Preply Review: Can You Really Earn Money Teaching Languages Online?

With the rise of remote work and global connectivity, teaching languages online has become a popular income stream for freelancers, digital nomads, and educators. Preply is one of the platforms leading this trend, offering a space where students and teachers from all over the world connect for one-on-one lessons.

In this review, we explore what Preply is, how it works, and what aspiring tutors should know—especially those looking to earn money teaching languages online.

What is Preply?

Preply is an online tutoring marketplace that offers personalized lessons in a wide variety of languages and subjects. Whether you're a student seeking help or a teacher looking to earn, Preply provides a platform to facilitate learning in a flexible and accessible way.

While students can sign up to improve their language skills, this article focuses on how tutors can join and potentially earn an income on the platform.

Becoming a Tutor on Preply

Preply allows users to register as tutors for languages such as:

• English

• Spanish

• French

• German

• Italian

• Chinese

• Hindi

• Hebrew

• Turkish
  ...and many more.

The reviewer shared a personal experience of applying to teach on Preply a few years ago but being rejected, likely due to a lack of experience at the time. However, the platform has evolved and now supports many more languages than it did previously—offering more opportunities for diverse applicants.

What Makes Preply Unique?

Here are a few standout features for potential tutors:

No Formal Certificates Required

Unlike many other tutoring platforms, Preply does not require a TEFL, TESOL, or other certification to begin teaching—especially for conversational lessons. While having teaching qualifications may help your profile stand out, they are not mandatory. This is a great option for skilled speakers or bilingual individuals who may not have formal teaching backgrounds.

Your Introduction Video Matters

Preply places heavy emphasis on your introductory video, which acts as your "virtual CV." This short video allows potential students to get a sense of your communication style and teaching approach. A well-done video can significantly increase your chances of getting approved and attracting students.

Opportunities in Niche Languages

While English teaching is extremely popular on Preply, it's also highly competitive. If you speak or can teach less commonly offered languages like Hebrew, Turkish, or Hindi, you may find it easier to get approved and attract students. These categories tend to have fewer tutors but a steady demand from learners.

How Do You Get Paid on Preply?

Preply handles payment processing, and tutors can withdraw earnings via popular methods like:

• PayPal

• Bank transfer

• Other local options (depending on your country)

The platform operates on a commission-based model, meaning Preply takes a percentage of your earnings from each lesson. However, the more lessons you teach, the lower your commission rate becomes over time.

Application Process

1. Create an account on Preply

2. Complete your profile – include your languages, availability, and expertise

3. Upload a professional intro video

4. Wait for approval from the Preply team

Approval isn't guaranteed, and location may play a role in your acceptance. But it's free to apply, and there's nothing to lose by trying.

Pros and Cons of Preply

Pros

• No teaching certificate required

• Global student base

• Easy-to-use interface

• Opportunity to teach rare languages

Cons

• Competitive for English teachers

• Commission fees on earnings

• Approval process can be unclear

• Requires strong self-marketing

Final Thoughts

Preply is a legitimate and well-known platform that continues to grow in popularity. Whether you're an experienced tutor or just someone passionate about language learning, it offers a real opportunity to earn from home. While getting accepted may not be guaranteed, especially in crowded categories like English, the platform’s openness to various languages and its low entry barrier make it worth a shot.

If you’re confident in your communication skills and can teach a language or subject, Preply is a platform you might want to explore. Even if you don’t get accepted on your first try, there are many other platforms out there—and your skills are still valuable.

Watch the full review on YouTube at @how5851 to see more insights about Preply and similar tutoring opportunities.