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

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. 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, ...

Education

Northwestern University

Bachelor

Loyola University-Chicago

Professional (JD, MD, DMD, etc)

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

Anthony

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Anthony

BS
Anthony's other Tutor Subjects
AP Calculus AB
Pre-Algebra
Linear Algebra
College Algebra

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...

Education

University of Illinois at Chicago

BS

Maya

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Maya

Master's/Graduate
Maya's other Tutor Subjects
ACT Writing
Literature
Writing
Reading

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...

Education

University of Chicago

Master's/Graduate

Grambling State University

Bachelor's

Suzy

Certified Tutor

2+ years

Suzy

Bachelor's
Suzy's other Tutor Subjects
ACT English
ACT Reading
AP English Literature and Composition
AP English Language and Composition

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...

Education

Johns Hopkins University

Bachelor's

Karishma

Certified Tutor

Karishma

Bachelor in Arts
Karishma's other Tutor Subjects
Calculus
Algebra
Anatomy
Anatomy & Physiology

I am very dedicated to helping students excel in school and in helping them develop study methods and styles that work best for them and that will serve them throughout school. I previously tutored with Boys Hope Girls Hope in Evanston, IL. I tutored middle and high school students in Spanish and En...

Education

Northwestern University

Bachelor in Arts

Test Scores
ACT
34
Asta

Certified Tutor

Asta

Bachelor in Arts in Political Science
Asta's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
College Algebra
Arithmetic
Middle School Math

I am a graduate of the University of Chicago where I received my undergraduate degree in political science. Right after graduation, I worked as an academic and test prep tutor as well as admissions consultant in Hong Kong. For the past two years, I worked with a number of students to help prepare th...

Education

University of Chicago

Bachelor in Arts in Political Science

Test Scores
SAT
1530
ACT
35
Mahalia

Certified Tutor

9+ years

Mahalia

Bachelor in Arts
Mahalia's other Tutor Subjects
Calculus
Algebra
SAT Subject Test in Latin
SAT Subject Test in Biology E/M

I am comfortable tutoring a variety of subjects, I am most passionate about writing and language, and I truly believe that strong writing skills are an asset in every area of life. Through my experience as an after-school program manager, I learned to build relationships and work well with students,...

Education

Northwestern University

Bachelor in Arts

Test Scores
SAT
1550
ACT
35
Mark

Certified Tutor

Mark

Current Grad Student, Bioengineering
Mark's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
College Algebra
Trigonometry
Pre-Calculus

I am interested in tutoring math and math-related subjects including economics. Throughout sessions I will always try to convey exactly how important it is to learn the information, because like it or not, even if the student is not interested in learning, I want to convey that in life we often are ...

Education

University of Illinois at Chicago

Current Grad Student, Bioengineering

University of Illinois at Chicago

Current Undergrad, Bioengineering

Test Scores
ACT
34
Cynthia

Certified Tutor

7+ years

Cynthia

Bachelor in Arts
Cynthia's other Tutor Subjects
Calculus
Algebra
SAT Reading
SAT Math

I'm passionate about education and love working with students.

Education

University of Chicago

Bachelor in Arts

Test Scores
SAT
1560

Meet Our Expert Tutors

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

Brett

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +31 Subjects

I am seeking to continue this since I have graduated. Hobbies: music, art, sports, books, writing, reading

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Ellie

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +17 Subjects

I am a 4th year student at The University of Chicago majoring in Economics. I recently completed all of my coursework and am now filling my time with the activities I most enjoy. One of these activities is teaching. At the beginning of this academic year, I joined an organization on campus that teaches juniors and seniors at a local high school about community engagement through the lens of philanthropy. Through this, I have the unique opportunity to empower students to become leaders in their community; to provide them a platform to change issues about which they are most passionate. This experience inspires my desire to educate young students; to provide them the tools to be leaders, whether that be in the classroom, on the playing field, or in their community. My time as a youth soccer coach and tutor of my little brother and his friends has further bolstered my love of teaching. Given my extensive experience and longtime passion for math and applied math subjects, I feel I can best help students seeking help in these areas, though I have experience in a broad range of subjects. Outside of teaching, I enjoy playing soccer, basketball, guitar and piano, as well as cooking, hiking and listening to podcasts.

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Anna

Calculus Tutor • +34 Subjects

I'm Anna! I'm currently a student in the MD/MBA program between Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine and the Kellogg School of Management, and graduated from Northwestern University as part of the Honors Program in Medical Education. I attended the Bergen County Academies in New Jersey, a selective, application-based magnet school, for high school.

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Jack

AP Calculus AB Tutor • +50 Subjects

I'm a recent grad from Northwestern (B.A. in Theatre and Economics) who loves teaching and learning. I love helping other people achieve their goals and helping students find ways to be their best selves. Excited to meet and work with Chicagoland's students!

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Shannon

Middle School Math Tutor • +47 Subjects

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 prep, including ACT/SAT and MCAT, and college application essay-writing. My teaching philosophy centers on building strong connections with my students, using interactive methods that cater to their individual learning styles. I find joy in guiding students towards academic success and helping them develop a love for learning. Outside of tutoring, I enjoy exploring all the different foods, music, and cultures that Chicago has to offer! I believe that every student has the potential to excel, and I strive to empower them on their educational journey.

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Nathan

Pre-Calculus Tutor • +13 Subjects

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 algebra, differential equations, statistics, and general problem-solving. My approach is straightforward: meet students where they are, explain ideas clearly, and work together through examples until everything clicks. I value building confidence just as much as building skills. Every student learns differently, so I adapt explanations to match the way they think. The most rewarding part of tutoring for me is seeing students go from "I'm stuck" to "I've got this." If you're looking for someone patient, supportive, and genuinely invested in your progress, I'd be happy to help.

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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!

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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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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 :)

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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.

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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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