Contents
Key takeaways
Which factors impact tutoring rates?
Average tutoring rates in the UK (2025/26)
How to set your rates if you’re a new tutor
FAQs
Understanding how much you should pay a tutor per hour isn’t just about crunching numbers. It’s about valuing time, recognising expertise, and making sure private tuition is a worthwhile investment in your child’s education, or in your own learning journey.
Whether you’re a parent comparing prices, a student looking for affordable tutors, or a private tutor setting your hourly rate, this practical guide explains how tutoring rates vary, what factors affect tutor costs, and what the typically UK price ranges look like for local and online tutors.
Average tutoring rates in the UK vary widely depending on subject, level, format and tutor qualifications.
Online tuition is often more affordable than in-person tutoring, but both can offer high-quality, personalised support.
Tutor cost depends on several factors: subject complexity, level, experience, teaching style and whether sessions are one-to-one or in small group tuition.
Private tuition is a worthwhile investment when it comes to improving academic progress, easing exam preparation and building student confidence.
When people ask “how much does a tutor cost?”, the answer is always: it depends! Several factors can affect how much a tutor charges for their classes:
A GCSE tutor helping with basic maths homework will usually charge less than a private physics teacher preparing a student for A-level or further maths exams. University-level tutors providing dissertation support or tuition in niche study areas may also charge higher average hourly rates due to subject complexity.
Student tutors and university students frequently offer more affordable tutoring rates.
Qualified teachers, tutors with advanced degrees, and those with a strong track record of student results often charge higher prices.
Tutor methodology
Online tutors often offer lower hourly rates, in addition to the elimination of travel costs
In-person tutoring, or face-to-face tuition, can include travel expenses and time, raising overall tuition costs.
In rural areas, travel costs may significantly affect the final price of a private class.
One-to-one tuition sessions are typically more expensive, but can offer fully personalised support
Group tutoring sessions, including small group tuition, can reduce the cost of class per student.
This table shows the typical price ranges ranges for private tuition in the UK. Families may find it helpful to compare prices prior to booking sessions with a tutor.
|
Level |
Cost of basic support (revision/homework) |
Cost of mid-level support (foundational exam prep) |
Cost of high-level support (advanced exam prep) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Lower secondary (11–14 years) |
£13–£17 |
£18–£22 |
£23–£26 |
|
GCSE |
£17–£21 |
£22–£27 |
£28–£32 |
|
A-level |
£20–£24 |
£25–£31 |
£31–£38 |
|
University/adult education |
£25–£32 |
£33–£41 |
£42–£51 |
In addition to lesson delivery format and tutor expertise, local demand also shapes the costs of private tuition.
To avoid undercharging as a new private teacher, calculate a minimum sustainable hourly rate:
Minimum rate = (hourly costs + non-billable time) + margin
Make sure that you include the costs of the following:
Teaching software and tools
Internet access and hardware
Class preparation and assignment marking time
Time spent on admin and communication
Relevant travel costs for in-person tuition
For example, if a 60-minute session requires 30 minutes of prep, your real working time is 90 minutes. In order to earn £18 per hour, your lesson rate for a 60-minute class must be higher.
Months 1–2: start in the lower-mid price range.
Months 3–4: gather reviews, introduce block bookings. Increase by £2–£3 if demand rises.
Months 5–6: add a premium rate for exam preparation, last-minute or specialised support.
Avoid excessive discounts and unclear policies, as these can negatively impact your earnings and reviews. Regardless of your chosen rate, always remember to factor in preparation time.
Instead of settling on a generic average cost, consider:
How many other tutors offer your subject, both online and in-person
Local demand for GCSE tutors and A-level support
Whether you specialise in niche subjects
If you’re one of few tutors specialising in exam preparation or further maths, for example, you can justify higher tutoring rates.
Raise prices when:
You have a waiting list
You're able to demonstrate positive reviews and student outcomes
Demand peaks before exams
Optimise your schedule with block bookings or group tuition when your calendar has gaps during quieter periods throughout the academic year.
Parents don’t purchase private classes to keep their kids busy with extra homework - they're investing in their child’s future. Enhance your value by linking your price to:
Clear grade goals
Personalised teaching style
Materials and mock tests
Progress tracking
Building skills and self-confidence
Lesson packages encourage multiple sessions and continuity while keeping rates transparent.
|
Package |
Duration |
Indicative price |
Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Start |
4 × 60 min |
4 × £24 = £96 |
Assessment, basic materials |
|
Focus |
8 × 60 min |
8 × £23 = £184 |
Study plan, targeted tasks |
|
Pathway |
12 × 60 min |
12 × £22 = £264 |
Premium materials, mock tests |
You can tailor lesson packages to fit the unique needs of your particular student demographic, helping you to stand out as the top choice compared to other potential tutors.
One-to-one tuition at £25/hour ⇒ £25 total
Small group tuition (3 students at £14 each) ⇒ £42/hour total
Group tuition helps to keep private classes affordable for families on a budget, while also improving your hourly return. The format works especially well for collaborative study skills, peer-supported revision and exam technique development.
How much should you pay a tutor per hour for GCSE maths?
Most families pay between £18 and £30, depending on whether the tutor is online, in-person, a student tutor or a qualified teacher. Prices can vary depending on location.
Are online tutors cheaper than in-person classes?
Often, yes. Online tutors typically charge lower rates due to the lack of travel expenses. Online tuition can still offer access to high quality tutors and personalised support.
Is private tutoring worth it?
Private tuition is a worthwhile investment when it leads to measurable progress, better exam results and improved confidence.
Why do tutoring rates vary so much?
Several factors affect tutoring rates: subject, level, a tutor’s experience, class delivery mode, location, and whether sessions are one-to-one or in groups.
In conclusion, the question “how much should you pay a tutor per hour?” has no single answer! Tutoring rates vary widely depending on subject, level, format and expertise - what matters is matching the cost with the desired outcome.
For families, compare prices, check qualifications, and focus on results – not just the average hourly rate. GoStudent offers private teachers in over 30 subjects specialising in the UK curriculum.
For tutors, work with GoStudent and take the stress out of admin and class planning - set your own schedule with more time to focus on teaching!
When private tuition delivers on its promise of structured teaching methods, personalised learning and genuine progress it becomes a priceless foundation for future success.