A tutoring contract is a legally binding agreement between a tutor and a client (usually a student or the student’s parent) that outlines the expectations and responsibilities of both parties. It defines the scope of instruction, session scheduling, payment terms, cancellation policies, and more. Whether you're working in-person or remotely, a tutoring contract brings professionalism and clarity to any educational arrangement.
You should use a tutoring agreement whenever:
You're hired as a private tutor for academic, test prep, or skills-based instruction.
You work with students over a series of sessions, individually or in groups.
You need to clearly outline services, rates, and expectations before tutoring begins.
You want legal protection and accountability for both the tutor and the client.
A detailed tutoring contract example helps prevent misunderstandings and formalizes the working relationship, especially when working with minors or handling advanced payments.
A well-prepared tutoring contract should include the following:
Contact Information — Names, emails, and phone numbers for both the tutor and the student (or guardian).
Description of Services — Subjects covered, session format (in-person or online), duration, and materials included.
Payment Terms — Hourly rate or package fee, due dates, and accepted payment methods.
Scheduling & Cancellation Policy — Session frequency, cancellation notice requirements, and refund rules.
Confidentiality Clause — Agreement to protect the privacy of the student and any academic records.
Limitation of Liability — Clarification that the tutor is not responsible for specific academic results.
Termination Terms — How either party can end the agreement, with or without notice.
Signatures & Dates — Both parties (and their parent or guardian, if applicable) must sign and date the agreement.
Including all these components in your tutoring contract template ensures the agreement is professional, enforceable, and tailored to the needs of the tutoring relationship.
To write a reliable tutoring agreement, follow these steps:
Start with a tutoring contract template that includes all core sections.
Customize it for the subject, location, pricing, and client expectations.
Add details such as student level, service goals (e.g., test preparation or grade improvement), and tools used.
Define cancellation and rescheduling terms to protect your time.
Include disclaimers for academic outcomes and responsibilities.
Sign and share copies with the client or student guardian.
If you're unsure where to start, using a sample tutoring contract or a tutoring contract example can help you structure a clear and legally sound agreement.