StudyGuru vs Tutorful: Which Online Tutoring Platform Suits Your Family?
Tutorful is a well-known UK tutoring marketplace connecting students with tutors for both online and in-person sessions. StudyGuru is an online-only platform with a purpose-built whiteboard and AI lesson summaries. This comparison helps parents understand the practical differences between the two services.
Who this page is for
- Parents weighing up online-only vs hybrid (online + in-person) tutoring options
- Families who value a purpose-built lesson platform over marketplace flexibility
- Parents looking for transparent post-lesson reporting and progress tracking
- Anyone comparing Tutorful alternatives for GCSE maths tutoring
Quick Comparison
| Feature | StudyGuru | Tutorful |
|---|---|---|
| Lesson format | Online only (interactive whiteboard + HD video) | Online and in-person |
| Introductory offer | £15 Starter Pack (4 sessions at £15 each) | Check website for current offers |
| Standard pricing | From £24/hour (price shown is total price) | Tutor rate + service fee — check website |
| DBS checks | Enhanced DBS via Update Service or fresh uCheck application | Enhanced DBS required (existing or new via uCheck) |
| Tutor acceptance rate | Approx. 1 in 14 applicants | Check website |
| After-lesson reports | AI-generated summary + practice tasks | Tutor-written feedback + lesson recordings |
| Parent dashboard | Progress tracking, grade targets, exam date tracking | Check website |
| Subjects (GCSE) | STEM: Maths, Sciences, English | Wide range including humanities |
| Exam boards | AQA, Edexcel, OCR, WJEC | Multiple boards |
| Payment timing | Captured 24hrs after lesson | Check website |
When to Choose StudyGuru
StudyGuru is designed for families who want a fully online experience with dedicated lesson tools. Every session takes place on our interactive whiteboard with HD video — there is no need to arrange a meeting location or download separate video software. Parents receive AI-generated summaries after every lesson, which means you always know what was covered and how your child is progressing. The £15 Starter Pack (4 sessions at £15 each) provides a low-commitment way to try the service. All tutors must complete an Enhanced DBS verification and a live teaching assessment, and payment is only captured after the lesson takes place.
When to Choose Tutorful
Tutorful is a strong option if you prefer in-person tutoring or want the flexibility to switch between online and face-to-face lessons. Their marketplace model means a large number of tutors are available across many subjects, including those outside STEM. Tutorful also allows tutors to set their own rates, which can mean a wider price range. If your child benefits from physical presence in a lesson or you want a local tutor who can visit your home, Tutorful offers that option. Check their website for current pricing and tutor availability in your area.
Pricing & Fees
StudyGuru standard rates start from £24/hour, with the £15 Starter Pack available for new customers (4 sessions at £15 each). The price shown is the total price — no additional fees or hidden charges. Tutorful tutor rates vary — tutors set their own prices. Tutorful charges a service fee on top of the tutor’s rate, which is included in the displayed price. Check the Tutorful website for their current fee structure and any introductory offers.
Safeguarding & Vetting
StudyGuru operates a 7-step verification process including Enhanced DBS verification (via the Update Service or a fresh application through uCheck), identity and right-to-work verification, physical certificate upload, database verification, a 20-minute live teaching assessment, and final safeguarding team approval. Approximately 1 in 14 applicants are accepted. Tutorful also requires Enhanced DBS checks for all tutors and accepts existing certificates dated within the last 3 years (or tutors can obtain a new one via uCheck). As safeguarding policies can change, we recommend checking Tutorful’s website for their latest vetting procedures.
Lesson Experience
StudyGuru sessions use a purpose-built interactive whiteboard where both tutor and student can write, draw, and solve problems simultaneously, alongside HD video. All lessons are online-only. Tutorful offers both online and in-person tutoring, giving families more flexibility in how lessons are delivered. For online sessions, Tutorful provides a built-in virtual classroom (powered by Lessonspace) with whiteboard, video, and lesson recording. Consider which lesson format your child responds to when comparing.
Payments & Cancellations
StudyGuru authorises payment 24 hours before each session and captures it 24 hours after completion. If you cancel before payment is taken, you are not charged. There are no contracts or minimum commitments. For Tutorful’s payment timing, cancellation policy, and refund terms, check their website directly.
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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