Tutor.com has many niche subjects and plenty of test preparation.

It does require prior teaching experience, and you must submit to subject matter examination.