Varsity Tutors is an online tutoring marketplace offering 1-on-1 instruction in 3,000+ subjects through 40,000+ vetted tutors, with options including scheduled sessions, 24/7 instant tutoring, and specialized homeschool support through their School@Home program.
What Is Varsity Tutors?
Varsity Tutors is one of the largest online tutoring services in the United States, offering private instruction across over 3,000 subjects from elementary academics through graduate-level coursework and professional certification prep. Unlike tutoring marketplaces where you browse and select tutors, Varsity Tutors uses an algorithm to match students with tutors based on learning goals, personality, and scheduling needs. Sessions happen via their Live Learning Platform featuring video chat, interactive whiteboard, and screen sharing. The company also offers 24/7 "instant tutoring" where students can connect with a tutor in as little as 15 seconds for on-demand help.
Key Takeaways
- Covers 3,000+ subjects with 40,000+ vetted tutors
- Pricing typically runs $70-100 per hour depending on package size
- 24/7 instant tutoring available for on-demand homework help
- Only 10% of tutor applicants are accepted after extensive vetting
- School@Home program offers specific support for homeschool families
How Matching and Sessions Work
After creating a learner profile and speaking with a consultant, Varsity Tutors' algorithm matches you with a tutor based on 100+ attributes. You don't browse or select your own tutor - the company makes the match. If the first match doesn't work out, they'll rematch you with a new tutor. Sessions use their proprietary platform with video, whiteboard, document sharing, and session recording for later review. The matching process typically takes 2-4 days before your first session.
Pricing Structure
Varsity Tutors doesn't publish prices on their website - you must speak with a sales representative to get quotes. Based on user reports, expect to pay $70-100 per hour depending on package size and commitment length. Monthly packages start around $349 for 4 hours ($87/hour) or $639 for 8 hours ($80/hour). Lower hourly rates require larger commitments. There's no pay-as-you-go option; you must purchase a package. The minimum buy-in is reportedly around $1,140 for 12 hours.
Varsity Tutors vs. Alternatives
ESA Eligibility
Tutoring services like Varsity Tutors generally qualify as ESA-eligible expenses in states with Education Savings Account programs. The company appears in some state marketplaces like ClassWallet. Verify current approval status in your specific state's ESA system before purchasing, as vendor registration can change. States including Arizona, Florida, Utah, and West Virginia allow tutoring as an approved expense category.
The Bottom Line
Varsity Tutors offers convenience and breadth - 3,000+ subjects, 24/7 availability, and professional vetting of tutors. The trade-off is cost: at $70-100 per hour with mandatory packages, it's significantly more expensive than alternatives like Wyzant. Reviews are mixed, with some families finding excellent matches and others describing tutor quality as "hit-or-miss." For homeschool families needing reliable, on-demand help across many subjects, the convenience may justify the premium. Budget-conscious families should compare costs carefully and consider alternatives that allow pay-as-you-go.
