Families always want a figure, but the honest truth is that costs vary widely — by format (one-to-one versus group, in person versus online), class size, location and provider — and we’re not going to quote a number, because any single figure would mislead. More usefully: price is a poor guide to quality.
Why the headline cost misleads
It’s tempting to assume expensive means effective. It often doesn’t. A high fee can reflect brand, premises and overheads as much as teaching, and may buy a large, crowded class with little individual feedback. Equally, a thoughtfully designed program can deliver detailed feedback and realistic practice for considerably less. The dollar figure tells you almost nothing about whether your child will actually improve.
Ask about value instead
The better question isn’t how much? but what does my child get? Judge any option on:
- Quality of practice — is it realistic and format-matched to the on-screen test, or generic worksheets?
- Depth of feedback — does your child receive specific, written feedback that explains why and how to improve, especially on writing?
- Progress visibility — can you actually see improvement tracked over time?
- Class size and teaching — qualified teachers and small groups, or a packed room?
That’s the standard we set out in how to choose a selective tutor. Spend on substance, never on a brand name.
Start with what’s free
Before spending anything, use the resources that cost nothing:
- The free official Janison practice and PDF samples — the online practice matches the current format. See the free practice guide for the important nuance between them.
- Test Academy’s free account — realistic practice tests plus free access to LearningHub and Testy Coach, rehearsing the exact on-screen experience at no cost.
These give a genuinely strong base to build on — see getting in without tutoring.
The bottom line
Cost varies, and it isn’t the measure that matters. Try the free resources first, then pay only for demonstrable quality — realistic practice and real feedback. Whether something is worth it comes down to value, not price, as we discuss in is selective tutoring worth it.