Tutoring Contracts: What to Include for Clear Expectations

Why a Tutoring Contract Helps Everyone

A tutoring contract sets clear expectations for sessions, payment, and cancellation — protecting both the tutor and the student (or their parents). Without one, disputes about missed sessions, last-minute cancellations, and payment are common and difficult to resolve.

Session Details

• Subject matter: What specific subjects, courses, or skills will be covered?
• Session frequency and duration: How often do sessions occur, and how long is each one? (e.g., twice weekly, 60 minutes per session)
• Location: In-person (whose home, a library, a learning center?) or online (which platform?)
• Session format: One-on-one or small group? If group, what is the maximum size?
• Materials: Who provides textbooks, worksheets, and supplies?

Payment Terms

• Rate: Hourly rate or per-session flat fee
• Package pricing: Is there a discount for purchasing a block of sessions? Are packages refundable for unused sessions?
• Payment schedule: When is payment due — per session, weekly, monthly, or in advance for a package?
• Payment method: Cash, check, Venmo, bank transfer?
• Travel fees: If the tutor travels to the student, is there an additional charge?

Cancellation and No-Show Policy

This is where most conflicts arise:

• Cancellation notice: How much advance notice is required? (24-48 hours is standard)
• Late cancellation fee: What is the charge for canceling with insufficient notice? (Commonly 50-100% of the session rate)
• No-show policy: What happens if the student does not show up? (Usually charged the full session rate)
• Tutor cancellation: What happens if the tutor cancels? (Typically the session is rescheduled at no charge, or the tutor provides a make-up session)

Expectations and Boundaries

• Academic honesty: The tutor will not complete assignments, write papers, or take tests on behalf of the student
• Progress communication: How and how often will the tutor communicate progress to parents?
• Confidentiality: Student information and performance details are kept private
• Background check: Has the tutor undergone a background check? (Particularly important for minors)

Term and Termination

• Minimum commitment: Is there a minimum number of sessions or time period?
• Termination notice: How much notice must either party give to end the arrangement? (Typically 1-2 weeks)
• Refund for prepaid sessions: If the arrangement ends early, are unused prepaid sessions refundable?

When to Consult a Lawyer

For tutoring businesses with multiple employees, or for high-value test prep contracts with guaranteed score improvements, consider having an attorney review liability terms and any performance guarantees.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney for guidance specific to your situation.