How to Make Money Tutoring in College

In this post, I will walk you through how to Make Money Tutoring in College. Are you a college student looking for ways to make some extra cash? Tutoring might be the perfect opportunity for you. Not only can you earn a good income, but you can also help others succeed while reinforcing your knowledge.

In this article, I’ll guide you through the steps to start tutoring in college and make money doing it, all while keeping things simple and relatable. Tutoring offers numerous benefits. It provides flexibility in your schedule, allows you to use your strengths, and builds your resume.

Plus, you can earn competitive hourly rates, often higher than many part-time jobs available to students. Whether you’re looking to cover your expenses, save for the future, or just gain some valuable experience, tutoring in college is a rewarding path to explore.

Why Tutoring is a Great Way to Make Money in College

Tutoring is an excellent way for college students to earn money for several reasons:

• Flexibility: You can set your hours and work around your class schedule. Whether you prefer evenings, weekends, or even late-night sessions, tutoring fits into your life.
• Use Your Knowledge: Tutor subjects you’re passionate about and excel in. If you’re great at math, science, or even languages, you can turn that into a paycheck.
• Build Your Resume: Gain teaching experience, which is valuable for future careers. It shows you have communication skills, patience, and the ability to explain complex ideas.
• Competitive Pay: You can earn anywhere from $20 to $80 per hour or more, depending on the subject and your experience. That’s often more than minimum wage jobs.
• Help Others: Something is rewarding about making a positive impact on students’ lives. Seeing someone “get it” after struggling can be incredibly fulfilling.

For example, many tutors start with rates around $25 per hour and can increase them as they gain experience and good reviews. Some even report earning over $100 per hour for high-demand subjects like advanced math or test prep, according to discussions on Reddit.

How to Get Started as a Tutor

Starting as a tutor is easier than you might think. Here’s how you can begin:

1. Choose Your Subjects: Pick subjects you’re knowledgeable in. Consider your major, courses you’ve aced, or areas where you have teaching experience. For instance, if you’re a math major, you could tutor algebra, calculus, or even SAT math prep.
2. Assess Your Qualifications: While a degree isn’t always necessary, having one can help you command higher rates. Some platforms, like Tutor.com, require you to be a sophomore or higher at an accredited 4-year university and pass a competency exam. Others, like Wyzant, allow you to tutor based on your expertise, even without formal qualifications.
3. Decide on Your Teaching Method: Choose between in-person tutoring or online tutoring. Online tutoring has become increasingly popular since the pandemic and offers more flexibility. You can use tools like Zoom or Google Meet to connect with students.
4. Set Your Rates: Research what other tutors charge for similar subjects in your area. Beginners might charge $20–$30 per hour, while more experienced tutors can charge $50–$80 or more.
5. Choose a Platform or Advertise Independently: You can join tutoring platforms like Wyzant, Tutor.com, or Superprof, or advertise independently through social media, flyers, or word of mouth.

Many tutors find that starting with a platform is easier because it connects you with students right away. However, platforms like Wyzant take a cut of your earnings (around 25% plus a 9% service fee), so you’ll need to factor that into your rates.

Finding Students and Platforms to Use

Finding students is key to making money as a tutor. Here are some effective ways to do it:

• Tutoring Platforms: Websites like Wyzant, Tutor.com, Superprof, and MyTutor connect tutors with students. Each has its own fees and requirements. Here’s a quick overview:

• Social Media: Use platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, or X to advertise your services. You can also join local college groups or forums.
• Word of Mouth: Let your friends, classmates, and professors know you’re available for tutoring. Referrals can lead to steady clients.
• Campus Resources: Check if your university has a tutoring center or bulletin boards where you can post your services.
• Online Marketplaces: Sites like Gumtree or local classifieds can also work, but be cautious about safety when meeting new clients.

One tutor shared on Reddit that they started by applying to multiple platforms like Wyzant and eventually built a client base through word of mouth. Another mentioned that tutoring niche subjects with high demand, like LSAT prep, can lead to higher earnings.

Setting Your Rates

Determining how much to charge is crucial for making tutoring profitable. Here’s how to set your rates:

• Experience and Qualifications: New tutors might start at $20–$30 per hour, while those with degrees or advanced knowledge can charge $50–$80 or more.
• Subject Matter: Some subjects pay more. For example, advanced math or science often commands higher rates than the humanities. Test prep (like SAT or ACT) can also be lucrative.
• Student Level: Tutoring high school students might pay differently than tutoring college students.
• Location: Rates can vary by region. Urban areas or wealthier neighborhoods might allow for higher rates.
• Platform Fees: If using a platform, account for their commission. For example, if Wyzant takes 25% plus 9%, you’ll need to set your rate higher to cover those fees.

Here’s a quick example: If you want to earn $50 per hour after fees on Wyzant, you might need to set your rate at around $70 per hour to account for the 25% platform fee and 9% service fee. According to Save the Student, tutors can earn £20–£55 per hour, but platform fees and taxes can reduce your take-home pay.

Pro tip: Don’t undervalue yourself. Higher rates can signal confidence and expertise. As one tutor on Reddit noted, charging more can sometimes attract wealthier clients who are willing to pay for quality.

Building Your Reputation

Your reputation as a tutor is everything. Here’s how to build a strong one:

• Be Reliable: Always show up on time and be prepared for sessions. Have a lesson plan ready.
• Communicate Effectively: Explain concepts clearly and be patient with students. Use examples they can relate to.
• Be Professional: Dress appropriately for in-person sessions and have a clean, quiet space for online tutoring.
• Seek Feedback: Ask students for reviews and testimonials. Positive reviews on platforms like Wyzant can attract more clients.
• Network: Encourage satisfied students to refer others. Word of mouth is powerful.

Many tutors find that their first few clients are the hardest to get, but once you have a few good reviews, more students will come their way. It’s also helpful to specialize in a niche where there’s high demand but low supply, like advanced math or test prep.

Legal and Financial Considerations

As a tutor, you’re essentially running your own small business. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Taxes: You’re self-employed, so you’ll need to handle your taxes. In the US, you may need to file as self-employed and pay self-employment taxes. Keep track of your income and expenses. In the UK, you’ll need to complete a self-assessment tax return if your earnings exceed the personal allowance of £12,570, as noted by Save the Student.
• Payments: Decide on a payment method, such as PayPal, Venmo, or cash for in-person sessions. Some platforms handle payments for you.
• Contracts: Consider having a simple contract outlining your rates, session times, and cancellation policies. It protects both you and your students.
• Background Checks: If tutoring minors, you might need a background check, depending on local laws. In the UK, a DBS check is recommended, costing around £18.

Tutoring can be a great way to earn money, but it’s important to stay organized and keep track of your finances.

Tips for Successful Tutoring

To make the most of your tutoring gigs, keep these tips in mind:

• Prepare Thoroughly: Review the material before each session and plan your lessons.
• Engage Your Students: Use interactive methods, ask questions, and encourage participation.
• Be Patient and Encouraging: Students may be frustrated; help them build confidence.
• Use Technology: For online tutoring, tools like screen sharing, whiteboards, or educational apps canEAD can make sessions more effective.
• Set Goals: Work with students to set achievable goals for each session and overall.
• Provide Feedback: Give constructive feedback on their progress and areas for improvement.
• Stay Organized: Keep track of your schedule, student information, and session工夫

session notes.

The Benefits of Tutoring for Tutors

Tutoring isn’t just about the money—it’s also about personal growth. Here are some benefits you might experience:

• Financial Independence: Earn money to cover expenses, save for the future, or pay off loans.
• Skill Development: Improve your communication, teaching, and time management skills.
• Networking: Meet new people, including students, parents, and other tutors.
• Personal Growth: Gain confidence and satisfaction from helping others succeed.
• Flexibility: Work when it suits you, around your academic schedule.

FAQs

1. Do I need a degree to tutor?
   While a degree can be beneficial, it’s not always necessary. You can tutor subjects you’re knowledgeable in, especially if you have high grades or relevant experience.
2. How much can I earn tutoring?
   Earnings vary, but you can typically charge between $20 and $80 per hour, depending on the subject and your experience. Some tutors earn over $100 per hour for high-demand subjects.
3. What subjects are in demand?
   Common subjects include math, science, languages, and test preparation (SAT, ACT, etc.). Niche subjects like advanced math or LSAT prep can command higher rates.
4. How do I find students?
   You can use tutoring platforms, social media, word of mouth, or advertise on campus. Platforms like Wyzant and Tutor.com are great starting points.
5. Is online tutoring better than in-person?
   Online tutoring offers more flexibility and a wider reach, but in-person tutoring can be more personal and effective for some students. It depends on your preferences and the students’ needs.

Conclusion

Tutoring in college is a rewarding way to make money while helping others and developing your skills. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can start your tutoring journey and potentially earn a significant income. Remember, the key is to start small, build your reputation, and continuously improve your services. So, if you’re wondering how to make money tutoring in college, now you have a clear path to follow.

Key Citations

• How to make $100,000 Income Tutoring and Teaching Online in 2021
• Best 2025 Online Tutoring Jobs For College Students
• How to become a tutor – Save the Student
• Become an Online Tutor – Tutor.com
• Superprof – Become a Tutor
• Wyzant – Become a Tutor
• Reddit: How do you make money as a tutor?
• PayPal – Payment Platform
• Venmo – Payment Platform
• Gumtree – Online Marketplace