Preply

Preply is an online language-learning marketplace founded in 2012 by three Ukrainian entrepreneurs and now headquartered in Barcelona, Spain. It connects learners with independent tutors for one-on-one video lessons rather than teaching languages itself; tutors set their own rates and Preply takes a commission on bookings. It is venture-backed, having raised more than $100 million from investors including Owl Ventures.

Learners begin with a 25- or 50-minute trial lesson in the Preply Classroom; if it is not a good fit, they can switch tutors for free or get a full refund. After the trial they subscribe to a recurring lesson plan (roughly 1 to 5 hours per week, billed every 28 days) that can be paused, adjusted, or cancelled, with free cancellation up to 12 hours before a lesson. The marketplace lists tutors across 90+ languages and 120+ subjects, with vetting based on profiles, qualifications, and reviews.

Tutor hourly rates typically run from about $10 to $39, averaging near $18. Preply takes 100% commission on a new student’s trial lesson, then a tiered commission that falls with cumulative hours: 33% for new tutors down to 18% at 400+ hours, with payouts via Wise, Payoneer, PayPal, or Skrill. With 100,000+ tutors, it suits learners who want structured, subscription-based study with a wide tutor selection.