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Online Tutoring Jobs for College Students

By Emily Wong

Emily Wong is a writer at Scholarships360. She’s worked as a social media manager and a content writer at several different startups, where she covered various topics including business, tech, job recruitment, and education. Emily grew up and went to school in the Chicago suburbs, where she studied economics and journalism at Northwestern University.

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Edited by Maria Geiger

Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

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Updated: February 7th, 2024
Online Tutoring Jobs for College Students

For college students looking to make some money on the side, tutoring is one of the best gigs. Not only does it allow you to use the knowledge you’ve gained over the years, but it can also solidify your grasp of basic concepts that you’ll use in class. Many students also prefer online sessions, which means you can easily work from home. However, not all online tutoring jobs are created equal.

Before applying to be a tutor, you’ll want to think about what you’re looking for. Consider factors like availability, preferred subjects and hourly rate. Once you’ve figured out what you want in a job, you’ll be able to easily narrow down your options. Let’s talk about the top websites where you can find the right tutoring job for you.

Learn more: How to find online jobs for college students

Tutor.com

Founded in 1998, Tutor.com has been a leader in the online tutoring industry for over 20 years. The company has also expanded its reach into other areas of education, having acquired The Princeton Review in 2014. Tutor.com offers services in over 250 subjects to students from kindergarten through college. Their website also advertises that some clients are adult learners who want to learn more about a topic.

Application process

The process to become a tutor with Tutor.com is somewhat exhaustive, especially compared to some other websites. First, you need to fill out an application on the company website. If you’re approved to move forward, you’ll complete a timed subject test for the areas you’d like to teach. However, some tutors may qualify to skip the exam if they have the necessary certifications. Next, applicants will speak to a staff member in a virtual interview. Then, after logistical steps like application processing and profile creation, you’ll be able to start tutoring.

How it works

Tutors must tutor between 5-29 hours per week. Once approved, you can complete your hours through on-demand sessions, where you sign into the classroom and make yourself available to help students live. Tutors can also offer asynchronous review services, in which they go over students’ work and offer feedback.

Tutor.com doesn’t list a guaranteed rate on its website. Rates depend on the tutor’s expertise, what subject you’re tutoring in, and what state you live in. However, online sources like Glassdoor say that the hourly rate can range from $13 to $21 on average. Many tutors are appreciative of the flexibility and freedom to choose their own hours. However, some are frustrated at the limited number of hours, especially for new tutors.

Yup

If you pride yourself on your math skills, Yup could be the platform for you. The website offers tutoring in a variety of subjects, including early math, pre-algebra, geometry, calculus and standardized test prep.

Application process

In order to work at Yup, tutors can apply through a simple three-step process. First, you’ll need to submit a written application. After that, you’ll take a math proficiency exam to ensure that you meet the company’s standards. Finally, you’ll undergo a teaching exam designed to mimic a tutoring session. Once you’ve passed the last stage, you’ll be eligible to take on hours. Keep in mind it is a pretty rigorous exam, and only about 3% of applicants are accepted. 

How it works

Yup’s structure is a little unconventional. Rather than scheduling general one-on-one tutoring sessions, students will take a photo of a math problem and submit it on the website. Then, a tutor will connect with them, and they’ll solve the problem together. Tutors are trained to follow a framework called UPSCR, which stands for Understand, Plan, Solve, Check and Reflect.

On average according to Glassdoor, tutors at Yup make about $22 to $37 per hour. However, you’ll be paid for every minute that you’re logged in, even if you’re not teaching. Therefore, if you have some busywork to do while waiting for a student, you can feel free to multitask.

Some tutors have complained about the low pay at Yup, especially considering their high caliber. Others have taken issue with how every session is reviewed and scored, which may stress out tutors by making them feel the need to double-check every message to their students. However, the flexible work schedule makes Yup a good fit for many employees.

Wyzant

Wyzant is more of a tutoring job board than its own service. Rather than equipping tutors with their own teaching materials and strategies, they focus more on matching them with students. Even though signing up with Wyzant doesn’t guarantee clients, many tutors have reported getting a significant boost to business using it.

Application process

Since Wyzant doesn’t employ its own tutors, the sign-up process is relatively simple. All you have to do to be listed on the site is to create a profile. You’ll be prompted to select the subjects you’d like to tutor, write up a Free Response, list any certifications, upload a photo and read over the agreement. It may take a few days to process your submission. Then, once you’ve signed up, it’s your job to land your clients. Fortunately, Wyzant offers some resources and tips to get more jobs and grow your tutoring business.

How it works

All sessions offered on Wyzant are private one-on-one lessons. They can be online or in-person, depending on student’s and tutor’s availability. Tutors on Wyzant set their own rates, typically ranging from $30 to $60. If you’re just starting out, it can help to set lower prices initially in order to draw in clients. It’s also important to note that Wyzant takes 25% of the tutor’s hourly rate. Therefore, if you charge a client $30, you’re only taking home $22.50 at the end of the day.

As a tutor, you’re also responsible for completing paperwork for each session within five days. Wyzant will process all of your payments via direct deposit so you can receive them on the 1st and 15th of each month.

See also: Top financial tips for college students

Varsity Tutors

Similar to Wyzant, Varsity Tutors operates by connecting tutors with students. It offers tutoring in a wide variety of subjects for students K-12, from math and science to grammar and test prep. The website disclaims that tutors are independent contractors using their own teaching styles, methods and materials.

Application process

The initial application for Varsity Tutors only takes a few minutes to complete. You’ll answer some basic personal information and select subject areas to tutor. If you move onto the next stage, you’ll be asked to schedule a phone interview and complete some online testing. After that, you’ll be added to the roster.

How it works

Varsity Tutors offers online and in-person tutoring on an as needed basis. Students will reach out with their academic goals and needs, and Varsity Tutors will match them to a tutor who meets their specifications. Then, the tutor will contact the student to arrange a session online using the Live Learning Platform.

Tutors can also offer on-demand services, which means they have to accept requests from students as they arise. However, those who want to take those jobs have to act fast. Some report that the “instant session” link often disappears within 10 seconds.

While Varsity Tutor instructors can technically make $15-40 per hour, the average tutor makes around $18. Many tutors have complained about the rate, especially because it’s a small fraction of what clients pay. It can also be frustrating when tutors spend extra time outside of the session that they’re not compensated for. However, many still appreciate the freedom and flexibility of being able to choose which clients to accept.

Pear Deck Tutors

Once again, Pear Deck Tutors main focus is connecting tutors with students for one on one sessions. They also provide certain tools like virtual whiteboards and graphic calculators. Pear Deck Tutors also offers an asynchronous tutoring option for those adept in writing. This option is called a Writing Lab tutor that specially focuses on papers and essays. 

Application process

In order to be eligible, all tutors must be enrolled or already graduated from an accredited university. It’s also a plus to have some previous teaching or tutoring experience. When you apply, you’ll select your areas of expertise that you would be comfortable teaching. Once you have selected a primary subject, you’ll either have to take an assessment or do a one-way video interview to prove your knowledge. After your application is accepted, you’ll need to submit a background check before being good to go. 

How it works

This is a fully remote tutoring platform. Its selling point is that tutors don’t have to worry about doing their own scheduling and administration. They recommend that tutoring sessions be done live, but there are also chat options for additional questions. 

For this service you are able to make your own schedule and all tutors are paid weekly at a $16 per hour rate. Most teachers have considered the site to be very user friendly, with features like performance summaries at the end of each session. 

Cambly

Cambly is a tutoring service that focuses on teaching English to non-English speaking students, from kids to adults. It is a completely remote experience, as tutors teach English through video chatting. 

Application process

The Cambly application process is overall pretty simple. Start by making an account, then fill out an application form, which takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and that’s it! Following the submission of your form, you’ll receive an email letting you know if you are approved. Working for Cambly requires no teaching experience, teaching certificates or bachelor’s degree. 

How it works

In order to be a Cambly tutor, you must be comfortable with video chatting, as all tutors are required to have their camera on. This is because seeing mouth movements and facial expressions can be very important to English learners. 

Cambly tutors get paid weekly, based on how much they work. For those tutoring adults, the rate is $0.17 per minute ($10.20 per hour) and for those working with kids, the rate is $0.20 per minute ($12.00 per hour). Compared to other tutoring sites, this is definitely a lower rate but, Cambly does not require working a minimum of hours per week, so it can be a very flexible tutoring gig for those who do not have a set schedule. 

Blueprint

Blueprint is a learning resource mainly for students looking to go to law school, medical school or physician’s assistant school. This site is a remote first tutoring service that focuses on test preparation for high stakes exams like the MCAT and LSAT. 

Application process

The application process is mainly done through job boards like LinkedIn and Indeed. In order to be eligible, applicants must have received a certain score on the test they are looking to help people prepare for. For the LSAT, they must receive above a 173 and for the MCAT, they must receive above a 516. 

How it works

Blueprint offers flexible scheduling, but most tutors work between 10 and 20 hours a week. Blueprint will assign you students, so you can schedule your test prep sessions one on one. 

As for the rates, it depends on what exactly your role is. If you are doing basic test prep, the rate is $20 per hour. For one on one tutoring, the rate ranges from $40 to $45 per hour. This is a great option for college seniors or even post undergraduate students who are taking a gap year before going to professional schools. 

Advantages of a tutoring job

Tutoring jobs are a great opportunity for college students for a myriad of reasons. Let’s get into a few of the reasons why a tutoring job might be ideal for you:

  • Flexible hours allow you to work around your school schedule
  • Relatively higher pay than many other jobs for college students
  • Great boost to your resume and can prepare you for future academic positions such as a teaching assistant
  • Valuable work experience that can help you decide whether you’d like to pursue teaching

Additional Resources

For more advice on how to make money in college, check out the linked article. For other savvy money saving hacks for college students, check out how to save money in college and making a budget for college students. While you are in college, make sure that you continue to apply for all the scholarships you are eligible for!

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Frequently asked questions about online tutoring jobs for college students

Do I need prior teaching experience to become a tutor?

Prior teaching experience is always a plus, but not necessarily required. If you are looking to build some experience, look into peer tutoring opportunities at your university. This allows you to gain experience, as well as community service hours in many instances.

Do I have to have finished my degree in order to be a tutor?

Nope! Many tutoring services only require that you be enrolled in an accredited institution, making this a great gig for students trying to earn extra money while they are still in school.

Do I have to tutor in person?

Nope! There are plenty of remote tutoring opportunities where all you need is a computer and a good WiFi connection. Being able to video chat as well is usually preferred though.

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