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  • Writer's pictureMalebo Nkosi

How to Succeed as a Teacher on Preply

Preply is an innovative online platform that connects learners with tutors from around the world, providing an excellent opportunity to share knowledge and learn new skills.




To teach on Preply, you need to meet certain requirements. While specific requirements may vary based on the subject you teach, here are the general qualifications and criteria:


1. Proficiency in the subject:

You should have a strong command of the subject you wish to teach. Whether it's a language, academic subject, or a specialized skill, you need to demonstrate expertise and competence in that area.


2. Educational background or relevant experience:

While formal teaching qualifications are not always required, having a degree or certification in the subject or related field can enhance your credibility as a tutor. Additionally, relevant professional experience or practical expertise can be valuable qualifications.


3. Teaching experience:

Previous teaching experience is not always mandatory, especially for certain subjects. However, it can be advantageous to have prior teaching experience, whether as a language tutor, classroom teacher, or through private tutoring. It demonstrates your ability to effectively convey knowledge and engage with students.


4. Strong communication skills:

As an online tutor, you need to communicate effectively with your students. This includes not only being fluent in the language you teach but also being able to explain concepts clearly and adapt your teaching style to different learning styles. Good interpersonal skills and the ability to build rapport with students are also important.


5. Reliable internet connection and necessary equipment:

Since Preply operates as an online platform, you need a stable internet connection to conduct lessons (10Mbps upload/download) visit Speedtest.net to check your internet speed. Additionally, having a computer or laptop, a webcam, a microphone, and appropriate software for video conferencing is essential for delivering lessons smoothly.


6. Availability and commitment:

Preply expects tutors to be available during the times they specify on their profiles and to deliver lessons consistently. While you have the flexibility to set your schedule, being reliable and committed to your students is important for building trust and maintaining a positive teaching relationship.


7. Compliance with Preply's policies and guidelines:

Preply has certain policies and guidelines in place to ensure the quality of teaching and the safety of students and tutors. You should familiarize yourself with these policies and agree to abide by them as a condition for teaching on the platform.


It's worth noting that the specific requirements and qualifications may differ depending on the subject you teach and the level of expertise needed. During the application process, Preply will review your qualifications, experience, and supporting documents to assess your eligibility as a tutor.


By meeting these requirements and demonstrating your passion for teaching, you can increase your chances of being accepted as a tutor on Preply and embark on an exciting journey of sharing knowledge and empowering learners from around the world.

Applying to become a teacher on Preply is a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply:

  1. Visit the Preply website: Open your web browser and go to the Preply website (www.preply.com).

  2. Click on "Become a Tutor": On the homepage, you will find a button or link that says "Become a Tutor." Click on it to start the application process.

  3. Complete the application form: You will be directed to the application form where you'll need to provide some essential information. This includes your name, email address, country of residence, native language, and the subject(s) you wish to teach. Fill in all the required fields accurately.

  4. Select your teaching preferences: Indicate your preferred teaching schedule, hourly rate, and availability. Preply allows you to set your own schedule and rates, but it's important to be realistic and competitive based on your qualifications and experience.

  5. Provide your teaching experience and qualifications: Share details about your teaching experience, including the number of years you've been teaching and any relevant qualifications or certifications you possess. If you don't have formal teaching credentials, highlight any relevant expertise or experience that makes you a qualified tutor in your chosen subject.



  1. Upload supporting documents: Preply may require you to provide supporting documents to verify your qualifications and teaching background. These may include your CV/resume, teaching certificates, diplomas, or any other relevant documents. Make sure to have digital copies of these documents ready for upload.

  2. Record an introduction video: Preply encourages tutors to record a brief introduction video. This video helps students get to know you and your teaching style better. Prepare a short video introducing yourself, highlighting your teaching approach, and explaining what you can offer to prospective students.

  3. Submit your application: Once you have completed all the necessary information and uploaded the required documents, review your application to ensure accuracy. Click the "Submit" button to send your application to Preply for review.

  4. Wait for approval: After submitting your application, Preply will review your information, qualifications, and documents. The approval process may take some time, as Preply evaluates each application carefully. You will receive an email notification once your application is approved or if further information is required.

  5. Start teaching on Preply: Once your application is approved, you can start creating your tutor profile, setting your availability, and preparing lesson materials. Preply provides a user-friendly platform where you can schedule lessons, communicate with students, and deliver online lessons using their built-in tools.

Remember, Preply seeks dedicated and qualified tutors who are passionate about teaching and committed to delivering high-quality lessons. By presenting your skills, experience, and teaching approach effectively in your application, you increase your chances of being accepted as a tutor on Preply. Good luck!


To succeed as a teacher on Preply and make a positive impact on your students' learning experience, consider the following tips:

  1. Set Clear Goals and Expectations: Define your teaching goals and objectives. Clearly communicate these goals to your students and ensure they understand what they can expect from your lessons. Establishing a shared understanding helps set the stage for a productive learning partnership.

  2. Prepare Engaging Lesson Plans: Plan your lessons thoughtfully and create a structure that facilitates student engagement. Incorporate a variety of activities, resources, and materials to make your lessons dynamic and interactive. Adapt your lesson plans to suit the individual needs and learning styles of your students.

  3. Build Rapport and Establish Trust: Establishing a positive and supportive relationship with your students is crucial. Take the time to get to know them, their interests, and their learning preferences. Show empathy and create a safe space where they feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and expressing themselves.

  4. Provide Personalized Instruction: Tailor your teaching approach to meet the unique needs of each student. Assess their strengths and weaknesses, and adjust your lessons accordingly. Provide individualized feedback, address specific challenges, and offer personalized guidance to help them progress.

  5. Foster Active Student Participation: Encourage active participation during lessons by incorporating interactive activities, discussions, and hands-on exercises. Encourage students to share their thoughts, ask questions, and engage in meaningful conversations. Active involvement enhances learning and keeps students motivated.

  6. Give Constructive Feedback: Regularly provide constructive feedback to your students, highlighting their strengths and areas for improvement. Offer practical suggestions and guidance for enhancement. Utilize Preply's communication tools to provide timely and specific feedback after each session.

  7. Use a Variety of Teaching Resources: Utilize a diverse range of teaching resources, such as textbooks, videos, online articles, and interactive tools. Incorporate real-life examples, multimedia materials, and authentic resources to make the learning experience more engaging and relevant.

  8. Be Flexible and Adaptable: Adapt your teaching style and methods to accommodate the changing needs and progress of your students. Be open to feedback and willing to adjust your approach to ensure optimal learning outcomes. Flexibility and adaptability are key to meeting your students' evolving requirements.

  9. Continuous Professional Development: Stay up-to-date with the latest teaching techniques, methodologies, and resources. Engage in professional development activities, attend webinars, and explore relevant educational materials. Continuous learning helps you enhance your teaching skills and enrich your students' experience.

  10. Maintain Professionalism and Communication: Maintain professionalism in your interactions with students. Be punctual, respectful, and responsive to their inquiries and concerns. Clear and effective communication is vital to building trust and fostering a positive learning environment.

By implementing these strategies and continuously refining your teaching approach, you can succeed as a teacher on Preply and provide your students with a rewarding and impactful learning experience.




Tips from Super tutors on How to succeed on Preply:

"Hi Malebo, I think the points below are important:


1. People should open up hours on their calendars, the higher your availability the better your ranking will be. I found out about this on a YT video and it actually works.

2. Make sure that your description or motivation on your profile is lengthy. This also boosts your ranking.

3. I retain most of my students in trial lessons because I prepare PowerPoint slides with lesson objectives etc. This gives the students an impression that I’m organised and tailor lessons according to their needs. (I just prepare these slides for my trial lessons).

4. People must start off at $3/$4 to attract more students.

5. Lastly, you need to pull off a good accent. To impress the students 😅"


"To achieve success as a teacher on Preply, I follow a specific approach:

  • Engaging and Active Lessons: I maintain a positive attitude throughout the entire lesson, ensuring my energy level remains high regardless of how tired I may feel. I create personalized slides for my trial lessons, providing an example of the materials I prepare.

  • Confidence and Support: Even if I face uncertainties during a lesson, I always project confidence to my students. I encourage them to introduce themselves and share their interests, guiding them whenever they need assistance. Additionally, I regularly offer compliments to make them feel at ease and appreciated.

  • Lesson Objectives and Focus: During the first lesson, I establish clear objectives and inquire about their specific focus areas, such as speaking, reading, or writing. To aid beginners, I utilize tools like Google Translate when necessary. Moreover, I prioritize creating a comfortable learning environment as language learning can be challenging.

  • Building Relationships: For returning students, I aim to develop a friendly rapport. I inquire about their day, discuss topics like the weather, and engage in casual conversations. This personal connection helps strengthen our bond.

  • Personalized Approach: I tailor my teaching style to individual learners. During trial lessons, I showcase my expertise, allowing students to interrupt me when they want to learn new words. I also ask them when they prefer to be politely corrected, and they usually express their preference for immediate feedback.

  • Word Consolidation and Communication: I promise to send them words they've learned, sometimes using Preply's messaging system instead of typing them out. This approach saves time and helps reinforce vocabulary. I also suggest using Preply's voice notes for additional English communication if it suits their needs.

This approach has proven effective for me, resulting in numerous subscribed students within a short period. While financial gain is a motivation, my primary focus is on assisting and supporting my students to the best of my abilities."



The exact workings of Preply's tutor-ranking system are not publicly disclosed, as it is proprietary information owned by Preply. However, here are some general factors that may influence the tutor-ranking system on online tutoring platforms:

  1. Tutor Performance Metrics: Preply likely considers various performance metrics to assess tutor quality and effectiveness. These metrics may include student ratings, reviews, lesson completion rates, response times, and overall customer satisfaction. Tutors who consistently receive positive feedback and high ratings may have better visibility and ranking within the platform.

  2. Experience and Qualifications: Tutors with extensive experience and relevant qualifications may be prioritized in the ranking system. This could include educational background, certifications, teaching credentials, professional experience, and subject matter expertise. Demonstrating a strong track record and expertise in the subject area can positively impact a tutor's ranking.

  3. Engagement and Activity: Tutors who actively engage with students and the Preply platform may receive higher rankings. Factors such as the number of lessons conducted, frequency of availability, responsiveness to student inquiries, and ongoing communication may contribute to a tutor's ranking.

  4. Student Preferences: Preply aims to match students with tutors who meet their preferences and requirements. Therefore, tutor profiles that align closely with a student's search criteria, such as subject, language, availability, and budget, may have better visibility and ranking for relevant searches.

  5. Platform Policies and Guidelines: Compliance with Preply's policies, guidelines, and code of conduct is crucial. Tutors who consistently adhere to the platform's rules and regulations, maintain professionalism, and provide a positive learning experience may be rewarded with higher rankings.

It's important to note that the exact algorithm and specific weightage given to each factor may vary. Additionally, algorithms may be regularly updated and refined to improve the accuracy and fairness of the tutor-ranking system. Preply's priority is to ensure a high-quality learning experience for students, and the tutor-ranking system plays a role in facilitating the best possible matches between tutors and students.

The contents of this article are powered by Chat GPT and teachers I know personally and would like to thank them for their contribution


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