My dad was a genius in many ways, but when it came to helping me with my high school homework… Well, let’s just say the struggle was real.
The look of panic when he realized algebra had changed since the Jurassic period, and his attempts to bluff his way through Shakespeare’s iambic pentameter (which, according to him, was some sort of ancient workout routine) were comedy gold.
It’s a miracle I passed all those years ago. Still, the experience taught me not to even bother taking over a professional tutor’s job when I got kids. That brings us to my list today.
I’ve put this list of the best tutors in Vancouver together with a lot of people’s help – other parents, the rest of the Waterview Vancouver team – and I hope it helps your kid and you. These are the tutors who actually know what they’re teaching and can actually make learning fun (or at least tolerable).
How much does it cost to hire a tutor in Vancouver? If you want to hire a professional tutor in Vancouver, expect to spend at least $30 per hour. This is just a price estimate and will vary depending on the tutor you choose, and the subject of tutoring is not limited to general English or test prep. |
How We Chose
1. MyGradeBooster
Address: 999 W Broadway #720, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1K5, Canada
Contact Details: +17787735507
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 9 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 11 AM to 6 PM
Website: MyGradeBooster
I recently had a chance to check out what MyGradeBooster Tutoring is all about. By chatting with the team and hearing from parents, the effect their tutoring has on students became clear.
They cater to kids from grades 1 through 12, focusing mainly on tune-ups for essential subjects covered in school like English, math, science, and more. Students needing help with test prep may need to look elsewhere.
Despite this, many parents I spoke to liked how the tutors here aren’t just about pushing grades up. They liked how patient the tutors are and how they help foster a sense of confidence in their kids which is half the battle when it comes to tackling academics.
Additionally, many parents loved the telltale signs of progress that came in the form of their detailed reports and timelines, showing not just where their kid was at but where they’re headed with their learning journey.
Pros
- Grades 1 to 12
- Patient tutors
- Progress reports provided
Cons
- No test prep tutoring
Customer Reviews
We have been very fortunate to find MyGradeBooster
“My son has been working with Julian since last summer and has benefitted immensely from his exemplary tutoring. Aside from the help with Math and Physics concepts, Julian has also helped my son learn studying and test-taking strategies, while giving him the confidence and skills to problem solve on his own, something that has not been easy for my son who is a neurodivergent learner. Julian is professional, patient and an exceptional tutor! We have been very fortunate to find MyGradeBooster and their incredible roster of tutors.”
– Nico, Google Reviews
Prapti, the tutor, seems to be a positive and bright young lady
“MyGradeBooster is very well organized. Lesson notes and summaries are sent out after each lesson. Mehrnaz, the founder, is caring and highly responsive to parent’s requests. Prapti, the tutor, seems to be a positive and bright young lady, who knows the materials well and also has an excellent communication skills. Her notes are neat, she can point out important part of the course and is willing to adjust her lesson according to feedback. Recommended.”
– Hanh Nguyen, Google Reviews
2. My Sky Tutoring – UBC Tutors
Address: 595 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC V7X 1L4, Canada
Contact Details: +16049929894
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5:30 PM
- Saturday – 10 AM to 3:30 PM
Website: My Sky Tutoring – UBC Tutors
If you’re in the market for someone who really gets the ins and outs of your child’s coursework and you’re okay with a bit of a premium price, My Sky Tutoring could be your jam.
My Sky Tutoring is pretty picky about who they let into their tutor squad—only UBC graduates. That means whatever brain-buster your course is throwing at your kid, they’ve got someone who not only survived it but can teach it too.
From speaking with them, I learned a little bit about their tutoring approach. They’re all about getting to know what makes you tick, learning-wise. This kind of personal touch can make a huge difference, especially if your child is tackling a subject that’s been giving them (and you) nightmares.
But many parents have told me that because they’re so choosy with their tutors, finding someone from them might take a bit longer, especially when everyone’s cramming for exams.
Despite this, the flexibility here is a breath of fresh air, with tutors who can meet in person or link up online, depending on what works for you.
Pros
- UBC graduate tutors
- Tutors connect with students one-on-one
- In person & online tutoring
Cons
- Expensive prices
- May take longer to find a tutor
Customer Reviews
Very patient, thorough in explaining difficult concepts
“I had a few sessions with Hadis for CHEM 233 (organic chem) and she was a great tutor. In my experience she was very patient, thorough in explaining difficult concepts, and very understanding. TIP: It’s better to send your tutor the materials/questions you want to go over at least a day in advance so less time is wasted and your tutor knows what content you want to cover beforehand. This makes it easier for both parties. It’ll also help you get the most out of your sessions :)”
– Praisia Wong, Google Reviews
Went out of her way to send me fully written up solutions
“I had a few sessions with Shadan for my MATH 101 class and she was very helpful and attentive to my learning. If I didn’t understand a concept or question she would draw up diagrams and different examples to help me understand and went out of her way to send me fully written up solutions for some of my homework that I struggled with. Overall, I would definitely recommend her services for anyone taking first year calculus.”
– Kaitlyn, Google Reviews
3. Sealy Tutoring
Address: 1836 W 5th Ave #203, Vancouver, BC V6J 1P3, Canada
Contact Details: +16049009808
Operating Hours: Monday to Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Website: Sealy Tutoring
Among the parents I talked to, Sealy Tutoring was hailed as the go-to for tackling the tough math and science stuff that high school throws your child’s way.
When I called them up for a chat, it was clear their tutors knew their stuff. They offer various tutoring styles, from one-on-one sessions to a more flexible, drop-in setup for urgent help needs. The option to switch between in-person and online tutoring is a major win for those juggling tight schedules.
Plus, from what I heard, these tutors have a knack for making the learning process engaging instead of something dreadful. Many parents I spoke with loved the continuous support their children had, especially during final exam time.
However, their tutors don’t cover other subjects beyond high school math and science, so if you’re not in high school/university or if you don’t need help in these subjects, it’s best to consider a different tutor.
Pros
- Various tutoring styles
- Engaging learning process
- High school and university student tutoring
Cons
- Math and science tutoring only
Customer Reviews
Highly qualified, have great teaching skills
“Sealy Tutoring has worked really well for our family. Christian along with his team of tutors are highly qualified, have great teaching skills and are keen to share their knowledge. I strongly recommend Sealy Tutoring to assist with all students gaining an edge in Math and Science.”
– Suzanne Porteous, Google Reviews
Sealy Tutoring has been a lifesaver for both my high schooler and university student
“Sealy Tutoring has been a lifesaver for both my high schooler and university student. Christian has been incredibly helpful and accommodating in finding the right person to work with both of my kids with the subject areas they need assistance in, managing timetables and, time zones! Plus, easy, upfront, not confusing, payment plans! Thank you Christian & Sealy.”
– Suzanne Clement, Google Reviews
4. CMC Tutoring
Address: 470 Kingsway #101, Vancouver, BC V5T 3J9, Canada
Contact Details: +1 604-873-8077
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 3 PM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 2:30 PM
Website:CMC Tutoring
Many I talked to were buzzing about how CMC managed to boost their teen’s grades and make learning exciting. They focus mainly on high school tutoring, so CMC wouldn’t be the best for the younger kids.
From observing a tutoring session myself, they’ve got this incredible ability to simplify even the toughest topics. The tutors here make everything, from quantum physics to Shakespeare, easy to grasp.
And the tutors treated their students with patience, and kindness even when a topic wasn’t understood after being explained a few times.
But while I noted CMC shines in areas like English and science, they’re not your go-to for aspiring Picassos or Mozarts. Their offerings for niche arts or music subjects are a bit on the lighter side.
And if your teen is in the middle of SAT or ACT prep crisis mode, CMC might not be the heavy hitter you’re looking for in test prep territory, as they don’t cover that.
Pros
- Grade-boosting tutoring
- Easy to understand lessons
- Helps teens feel good about learning
Cons
- No SAT/ACT Prep
- No tutoring for younger students
Customer Reviews
My teen’s gained confidence and their grades have really improved
“I did alot of research when I was looking for a tutor for high school courses. I chose CMC because of their longstanding track record and the experience of their staff. I have been very happy with CMC. They provide thoughtful and experienced feedback on education planning and have a great schedule that works for our family. Since going to CMC, my teen’s gained confidence and their grades have really improved. I highly recommend CMC and feel very fortunate to have found them.”
– Ruth Google Review
Now he is getting A’s after 6 months of ongoing tutoring
“My kids started coming here last year from “hey we are concerned with your sons math” to now he is getting A’s after 6 months of ongoing tutoring. My daughter didnt like math and struggled also and now her marks lately are exceeding expectations. Happy we started coming here as my friend had recommended. Staff and classroom settings are small and more personal. When kids show proof of their A’s they are rewarded with ice cream!! My kids favorite part! Thanks Steven and the CMC team.”
– Chris Martin Google Review
5. Teacher on Wheels
Address:2755 Horley St, Vancouver, BC V5R 4R7, Canada
Contact Details:+1 604-441-6012
Operating Hours: Monday to Friday – 12 PM to 9 PM
Website: Teacher on Wheels
Teacher on Wheels blends Montessori methods into traditional tutoring, which some parents I spoke with found pretty groundbreaking. To learn a little bit more about them, I called them up to ask a little bit more about their tutoring methods.
And from what I was told, all their tutors are positive and encourage their students to take charge of their learning. Plus, their inclusion of social-emotional coaching is evidence of their well-rounded educational focus.
I also noted that their teaching style is tailor-made to fit each of their students’ needs. Because of this, many parents have told me their children aren’t just making progress—they’re genuinely thriving.
But a huge bonus is the convenience factor. The tutors come right to your doorstep, eliminating the hassle of travel.
However, the range of tutors available is a bit limited compared to larger companies, leading to some scheduling challenges, especially during busy times.
Pros
- Montessori teaching methods
- Individualised learning
- Holistic approach
Cons
- Limited tutor availability
Customer Reviews
The tutors provided by Teacher on Wheels were truly excellent
“Our daughter received tutoring from Teacher on Wheels for about 2 years, from halfway through grade 3 to halfway through grade 5. She was behind her peers in reading & writing. The tutors provided by Teacher on Wheels were truly excellent. Not only did our daughter greatly improve her reading, spelling and grammar but she actually looked forward to the tutoring sessions each week as the tutor went out of her way to make the sessions fun and enjoyable. And, super convenient that the tutor came to our place. Highly recommend!”
– Sara Weinstein Google Review
Hanh’s captivating approach to teaching and her unwavering patience have significantly enhanced their comprehension
“I am truly grateful for Hanh’s remarkable support over the past two years for our two elementary school-aged daughters. Hanh’s captivating approach to teaching and her unwavering patience have significantly enhanced their comprehension of a range of subjects including math, writing, and science. Under Hanh’s skillful guidance, the learning experience has been an enjoyable journey for my girls, leading to a remarkable boost in their self-assurance. I enthusiastically endorse Hanh to anyone in search of an outstanding tutor.”
6. Book Smart Tutors
Address: 5307 Victoria Dr, Vancouver, BC V5P 3V6, Canada
Contact Details: 604-227-2882 | [email protected]
Operating Hours: Everyday: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Website: https://www.booksmarttutors.ca/vancouver
Book Smart Tutors in Vancouver offers personalized, one-on-one tutoring services in the comfort of your home.
Specializing in tailoring lessons to the unique needs of each student, Book Smart Tutors aims to build self-confidence, enhance skills, and achieve academic success for students.
Unlike large learning centers, we like how Book Smart Tutors focuses on individualized instruction.
This approach allows tutors to tailor lessons specifically to the student’s learning style, pace, and academic needs, ensuring more effective learning outcomes.
We’re impressed with how all tutors at Book Smart Tutors have at least a Bachelor’s degree and are familiar with the provincial School Board curriculum.
Certified teachers are available upon request, providing an additional level of expertise and assurance.
Tutors come to your home, saving you time and minimizing distractions. This convenience is especially beneficial for busy families.
The company also offers flexible scheduling and pricing, accommodating various needs without requiring long-term contracts.
Book Smart Tutors covers a wide range of subjects and educational levels, from elementary to high school, including specialized pathways like Foundations of Mathematics and Pre-calculus.
This breadth of coverage ensures that students can receive help in nearly any academic area.
Pros
- Personalized One-on-One Tutoring
- Qualified and Specialized Tutors
- Convenience and Flexibility
- Comprehensive Subject Coverage
Cons
- Operating hours unavailable
Customer Reviews
“We started to use book smart tutors in December last year. As my son badly needs help in Math. In the span of 1 1/2 month his Math grades improve. Halona was very helpful and she made sure my son understands the lesson.
That’s why we recommend book smart tutor to friends. They are very helpful.”