How to Become a Private Tutor in the UK
Private tutoring is one of the most flexible forms of self-employment in the UK. You set your own rate, choose your own hours, and work with students on a one-to-one basis. There are no formal qualifications required and you can start earning within days of registering.
Private Tutor vs Platform Tutor — What is the Difference?
A private tutor typically finds their own clients through word of mouth, local advertising, or their personal network. A platform tutor registers on a marketplace like TheTutorLink, which connects them with students actively searching for tutors online.
The two approaches are not mutually exclusive. Most successful tutors combine both: they build a base of word-of-mouth referrals while their platform profile brings in new students from Google.
What Do You Need to Become a Private Tutor?
- Subject expertise — strong grades or professional experience in the subject you want to teach
- Communication skills — the ability to explain concepts clearly to students of different abilities
- Reliability — consistent attendance and preparation builds trust with students and parents
- A DBS check (recommended) — required by most parents when tutoring children under 18
- A PayPal account — for receiving payments via TheTutorLink
How Much Can You Earn as a Private Tutor?
| Hours per Week | Rate (£/hr) | Monthly Earnings | You Keep (95%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 hrs/wk | £30 | £600 | £570 |
| 10 hrs/wk | £35 | £1,400 | £1,330 |
| 20 hrs/wk | £40 | £3,200 | £3,040 |
| 30 hrs/wk | £50 | £6,000 | £5,700 |
Private tutors in the UK earn more per hour than most employed positions at similar qualification levels. Working 15–20 hours per week at £35–£45/hr generates a full-time income.
Setting Your Hourly Rate
Factors that influence your rate:
- Subject — Maths, Sciences, and Economics command higher rates than most humanities
- Level — A-Level tutors earn more than GCSE tutors; university tutoring earns the most
- Qualifications — a first-class degree or teaching experience justifies higher rates
- Experience — raise your rate annually as your review count grows
- Location — London rates are typically 20–30% higher than the rest of the UK
Start 10–15% below the market rate for your subject, build five or more strong reviews, then raise your price.
Tax and Self-Employment for Private Tutors
As a private tutor you are self-employed. Key points:
- Register with HMRC as self-employed when earnings exceed £1,000/year
- Complete a self-assessment tax return each year (deadline: 31 January)
- Keep records of all income and allowable expenses (equipment, broadband, home office)
- The personal allowance for 2025/26 is £12,570 — most part-time tutors pay little or no income tax
- National Insurance contributions may be due above £12,570
Why Register on TheTutorLink?
| Platform | Tutor Commission | Monthly Fees | Set Your Own Rate? |
|---|---|---|---|
| TheTutorLink | 95% (you keep) | None | Yes |
| Tutorful | ~75–85% | None | Yes |
| MyTutor | ~70% | None | No (set by platform) |
| Superprof | ~90% | ~£30/mo subscription | Yes |
| Explore Learning | Hourly wage only | N/A | No |
TheTutorLink handles student discovery, booking management, and payments — so you can focus entirely on teaching. Register free, list your subjects, and start appearing in front of students searching on Google and the platform today.
Register as a Private Tutor — Free
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register a business to become a private tutor?
No. Most private tutors in the UK operate as sole traders (self-employed individuals) — there is no need to set up a limited company. Simply register with HMRC as self-employed and report your tutoring income on your annual tax return.
Can I tutor privately and have another job?
Yes. Many tutors start part-time alongside a day job or their studies. HMRC will combine your income sources when calculating tax. Inform your primary employer if your contract requires it.
How do I advertise as a private tutor?
The most effective channels are: (1) a listing on TheTutorLink which ranks on Google, (2) word-of-mouth referrals from existing students, (3) local Facebook groups and community boards, and (4) school noticeboards if in-person tutoring. A complete TheTutorLink profile is the fastest route to consistent bookings.
Become a Private Tutor — Register Free on TheTutorLink
Related: How to Become a Tutor | Become an Online Tutor | How to Become a Maths Tutor