Verbal Planet is a language tutoring marketplace run by Verbal Planet Ltd, a company in Cheshire, UK, established in 2006. Tutors create profiles, set their own rates and teach one-to-one lessons online to learners worldwide, in more than 100 languages. It’s smaller than the biggest marketplaces, which means less competition but also fewer students.
At a glance
| What it is | An online language tutoring marketplace |
| Founded | 2006, UK |
| How you earn | Your own lesson rates |
| Languages | 100+ |
| Tools | Student progress tracking aligned with European standards |
| Fees | Check current tutor terms |
| Where it works | Remote, worldwide |
How it works
You sign up as a tutor, create a profile with your languages, experience and rates, and set your availability. Students search for tutors by language, price and location, book lessons and pay through the platform, which converts prices into their currency. You then teach one-to-one online.
Verbal Planet offers tools to track students’ progress in speaking, listening, reading and writing, aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference. That can help with exam-focused or structured learners.
Fees
Some sources describe Verbal Planet as charging tutors no commission, while others list it alongside commission-based platforms. Because terms change, check Verbal Planet’s tutor terms during sign-up so you know exactly what you’ll receive.
Getting students
As a smaller marketplace, Verbal Planet may bring fewer students than large competitors. Tutors in less common languages may find it relatively easier to stand out. A detailed profile, clear prices and good early reviews help.
Tips
Write a profile that explains your teaching approach and who you help best. Offer a trial or introductory lesson if available. Use the progress tools to show students how they’re improving, which encourages them to continue.
Your setup
You’ll need a computer, a stable internet connection, a headset and a webcam. Prepare digital materials you can share on screen, such as short readings, vocabulary lists and exercises, since you’ll be planning your own lessons.
Planning your lessons
As a marketplace tutor, you design your own lessons. A short first lesson to assess level and goals helps you build a plan for each student. Using the platform’s progress tracking alongside a simple lesson plan gives students a clear sense of where they are and where they’re heading. That structure is especially useful for learners preparing for exams or professional use.
Is it worth it?
Verbal Planet is worth adding if you want another channel for students and value lower competition. It’s unlikely to fill your schedule on its own, so combine it with a larger marketplace. Tutors of less common languages may get relatively more value, since fewer tutors compete for the same students.
Pricing your lessons
Compare rates for tutors with similar languages and experience before setting your price. Starting a little lower can help you win first students and reviews, then you can raise prices as demand grows. Once you know the platform’s fee terms, check that your price leaves you a rate you’re happy with.
Getting the most from it
Keep your calendar up to date and reply to messages quickly. Ask satisfied students to leave reviews, since early feedback helps you appear more attractive in search results.
Before you sign up
Read the tutor terms in full, including how payments, cancellations and refunds work. Check which payout methods are available in your country and whether any fees apply when you receive money. Knowing these details from the start avoids surprises after your first lessons and helps you price with confidence. It also helps you decide how much time to invest in your profile before the first bookings arrive.
Owen’s take
Verbal Planet is a long-running, lower-competition option for language tutors. Expect fewer students than on the biggest sites, so use it alongside another platform. Check the current fee terms before you invest time.
Who it suits
It suits language tutors, especially in less common languages, who want an extra platform with less competition. It suits less well tutors who need a high volume of bookings.
Similar options
- italki is a large language marketplace.
- Verbling has a flat commission.
- Preply has a large student base.
- Cafetalk is popular in Japan.
More options are in Tutoring & Coaching.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Set your own rates
- Over 100 languages
- Less competition
Cons
- Smaller student base
- Fee terms need checking
- Slower to build bookings
FAQ
Where is Verbal Planet based?
In Cheshire, UK.
Can I set my own rates on Verbal Planet?
Yes, tutors set their own rates.
Does Verbal Planet charge commission?
Sources differ; check the current tutor terms.
What languages can I teach on Verbal Planet?
More than 100 languages.
Is Verbal Planet legit?
Yes, it has operated since 2006.
