As parents, we know that every child learns differently. Regular classroom instruction and traditional education approaches don’t always work for all kids.

Whether your child needs help improving their grades, preparing for standardized testing, or even getting ahead, a Philly tutor can make a huge difference in their confidence and success. Philadelphia has a handful of tutoring options, from subject or test-specific programs to specialized learning centers. 

Below we highlight some of the best tutoring centers in the city and surrounding areas to help you find the perfect fit for your family.

What to Look for in a Philly Tutor

Finding the right tutor for your child isn’t as simple as just asking around at the local library. When searching for a tutor, keep in the mind the following considerations and tips:

• Check into a tutor’s qualifications, credentials, and experience with your child’s age group. 
• For middle or high schoolers, look for expertise in specific subjects, AP classes, or test prep. 
• Prioritize teaching style and compatibility with how your child learns best. 
• Don’t hesitate to try multiple tutors to find the right fit. 
• Decide whether in-person or online tutoring works better based on your schedule and location.

Finally, be realistic about budget, as rates vary by credentials, format, and whether it’s independent or center-based.

Featured Philly Tutors and Tutoring Services 

Philadelphia and the surrounding areas feature many independent tutors and tutoring centers with in-person and remote learning options. Whether looking within the city or on the Main Line, there are many highly-rated options for parents to choose from. Most pricing depends on tutoring types, the number of classes needed monthly, and location.

Mathnasium of Center City

322 N. Broad St., Suite C-West, Philadelphia, PA 19102

For parents looking to help their children with specific math skills, Mathnasium Center City offers services for students K–12. Serving all Philadelphia neighborhoods, the center offers tutoring for Algebra, Geometry, Trigonometry, and more. 

They use personalized learning plans for each student to target their specific needs and improve knowledge, performance, and understanding. After initial assessment, they provide a learning plan, a recommended schedule, and operate on a monthly membership basis.

Sylvan Learning Center

6537 E. Roosevelt Blvd., Philadelphia, PA 19149

Sylvan Learning Center offers personalized tutoring sessions from its Roosevelt Boulevard-based center with a team of elementary school tutors specializing in a variety of subjects. 

They offer tutoring for reading, writing, algebra, geometry, pre-calculus, trigonometry, and science. They also have SAT, ACT, AP, and other standardized test preparation courses. Sylvan has varied membership plans with monthly and annual billing options, with pricing dependent on the number of tutoring sessions needed per month.

MJ Test Prep

14 W. Evergreen Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19118

With locations in Chestnut Hill and Bryn Mawr, MJ Test Prep is a family-owned business specializing in standardized test prep. They also offer tutoring for subjects including science, math, English, and foreign language, including AP-level instruction. 

LionHeart Tutoring

44 W. Lancaster Avenue, Suite 125, Ardmore, PA 19003

LionHeart Tutoring specializes in academic and standardized test tutoring for students K–12. Offering one-on-one, small group, and classroom setting tutoring, LionHeart serves the Philadelphia area and the Main Line. They offer tutoring in a wide variety of subjects, including math, reading, writing, science, Spanish, and Mandarin Chinese, as well as standardized testing preparation. 

Main Line Test Prep & Tutoring

Berwyn, PA 19312

Ideal for those looking for high school tutors or test-prep, including the SAT, ACT, and AP exams, Main Line Test Prep & Tutoring offers remote and in-person tutoring. 

Rated Best of Philly SAT Coach by Philadelphia Magazine, founder Steve Odabashian offers test preparation and custom tutoring for a wide variety of tests and programs. They serve Philadelphia and areas throughout the Main Line.

Helping Your Child Succeed with the Right Tutor

Finding the right Philly tutor can transform your children’s academic experiences. Having additional guidance outside of the classroom can help develop skills, improve understanding, prepare for testing, or just help build confidence. Tutoring can even motivate children to explore newfound love for learning through visiting museums or extracurricular activities. Start exploring Philadelphia’s tutoring resources today to give your child the personalized support they deserve.

Lead photo courtesy of Canva.