Top SAT Tutors near You: the 10 Best Services of 2023, According to Insiders

Last Modified Date: February 09, 2024

Every year, millions of high school students take the SAT as part of the college admissions process. Their test scores influence college acceptance and potential scholarship awards, so it’s natural to feel stressed about the pressure. Preparing for the SAT exam is an intricate process, but one that becomes much more manageable with the help of a qualified SAT instructor that students can rely on for personalized support and guidance.

A Quick Look at Some Top Picks for SAT Tutoring

Best Overall: Learner
Best for On-the-Go: Varsity Tutors
Best Pedigree: The Princeton Review

Compare the Best 3 Services

When the right SAT prep tutor could be the key to unlocking your child's full potential, it’s crucial to choose an expert who can meet your child’s needs. Though paying attention in school is a good first step to succeeding on the SAT, tutoring is an effective method to prepare and build confidence ahead of exam day. The best SAT tutors work with students to understand their learning styles, objectives, subject comprehension, and confidence to develop a customized strategy to maximize their scores.

With so many online services and tutoring platforms available, we've compiled the top ten platforms for SAT tutors to help you with your research, each with unique benefits, and we'll walk you through how to choose the best one for your goals.

Top 10 SAT Tutoring Services

After carefully reviewing dozens of SAT tutoring platforms, we’ve found the best services to help with SAT prep and give parents peace of mind. Here are our top 10 picks:

1. Learner

Learner offers one-on-one online tutoring services for several subjects, including SAT prep. The company only works with exceptional SAT tutors with at least a four-year degree and relevant teaching experience. Learner prioritizes personalized instruction and ensures you work with a qualified tutor based on your child’s needs, learning style, and SAT score goals. After answering a few questions on their website, a Learner specialist will match you with a compatible SAT prep tutor, and the first session is free.

In addition to Learner’s excellent customer service, we like the user-friendly and interactive platform that parents seem to love. The online interface makes it easy for students to connect with their private SAT tutor and practice in real-time with virtual learning tools. After each session, your Learner tutor sends a detailed progress report so you can track their improvement, which helps ensure students are ready by test day.

But what does their tutoring cost? Pricing starts at $7055 an hour, and Learner stands behind its SAT tutors with a full satisfaction guarantee. And because each one-on-one lesson is geared to the individual and only the areas they need to focus on, students can get more value out of the hours they pay for.

Pros

Wide access to highly qualified SAT tutors
The stress-free matching service ensures you get the best tutor for your child
Satisfaction guarantee and free first session
Intuitive virtual platform with helpful learning tools

Cons

Some services may be more affordable
Only offers online tutoring, which could deter those looking for in-person sessions

Bottom Line: Learner SAT tutors are the best in the industry, offering one-on-one sessions with personalized guidance and feedback. Whether your child needs help with SAT fundamentals, specific subjects, or test strategy, Learner’s private SAT tutors will teach them the skills they need to maximize their test score.

2. Varsity Tutors

Varsity Tutors offers online tutoring for several academic subjects and standardized test prep. The company has a large network of instructors and uses a matching algorithm to find a compatible SAT expert. Then your SAT tutor works with your child to understand their learning profile and what goals to set.

SAT tutoring at Varsity Tutors usually involves a combination of practice tests, worksheets, and time management strategies. The company’s SAT tutors provide personalized materials and lesson plans, but the plans are flexible depending on the student’s progress. Since all tutoring takes place online, arranging sessions around your schedule is easy.

Varsity Tutors charge different rates based on the SAT tutor and type of services, and unclear information upfront could deter some customers, but prices can start around $50 to $60 an hour.

Pros

Flexible scheduling and tutor availability
Access to a large network of tutors in multiple subject areas
Family members can share tutoring hours

Cons

Pricing isn’t disclosed upfront and may be more expensive than other services
Long matching and application process

Bottom Line: Varsity Tutors offers a tailored, results-driven approach to SAT prep that consumers keep coming back to. While the company has a vast network of tutors across several subject areas, the quality may vary, and other services are less expensive.

3. Wyzant

Wyzant is a useful tutoring platform that connects students with qualified tutors either in person or online. Instead of matching you with a compatible SAT tutor, Wyzant provides a list of tutors according to your search criteria in a job board-style setup. You can set filters for price, instruction format, availability, SAT subject, and more.

Parents or students who already know what kind of tutor they want may appreciate the simplicity of Wyzant. The lists of tutors highlight their experience, hourly rate, and student reviews, giving you a clear idea of what to expect. Once you pick your instructor, you book a convenient meeting time, which is covered by a satisfaction guarantee. However, if you don’t know exactly what you’re looking for or the skill that best suits your needs, this structure could quickly become overwhelming.

Prices range from $20 to well over $300 per hour, depending on the tutoring services, so be sure to compare and check each listing to see if it’s the kind of service you desire and in your budget.

Pros

Extensive network of SAT tutors with varying specialties
Easy-to-use website and search tool
Option for in-person or online tutoring
Students and parents can choose their own tutor

Cons

The quality of tutors can vary
Without a matching specialist, the process can take longer—and potentially be less successful

Bottom Line: Wyzant is an excellent SAT tutoring company for students who know what kind of tutor they need. The platform makes finding and comparing tutors easy, but some families will find a matching tutoring service more convenient and streamlined.

4. TutorMe

TutorMe is an innovative online platform that offers on-demand SAT tutoring services to help students and institutions achieve the best possible SAT scores. TutorMe specifically works with K–12 schools and colleges to provide tutoring services, but they also assist individual families in finding one-on-one tutoring and SAT math prep help. After booking a call with a support specialist, TutorMe will find the right tutor based on your child’s learning objectives.

The company offers long-term tutoring plans starting at $26 per hour for a minimum of eight hours a month, and on-demand support costs around $1 per minute. TutorMe also offers help with college subjects, making it a good choice for students who want extra support as they transition into college.

Pros

Large selection of tutors for multiple subjects and grade levels
Several pricing tiers and support options
User-friendly platform with helpful features

Cons

Package and service pricing need clarity
On-demand support varies in quality

Bottom Line: For access to credible SAT tutors and consistent test prep plans, TutorMe is one of the leading platforms available, making it a convenient choice for students who want multiple support options.

5. Chegg

Students who want on-demand homework help, exam prep, and study tips should try Chegg for their SAT tutoring needs. Rather than matching students with tutors, Chegg is an online platform with a subscription model that gives members access to various resources to improve academic performance and proficiency. Chegg is especially helpful for math subjects, whether elementary or college.

Although Chegg is a different kind of SAT prep platform, it’s a great option for self-sufficient students who would rather practice independently. It’s easy to navigate and contains numerous helpful resources, costing only $15 per month. Even though it doesn’t provide personalized learning plans, Chegg is still a valuable resource for improving SAT scores with the right discipline.

Pros

Affordable price with no commitment means more flexibility
Support for homework, test prep, and writing
Great for students who like to work on their own

Cons

No personalized tutoring services are available
Lacks SAT-specific study material
Students must make their own SAT study plan to benefit from Chegg

Bottom Line: If you need occasional study or homework help, Chegg is a great resource and can make SAT prep easier on a budget. Nonetheless, those looking specifically for an SAT tutor and practice tests would likely be better suited to a different company.

6. Revolution Prep

One of the more premium SAT tutoring services on the market, Revolution Prep specializes in test prep and academic subject tutoring. Prices start at $42 an hour for group test prep sessions up to eight students, and one-on-one private services will cost nearly $117 an hour, or about $1,400 upfront.

Revolution Prep tutors are full-time employees who frequently undergo training and development to stay up-to-date with SAT format changes. Your instructor will create a personalized learning plan regardless of which SAT tutoring plan you choose, but the quality of the attention your child receives will decline in larger groups. Additionally, Revolution Prep hosts webinars, connects with academic counselors, and proctors practice SAT exams to help students prepare.

Pros

Qualified team of full-time tutors with extensive experience
Personalized and group SAT tutor plans available
Access to additional resources for students and parents

Cons

Expensive SAT tutoring and may have additional fees
Not as much individual attention with group sessions

Bottom Line: Revolution Prep is a premier option for parents with a big SAT tutoring budget, but the pricing structure could be clearer to help students decide if this style is right for them.

7. The Princeton Review

The Princeton Review is among the most respected educational services and offers online courses, private SAT tutoring, and free study resources. With over 35 years of experience, The Princeton Review has developed an effective approach to SAT preparation. Their in-person and online SAT services further help students who need one-on-one support.

The Princeton Review SAT tutoring services start at $175 an hour and give you access to a customized learning plan, practice tools, and SAT review books. While this is a high price compared to other SAT tutoring providers, students receive numerous tools that can help them raise their SAT score. Moreover, the company claims it will refund your tuition if you don’t score higher on the exam, or they will find a different tutor if you’re not satisfied with the first session.

Pros

Great customer service and money-back guarantee
Includes multiple resources with the tutoring service
Easy-to-use online platform

Cons

No matching service or specialty team
Private tutoring lessons are expensive

Bottom Line: The Princeton Review is an excellent SAT tutoring service for students who grasp the core topics but need help raising their scores or developing a test-taking strategy.

8. Yup

Yup is a unique on-demand tutoring service that connects students with a qualified SAT math tutor through a smartphone app. The service primarily focuses on math comprehension, which ranges in grade levels and difficulty, making this an attractive option for students who only need assistance with the subject.

Instead of regularly meeting with a tutor, the Yup app allows students to communicate online with an instructor, discuss homework problems, and annotate on a virtual whiteboard whenever they need assistance. Teachers can also review student progress and gather insights based on their performance. Prices start at $199 a month, with a discount if you purchase for the year.

Pros

Perfect for students who don’t want to meet over video conference
Unlimited access and tutor support
Students can reference previous sessions

Cons

High monthly price
Some students may want access outside of the app
Doesn’t have personalized SAT preparation

Bottom Line: Students who want instant homework help and SAT tutor assistance can benefit from Yup, but other options cost less and provide more personalized support.

9. Tutor Doctor

Offering in-person and online tutoring, Tutor Doctor specializes in standardized test prep and academic subject assistance. The company’s team includes teachers from over a dozen countries, which is helpful for international students and families.

Tutor Doctor only offers personalized and one-on-one tutoring sessions, giving students direct support and feedback as they progress through SAT prep. After matching with the right SAT tutor, students will take a diagnostic exam to determine their strengths and areas for improvement.

Online sessions range between $40 to over $80 per hour, and students can access recordings of their previous sessions. In-person rates will vary depending on your location, but the Tutor Doctor team will review pricing during your initial consultation.

Pros

In-person and online tutoring options
Qualified team of tutors from multiple countries
Personalized services and learning plans
Free initial consultation and learning assessment

Cons

Final pricing may change after the assessment
The quality of the in-person locations can vary

Bottom Line: Tutor Doctor offers personalized SAT tutoring and specializes in several other academic subjects. While its pricing may be confusing, it’s a great option for finding a reliable SAT tutor.

10. Skooli

Students, parents, schools, and organizations work with Skooli for homework help and digital classroom support. Skooli only works with qualified and experienced teachers who are licensed, ensuring quality and credibility. While they don’t have SAT-specific tutoring services, Skooli covers a range of subjects, including the ones on the exam. For self-motivated and capable students, Skooli is an excellent resource to have on hand, and it only costs around $1 per minute for 24/7 support.

Students needing immediate homework support or instructor advice may like Skooli due to its on-demand services. However, the company doesn’t offer long-term tutoring sessions or individual lesson plans.

Pros

Great value for short sessions and instructor help
Works for students who only need help from time to time
Qualified and licensed tutors

Cons

Some students may need more assistance than offered
Tutors change from session to session
No long-term services

Bottom Line: Skooli is a convenient and innovative online learning platform that makes school work more manageable, but some students may need a dedicated tutor with SAT-specific learning objectives.

How to Find the Right Online SAT Tutor for Your Needs

Before agreeing to work with an online tutoring service, you want to verify they fit your child’s needs. Here are some tips to consider when selecting the best SAT tutor for you:

Use a credible online tutoring platform: Look for well-known and established tutoring platforms specializing in SAT prep, such as Learner, Wyzant, or Varsity Tutors. These services connect you with a range of qualified experts who can help your child prepare for the SAT. Additionally, credible online tutoring platforms often provide either a money-back guarantee if you’re unsatisfied with the tutor or will rematch your child based on your feedback.
Research tutor credentials: You want to choose a tutor with a strong background in SAT subjects, including math, reading, writing, and language. Their knowledge should involve a Bachelor’s degree, relevant subject certifications, teaching experience, or a combination of these qualifications. However, if your child only needs help in a specific subject area, consider finding a subject-specific tutor with relevant qualifications.
Check reviews and ratings: Evaluating tutors' ratings and testimonials is a great way to get a feel for their teaching style and results. The best tutors have positive reviews from students and parents with similar SAT tutoring needs to yours, so be sure to check for related reviews during your research.
Ask for recommendations: Your child’s school, teachers, counselors, and fellow parents have likely had experiences with SAT tutoring in the past. Ask them if they’ve worked with a helpful tutor or know how to find one based on your child’s needs. You can also have your student ask their classmates for recommendations.
Arrange an interview: Once you’ve narrowed your search to a few potential tutors, schedule an interview online or in-person to see who fits best. Get to know their teaching style, experience, rate, and availability. You can also ask them to explain an example SAT tutoring concept or problem-solving technique to see how they approach their tutoring sessions. Look for a tutor who communicates effectively and understands how to adjust based on the student’s understanding of the topics.

How We Chose the Best Online SAT Tutoring Services

We analyzed dozens of SAT tutoring services, so you don’t have to. When creating our methodology for the best of the best, we considered several factors:

Quality of Tutors

Due to its complexity, SAT tutoring is unique compared to other subject areas. Consequently, we looked for companies that hire tutors with a deep understanding of the SAT exam, which necessitates having a relevant degree, certifications, and teaching experience. Companies that require their tutors to have high SAT scores or a graduate degree go a step further to demonstrate their commitment to quality tutors.

Personalized Learning Plans

The best SAT tutoring companies offer learning plans tailored to each student’s skill levels and comprehension instead of following a universal teaching plan like in a classroom setting. We recommend tutoring services that offer an initial assessment to determine your student’s strengths and opportunities and, based on their analysis, create a learning plan to help them improve. This approach is more effective for your child’s needs and allows for flexibility based on their progress.

Effective Strategies and Techniques

In addition to refining your child’s subject knowledge, an SAT tutor should help them improve their test-taking skills and strategies. We prioritize tutoring services that use helpful techniques to help students master the exam, such as practice tests and pacing tips. The best services offer updated materials and resources that reflect the latest changes to the SAT, giving students targeted exercises and guidance to reach their potential.

Flexible Scheduling and Availability

In the months leading up to the SAT, you want to have a tutor who’s easy to get a hold of and flexible. Your student may have immediate questions and need feedback to stay on track, so we looked for services that prioritize availability and convenience. Online services like Learner make it easy to get in touch with your child’s tutor, giving you access anytime you have an internet connection.

Interface and Resources

In today’s day and age, students are used to learning with technology, and the best SAT tutoring services take advantage of the latest resources to enhance the experience. We emphasized services that use online learning tools, like interactive whiteboards, video conferencing, recorded sessions, and virtual assessments, to give your child a full suite of tools to prepare for the SAT.

The Benefits of Online SAT Tutoring

Preparing for the SAT is often stressful for students, but online tutoring can make it more bearable. Here are the top benefits of using an online tutoring service for the SAT:

Customized Learning

Online SAT tutoring allows for a tailored learning experience based on the student’s needs, and this attention often doesn’t come in large group tutoring centers. Since your child works with a tutor directly, they can adjust the pace and teaching plan based on performance. Dedicated attention and feedback make your child more likely to realize their potential on the SAT, leading to better academic outcomes and test scores.

Flexibility

With online tutoring, your student can choose when and where they want to study. This convenience is especially helpful for busy families who juggle sports schedules and extracurricular commitments. Whether it’s easier to dedicate SAT tutoring time on the weekends or before practice, online tutors can work with your schedule regardless of where and when you can meet. Likewise, online tutoring removes another stop on your daily commute and allows you to meet wherever is convenient.

Affordability

While every tutoring service and tutor will have their own rates, online platforms are typically more affordable than in-person equivalent services. One-on-one in-person tutoring can be quite expensive, especially in short-staffed areas, whereas students have greater access to qualified tutors online. Online tutors don’t have to travel and can provide services wherever they want, allowing them to offer more competitive rates.

Enhanced Learning Experience

Online SAT tutoring uses the latest technology and tools to improve the overall learning experience. While some in-person tutoring programs integrate technology into their services, online SAT platforms are designed to be more engaging and interactive due to the virtual setting. Online SAT tutors can record lessons, provide instant feedback, and monitor progress to make it more convenient and accessible for you and your child.

Greater Confidence

Aside from understanding the core topics, students must feel confident in their abilities if they want to succeed on the SAT. Online tutors can help them build greater trust in their skills by providing personalized support and guidance. The more your child works with an SAT tutor, the better they will understand their strengths and what to continue working on. With the right prep, they’ll start exam day feeling prepared and equipped to navigate through the test.

Our Final Thoughts

Finding the right tutor to help your student prepare for the SAT and improve their test scores is not a decision to take lightly. When it comes to all-around tutor quality, affordability, and value to students, Learner is our top recommendation. If you’re ready to work with some of the best SAT tutors, get matched with an expert today!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you still have lingering questions, check out some of the queries below that parents often ask:

Who should use online SAT tutoring services?

Anyone can benefit from online SAT tutoring services, but students needing personalized guidance and convenience should look for one. Even if a student excels in the SAT subjects, reviewing test-taking tips with an online tutor is helpful.

How much does SAT tutoring cost?

Every SAT tutor and online service will have different rates depending on how often you meet, desired services, and the tutor’s qualifications. It’s best to check with each service during your initial consultation to determine the cost based on the scope of the work.

What are the pros of using online SAT tutoring services?

Online SAT tutoring services are more convenient and offer greater access to a range of tutors worldwide. They also allow your child to connect individually, ensuring they receive personalized instruction and feedback.

What are the cons of using online SAT tutoring services?

Students who prefer face-to-face interaction won’t likely want to use an online tutoring platform. And with any virtual platform, it’s always possible to encounter technical difficulties and inconveniences like slow internet speeds.