Tutopiya vs First Tutors UK: Which Platform Delivers Better Value?

Both platforms offer GCSE and A-Level tutoring in the UK, but they differ in structure: Tutopiya is an integrated AI-powered platform; First Tutors is a marketplace where students pay a finder’s fee to access tutor contact details. This independent comparison helps UK families choose the right model.

Platform Overview

Tutopiya is a global AI-powered learning platform serving over 500,000 students across 50+ countries. It combines personalized one-on-one tutoring with extensive digital resources including 200,000+ past papers, AI-powered practice tools, revision notes, and adaptive learning systems. Tutopiya focuses on exam preparation with claims of 83% of students achieving A/A* grades. Pricing (UK): from ~£8/hour—no finder’s fee; all-inclusive.

First Tutors is a UK-based tutor marketplace with 60,000+ tutors. Students search by subject and level (including GCSE and A-Level) and pay a one-off finder’s fee of £9.99–£34.99 to access a tutor’s contact details. Lesson fees are paid directly to the tutor; tutors set their own rates (minimum £8/hour). The platform offers in-person and online options, reference checking, and ID verification. Education advisors available (0203 962 1468).

Core Differences

Aspect	Tutopiya	First Tutors UK
Model	Integrated platform (tutoring + resources)	Marketplace (finder’s fee + direct pay)
Pricing (UK)	From ~£8/hour	Finder’s fee £9.99–34.99 + tutor rates (min £8/hr)
Resources	200,000+ past papers, AI practice	None; tutors provide materials
Tutor Pool	AI-matched, vetted	60,000+ tutors; variable quality
AI Features	AI matching, adaptive learning	None
Free Trial	60-minute free trial	None; pay finder’s fee to contact
Payment	Platform handles all payments	Pay tutor directly after finder’s fee
Curriculum	IGCSE, A-Level, IB	GCSE, A-Level, IB, UK curricula

Pros and Cons

Tutopiya: Advantages and Limitations

Advantages:

• ✅ No finder’s fee; transparent ~£8/hr
• ✅ 200,000+ past papers and AI-powered practice
• ✅ Integrated resources platform
• ✅ AI-driven matching and quality control
• ✅ 60-minute free trial
• ✅ Platform handles payments
• ✅ Exam-focused with progress tracking

Limitations:

• ⚠️ Single platform vs 60,000+ tutor choice
• ⚠️ Online only
• ⚠️ Less UK marketplace heritage than First Tutors

First Tutors UK: Advantages and Limitations

Advantages:

• ✅ Large tutor pool (60,000+)
• ✅ In-person and online options
• ✅ Tutors from £8/hour minimum
• ✅ One-off finder’s fee (no subscription)
• ✅ Reference checking and ID verification
• ✅ Education advisors for matching
• ✅ Pay tutor directly; no ongoing platform fees

Limitations:

• ⚠️ Finder’s fee (£9.99–34.99) before contacting
• ⚠️ No integrated resources
• ⚠️ Tutor quality and rates vary
• ⚠️ No free trial; must pay to contact
• ⚠️ No AI or adaptive learning
• ⚠️ Students arrange and pay tutors separately

Who Should Choose Which?

Choose Tutopiya If:

• You want no finder’s fee and transparent ~£8/hr
• You need 200,000+ past papers and AI practice
• You prefer an integrated platform with payments
• You want a free trial before committing
• You value AI-powered matching
• You prefer online-only with resources included

Choose First Tutors UK If:

• You want in-person or online flexibility
• You prefer a large marketplace (60,000+ tutors)
• You are comfortable paying a finder’s fee
• You want to pay tutors directly
• You don’t need integrated resources
• You value UK-focused matching and advisors

Conclusion

Tutopiya suits families who want an integrated platform with no finder’s fee, resources, and AI support. First Tutors UK suits those who prefer a marketplace with in-person options and direct tutor payment. The best choice depends on whether you prioritise integration and value (Tutopiya) or marketplace flexibility and tutor choice (First Tutors).

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This comparison is based on independent research and publicly available information. Individual results may vary. We recommend exploring free trials to determine the best fit for your needs.