Online science tutors in the US usually charge $60–$150 an hour. In public listings we checked in November 2026, physics had the highest median, followed by biology and chemistry.
Typical hourly prices
- Physics: $75–$150, median $100 (66 tutors) – see physics tutors
- Biology: $65–$145, median $90 (91 tutors) – see biology tutors
- Chemistry: $60–$125, median $85 (81 tutors) – see chemistry tutors
Ranges are the middle half of hourly prices (25th–75th percentile).
What changes the price
- Level. Middle school science is at the bottom of the range. AP, IB, A-level and college courses (organic chemistry, mechanics with calculus) are at the top.
- Exam focus. MCAT, AP exams and university entrance prep cost more than homework help.
- Maths in the subject. Physics and physical chemistry need strong maths, and tutors who teach both charge more.
How many lessons does a student need?
For a struggling student, one lesson a week for a term usually closes the gaps: about 12 lessons, or roughly $1,000–$1,200 at the median. For an AP exam, families often add a second weekly lesson in the last six weeks.
Getting the most from a science tutor
- Send the syllabus, recent tests and the textbook before the first lesson.
- Ask the tutor to work through past exam questions, not just theory.
- Keep a single notebook of mistakes and formulas and review it weekly.
- For labs and practicals, ask for help writing up methods and analysing data.
Compare science tutors and book a trial lesson.
