Are you tired of seeing your child struggle with their assignment? Do you find it difficult to help them with their test prep because you can’t understand the concepts yourself? You’re not alone.
Many parents find themselves in this frustrating situation, which is why they turn to tutoring services, like IXL and Sylvan Learning Center for help. Both services aims to improve students’ skills using different teaching approaches and methods.
The main difference between IXL and Sylvan Learning Center is the way they deliver their tutoring services. IXL is an online learning platform that allows students to work at their own pace and focus on the skills they need to master. Sylvan is a brick-and-mortar tutoring company that offers one-on-one, small-group, and online tutoring.
In this article, we’ll compare IXL vs Sylvan Learning Center and help you make an informed decision on which tutoring center is the right fit for your child.
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Introduction to the Debate: IXL vs Sylvan Learning Center
If you are considering online tutoring, the most important step is to carefully compare all your options for top online tutoring services and make an informed decision on which tutoring service is the right fit for your child.
We have analyzed the two programs IXL and Sylvan Learning Center on the following parameters:
- Subjects offered
- Teaching methodology
- Tutor matching process
- Pricing and plans offered
- Customer reviews
IXL VS Sylvan: Comparison
The following table can help in easily determining which platform will be a good choice for you based on different parameters.
| Parameters | IXL | Sylvan Learning Center |
| Company Type | Homeschool program-Short Video Lessons | Private tutoring company |
| Subjects Offered | IXL is an online, subscription-based learning program for PreK-12 students.IXL offers math, language arts, science, social studies, and Spanish. | Sylvan offers personalized instruction in STEM, reading, writing, mathematics, study skills, homework support, and test preparation for college entrance and state exams. |
| Mode of teaching | Online video lessons | In-person in company-owned centers and online classes. |
| Cost of tutoring | You have to purchase a minimum package of $9.90 per month for a single subject. | Sylvan Learning Center costs $40 to $100 per hour for private tutoring and STEM programs. Sylvan costs $290 per month for academic coaching or advancement classes. Sylvan learning prices for test prep are $1,199. |
| Minimum purchase | You have to purchase a minimum package of $9.90 per month for a single subject. | The minimum purchase is $40 per hour for private tutoring. |
| Help in Tutor selection(Tutor Match) | IXL offers multimedia online lessons | Sylvan offers small-group learning. One instructor for 3 students. |
| Offers free trial | No, IXL doesn’t offer a free trial.Although IXL does have a 30-day satisfaction guarantee.If you find that IXL doesn’t meet your needs, you can cancel and receive a full refund. | No |
| Cancellation policy | If in the first 30 days, IXL doesn’t meet your needs, you can cancel and receive a full refund. | Sylvan Learning Center doesn’t mention about cancellation policy on its website. It would be helpful to call your nearest center for details |
| Rating | Trustpilot score: 1.3/5 | Trustpilot score: 3.2 |
Understanding IXL
What is IXL?
IXL is a subscription-based homeschool learning website for Pre-K – 12 students. IXL uses advanced learning technology for online video lessons. IXL offers analytics and recommendations which help parents to support teaching and learning for their kids with a clear focus on outcomes.
IXL offers math, language arts, science, social studies, and Spanish which is tailored according to the student’s age group. Math and language arts is covered from pre-K right up to 12th grade.
How does IXL work?
IXL is an online video lesson platform. It has built-in step-by-step lessons for each subject that helps students.
IXL offers practice tests for students. One interesting feature is that students earn points when they get a question right. Students are awarded a stamp in their virtual book once they collect 100 points for a subject. Students can earn other virtual rewards as they keep on practicing multiple subjects.
IXL’s SmartScore is a unique scoring system designed to give the best possible information on students’ true understanding of a skill. SmartScore is a flagship feature of IXL and is based on IXL’s proprietary algorithm.
SmartScore is an adaptive platform that tailors the difficulty level of practice questions based on how a student performs. This approach helps students stay focused and reach their learning goals.
Subjects covered by IXL
IXL is aligned with the educational standards, including the Common Core State Standards, the Next Generation Science Standards, and all U.S. state standards.
| Subject | Grade Levels |
|---|---|
| Math | Pre-K to Calculus |
| English Language Arts | Pre-K to 12th Grade |
| Science | 3rd to 8th Grade |
| Social Studies | 4th to 8th Grade |
| Languages | Spanish |
IXL has integrated its standards alignment with its analytics and progress tracking, so parents and teachers can track a student’s progress in relation to state standards across different subjects.
What is the cost of IXL?
The cost of IXL starts from $79 to $159 per year. IXL offers multiple monthly and yearly options for families.
| Package | Single subject package | Combo package | Core subjects package |
| Package Desc | Select from Math: Pre-K to 12 or Language Arts: Prek-K to 12 | IncludesMath: Pre-K to 12 and Language arts: Pre-K to 12 | Includes Math: Pre-K to 12 Language arts: Pre-K to 12 Science: Grade K to 8th Social studies: Grade K to 8th |
| Monthly | $9.95 | $15.95 | $19.95 |
| Yearly | $79 | $129 | $159 |
The prices are for one child. Enrolment for each additional child is charged at $4 more per month or $40 per year.
*Pricing info retrieved from the IXL website in November 2023
Evaluating IXL: Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| IXL offers multiple packages. Families can purchase a single subject, a combo package, or 4 core subjects. | The IXL online curriculum requires a computer or device with an internet connection. The curriculum cannot be accessed offline. |
| IXL is aligned with the educational standards, including the Common Core State Standards, the Next Generation Science Standards, and all U.S. state standards. | IXL offers online video lessons. It is not suitable for students looking for online 1-on-1 tutoring. |
Understanding Sylvan Learning Center
What is Sylvan?
Sylvan is a private tutoring and education company that provides personalized instruction to students of all ages and skill levels. Sylvan Learning Center offers a range of services, including academic tutoring, test preparation, STEM programs, and college admissions counseling.
Their tutoring programs are designed to help students improve their academic performance and build confidence in their abilities.
Sylvan uses a personalized approach to education, with each student receiving an individualized learning plan tailored to their specific needs and goals. Their certified teachers use a variety of teaching techniques, such as interactive technology and hands-on activities, to engage students and help them achieve their full potential.
How does Sylvan work?
Sylvan works by providing personalized instruction to students in different subjects and areas of study.
The first step is to assess the student’s current academic level and identify areas of strengths and weaknesses. This is done through the Sylvan Insight Assessment diagnostic tests, evaluations, and consultations with parents and teachers.
Based on the assessment results, a customized learning plan is created for the student. The plan outlines specific goals, objectives, and strategies to help the student improve in their targeted areas of need.
The student is then matched with a certified Sylvan teacher who provides one-on-one or small-group instruction. The teacher uses a variety of teaching methods and materials, including technology, to engage the students and help them master the subject matter.
Sylvan Learning closely monitors the student’s progress through regular assessments and progress reports. The learning plan is adjusted as needed to ensure the student is making steady progress toward their goals.
Throughout the process, Sylvan Learning maintains regular communication with parents, teachers, and the student to ensure everyone is informed and engaged in the learning process.
Subjects covered by Sylvan
Sylvan Learning offers personalized instruction in a wide range of subjects and areas of study. Here are some of the subjects and skills typically covered by Sylvan:
| Subjects/Skills | Description |
| Reading | Sylvan offers programs to help students develop strong reading skills, including phonics, comprehension, vocabulary, and fluency. |
| Writing | Sylvan provides instruction in all aspects of writing, from grammar and sentence structure to essay writing and creative writing. |
| Math | Sylvan offers math programs that cover everything from basic math skills to advanced algebra, geometry, and calculus. |
| Test Prep | Sylvan provides test preparation services for a variety of exams, including the SAT, ACT, PSAT, GRE, and more. |
| STEM | Sylvan offers programs in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), including robotics, coding, and game design. |
| Study skills | Sylvan provides instruction in study skills and time management techniques to help students improve their organization, focus, and productivity. |
| College admissions | Sylvan offers college admissions counseling to help students navigate the college application process, including essay writing, test preparation, and interview skills. |
What is the cost of the Sylvan?
The cost of Sylvan Learning Center differs based on location.
However, they offer several options based on your needs and goals. The pricing of Sylvan Learning Center is as below:
- Tutoring starts at $49 per hour
- Classes and camps start at $199
- ACT and SAT Prep classes start at $999
Source: Sylvan Learning Center
*Pricing info retrieved from the Sylvan website in November 2023
Evaluating Sylvan: Pros vs Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Personalized Instruction: Sylvan provides customized instruction tailored to the specific needs of each student. This approach helps ensure that students receive the support they need to build their skills and confidence. | Cost: The cost of Sylvan learning vary significantly between different learning centers. |
| Certified Instructors: Sylvan’s instructors are certified and trained to teach a variety of subjects, including reading, writing, math, and test preparation. This ensures that students receive quality instruction from knowledgeable and experienced teachers. | Limited Availability: While Sylvan has many locations around the world, it may not be available in all areas. Students may need to travel a significant distance to access Sylvan’s services. |
| Technology-Enabled Learning: Sylvan uses technology, including online tools and resources, to enhance the learning experience and engage students in the material. | Learning Style: Sylvan’s teaching approach may not be suitable for all students, particularly those who require more hands-on or interactive learning experiences. |
| Ongoing Progress Monitoring: Sylvan closely monitors each student’s progress and adjusts their learning plan as needed to ensure they are making steady progress toward their goals. | |
| Flexible Scheduling: Sylvan offers flexible scheduling, including after-school and weekend sessions, to accommodate busy schedules and help students balance their academic and extracurricular activities. |
IXL vs Sylvan Learning Center: which one is right for you?
IXL and Sylvan are two popular tutoring programs that offer different approaches to learning. IXL is an online learning platform that allows students to work at their own pace and focus on the skills they need to master. Sylvan is a brick-and-mortar tutoring company that offers one-on-one, small-group, and online tutoring.
IXL is a good choice for students who prefer to work independently and at their own pace. It is also a good choice for students who need extra practice in specific skills.
Sylvan is a good choice for students who prefer one-on-one attention from a certified teacher. It is also a good choice for students who need help with a variety of subjects. Sylvan’s prices vary depending on the program and location, but they are generally higher than IXL’s.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which tutoring program is right for you is to consider your child’s needs and learning style. If your child prefers to work independently and at their own pace, then IXL may be a better choice. If your child prefers one-on-one attention from a certified teacher, then Sylvan may be a better fit.
IXL vs Sylvan Learning Center cost
Although the pricing of both the programs varies by location but here is an overview of the IXL vs Sylvan Learning Center cost comparison.
| IXL | Sylvan Learning Center |
| Single subject package – Monthly $9.95 Yearly $79 | Personalized tutoring – $40 – $100 per hour |
| Combo package – Monthly $15.95 Yearly $129 | Academic coaching – $290 per month and up |
| Core subjects package – Monthly $19.95 Yearly $159 | Advancement classes and camps – $290 per month and up |
Why you should consider Wiingy 1-on-1 online tutoring instead?
So far, we have compared IXL vs Sylvan and explored their unique tutoring programs. However, before deciding on a tutoring service for yourself or your child, there is another better and affordable option to consider Wiingy.
The Wiingy platform offers 1-on-1 online tutoring to school, college, and adult students through its network of 1,000+ expert-vetted tutors for coding, math, science, computer science, AP, and 100+ subjects.
Over 20,000 students have used Wiingy for private tutoring, homework help, assignment help, language learning, homeschool tutoring, and test prep. Students and parents have consistently rated the Wiingy experience as 4.8 out of 5.
Unlike tutor marketplaces, each Wiingy tutor is vetted individually and undergoes an extensive assessment that includes interviews, mock lessons, and coding tests.
Less than 3% of applicants are selected to become tutors on Wiingy’s platform. This means that you work only with top verified, qualified, and experienced tutors.
An experienced tutor will be able to create a structured lesson plan customized to your pace and learning style. You will also get access to study materials, notes, practice materials, and exam strategies to help accelerate your learning.
We know that sometimes you don’t want to pay for private tutoring because it is too expensive. Tutoring costs anywhere from $100 to $150 per hour which isn’t reasonable at all.
However, Wiingy’s rates are affordable, starting from just $28 per hour, much lower than the average tutoring offered by other platforms.
We don’t require you to sign up for packages or subscriptions, so you can pay for lessons as you need them. We also offer a free trial lesson so you can try out our service before you commit.
While we try to match you with the perfect tutor per your needs, we understand that sometimes, even the best tutors might not be the right fit for you.
This is why we offer you the Perfect Match Guarantee. If you are not satisfied with your tutor for any reason, you can request a replacement tutor at no additional cost.
Lastly, if you do not wish to continue our services, we offer you a no-questions-asked full refund for your unused lessons with us.
In addition, we have 24/7 instant support from a personal student success advisor. You can contact your advisor via chat or phone if you have any questions, whether it’s about your lessons, your tutor, payments, or if you are looking to explore any other subject.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How does Sylvan Learning Center work?
Students are matched with a tutor who will work with them to develop a personalized learning plan and work with their tutor one-on-one, either in person or online.
Which is better for my child: IXL or Sylvan?
The best program for your child will depend on their individual needs and preferences. If your child is struggling in a particular subject and needs one-on-one attention, Sylvan Learning may be a good option. If your child is looking for a more flexible and convenient way to learn, IXL may be a better choice.
