How many tutors should I interview before choosing?

We recommend speaking with at least 2–3 tutors or prep companies before committing. Most offer free consultations, so take advantage of them to compare teaching styles, program structures, and personalities. Your student should be part of at least one of these conversations.

What qualifications should a good SAT/ACT tutor have?

Look for tutors who have high personal test scores (ideally 99th percentile), several years of experience specifically with the SAT or ACT, familiarity with the current test format (especially the digital SAT), and positive reviews from past families. Formal teaching credentials are a plus but not required.

Is it better to hire an independent tutor or a prep company?

It depends on your priorities. Independent tutors offer maximum flexibility and personalization. Prep companies provide structured programs, proprietary materials, and backup if your tutor is unavailable. Consider your student’s learning style, schedule, and budget when deciding.

How do I know if my student's tutor is working?

Track progress by comparing practice test scores over time. A good tutor should be able to show measurable improvement after 4–6 weeks. Regular communication about what’s being covered, homework assignments, and practice test results are all signs of an effective tutoring relationship.

How to Choose the Right SAT & ACT Tutor in Philadelphia

Start with Your Student's Needs

Before comparing tutors, take a moment to assess what your student actually needs. A student who struggles with reading comprehension has different needs than one who freezes during timed math sections. Understanding the starting point helps you match with a tutor whose strengths align with your student's challenges.

Independent Tutor vs. Prep Company vs. Franchise

Independent tutors often provide the most personalized attention and flexible scheduling. They typically have deep expertise and can fully customize their approach. However, availability may be limited and there's no team behind them for backup.

Prep companies offer structured programs, proprietary materials, and a team of tutors. They often provide a more comprehensive experience (diagnostics, progress tracking, practice tests) but may have less flexibility in scheduling or approach.

Franchises (Kaplan, Sylvan, Huntington, etc.) provide brand consistency and proven curricula. They're often a reliable choice but may feel less personalized than independent options.

Key Questions to Ask Before Committing

What is your experience specifically with the SAT or ACT (not just general tutoring)?
What were your own standardized test scores?
How do you customize your approach for each student?
What does a typical program timeline look like?
Do you offer a diagnostic assessment before starting?
How do you track progress and communicate results?
What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?
Can you provide references from past families?

Red Flags to Watch For

Score guarantees with no context: Be cautious of claims like "guaranteed 200-point improvement" without understanding your student's starting level.
One-size-fits-all approach: Effective test prep requires personalization. If a tutor uses the same plan for everyone, that's a concern.
No diagnostic assessment: Any quality tutor should want to understand your student's current level before recommending a plan.
Large upfront commitments: Be wary of programs requiring you to prepay for many hours upfront with no refund policy.
Unfamiliarity with current test format: The SAT has changed significantly in recent years. Your tutor should be current.

Online vs. In-Person Tutoring

Both formats can be highly effective. Online tutoring offers scheduling flexibility and access to tutors regardless of geography. In-person tutoring can provide structure and accountability that some students need. Many families in the Greater Philadelphia area find a hybrid approach works best.

What to Expect on Pricing

Test prep pricing varies widely in the Philadelphia area. Independent tutors typically charge $50-$200 per hour, while premium prep companies may charge $150-$300+ per hour. Many offer package pricing that can bring the effective hourly rate down. Free consultations are common and a great way to gauge fit before committing.

See our full breakdown of test prep costs →

Tutor Type Comparison

Factor	Independent Tutor	Prep Company	Franchise
Personalization	⭐⭐⭐ Highest	⭐⭐ Moderate	⭐ Standardized
Scheduling Flexibility	⭐⭐⭐ Most flexible	⭐⭐ Moderate	⭐ Fixed schedules
Proprietary Materials	⭐ Varies	⭐⭐⭐ Yes, custom	⭐⭐ Brand curriculum
Progress Tracking	⭐⭐ Varies	⭐⭐⭐ Structured	⭐⭐ Standardized
Price Range	$50–$200/hr	$75–$300/hr	$30–$150/hr
Best For	Students needing tailored approach	Families wanting comprehensive programs	Budget-conscious, structured learners

Ready to Start Comparing?

Browse our directory to compare tutors in your area, read reviews, and find the right fit for your family:

How to Choose the Right SAT + ACT Tutor