A good math tutoring contract protects both you and the tutor, clarifying expectations around scheduling, payment, and what happens if plans change. Without one, miscommunications about cancellation policies or session duration can derail the learning relationship quickly. Here's what every parent or student should include before the first lesson.
Payment Terms and Rates
Specify the hourly rate or per-session fee upfront—typical math tutoring ranges from $25–$75 per hour depending on tutor qualifications and your location. Clarify whether you're paying per session or by the month, and decide on a payment schedule (due before each session, weekly, or monthly). Include late payment consequences; for example, "unpaid invoices after 7 days may result in suspension of tutoring." Also state whether rates increase annually or if there are discounts for package deals (e.g., 10 sessions prepaid at 10% off).
Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy
This is where most disputes happen. Specify how much notice the tutor needs to cancel or reschedule (48 hours is standard), and what happens if you cancel late. A realistic clause might read: "Student or tutor may cancel with 48 hours' notice; cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice forfeit the session fee." Decide whether missed sessions are refunded, credited, or lost entirely. Also mention force majeure—extreme weather, illness, emergencies—so both parties know they're protected if something genuinely prevents the session.
Session Details and Expectations
Write down how long each session is (60 minutes is common for high school math; 45 minutes for younger students), where tutoring happens (home, library, online), and what materials the tutor brings or expects you to provide. If your student is preparing for a standardized test (SAT, ACT, algebra regents), specify that in the contract so the tutor knows the end goal. Include which math topics or grade levels the tutor covers—don't assume; some tutors specialize in pre-calc only, while others handle K–12.
Attendance and Commitment
Clarify how many sessions per week are expected and whether that's a flexible or firm commitment. For example: "Student commits to 2 sessions per week for a minimum of 8 weeks; after that, either party may terminate with 1 week notice." This prevents the tutor from losing income due to sudden dropout and gives you security knowing you can exit if the fit isn't right after a reasonable trial period.
What Success Looks Like
Define measurable goals to hold both parties accountable:
- Raise algebra grade from D to C within 12 weeks
- Master fractions and decimals by [specific date]
- Score 650+ on SAT math section
- Complete homework independently by [date]
- Understand quadratic equations well enough to solve 80% of practice problems correctly
Without this, "improvement" is subjective and leads to arguments about whether the tutoring is actually working.
Communication and Progress Tracking
State how often the tutor will update you on progress—weekly emails, monthly written reports, or quick texts after each session. Specify how you'll communicate (email, phone, text) and expected response times (e.g., "tutor responds to messages within 24 business hours"). If your student is young, clarify whether parents observe sessions or receive feedback separately.
Refund and Dispute Resolution
If the tutoring isn't working after 4–6 sessions, can you get a refund? Some tutors offer a trial period (first 2 sessions) with a money-back guarantee if you're unsatisfied. Others don't offer refunds but will let you pause. Decide this beforehand. Also add a simple dispute clause: "If either party believes the contract terms are violated, they must notify the other in writing within 5 days, and both parties agree to discuss solutions before terminating."
Confidentiality and Background Check
Request a copy of the tutor's background check or ask directly about their history. Most professional tutors don't mind sharing this—it's standard. If your student is a minor, the tutor should be screened for child safety.
Termination Terms
State how either party can end the relationship: "Either party may terminate with 1 week written notice, provided all outstanding session fees are paid." Include what happens to any prepaid session credits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a formal written contract necessary for math tutoring? Yes—it prevents misunderstandings about money, cancellations, and goals. Even a one-page agreement signed by both parties is legally protective.
Q: What's a fair cancellation policy? 48 hours' notice is industry standard; anything less typically forfeits the session fee or requires payment. Some tutors build one free cancellation per month into their rates.
Q: Should I require a minimum commitment? Yes, 4–8 weeks gives the tutor stability and your student time to adjust and show progress. Shorter commitments risk revolving-door relationships that disrupt learning.
Use Mercoly to compare math tutors in your area and review their standard contract terms before hiring.