Award-Winning Tutors
serving Chicago, IL
Who needs tutoring?
FEATURED BY
TUTORS FROM
- YaleUniversity
- PrincetonUniversity
- StanfordUniversity
- CornellUniversity
Competitive college admissions, rigorous AP coursework, and ACT targets well above the national average of 21 — Chicago families have a lot riding on academic performance. Whether a student is navigating CPS curriculum, honors-track coursework, or standardized test prep, the difference between good and exceptional often comes down to focused, individualized attention that a classroom of nearly 18 students per teacher simply can't provide.
The first session with a matched tutor begins with a real assessment — understanding your student's goals, current level, and the specific curriculum their school follows. From there, Varsity Tutors builds a personalized plan covering everything from algebra and AP sciences to SAT/ACT strategy and college readiness benchmarks. Tutors are background-checked independent professionals matched on subject expertise, learning style, and scheduling needs, so sessions stay productive and consistent.
Award-Winning Tutors serving Chicago, IL

Certified Tutor
2+ years
Grishma
I'm passionate about helping students because I've seen how meaningful support can turn uncertainty into confidence. Having excelled academically myselfI graduated in the top 1% of my high school class and completed a rigorous AP curriculum in subjects like Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Calculus BC, ...
Northwestern University
Bachelor
Loyola University-Chicago
Professional (JD, MD, DMD, etc)

Certified Tutor
2+ years
I received a B.S. in Neuroscience from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland. After graduating, I moved to Nashville where I worked in a lab at Vanderbilt University Medical Center for a year. I then earned my PhD in Biomedical Science at Northwestern University where my thesis focused on ...
Johns Hopkins University
BS

Certified Tutor
2+ years
I have a bachelor's of science in mathematics from the University of Illinois Chicago. Additionally, I've tutored for three years, have extensive experience teaching each of the following subjects: K-8 mathematics, Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus 1-3, AP Computer...
University of Illinois at Chicago
BS

Certified Tutor
2+ years
Shannon
As a passionate tutor in my fourth year of medical school, I am dedicated to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment. With over 3 years of experience, I specialize in elementary through high school subjects, including math, reading, writing, and Spanish, as well as standardized test...
University of Illinois Chicago
Doctorate (e.g., PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
Georgetown University
Bachelor's

Certified Tutor
2+ years
I hold a Master of Arts in Social Science from the University of Chicago and a Bachelor's in Political Science from Grambling State University. Alongside my academic background, I've worked in education as both a program coordinator and a tutor, supporting students from middle school through college...
University of Chicago
Master's/Graduate
Grambling State University
Bachelor's

Certified Tutor
2+ years
Nathan
I'm a friendly and dedicated tutor with a PhD in Physics from the University of Notre Dame and over five years of experience helping students at the middle school, high school, and college levels. I work with a wide range of subjects, including all levels of physics, algebra, calculus, linear algebr...
University of Notre Dame
Doctorate (e.g., PhD, MD, JD, etc.)
University of Notre Dame
Master's/Graduate

Certified Tutor
2+ years
I'm a current medical student at Rush Medical College with a deep appreciation for the process of learning. I know from personal experience that mastering new material doesn't always come easily it takes patience, structure, and persistence. My own journey has taught me the value of steady progress...
University of Chicago
Bachelor's

Certified Tutor
8+ years
Benjamin
I am a student at the University of Chicago. I grew up on the upper east side and attended the Dalton School in Manhattan. My whole life I've enjoyed math and science but what I am really passionate about is teaching others. I've worked in all different areas from coaching to teaching, and if you wa...
University of Chicago
Current Undergrad Student, Economics

Certified Tutor
10+ years
Rushi
I am a student at Northwestern University in Evanston, and teaching has always been a passion of mine. From my younger brother to my years of informal tutoring experience, I have developed the skills necessary to help others become successful. I enjoy the genuine process of developing a relationship...
Northwestern University
Current Undergrad, Industrial Engineering

Certified Tutor
Jacob
I am eager to help students thrive because I'm still very much a student myself, and will be for the foreseeable future. Though I enjoyed my time as an undergraduate student in Literature, and learned quite a bit during my time at Vanderbilt, there's still more work to be done. I am working towards ...
Vanderbilt University
Bachelors in Literature
Meet Our Expert Tutors
Connect with highly-rated educators ready to help you succeed.
Catherine
Pre-Algebra Tutor • +42 Subjects
I am a graduate student in the humanities who is lucky enough to teach, read, and write for a living. I am passionately committed to educational access and helping young people reach their full potential. It has been my privilege to work with dozens of bright and talented students over the years, ranging from fifth grade to university level. I especially enjoy helping students with test prep and am qualified to teach all sections of the SAT and GRE, including math. I would also love to tutor in history, literature, and writing. Hobbies: reading, cooking, music, running, art, travel, books, writing
Diane
Calculus Tutor • +20 Subjects
I am an avid reader and theater-goer (at least, before the pandemic), am physically active and a risk-taker. In the past I was a marathon runner and a long distance biker. I have run both the New York and the Chicago marathons; did the AIDS Bike Ride in Alaska and have participated in the Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRI) several times. I also paint and have attended summer art programs and have sold some of my paintings at Art Fairs.
Jiamin
Elementary School Math Tutor • +17 Subjects
I am Jennie Tao, a certified K-6 teacher with a Master's degree in Education from the University of Pennsylvania. Teaching is my greatest passion, and I love helping young learners discover the joy of learning and the confidence that comes from growth. Over the past few years, I have supported students in building strong foundations in Math and Mandarin through engaging, joyful, and confidence-building lessons. I also prepare students for math competitions such as Math Kangaroo and CoGAT, helping them develop problem-solving strategies and a love for challenging themselves. I believe every child learns best when they feel encouraged and understood. In my classroom, mistakes are part of growing, and we celebrate progress and curiosity every step of the way. My lessons include clear explanations, hands-on practice, and creative interactions to make learning fun and engaging. I look forward to seeing you in class and exploring new ideas together!
John
AP Calculus BC Tutor • +17 Subjects
I am currently studying law at Washington University in St. Louis. I have received a B.A. in mathematics from the University of Chicago. Though my life has moved away from the study of math, I remain passionate about math and learning in general. I have always been a strong believer that we learn by teaching, and I am excited to learn as I help you learn!
Elena
Calculus Tutor • +23 Subjects
I am a second year law student at the University of Chicago who hails from the San Francisco Bay Area! I tutor the SAT, ESL, and Spanish. I was an AVID tutor in high school, and after college I taught an ESL class and tutored a high school student in Spanish. In law school, I am involved with the Lawyers in the Classroom program. My tutoring philosophy is based on listening to students work through problems and helping them to spot their confusions or incorrect assumptions. I believe students learn much better when they aren't simply told the right answer or right reasoning; they need to get there on their own.
Suzy
ACT English Tutor • +19 Subjects
I graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a major in International Studies in May 2024, with a cumulative GPA of 3.94. From 2024-2025, I was a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant in Bulgaria. This fall, I completed the LSAT, and I am in the process of applying to law schools. During college, I was an academic tutor for four years, working online one-on-one with middle school and high school students on core subjects including English Language Arts. I specialize in tutoring for reading comprehension, writing, and test preparation. I took fourteen AP classes in high school and scored 5s on the vast majority, including AP US History, AP Literature, and AP Micro and Macro. I scored a 34 on the ACT in 2019, and I scored a 172 on the LSAT this September. I am willing and happy to work with you to meet your goals --- whether you need help with SAT/ACT English and Reading, AP tests, workshopping your overall writing skills, or studying for the LSAT, I will personalize every lesson to your needs.
Pinelopi
Pre-Algebra Tutor • +25 Subjects
I am a Duke University graduate with a Bachelors degree in Psychology. I have experience tutoring all levels of Spanish language, all sections of the SAT, as well as algebra, pre algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus! I love kids & I have a very flexible schedule and a lot of patience! Let me help you :)
Andrew
Calculus Tutor • +30 Subjects
I am a graduate of the University of Chicago, class of 2012. I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Language and Literature and Theater and Performance Studies. Since graduation, I have continued to live in Chicago. I am a founding member of First Floor Theater, a Chicago storefront theater company that is in its third season. I've tutored for several private clients in the past, of a variety of age ranges and backgrounds. I've tutored a variety of subjects, ranging from Science to Spanish. Additionally, I teach acting classes at a studio in Chicago at night. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about English Language and Literature--particularly plays. In the past, I've had the most fun teaching students how to think critically about their reading assignments and how to write. I believe that both of these skills are invaluable to any student, and eventually, to any adult. I also believe very strongly in the value of education--I am very fortunate to have studied at excellent schools, and I try to encourage all of my students to make the most out of every educational opportunity. When I'm not tutoring, I can usually be found at the theater, either as an audience member or on the stage. I am an avid Chicago Bulls fan, and enjoy catching a game whenever I can. I also love to camp--it can be a nice change of pace from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Molly
8th Grade math Tutor • +86 Subjects
I am an Illinois certified Teacher in grades K-9. I attended Northwestern University and received a Master's of Science in Education. I have ample classroom experience and expertise in elementary Math and Reading intervention. I have several tools and resources from various curricula to work with and would love to help your students in any elementary or middle school subject area. For the past three years, I have been working as a classroom Teacher in 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grade classrooms, teaching students with a variety of needs. I can also tutor students through high school and college in History and Spanish as I hold degrees in both subjects from Columbia University. I am highly qualified to tutor Writing at all levels - from elementary to adult professional writing - as I have written two distinguished theses as part of my academic training.
Felix
Pre-Algebra Tutor • +35 Subjects
I am excited to be working with Varsity Tutors because I enjoy teaching and getting to share some of my academic experience. I have done a little tutoring, but most of my teaching experience is in the university setting as a TA. I'm particularly excited about biology and psychology, where I have the most experience. I also really enjoy reading and writing.
Browse Tutors in Top Illinois Cities
Top Subjects in Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Chicago's 12 school districts follow Illinois State Standards, which emphasize critical thinking and mastery across core subjects. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction helps students fill gaps in foundational skills and work at their own pace to meet grade-level expectations. Tutors can align their approach with your student's specific school's curriculum, whether they're in CPS or a neighboring district, ensuring the support directly strengthens performance in the classroom.
Varsity Tutors connects students across Chicago's diverse neighborhoods and school districts with expert tutors who specialize in their specific needs—whether that's test prep, subject mastery, or homework support. Our matching process considers learning style, subject expertise, and availability to ensure a strong fit. With such a large student population, we're equipped to serve learners at every level, from elementary through college preparation.
Chicago's average student-teacher ratio of 17.7:1 means individual students can easily get lost in the classroom, especially those who need extra support or work at a different pace. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction provides the focused attention that larger classrooms can't always offer, allowing tutors to identify knowledge gaps, adjust teaching methods, and build confidence. This targeted support is particularly valuable for students preparing for standardized tests or tackling challenging subjects like math and science.
Chicago students typically seek help with math (algebra, geometry, and test prep), English/reading comprehension, science, and standardized test preparation including the ACT and SAT. Many students also benefit from tutoring in subjects tied to Illinois graduation requirements and college readiness. Varsity Tutors connects students with tutors across all these areas, plus foreign languages, history, and AP/honors coursework.
The first session is an opportunity for the tutor to understand your student's current level, learning goals, and any specific challenges they're facing in their Chicago school. The tutor will assess what's working and what needs improvement, then create a personalized plan moving forward. This initial meeting sets the foundation for productive sessions and helps both tutor and student build rapport.
Expert tutors help Chicago students build test-taking strategies, master content areas, and practice with real exam questions—all tailored to each student's starting point and goals. The national average SAT score is around 1050 (out of 1600), and the average ACT score is about 21 (out of 36), but personalized instruction helps students identify their specific weak areas and improve significantly. Tutors can also help students understand Illinois college readiness benchmarks and plan a test-taking timeline that works with their school schedule.
Yes—tutors help with immediate homework needs while teaching problem-solving strategies and foundational concepts so students can tackle similar work independently. This approach prevents homework help from becoming a crutch and instead builds confidence and competence. For Chicago students juggling multiple classes across different curricula, tutors can prioritize what matters most and connect homework to bigger learning goals.
Varsity Tutors offers personalized tutoring packages designed to fit different budgets and schedules. You can adjust frequency, session length, and focus areas based on your student's needs and your family's situation. Many Chicago families start with 1-2 sessions per week and adjust from there—there's no one-size-fits-all model.
Connect with Chicago Tutors
Get matched with local expert tutors