How to become a tutor in the UK: rates, platforms and getting students (2026)
How to start tutoring as a side hustle in the UK: what tutors charge per hour, whether you need qualifications or a DBS check, tutoring platforms vs finding your own students, and tax.
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Do you need qualifications?
There is no legal qualification needed to tutor privately. What parents and students look for:
- A good grade or degree in the subject you teach.
- Knowledge of the exam board and syllabus, for GCSE and A level.
- Teaching or coaching experience, which helps but is not essential.
- A DBS check if you work with children. As a self-employed tutor you can apply for a basic DBS check yourself, and some tutoring platforms arrange a more detailed check.
What do tutors charge?
Tutorful's October 2026 data shows most families pay roughly £43 to £54 an hour:
| Level | Typical hourly rate |
|---|---|
| Primary | About £44 to £45 |
| 11 plus | About £47 to £54 |
| GCSE | About £46 to £48 |
| A level | About £49 to £50 |
| University | About £53 |
Source: Tutorful. New tutors often start nearer £30 and raise prices as reviews and results build up. London and specialist subjects pay more.
Online or in person?
- Online: no travel, a wider pool of students, and you can teach from home. A good webcam, headset and a digital whiteboard are enough.
- In person: often preferred for younger children, and you can charge for travel. Fewer students fit in an evening.
Platforms vs your own students
| Tutoring platforms | Your own students | |
|---|---|---|
| Finding students | Fast, with marketing done for you | Slower: word of mouth, local groups, school newsletters |
| Fees | The platform takes a commission | You keep everything |
| Payments | Handled for you | You invoice and chase payment |
| Best for | Getting started and building reviews | Once you have a reputation |
Many tutors start on a platform, then add private students through referrals.
How to get students
- Pick a clear niche: for example GCSE maths, 11 plus or A level chemistry.
- Create a strong profile with your experience, results and a friendly photo.
- Ask for reviews from every happy student or parent.
- Plan around the exam calendar: demand peaks from January to May.
- Offer a short trial lesson so parents can see your style.
Tax on tutoring income
Private tutoring is self-employed income. If you earn more than £1,000 in a tax year (£3,000 from April 2027), register for Self Assessment. You can claim costs like resources, software, travel to students and a share of your phone and internet, or take the trading allowance instead.
Free toolSide hustle tax calculatorSee how much tax and National Insurance you owe on side income, and what to set aside each month.Common questions
How much can I earn as a part-time tutor?
At £40 an hour, five lessons a week is £200 a week before tax and costs. Demand is highest during term time and the run-up to exams.
Can I tutor without a degree?
Yes, especially for primary and GCSE levels, as long as you know the subject well and can teach it. Some platforms ask for a degree or relevant experience.
Do I need insurance to tutor?
Public liability insurance is a good idea, particularly if you tutor in person. Some platforms include cover.
This is general information, not personal tax or financial advice. Tax rules change and depend on your circumstances, so check GOV.UK or speak to an accountant before acting.