What Is a Tutoring Contract?
A tutoring contract is a written agreement between a tutor and a client. The client is typically a parent or guardian, rather than the student. It explains the tutoring service, payment terms, and basic responsibilities of each side.
Tutoring differs from classroom teaching. Tutors provide private instruction, often outside of a school setting. They are usually hired directly by parents or tutoring businesses. Many tutoring contracts treat the tutor as an independent contractor, not an employee. Having a written contract helps set clear expectations from the start for both the tutor and the client.
When Should You Use a Tutoring Contract?
You should use a tutoring contract whenever tutoring services are being provided, and both parties want clear terms in place. A tutoring contract agreement can be especially helpful when:
- Tutoring will happen on a regular or ongoing basis
- Tutoring is arranged online or remotely
- Payment is arranged as an hourly rate, a package fee, or a monthly amount
- The tutor is working directly with a student or through a parent, guardian, or other paying client
A written tutoring contract agreement helps establish clear expectations, outlines payment terms, and defines the responsibilities of both parties. It also helps clarify aspects such as cancellations, no-shows, and session length.
Do You Need a License to Be a Tutor?
Most states do not require a general license to work as a private tutor. However, some states or local governments may require a business license or additional steps when working with minors. Requirements can vary by location, so it’s important to check with your state and local rules before offering tutoring services.
How to Write a Tutoring Contract?
Your tutoring contract should clearly outline the arrangement for both the tutor and the student. Here’s what you should include:
Identify the Parties
Begin by listing the parties involved in the agreement. This includes the tutor and the paying client, such as a parent, guardian, or adult student. If the student is a minor, list the parent or guardian as the client, since they are typically responsible for payment. Include details such as the full names and addresses of both parties, along with any relevant contact information.
Describe the Tutoring Services
Clearly explain what tutoring services will be provided to the student. Being specific here helps prevent misunderstandings about what is included in the tutoring service. Make sure to specify things like:
- The subject or subjects being taught
- Whether tutoring will be online or in-person
- How often sessions will occur and how long they will last
Set Payment Terms
State how and when the tutor will be paid. Include things like the rate (such as hourly, per session, or package pricing), the due date, and accepted payment methods.
Include Termination Terms
Be sure to specify when the contract can end or be terminated. You should clearly state whether either party can terminate the agreement, the required notice period, and when the contract will automatically come to an end. Clarifying these details provides both parties with a chance to understand how to exit the agreement if it no longer works for them.
Address Student Privacy
Include terms that protect student privacy, especially when the student is a minor. Clarify that all personal and academic information will be kept private as part of the contract and only shared when permitted by the client.
In some situations, federal student privacy rules may apply. The US Department of Education explains these protections under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which limits how student records can be used or disclosed.
Add Liability and Indemnification Terms
Clarify who will be responsible for any issues that may arise during the tutoring sessions. This can include small injuries during in-person tutoring or accidental damage to personal property, such as a laptop or other study materials.
Sign and Date
Both parties should sign and date the agreement and keep a copy for their records. This helps confirm that both parties agree to the terms outlined within the agreement.
Sample Tutoring Contract
Take a look at the sample tutoring contract template below to see the details to include when creating yours. Once you’re ready, fill out our questionnaire to customize and download your tutoring contract agreement as a PDF or Word file. You can also get a free printable tutoring contract template to create a clear record for your reference.
