Free tutoring agreement template (Word)
An agreement between a tutor and student (or parent/guardian for a minor) covering subject, session length/frequency, rate, location (in-person/online), payment terms, cancellation policy and progress expectations.
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A tutoring agreement clarifies expectations for private tutoring: subject(s), session length and frequency, rate per session, payment schedule, cancellation policy, location (in-person/online), what the student is expected to bring/do between sessions, and how progress is communicated.
For minor students, the parent/guardian signs; include a safety/conduct clause and clearly state tutoring does not guarantee grades — results depend on student effort.
What to include#
- Tutor and client. Tutor name, subject expertise; student name and age; parent/guardian name (if minor); contact details.
- Subject and sessions. Subject(s) and level (e.g. GCSE maths, SAT prep, university chemistry), session length (e.g. 60 or 90 minutes), frequency (weekly, twice-weekly), start date and engagement length.
- Location and format. In-person address/online platform, who provides materials, tech requirements for online sessions, and parent observation policy (for minors).
- Fees and payment. Hourly/session rate, payment schedule (per session, weekly, monthly in advance), accepted payment methods, late-payment fee, and package discounts.
- Cancellation and expectations. Required cancellation notice (typically 24 hours), no-show/late-cancellation policy (session charged), student preparation expectations, parent communication/updates, and disclaimer that grades depend on student effort.
How to fill it in#
Step 1: Run a diagnostic session
Assess current level and agree specific goals before signing.
Step 2: Set clear cancellation terms
24-hour notice; last-minute cancellations/no-shows forfeit the session.
Step 3: Agree on materials/platform
State who provides textbooks, practice tests, online tools; confirm Zoom/Teams accounts for online sessions.
Step 4: Be realistic about results
Do not promise specific grades; frame progress around effort and measurable milestones.
Step 5: Invoice on a schedule
Bill weekly/monthly in advance to prevent collection issues; offer package discounts for block bookings.
Related templates and guides
Questions
Do I need a DBS/background check?
For tutoring minors in many countries, a background check (DBS in UK) is expected/required by most parents even if not legally mandated.
Who provides materials?
Tutors often recommend a textbook and provide worksheets/practice tests; state in the agreement.
Do I guarantee grades?
No — make clear in the agreement that outcomes depend on student effort and practice between sessions.
Can a parent sit in?
Often yes, especially for younger students — state your policy; one-way observation is less disruptive than active participation.
What about make-up sessions?
Offer make-up sessions for cancellations with sufficient notice; last-minute cancellations are forfeited.
These are general templates, not legal or tax advice. Have anything unusual reviewed for your jurisdiction.