There are multiple training pathways for tutors. For individuals with a bachelor's or graduate degree in a high demand field, such as English, mathematics or science, tutoring certification programs are sufficient. For those who'd like to work in the classroom, formal training in education is the next step. These options include teacher aide certificates, and teacher's aide or teacher preparation associate degrees. Some tutoring companies may also require additional training of their methodologies for any tutors they employ.
Pathways
Join a tutoring association
National tutoring associations can be a tremendous resource for current and future tutors: benefits include mentorship opportunities, industry newsletters, attendance at annual conferences, networking events and tutoring certifications. Prospective tutors can join groups such as the National Tutoring Association, the American Tutoring Association, and the Association for Tutoring Professionals.
Earn tutoring certification
Some employers may require certification. Formal tutoring certifications provide advanced instruction in key tutoring strategies and techniques while enhancing professional credibility. Candidates may pursue basic and advanced certifications from the National Tutoring Association, American Tutoring Association and other certifying bodies.
Get licensed, advertise services and set rates
State boards of education often require tutors working in school settings to be licensed. Private tutors may set their own rates and advertise their services. These professionals are not regulated or licensed, which means private tutors do not have to complete any additional training requirements beyond their chosen credential.
Choosing the right tutor certification
Tutoring is not regulated at the state or national level. Instead, both entry-level and seasoned tutors can select from a range of tutoring certification programs to develop new competencies and become certified. There are three major certifying bodies for tutors: the American Tutoring Association, Association for Tutoring Professionals, the College Reading and Learning Association, and the National Tutoring Association. The table below offers a snapshot of several tutoring certifications and their requirements.
Certifications
While there are currently no licensing or professional certification requirements for tutors, they may complete voluntary certification programs to sharpen their skills, move into new subject areas or start their own private tutoring businesses. Here is a snapshot of common options.
Association for the Tutoring Profession
Website: https://www.myactp.com/
The Association for the Tutoring Profession (ATP) is a professional organization for tutors and educators. The ATP was founded in 1992 with the goal of promoting excellence in the tutoring profession and supporting the ongoing professional development of its members. The organization offers a range of services and resources for tutors, including professional development opportunities, networking events, and access to industry research and publications. The ATP also provides a code of ethics for tutors and works to advocate for the interests of the tutoring profession. Membership in the ATP is open to tutors, educators, and students who are interested in the field of tutoring.
College Reading and Learning Association
Website: https://www.crla.net/
The College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA) is a professional organization for tutors, educators, and researchers who work in the field of college reading and learning. The CRLA was founded in 1977 with the goal of promoting excellence in college reading and learning services and supporting the professional development of its members. The organization offers a range of resources and services for tutors and educators, including professional development opportunities, access to research and publications, and networking events. The CRLA also provides a code of ethics for tutors and works to advocate for the interests of the tutoring profession. Membership in the CRLA is open to tutors, educators, and students who are interested in the field of college reading and learning.
Global Professional Tutors Association
Website: http://gpta.education/
The Global Professional Tutors Association (GPTA) is a professional organization for tutors and educators. The GPTA was founded in 2010 with the goal of promoting excellence in the tutoring profession and supporting the professional development of its members. The organization offers a range of resources and services for tutors, including professional development opportunities, access to research and publications, and networking events. The GPTA also provides a code of ethics for tutors and works to advocate for the interests of the tutoring profession. Membership in the GPTA is open to tutors, educators, and students who are interested in the field of tutoring.
National Tutoring Association
Website: https://www.ntatutor.com/
The National Tutoring Association (NTA) is a professional organization for tutors and educators. The NTA was founded in 1971 with the goal of promoting excellence in the tutoring profession and supporting the professional development of its members. The organization offers a range of resources and services for tutors, including professional development opportunities, access to research and publications, and networking events. The NTA also provides a code of ethics for tutors and works to advocate for the interests of the tutoring profession.
Comparing certifications
Association for the Tutoring profession
Associate tutor: Ten hours of training; at least 25 hours of tutoring experience; an ATP membership and two letters of recommendation
Advanced tutor: At least 20 hours of tutor training; at 50 hours of tutoring experience; ATP membership and two letters of recommendation
Master tutor: At least 30 hours of tutor training; 75 hours of tutoring experience; ATP membership and two letters of recommendation
College Reading and Learning Association
Level I Tutor: At least 12 hours of training, 25 hours of tutoring experience and a GPA of 3.25 or above.
Level II Tutor: Level 1 certification, plus; 12 hours of formal training and an additional 20 hours of tutoring experience.
Level III Tutor: Level I and Level II certification requirements, plus: complete 25 additional hours of tutoring and two hours of real-time supervised learning sessions
National Tutoring Association
Basic Level Tutor: A high school diploma; a current NTA membership; 10 hours of tutoring experience; basic tutoring training and assessment
Academic Coach: Basic Level Tutor certification; an associate degree; an NTA membership; at least 10 hours of academic coaching experience and complete basic coaching assessment training.
Intermediate Level Tutor: Basic Level Tutor certification; a current NTA membership; 30 hours of college credit; 30 hours of tutoring experience; and competency training and assessment
Advanced Level Tutor: Intermediate Level Tutor certification; a current NTA membership; an associate degree or higher; 50 hours of tutoring experience; and competency training and assessment
Master Level Tutor: Advanced Level Tutor certification; Basic Academic Coaching certification; Advanced Academic Coaching certification; a current NTA membership; a bachelor's degree (master's preferred); five years of experience accrued after initial certification; and advanced tutoring competency training and assessment.
