How to Choose an Online Tutor for Your Child: 7 Things to Check
Online tutoring gives families access to specialist teachers anywhere in the world. But tutors vary widely in quality. Use this checklist to choose someone who will genuinely improve your child's results.
1. Subject qualifications
Look for a tutor with a degree in the subject they teach, ideally a Master's or higher for exam-level courses such as A Level, IB or AP. Strong subject knowledge means clearer explanations and fewer gaps.
2. Experience with your exact board
Cambridge, Edexcel, IB and College Board exams differ in format, mark schemes and command words. Ask the tutor which board they have taught and how they use past papers. A tutor who knows the mark scheme can teach your child how marks are actually awarded.
3. A real trial class
A good trial class is more than an introduction. The tutor should assess your child's level, teach something useful, and then give you honest feedback and a plan. Be cautious of anyone who will not offer a trial.
4. Regular progress updates
You should not have to guess how things are going. Look for tutors who share notes and homework after each class and send regular progress updates, so you can see improvement over time.
5. Safety and professionalism
- Classes should be on a recognised platform such as Google Meet or Zoom.
- Communication should happen in a group that includes a parent.
- Classes should not be recorded or shared without your permission.
6. Time zone and consistency
If you live abroad, make sure the tutor can teach reliably at times that suit your child's school day. Consistent weekly slots matter more than occasional long sessions.
7. Clear, fair pricing
Pricing should be transparent: price per class, how many classes a month, and what happens if a class is missed. Very low prices can mean less experienced tutors, while very high prices do not always mean better teaching.
A quick checklist
- Degree in the subject, ideally Master's or above
- Experience with your child's exam board
- A genuine free trial with feedback
- Notes, homework and progress updates
- Safe, parent-visible communication
- Reliable slots in your time zone
- Transparent monthly pricing
How Heights International Academy works
Heights tutors are subject specialists, most with a Master's degree or PhD and others with decades of teaching experience. Every student gets a free trial class, a WhatsApp class group with a parent included, notes and worksheets after each class, and regular progress updates. Meet our tutors or book a free trial class.
Questions parents and students ask
Are online tutors as effective as in-person tutors?
For most secondary-school subjects, yes, provided the tutor is well qualified, uses a digital whiteboard, and keeps the student actively working during the lesson.
How many tutoring classes a week does my child need?
Two classes a week suits most students. Students starting a subject from the basics, or preparing for exams within a few months, often benefit from three or more.
What should happen in a trial class?
The tutor should check your child's current level, teach a short topic, and then explain clearly what your child needs to work on and how many classes a week they recommend.