StudyGuru vs Superprof: Comparing Online Tutoring Options for UK Families
Superprof is a global tutoring marketplace operating in over 50 countries, while StudyGuru is a UK-focused platform built specifically for GCSE and A-Level students. This comparison looks at the practical differences parents should consider, including how tutors are vetted, how lessons are delivered, and how each platform handles safety and payments.
Who this page is for
- UK parents who found Superprof through search and want to compare options
- Families concerned about tutor vetting standards on open marketplaces
- Parents who want a managed lesson platform rather than arranging sessions independently
- Anyone comparing UK-focused tutoring with global marketplace alternatives
Quick Comparison
| Feature | StudyGuru | Superprof |
|---|---|---|
| Platform type | Managed online tutoring platform (UK-focused) | Global tutoring marketplace (50+ countries) |
| Introductory offer | £15 Starter Pack (4 sessions at £15 each) | Many tutors offer free first lesson |
| Platform fees | Price shown is total price — no additional fees | Subscription fee to contact tutors |
| DBS checks | Enhanced DBS via Update Service or fresh uCheck application | Optional — tutors can upload their own |
| Tutor acceptance rate | Approx. 1 in 14 applicants | Open marketplace |
| Lesson platform | Purpose-built whiteboard + HD video | Integrated virtual classroom (Pencil Spaces) available; tutors can also use other tools or in-person |
| After-lesson reports | AI-generated summary + practice tasks | Depends on individual tutor |
| Subject focus | STEM at GCSE and A-Level | Wide range: academic, music, sports, languages |
| Payment | Via platform (Stripe) — captured after lesson | Check website for current process |
| In-person option | No — online only | Yes — online and in-person |
When to Choose StudyGuru
StudyGuru may be a better fit if tutor vetting and safeguarding are top priorities. Every StudyGuru tutor must complete an Enhanced DBS verification (via the Update Service or a fresh application through uCheck), a live teaching assessment, and a 7-step verification process. Lessons happen on our purpose-built interactive whiteboard with HD video, so there is no need to download separate video software or arrange meeting locations. Parents receive AI-generated summaries after every lesson, and payment is only captured after the lesson takes place. The £15 Starter Pack (4 sessions at £15 each) provides a low-risk way to try the platform.
When to Choose Superprof
Superprof has an extremely large tutor database covering virtually every subject and skill, from academic tutoring to music, languages, and sports. If you need a tutor for a niche or non-academic subject, Superprof’s breadth is hard to match. Superprof also operates internationally, which can be useful for families who move between countries. Their marketplace model means a very wide range of price points. Many Superprof tutors offer a free first lesson. Check their website for current terms and how their subscription model works.
Pricing & Fees
StudyGuru pricing starts from £24/hour — the price shown is the total price with no additional fees or hidden charges. New customers can claim the £15 Starter Pack (4 sessions at £15 each). Superprof operates a subscription model (currently £39/month in the UK) for parents to access tutor contact details, and tutors set their own lesson rates. The total cost on Superprof depends on the subscription fee plus the tutor’s rate. Check the Superprof website for their current subscription pricing and how it works.
Safeguarding & Vetting
This is an area where the two platforms differ significantly. StudyGuru requires Enhanced DBS verification (via the Update Service or a fresh application through uCheck) for every tutor, plus identity verification, right-to-work confirmation, a live teaching assessment, and final safeguarding approval. Approximately 1 in 14 applicants are accepted. Superprof is an open marketplace where tutors create their own profiles. DBS checks are not mandatory — tutors can optionally upload their own DBS certificates. Parents should check each tutor’s credentials carefully and review Superprof’s current verification policies on their website.
Lesson Experience
StudyGuru provides a purpose-built interactive whiteboard and HD video for every session — no need to download separate video software. After each lesson, AI generates a summary with progress tracking. Superprof has integrated Pencil Spaces as a built-in virtual classroom option with video and whiteboard, though tutors can also arrange lessons via other tools or in person. This offers flexibility but less standardisation compared to a single managed platform.
Payments & Cancellations
StudyGuru processes payments securely via Stripe, authorising 24 hours before and capturing 24 hours after each lesson. No contracts, no minimum commitments. On Superprof, payment arrangements may vary by tutor and region. Check Superprof’s website for how payments and cancellations are currently handled.
Trust & Safety
Enhanced DBS Checks
Fresh Enhanced DBS arranged via uCheck for every tutor
7-Step Vetting
Identity, qualifications, DBS, live teaching assessment, and safeguarding approval
Pay After Lessons
Payment captured 24 hours after each session via Stripe
Secure Platform
All sessions on our platform with moderated messaging
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Get Started?
£15 Starter Pack · 4 sessions · No commitment
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