My teaching journey began on Preply
I started my journey on Preply in 2023, just after receiving my TEFL certificate from a TEFL academy. Like many online teachers, I was excited — and a little nervous. I knew I loved teaching English, but I also knew I needed a platform that could help me grow, connect with students, and earn consistently. That’s when I found Preply.
If you’re a qualified (or aspiring) online tutor looking for a flexible, supportive, and international platform — this blog post is for you. I’m breaking down everything you need to know about Preply, how it works, the pros and cons, and how to get started as a tutor.
What Is Preply?
Preply is an online learning platform that connects students with private tutors for 1-on-1 lessons, primarily focused on languages but also covering subjects like math, business, and test prep. It’s a global marketplace — which means tutors can sign up from anywhere in the world and work with students from every corner of the globe.
Think of it like the “Airbnb” of online tutoring. You set your price. You control your schedule. You decide who you teach.
For Learners: Why Students Love Preply
- Access to 50+ Languages: Students can find tutors for almost any language — English, Spanish, French, Korean, Arabic… you name it.
- Flexible Scheduling: Students can book lessons anytime, from anywhere.
- Personalized Lessons: Tutors tailor the learning experience to each student’s level, goals, and style.
- Virtual Classroom: Built-in video, chat, screen sharing, whiteboard, and file sharing.
- Trial Lesson & Tutor Replacement: Don’t vibe with a tutor? Try another one for free.
For Tutors: Why Preply Works
As a Preply tutor, you’re not just thrown into the deep end. The platform gives you the tools to succeed — but you’re still the captain of your ship.
Here’s what you get:
- Set Your Own Rates: You decide your hourly fee (most teachers start between $10–$25/hour).
- Flexible Work Hours: You set your availability — teach part-time, full-time, or just weekends.
- Global Student Pool: Students from over 180 countries.
- Professional Tools: Preply Classroom, calendar sync, lesson plans, and analytics.
- Tutor Training & Webinars: Regular online sessions to help you improve and grow.
- No Degree Needed: A TEFL certificate is helpful, but you don’t need a teaching degree to start.
But, a heads-up:
- Commission: Preply takes 100% commission on your first lesson with a student, and between 18%–33% on all lessons after that, depending on how many hours you’ve taught on the platform.
- Self-Promotion Needed: You’ll need to optimize your profile, respond quickly to messages, and ask for reviews to rank well in search results.
How to Create a Preply Account as a Tutor — Step-by-Step
Getting started on Preply is simple, but you’ll want to do it right to attract quality students. Here’s a quick guide:
1. Go to Preply’s Teaching Page
Click “Become a Tutor.”
2. Create Your Profile
You’ll be asked to fill in:
- Name
- Country
- Languages you speak
- Subjects you teach
- Education background
- Teaching experience
- A short bio
TIP: Be clear, friendly, and professional. Show your personality — this is what helps you stand out.
3. Upload a Profile Photo
Choose a high-quality, friendly headshot with good lighting.
4. Record a Video Introduction (1–2 minutes)
This part is important. Talk about:
- Who you are
- What you teach
- Your teaching style
- What students can expect
TIP: Smile, look into the camera, and speak slowly. Add subtitles if possible.
5. Set Your Hourly Rate
Start with something competitive. You can increase it as you gain more experience and reviews.
6. Choose Your Availability
Set your teaching hours and sync your calendar.
7. Submit Your Profile for Review
Preply usually approves profiles within 3–5 business days.
8. Get Ready to Teach
Once approved, students can find and message you. You’ll receive lesson requests — and from there, your teaching journey begins!
My Honest Experience on Preply
Preply has helped me connect with students from Brazil to China, and no two lessons are ever the same. It’s given me the flexibility to work from home, travel, and continue doing what I love — teaching — while exploring different income streams.
But the platform is what you make of it. You need to hustle at first, reply to messages quickly, offer trial lessons, and stay consistent. Preply won’t build your success for you — but it absolutely gives you the tools to build it your way.
Final Thoughts: Is Preply Worth It?
If you’re a new or experienced tutor looking to build a flexible online career, yes, Preply is worth checking out. It’s not instant riches, but with the right mindset, strategy, and care, it can be a solid source of income and growth.
And if you’re someone like me — passionate, ambitious, and ready to take charge of your career — Preply is a stepping stone, not a ceiling.
Save this for later, and share it with a friend who teaches or wants to!
Have any questions about teaching online or Preply specifically? Drop them in the comments or send me a message — I’d love to help you on your journey.
And if you’re ready to create your Preply profile, here’s your sign: Start now. Don’t wait. Your students are waiting for you too.