Tuition Agency Commission in Singapore
· 6 min read · By the TuitionCRM team
Tuition agencies match tutors with parents, and in return they take a commission. It's one of the first things new tutors ask about — and it's worth understanding before you accept an assignment, because it changes what your first month is really worth.
How much do tuition agencies charge?
Most Singapore agencies charge the tutor (not the parent) a one-off commission for each new student, commonly around 50% of the first month's fees. Some agencies charge less, or base it on a fixed number of lessons instead of a month. Always read the agreement before you accept.
| Example | Amount |
|---|---|
| Rate | S$60 an hour |
| Lessons | 1.5 hours, once a week (4 lessons a month) |
| First month's fees | S$360 |
| Agency commission (50%) | S$180 |
| What you keep in month 1 | S$180 — from month 2, the full S$360 |
When do you pay it?
Usually within the first few weeks, once lessons have started. Some agencies ask you to collect the first month's fees from the parent and pass on their share; others invoice you. Agree on it before the first lesson so there are no surprises.
What if the student stops early?
Terms differ. Some agencies refund part of the fee if lessons stop within the first month, some don't. It's one of the most important lines in the agreement — check it, and keep a record of the lessons you actually taught and what the parent paid.
Is the commission worth it?
- Yes, when you're starting out. It's the fastest way to fill your first slots, and a student who stays a year is worth far more than the fee.
- Yes, to fill a gap. One-off fees are fine if a student leaves mid-year.
- Less so once you're established. Every student who finds you through a referral or Google saves you the fee entirely.
How to rely on agencies less
- Do great work and ask for referrals at the right moments.
- Set up a free Google Business Profile and collect reviews.
- Keep a video testimonial or two to share — see how to collect them.
- Read our guide to finding tuition students in Singapore.
Agency fees are a business expense — you can deduct them when you file your tax as a private tutor.
Common questions
Can I take the student directly to avoid the commission?
Most agency agreements don't allow it. And since the commission is usually a one-off fee, you keep your full fees from the second month anyway — it's rarely worth the risk to your reputation.
Do I pay commission again if the parent adds a sibling or a subject?
It depends on the agency. Some treat a new student or subject as a new assignment with a new fee; others don't. Check before you agree to the extra lessons.
What if the parent doesn't pay me in the first month?
Tell the agency straight away. Many still expect the commission once lessons have started, so check the agreement — and keep a record of the lessons you taught.
Is the commission tax-deductible?
Yes, agency fees are a business expense. Keep the agency's invoice or a record of what you paid. See our private tutor income tax guide.
Should I join more than one agency?
Yes. Most tutors register with several agencies and Telegram channels to see more assignments. Just keep track of which student came from which agency.