Online Tutoring Apps
Free options first. Paid only if needed.
Library Brainfuse / HelpNow
FREE with library cardReal human tutors available afternoons & evenings. K-12 + college. Math, writing, science.
Most underused free benefit.
Khan Academy
FREESelf-paced. Best for math, science, AP courses, SAT prep.
Free forever.
Wyzant
$30-100/hour, varies1-on-1 in-person OR online tutors. Many subjects, every level. Real qualifications.
Best for ongoing weekly tutoring.
Outschool
$15-40/class, often $10-20/hourLive online classes for kids 3-18 in groups of 1-12. Fascinating non-traditional topics: Minecraft history, Spanish through baking, etc.
Best for enrichment, not homework.
Varsity Tutors
$40-80/hourTest prep specialty (SAT/ACT). Many tutor packages. Rotating tutors.
Worth it for major tests.
Tutor.com
FREE through some libraries and military24/7 tutoring. Often free if you have library card or are a military family.
Check eligibility before paying elsewhere.
Preply
Per-tutor pricing $10-50/hrWorldwide tutors. Strong for languages and English-as-second-language.
Often cheapest 1-on-1.
Where to start
- Get the kid a library card (free).
- Check the library website for "online tutoring" — most offer Brainfuse or Tutor.com FREE.
- If grandkid wants more (specific weekly tutor) — Wyzant or local tutors.
- If they\'re prepping for SAT/ACT — Khan Academy SAT prep is FREE and excellent. Add Varsity Tutors only if they need 1-on-1.
Best gift for a struggling student
5 sessions on Wyzant ($150-500) often turns around a slipping grade. The right tutor for 5 weeks beats the wrong tutor for a year. Read reviews carefully and book a 30-minute trial first.