If you’ve ever thought, “I could totally teach this online and make extra money,” Preply is probably one of the first platforms you’ll run into. It’s a global tutoring marketplace where people teach languages, academic subjects, and even skills like public speaking or coding.
So… is it worth it as a side gig?
Short answer: yes—for the right person, but it’s not passive income.
Let’s break it down honestly.
What Preply Is (Quick Overview)
Preply connects tutors with students worldwide via 1-on-1 video lessons. You set your own hourly rate, availability, and subjects. Preply handles payments, scheduling, and the platform itself.
Popular tutoring niches:
- English & other languages (biggest demand)
- Test prep (IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, etc.)
- School subjects
- Business English & conversation practice
The Side-Gig Pros (What People Like)
✅ Flexible schedule
You can teach early mornings, nights, or weekends. This makes it ideal if you already have:
- A full-time job
- Kids at home
- Another business or freelance work
✅ Low barrier to entry
You don’t need a formal teaching degree for many subjects (especially conversation-based language tutoring). If you’re a native speaker or skilled in a topic, you can start.
✅ Global students = steady demand
Because students come from all over the world, you’re not limited to one time zone or country. This helps keep bookings consistent once you’re established.
✅ You control your rates
You can start lower to get reviews, then raise your prices over time. Many tutors gradually move from “side money” to solid monthly income.
The Real Cons (Where People Get Frustrated)
❌ Preply takes a big commission
This is the biggest downside.
- New tutors can lose up to 33% per lesson
- Commission decreases as you teach more hours, but it still cuts into earnings
This is why Preply works best as:
- A starter platform
- A way to build experience and testimonials
❌ Trial lessons are unpaid
You don’t earn from trial lessons (Preply keeps the fee). This can feel rough early on when you’re doing several trials just to land students.
❌ Competition is real
You’re competing with tutors worldwide, including people charging very low rates. Standing out requires:
- A strong intro video
- A clear niche (not “I teach everything”)
- Good communication skills
How Much Can You Realistically Make?
For a side gig (not full-time), many tutors report:
- $10–$20/hour at the start
- $25–$40/hour after building reviews and experience
- Higher if you specialize (business English, test prep, niche skills)
A realistic side-gig scenario:
- 5–10 hours/week
- $500–$1,200/month once established
Not overnight—but very doable.


Who Preply Is BEST For
Preply makes sense if you:
- Want active income (not passive)
- Enjoy talking to people 1-on-1
- Are patient building something slowly
- Want flexible, work-from-home income
- Plan to eventually move clients to your own brand or platform
It’s NOT ideal if you:
- Hate video calls
- Don’t want to deal with commissions
- Prefer fully automated side hustles
Final Honest Verdict
Preply is a legit side gig—but it’s not a shortcut.
Think of it as:
- A paid training ground
- A way to test tutoring without building your own website
- A stepping stone, not a forever platform
If you’re willing to put in the effort, build reviews, and play the long game, Preply can absolutely become a solid extra income stream.

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