How to choose an online tutor when your family lives abroad

Families living abroad often choose online tutoring because local tutors may not know their curriculum. The right online tutor can solve that, but only if you check a few things first.

1. Do they know your exact board?

IB, IGCSE, A-Level, CBSE and ICSE/ISC are examined very differently. Ask which board and level the tutor has taught, and ask how they would prepare your child for that specific paper style.

2. Can they teach at a sensible local time?

A lesson at 3 a.m. is not a lesson. Check that the tutor offers after-school or weekend slots in your time zone, and that the booking page shows times in local time.

3. Is it truly one-to-one?

Ask whether lessons are individual or in a group. One-to-one lets the tutor follow your child's pace and gaps, rather than a class average.

4. How will you know it is working?

• A short update for parents after each lesson.
• Clear notes or homework after every session.
• A plan for the next exam or test, with practice on past papers.

5. Try before you commit

A free introductory call or trial lesson shows how the tutor explains ideas and how your child responds. Choose pay-per-hour or short blocks over long contracts until you are sure.

6. Check the practical details

Confirm the video platform, how doubts between lessons are handled, and how payment works from your country.