Verbling is an online platform for one-to-one language lessons over video. It was founded in 2011, backed by Y Combinator, acquired by the language app Busuu in 2020, and became part of Chegg when Chegg bought Busuu in 2021. Teachers set their own rates, and Verbling takes a flat commission, published at 15% as of mid-2026. It’s more selective than the largest marketplaces and smaller, which means less competition but also fewer students.
At a glance
| What it is | A language lesson marketplace |
| How you earn | Your own lesson rate, minus a flat commission |
| Commission | 15% per lesson, per its teacher documentation as of mid-2026 |
| Application | Selective; teaching experience or qualifications help |
| Ownership | Part of Busuu, owned by Chegg |
| Where it works | Remote, worldwide |
How it works
You apply with your profile, teaching background and introduction video. Verbling reviews applications and accepts teachers it thinks fit its standards. Once accepted, you set your rates, lesson types and availability. Students browse teachers, often take a trial lesson and then book further lessons. Lessons run in Verbling’s built-in video classroom, which includes tools like a whiteboard and file sharing.
Pay
Verbling’s model is simple: you set the price, and Verbling keeps a flat percentage. At 15%, a $20 lesson pays you $17. There’s no tier ladder and no clawback on the first lesson with a new student, according to published summaries of its terms. Commission terms can change, so confirm the current rate before you join.
Things to consider
Verbling is part of Chegg, a company that has cut costs heavily as AI tools have hit its main business. Verbling remains online, but it’s worth watching for changes. Users also mention occasional technical problems with the built-in classroom and strict rules against moving lessons off the platform.
Tips
Apply with a strong, professional introduction video and clear evidence of your teaching experience. Offer a well-structured trial lesson. Because the platform is smaller, keep an eye on your bookings and use other platforms alongside it.
How Verbling compares
Against larger marketplaces, Verbling trades volume for simplicity. Preply brings more students but takes all trial fees and a high starting commission. italki has more languages and a large audience. Verbling’s flat fee keeps more of each lesson in your pocket, but you’ll usually need another platform alongside it to fill your schedule.
Getting started
Prepare a concise teaching summary, evidence of qualifications or experience, and a professional introduction video in your teaching language. Set a fair starting rate, open availability at popular times and plan a trial lesson that shows students a clear path to their goals.
Classroom tools
Verbling’s built-in classroom includes video, a shared whiteboard and file sharing, so you can teach without other software. Test it before your first lesson, and have a backup plan in case of connection problems, within Verbling’s rules on staying on the platform.
Taxes
Verbling teachers are independent and handle their own taxes. Keep records of lessons and payouts.
Pricing
Research what other teachers of your language charge on Verbling before setting your rate. A modest starting rate can help you gather your first reviews, then raise it as demand grows.
Student base
Verbling has offered an enterprise service for companies training staff in languages, which can bring professional learners and longer, steadier relationships for teachers who suit them. Business language skills, interview prep and industry vocabulary can make your profile more attractive to this group. Mention any professional background you have, such as finance, law, tech or healthcare.
Owen’s take
Verbling’s flat commission is fair and simple, and its selective entry keeps competition lower. The smaller audience and corporate uncertainty are the trade-offs. For qualified language teachers, it’s worth having as one of two or three platforms.
Who it suits
It suits experienced or qualified language teachers who want a fair, simple fee. It suits less well beginners without teaching experience or anyone wanting a large flow of students.
Similar options
- italki is a larger language marketplace.
- Preply has a big student base.
- Lingoda offers scheduled group classes.
- Cambly pays a fixed rate for conversation.
More options are in Tutoring & Coaching.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Flat commission
- Set your own rates
- Less competition than larger sites
Cons
- Selective application
- Smaller student base
- Owner’s business is under pressure
FAQ
How much commission does Verbling take?
A flat 15% per its teacher documentation as of mid-2026.
Who owns Verbling?
Busuu, which is owned by Chegg.
Can anyone teach on Verbling?
Applications are reviewed; teaching experience or qualifications help.
Can I set my own rate on Verbling?
Yes, teachers set their own rates.
Is Verbling still running?
Yes, it remains online as of 2026.
