What Does Tutoring Actually Cost in 2026?
Tutoring prices vary by subject, level, location, and whether sessions are online or in-person. Here's an honest breakdown based on what families across the UK are actually paying.
Average Rates by Level
| Level | Online | In-Person (Outside London) | In-Person (London) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary (KS1/KS2) | £20–£35/hr | £22–£40/hr | £35–£55/hr |
| KS3 (Years 7–9) | £22–£38/hr | £25–£42/hr | £35–£55/hr |
| GCSE | £25–£42/hr | £28–£48/hr | £40–£65/hr |
| A-Level | £30–£50/hr | £32–£55/hr | £45–£75/hr |
| 11+ | £30–£50/hr | £30–£55/hr | £45–£70/hr |
| University | £35–£60/hr | £40–£65/hr | £50–£80/hr |
What Affects the Price?
- Subject: Maths and sciences generally command higher rates than humanities, because qualified tutors are in shorter supply.
- Qualifications: A qualified teacher with classroom experience typically charges more than a university student. Both can be effective — it depends on what your child needs.
- Location: London is 20–40% more expensive than the rest of England. Scotland and Wales are generally cheaper. Northern cities sit in between.
- Online vs in-person: Online sessions are typically 10–15% cheaper because the tutor doesn't need to travel.
- Specialist subjects: Oxbridge preparation, SEN tutoring, and niche A-Level subjects (Further Maths, Mandarin, Latin) command premium rates.
Agency vs Independent
Tutoring agencies add a margin — typically 20–40% on top of what the tutor receives. Platforms like NearMeTutor offer a middle ground: vetted, qualified tutors at rates closer to what you'd pay going direct, with the convenience of matching and quality assurance.
How Many Hours Per Week?
Most families book one hour per week per subject. At GCSE level, this means a monthly cost of roughly £100–£200 depending on rates. Some families increase to two sessions per week approaching exams, but for most students, consistency matters more than volume.
Is It Worth It?
The honest answer: it depends on the tutor and the student. A good tutor working with a willing student typically produces measurable improvement within a term. But tutoring isn't magic — it requires the student to engage, practise between sessions, and attend consistently.
If budget is a concern, online tutoring offers the same quality at lower rates. Even one session per fortnight can make a difference if it's well-targeted.
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