How much does a private tutor cost in the UK?
Prices checked Oct 23, 2026
A private tutor in the UK usually costs £30 to £50 an hour, and the national average sits around £35 to £40. Primary tutoring is cheaper, A-level and university subjects cost more, and London adds 15 to 25 percent on top.
Typical UK tutoring prices by level
| Level | Typical price (per hour) |
|---|---|
| Primary school | £20 – £40 |
| GCSE | £30 – £55 |
| A-level | £35 – £70 |
| University | £50 – £100 |
One-to-one lessons with an independent tutor, in pounds sterling. Agencies usually charge more for the same tutor.
Prices by region
Location changes the price more than anything except the level. TutorCruncher's 2026 figures put London at £50 to £65 an hour, Surrey and the Home Counties at £45 to £60, Manchester at £40 to £55 and the North East at £28 to £40.
Exam season and the 11+
Demand peaks in the spring before GCSE and A-level exams, and in the year before the 11+ in areas with grammar schools. Good tutors fill up early, and some raise their rates for intensive revision in April and May. If you want a regular slot, book in September.
Agency or independent tutor
Platforms such as Tutorful show average rates of about £36 for GCSE and £42 for A-level. Some platforms take a commission from the tutor, and premium London agencies can charge £80 or more an hour. An independent tutor with the same experience usually costs less, but you do the checking yourself: ask for a DBS certificate and references.
Common questions
How much is a GCSE maths tutor?
Most GCSE maths tutors charge £30 to £55 an hour. Outside London, £35 to £40 is a common price for an experienced tutor.
Do I pay VAT on private tutoring?
Most independent tutors earn under the VAT threshold and don't charge VAT. Agencies may add it, so check whether a quote includes VAT.
Is online tutoring cheaper in the UK?
Usually a little. The tutor saves travel time, so many offer online lessons for £5 to £10 less than home visits.
Where these numbers come from
These ranges combine published price guides, tutoring platforms and pay surveys. They are estimates, not official rates. Real quotes depend on the tutor, the subject and the city.
Tutor for a living?
TutorPing keeps your schedule, lesson notes, parent updates and invoices in one place. The free plan covers up to 10 students.