How to choose an online tutor in Singapore: 10 questions to ask
Choosing an online tutor in Singapore is easier when you know what to ask. Use these 10 questions at the first call or trial lesson. Good tutors will welcome them.
What is your experience at my child’s level?
Ask which levels and subjects they teach, for how long, and whether they follow the current MOE syllabus.
Can we have a trial lesson, and what does it cost?
You should see how they explain one topic your child finds hard. Be cautious if there is no trial.
How will you find out what my child is weak at?
Look for a short diagnostic, past school papers or a topic list, not a standard package for every child.
What does a typical lesson look like?
Good lessons mix explanation, guided practice and quick checks. For Maths, ask how they teach model drawing and problem-solving heuristics.
How will you share progress?
Ask for a short note after each lesson or every few weeks: what was covered, what improved, what to practise.
What practice do you expect between lessons?
Progress needs practice. A tutor should set a realistic amount, not a pile that exhausts your child.
How do online lessons work?
Ask about the tool, a digital whiteboard, recording and what happens if the internet drops.
What are the fees, and what is extra?
Hourly rate, lesson length, materials, agency or registration fees, and the cancellation and make-up policy. Compare using current rates.
Can I stop if it does not work?
Avoid long prepaid packages until you have had at least four lessons.
How do you work with the school and with me?
Tutors should support, not replace, what the school teaches, and agree goals with you, for example “finish fractions revision before WA2”.
Red flags
- Guaranteed grades or fast-result promises.
- Pressure to pay a large package today.
- No way to see what was taught.
- Asking you to avoid the school’s teachers or materials.
Safety for online lessons
Ask where lessons take place, whether a parent can sit in or view recordings, and use a platform you trust. Never share your child’s home address or school details more than needed. See also online tuition costs and what works.
Looking for a tutor? Browse tutors and centres on the ALEC map.
More parent guides
- Online tuition in Singapore (2026): costs, options and what actually works for primary school
- PSLE AL score explained for parents: bands, calculation and how to improve
- Cheap tuition in Singapore: 7 ways to save without hurting results
- Home tuition rates in Singapore 2026: what primary tutors charge
- P6 timetable: a 6-month plan to PSLE
- Free and subsidised tuition in Singapore: CDAC, SINDA, Mendaki and school support
- Tuition in Singapore: the complete parent guide
- Singapore education system: a parent guide for 2026
Frequently asked questions
How do I find a good online tutor in Singapore?
Shortlist tutors with experience at your child’s level, ask the 10 questions above, and book a trial lesson. Check that they explain topics clearly and share progress.
Should I use an agency or find a tutor directly?
Agencies save search time but may charge a fee. Direct tutors can cost less but you must check them yourself. Either way, ask for a trial lesson.
How long should an online lesson be for primary kids?
Many tutors run 1 to 1.5 hours. Younger children usually focus better in shorter sessions, around 30 to 45 minutes.
How do I know the tutor is helping?
You should see clearer understanding, fewer repeated mistakes and improving school results over a few months. Ask for progress notes.
ALEC gives Singapore primary kids short lessons, exam-style practice and a clear report for parents.
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ALEC is an independent practice platform and is not affiliated with MOE or SEAB. Prices and figures quoted from other sources are indicative and change often. Check the source before you decide.