Home-Based Exam Prep Classes

Parents in your neighborhood whose children need help with SAT or ACT prep, state tests or school entrance exams.

A set fee per student for a course of weekly sessions, with extra income from practice test days and occasional one-on-one tutoring.

• Strong knowledge of the exam content
• Patient, clear teaching
• Managing a small group
• Communicating with parents

• Home occupation permit and zoning rules, check with your city or county
• HOA or lease rules about clients visiting your home
• Liability insurance, since your homeowner's or renter's policy may not cover business visitors, ask your insurer
• Child safety, consider background checks and having a parent nearby or a clear drop-off policy
• Check whether your state requires any registration for teaching minors
• Be careful with promises about score improvements

Estimated startup costs are typically around $300 to $2,000, depending on the materials, furniture and supplies you already have and how you promote your classes. Insurance and any background checks may add to the total.

Monthly revenue is estimated at typically around $600 to $3,000, depending on how many students you take, your group sizes and how many evenings and weekends you teach. Estimates are revenue, not profit.

Check for a home occupation permit and zoning rules with your city or county, plus any HOA or lease rules about clients visiting. Ask your insurer about liability cover for business visitors, and check whether your state requires registration for teaching minors.