Skooli is an online tutoring platform founded in 2014 and based in Toronto, Canada. It connects K-12 and college students with qualified tutors for live sessions in its online classroom. Skooli is selective: tutors need a degree plus a teaching credential or a graduate degree. Pay is set by Skooli and calculated by the minute of tutoring.
At a glance
| What it is | An online tutoring platform |
| Founded | 2014, Toronto |
| Students | K-12 and college |
| How you earn | A rate set by Skooli, calculated per minute |
| Reported pay | Around $25 an hour in older reports; now based on credentials |
| Requirements | Bachelor’s plus teaching licence or TEFL, or a master’s or PhD |
| Where it works | Remote; tutors from many countries |
How it works
You apply online with ID, proof of your degree and teaching credentials, and a recent criminal record check. If approved, you set up your profile and availability. Students can book sessions or request instant help, and you teach in Skooli’s online classroom with video, a whiteboard and file sharing. Students can replay sessions afterwards.
Pay
Skooli used to advertise a flat rate of about $25 an hour. It now says pay depends on a tutor’s background and credentials. Earnings are calculated by the minute of active tutoring, which means short sessions pay less than an hour. One review site reports a $100 minimum before you can cash out, and some tutors say pay is in Canadian dollars, so check the terms when you join.
Requirements
You need a bachelor’s degree plus either a teaching licence or a recognised TEFL or TESOL certificate, or a master’s or PhD in a relevant field. You’ll also need a recent background check, a webcam and high-speed internet.
What tutors say
Reviews are mixed. Tutors like the professional platform and flexible hours. Criticisms include low demand, per-minute pay, the cash-out threshold and weak support.
Your setup
You’ll need a computer, webcam, headset and fast internet. A drawing tablet helps with maths. Test the classroom tools before your first session.
Is it worth it?
Skooli can be worth it for certified teachers who want occasional online sessions in a professional environment. Low demand and per-minute pay mean it rarely works as a main income. Treat it as one platform among several.
Tips
Check the current pay terms, currency and cash-out minimum before you start. Keep your availability updated and respond quickly to instant requests. Focus on subjects in demand, such as maths.
Before you apply
Gather your documents in advance: ID, degree certificates or transcripts, teaching licence or TEFL certificate, and a criminal record check issued within the last six months. Having these ready speeds up the application.
Making sessions count
Because pay is per minute and sessions can be short, it helps to make each one efficient. Ask students to share the problem or topic in advance, have explanations ready for common questions and finish with a quick summary they can replay. Students who get clear help quickly are more likely to book you again, which helps you build steadier income on a platform where demand can be uneven.
Taxes and paperwork
You’ll be responsible for your own taxes. Keep a record of sessions and payments, and note any currency conversion when you cash out.
Common mistakes
Some tutors join without reading the pay terms and are surprised by per-minute calculation, the currency or the cash-out minimum. Others wait passively for bookings. Read the terms first, keep your availability current and respond to instant requests quickly.
Quick checklist
Before applying, confirm you hold the required degree and credential, have a recent background check, can meet the technical requirements and understand the pay terms, currency and cash-out minimum.
Owen’s take
Skooli rewards real qualifications, but demand and per-minute pay limit what you can earn. It’s worth a profile if you’re certified, but don’t rely on it alone. Read the payout terms carefully.
Who it suits
It suits certified teachers and graduate-level subject experts who want extra online sessions. It suits less well tutors without formal credentials or anyone needing steady hours.
Similar options
- Wyzant lets you set your own rate.
- Varsity Tutors matches you with students.
- Tutor.com offers on-demand sessions.
- Preply has a large student base.
More options are in Tutoring & Coaching.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Professional online classroom
- Values real qualifications
- Flexible hours
Cons
- Paid by the minute
- Reported $100 cash-out minimum
- Low demand reported
FAQ
What qualifications does Skooli require?
A bachelor’s plus a teaching licence or TEFL certificate, or a master’s or PhD.
How does Skooli pay tutors?
By the minute of tutoring, at a rate based on credentials.
Where is Skooli based?
In Toronto, Canada.
Does Skooli need a background check?
Yes, a recent criminal record check.
Is Skooli legit?
Yes, though tutor reviews are mixed.
