italki

Language learning marketplace where teachers set their own prices and students book one-on-one lessons.

Online Teaching Language TeachingTutoringConversationTest Prep
CategoryOnline Teaching
Fee modelTeachers set own rates; 15% commission
Regions coveredGlobal (150+ languages)

italki connects language learners with teachers for video lessons. Teachers create a profile, set their hourly rate and availability, and students book trial or regular lessons. The platform supports over 150 languages and handles payment, scheduling and video conferencing.

How italki works for teachers

Teachers apply with a video introduction and teaching credentials. Once approved, they set lesson prices, package discounts and availability. Students book lessons through the platform and pay in advance. italki holds the payment and releases it to the teacher after the lesson is confirmed complete.

Commission and earnings

italki takes 15% commission on each lesson. Teachers set their own rates, typically $10–$40 per hour depending on language and experience. Popular teachers with high ratings and specialized exam preparation can charge more. Payment is monthly via PayPal, Payoneer or bank transfer.

Tips for getting hired on italki

  • Offer a discounted trial lesson to convert browsers into regular students
  • Create lesson packages to encourage bulk bookings
  • Specialize in exam prep like IELTS, JLPT or DELE to justify higher rates

Related platforms

Frequently asked questions

How much does italki cost?

Teachers pay 15% commission per lesson. There is no subscription or listing fee; you set your own hourly rate.

Is italki good for beginners?

Yes, if you have teaching ability and a clear video introduction. Formal credentials help but are not always required for community tutor roles.

How does italki compare to Preply?

Both take 15% commission. Preply uses a more aggressive matching algorithm and offers prepaid packages. italki gives teachers more control over pricing and scheduling.