Award-Winning Tutors serving Chicago, IL

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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

Emma

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Emma

AB
Emma's other Tutor Subjects
Middle School Math
Elementary School Math
ACT English
ACT

I'm a third-year PhD candidate at Harvard University studying computational biology. I tutor all elementary subjects, high school subjects including advanced placement level courses and college level chemistry, biology, computer science, and English coursework. More specifically, I am highly qualifi...

Education

University of Chicago

AB

Harleen

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Harleen

BS
Harleen's other Tutor Subjects
1st-5th Grade Math (in Spanish)
1st-5th Grade ELA (in Spanish)
6th Grade AP Language Composition
AP Statistics

I am a Molecular Engineering major at the University of Chicago, I am currently taking time off to focus on other aspects of my career but I don't want to stop tutoring outside college campus!. I am a child of immigrants and have spent my life tutoring my siblings and younger students, and I loved...

Education

University of Chicago

BS

Grishma

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Grishma

Professional (JD, MD, DMD, etc)
Grishma's other Tutor Subjects
Middle School Math
Geometry
Algebra
Elementary School Math

I'm passionate about helping students because I've seen how meaningful support can turn uncertainty into confidence. I graduated in the top 10% of my high school class and completed a rigorous AP curriculum in subjects like Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Calculus BC, English, Economics, and Spanish. I...

Education

Northwestern University

Bachelor

Loyola University-Chicago

Professional (JD, MD, DMD, etc)

Thomas

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Thomas

AM
Thomas's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Middle School Math
Geometry
Algebra

I have years of experience teaching writing and literary analysis in the classroom setting, and years of teaching students one on one.

Education

University of Chicago

AM

Jake

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Jake

Bachelor's
Jake's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Pre-Calculus
Middle School Math
Geometry

My passion for tutoring stems from my experience as a TA, where I discovered that effective teaching goes beyond just delivering content; it's about building relationships and instilling confidence in students. With over two years of tutoring experience in math and computer science, I focus on foste...

Education

Carleton College

Bachelor's

Karis

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Karis

BS
Karis's other Tutor Subjects
Middle School Math
Neuroscience
AP Chemistry
Chemistry

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 ...

Education

Johns Hopkins University

BS

Xingyuan

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Xingyuan

Master's/Graduate
Xingyuan's other Tutor Subjects
Mandarin Chinese 4
Arabic
Mandarin Chinese
Japanese

As a dedicated language tutor with several years of experience, I bring both expertise and enthusiasm to every lesson. I specialize in Chinese, Japanese, and basic Arabic, and I have had the privilege of guiding students of diverse ages and backgrounds through their language-learning journeys.

Education

University of Chicago

Master's/Graduate

Derick

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Derick

Bachelor's
Derick's other Tutor Subjects
AP Calculus BC
AP Calculus AB
Pre-Algebra
Pre-Calculus

I am a Northwestern University graduate and received my Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Robotics. I have an extensive background tutoring middle and high school students in Standardized Tests as well as helping incoming freshmen acclimate to the college environm...

Education

Northeastern University

Bachelor's

Maryam

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Maryam

BS
Maryam's other Tutor Subjects
SAT Reading
ACT English
ACT Reading
SAT

Maryam Garba has a track record of successfully teaching and mentoring students of all ages. She grew up in a family of teachers and this inspired her to take on tutoring from a very young age. Maryam is a certified teacher with 12 years of ESL teaching experience along with 6 years of ACT, SAT, LSA...

Education

Stanford University

BS

Dylan

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Dylan

Undergraduate Degree
Dylan's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Algebra 3/4
Pre-Calculus
Geometry

I'm planning on applying to PHD programs in media studies soon. I have been in love with learning all my life, and I hope to be a professor one day. In the meantime, when I am free, I spend a lot of time reading, learning french and watching films. I also like to travel whenever possible, and my fav...

Education

Oberlin College

Undergraduate Degree

Meet Our Expert Tutors

Connect with highly-rated educators ready to help you succeed.

Dwight

AP Calculus AB Tutor • +46 Subjects

I am a graduate of the University of Missouri at Columbia, where I earned first my Bachelor's and then (some time later) Master's of Science in Mathematics with an emphasis on physics and the theory of computation. The latter degree was a necessary precursor to my next career where my workplace was the classroom: I don't believe in the importance of education because I teach; I became a teacher because I believe in the importance of education. Especially when trying to make informed decisions, as I came to realize in my first career as a data analyst. This I passionately believe; doubly so in matters where a certain fluency in the language of numbers is demanded.

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Eric

10th Grade math Tutor • +66 Subjects

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, and I bring that same perspective when tutoring. I enjoy breaking down complex ideas into simple, manageable steps so students can feel confident rather than overwhelmed.

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Stephen

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +70 Subjects

I am a graduate of Grinnell College, a private liberal arts college located in Grinnell, Iowa. I have a Bachelor of the Arts in Computer Science from Grinnell's Department of Math and Computer Science. Since graduation I have tutored students of a wide variety of ages and background in a number of subjects. I have tutored middle school students in the Chicago area in Math and science and high school students in advanced Math, chemistry, writing, and helped them prepare for standardized tests for college admittance. I have also tutored adults preparing for academic proficiency tests for their jobs and with GRE prep for those interested in going to graduate school. Additionally I have taught English grammar, reading, and conversational skills to ESL students in Chicago, Ecuador, and Colombia. While I tutor a number of subjects, I particularly enjoy helping students with standardized test strategy and following their scores as they increase towards their goal. When I tutor, I aim to lead students to an answer by example so that they can see the reasoning involved themselves, rather than me just telling them the answer. The more the students can come to their own solutions, the more memorable the lessons will be. In my spare time I enjoy reading, playing skill games like scrabble, bridge, and poker, and outdoor activities like biking, camping, and canoeing when the weather is nice.

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Anudeep

AP Physics 1 Tutor • +5 Subjects

My name is Anudeep Mangu, and I hold a Doctorate in Materials Science and Engineering from Stanford University. With almost a decade of tutoring and mentorship experience, I specialize in Physics, particularly in AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism. I am also comfortable teaching Algebra and Calculus. My teaching philosophy centers on fostering a deep understanding of concepts by starting with the foundational "why" behind each topic. I believe that connecting complex ideas to students' interests enhances their learning experience. My goal is to create a supportive learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and exploring challenging concepts. I am passionate about helping students grasp the principles that underpin our modern world, and I find joy in guiding them through the problem-solving process. In my spare time, I enjoy exploring new technologies and concepts in science, which continually enriches my tutoring approach.

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Alexander

Writing Tutor • +2 Subjects

I'm a University of Chicago graduate who has spent the last four years working as a local journalist. I'm excited to work with your student on math, writing and reading comprehension, not just building skills but hopefully having fun along the way!

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Curran

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +81 Subjects

As a professional educator with over a decade of experience, I specialize in delivering personalized, high-impact instruction across the humanities, test preparation, and college readiness. I've taught everything from early literacy and middle school ELA to AP-level history, civics, and economicsand I've guided students through the full academic journey, from mastering foundational skills to crafting standout college essays and preparing for the SAT, ACT, and AP exams. My background spans elite classrooms and enrichment programs alike: I've taught in college-preparatory high schools, developed curriculum for national nonprofits, and designed one-on-one tutoring plans for students ranging from advanced learners to those seeking targeted support. I bring a calm, structured, and student-centered approach to every sessionhelping students build confidence, sharpen their critical thinking, and reach ambitious academic goals. Whether your child is preparing for a top university or looking to deepen their academic engagement, I offer rigorous, thoughtful instruction with results you can trust.

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Daniel

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +12 Subjects

As a dedicated college student pursuing a degree in Computer Science and Economics at The University of Chicago, I have a strong passion for mathematics, particularly in algebra and SAT preparation. With over two years of tutoring experience, I focus on high school and middle school students, helping them identify their strengths and weaknesses to tailor our sessions effectively. I utilize official College Board materials, ensuring my students engage with real SAT problems. My own experience on the SAT fuels my commitment to guiding others through the college admissions process. I believe in fostering a supportive learning environment where students feel encouraged to ask questions and explore concepts deeply. I am excited to help students achieve their academic goals and navigate their educational journeys.

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Diane

Phonics Tutor • +10 Subjects

I love teaching and know how to make teaching fun as well as effective. I have a positive outgoing demeanor which enables me to relate well to children of all ages and abilities.I have taught all elementary school grades, levels and subjects. My expertise is in teaching reading and language arts. My last teaching job was teaching second grade in the Gifted Program at Bell School in Chicago. I also have experience teaching learners who need extra support. I have been certified to teach in New Jersey, Ohio and Illinois. In Illinois I have been certified as an early education teacher as well as a teacher for grades up to grade 9. In conjunction with my library degree from the University of Chicago I wrote a thesis analyzing children's literature.

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Elijah

Biology Tutor • +19 Subjects

I graduated from the University of Chicago with a triple major in sociology, music, and media arts. I enjoy explaining the nuances of a text based question, whether it involves reading or math, and I am excited to share this passion with others. Throughout my studies, I achieved the status of National Merit Scholar via my PSAT score of 1480/1520, as well as an SAT score of 1580/1600 (a perfect 800 in math). I have also received a perfect score of 5 in classes such as AP Calculus AB, AP US History, and AP Biology. Over the past year, I have worked with middle and high school students on ISEE and SAT test prep in both group and individual settings. I thoroughly enjoy working to fulfill their educational goals, and I look forward to seeing their scores improve over time as a result of our collective dedication. I believe in delving deeply into core concepts to understand the fundamentals of a problem, which I believe is essential to academic growth. I'm looking forward to working with you!

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Soung

AP Calculus AB Tutor • +29 Subjects

I'm a highly skilled, professional tutor with over 20 years experience. I have an exceptional ability to teach math to students with severe learning challenges. I make all levels of math understandable and foster confidence in the student. I'm also expert in SAT/ACT test preparation and high school admission tests. I have a BA in Chemistry from The University of Chicago and a PhD from Northwestern University. I'm a former research scientist. I enjoy tutoring and have the gift of teaching.

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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.

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