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5 Best Sylvan Learning Center Alternatives and Competitors For Your Child | Programs like Sylvan Learning Center

By Wiingy on Apr 01, 2024

Updated Jul 04, 2025

5 Best Sylvan Learning Center Alternatives and Competitors For Your Child | Programs like Sylvan Learning Center

Searching for the perfect Sylvan Learning Center alternative in 2025? Here are the top picks you don’t want to miss:

  • Wiingy: Perfect for students seeking personalized 1-on-1 tutoring in math, reading, test prep, and 350+ subjects with expert-vetted tutors.
  • Kumon: Ideal for students building foundational math and reading skills through structured, worksheet-based programs.
  • Huntington Learning Center: Best for students needing in-person academic tutoring and intensive standardized test prep.
  • Mathnasium: Great for students who want to improve math performance through in-center, concept-based instruction.
  • Learner: Best for students looking for high-quality, 1-on-1 online math tutoring with top-tier educators.

Choosing the right tutoring service can be challenging, especially with so many programs offering different methods, pricing, and formats. That’s why it’s important to evaluate each option based on affordability, subject variety, tutor quality, and convenience.

Sylvan Learning Center is a trusted name in tutoring, offering academic help and test prep across the U.S. However, pricing often varies by location, and services may not always suit students who prefer flexible online learning or more specialized subjects.

If you’re looking for a more affordable and flexible alternative, Wiingy offers personalized online tutoring in 350+ subjects-starting at just $19/hour with a free trial and no long-term commitment.

In this blog, each alternative is carefully selected to cater to different learning styles and academic goals. We’ve compared the pros and cons of each to help you choose the one that best supports your success.

5 Best Sylvan Learning Center Alternatives in 2025:

Alternative #1: Wiingy

Sylvan Learning Center Alternatives #1 - Wiingy

What is Wiingy?

Wiingy is a tutoring marketplace that connects school students, college students, and young adults with over 4,500+ expert-vetted tutors for coding, math, science, computer science, AP, test-pre, language learning, music and 350+ subjects. 

Over 20,000 students have used Wiingy for 1-on-1 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. 

In contrast to typical tutor marketplaces, Wiingy tutors undergo an intensive assessment process that includes interviews, mock lessons, and subject specific assessment. Fewer than 3% of applicants pass this assessment to become Wiingy tutors. This means that you work only with highly qualified, experienced and verified tutors. 

Pros and Cons of Wiingy

ProsCons
High-quality tutors at affordable prices, personally interviewed.No long-term subscription plans.
Pay-per-lesson model, no commitment required.
Perfect Match Guarantee: Free first lesson and tutor reassignment.
Pros and Cons of Wiingy

How much does Wiingy cost?

Wiingy offers personalized 1-on-1 lessons starting at just $19/hr, making quality tutoring more accessible than ever. Every new student gets a free trial session, giving you the chance to connect with your tutor and experience their teaching approach before making any commitments.

Not satisfied after your first lesson? No problem-Wiingy’s Perfect Match Guarantee ensures you can switch to another tutor at no extra cost.

Discover 4,500+ expert-vetted tutors at Wiingy starting at just $19/hr !


Sylvan Learning Center vs Wiingy

Sylvan Learning Center is a long-established tutoring company offering 1-on-1 and small-group sessions with certified teachers in subjects like reading, math, writing, study skills, and test prep.

Wiingy, a newer platform, connects students with expert-vetted tutors for personalized 1-on-1 lessons across 350+ subjects-including math, coding, science, AP courses, languages, and music.

With a free trial and a rigorous tutor selection process, Wiingy ensures high-quality instruction tailored to each student’s needs.

Whether you’re revisiting math after years, preparing for college entrance exams, or diving into advanced topics, Wiingy gives students the freedom to connect directly with online math tutors who match their learning style, schedule, and pace. You can explore support for calculus 2 online classes, practice through pre-calculus tutoring online, get personalized statistics tutoring online, or refresh with advanced algebra lessons online.

What truly sets Wiingy apart is the flexibility and control it offers learners. Students can browse tutor profiles, check reviews, book sessions on their terms, and enjoy pay-as-you-go pricing starting at just $19/hr without any long-term subscriptions or commitments.

If you’re looking for an alternative to structured programs, Wiingy provides a modern, flexible, and personalized approach to online tutoring all starting with a free trial lesson.

Bottom line:

Sylvan Learning Center Sylvan Learning Center offers structured one-on-one and small-group tutoring. It’s expensive charges $40 to $100 per hour for private tutoring and STEM programs. Wiingy stands out for its exceptional tutor quality and affordability [lessons start at just $28/hr], backed by a well-structured tutor matching system.

Alternatives #2: Kumon

Sylvan Learning Center Alternatives #2 - Kumon


What is Kumon?

Kumon is a popular tutor service that concentrates on reading and math basics. All Kumon centers are locally owned and operated.

Kumon was created in 1954, in Japan. Toru, a father and gifted math teacher wanted his son, Takeshi, to develop a love for learning. He also wanted him to be well prepared for rigorous high school and college entrance exams.

Toru gave Takeshi short incremental assignments every day to complete. Allowed Takeshi to master each concept completely before learning a new skill.

The method was so successful that by sixth grade, Takeshi was solving calculus problems. This method forms the foundation of Kumon learning till today!

Kumon offers programs in math and reading for students of all ages, from preschoolers to high school students.

Pros and cons of Kumon

Pros Cons 
Kumon online tutoring provides a personalized learning plan for each student based on their current level of knowledge and learning goals. This means that students can work at their own pace and receive individualized attention from their tutor.The Kumon method may cause stress among the students if some students cannot solve the worksheet on time, then the pressure among the students might increase.
Kumon allows students to learn and master basic concepts through repetitive worksheet solving.
This help students in mastering the basic concepts, which will further help them to understand complex topics easily.
Kumon follows the approach of solving the same worksheet multiple times until the student understands the topics clearly.
Since students have to do the same worksheet on repeat, it might become boring and lead to students losing their interest.
Pros and Cons of Kumon

How much does Kumon cost?

All Kumon centers are locally owned and operated, so pricing varies by location. It’s best to contact your nearest Kumon center for specifics.

Kumon charges a $50 registration fee and offers free placement testing.

Service Starting price range
Registration fee$50 
Monthly price $150 per subject
Pricing of Kumon

Sylvan Learning Center vs Kumon

Sylvan Learning Center and Kumon are both well-known tutoring services but differ in teaching approach.

Sylvan offers personalized 1-on-1 and small-group tutoring-both online and in-person-with certified teachers covering reading, math, writing, and test prep.

In contrast, Kumon provides an in-person, self-paced program focused on repetitive worksheets to build foundational math and reading skills through practice and speed.

In terms of pricing, Sylvan Learning Center charges $40 to $100 per hour for private tutoring and STEM programs. Kumon tutoring prices range from $150 to $200 per subject.

Both Sylvan Learning Center and Kumon are good platforms for kids, but the best choice depends on your child’s specific needs and preferences. If you want to know more about these tutoring companies, you can check out our blog on Sylvan Learning Center vs Kumon.

Bottom line:

Kumon is a popular tutoring service that concentrates on reading and math basics. It offers programs for students of all ages, from preschoolers to high school students. The Kumon method is based on repetitive worksheet solving, which helps students master basic concepts. However, the method may cause stress among some students, and it can become boring for others.

Alternative #3: Huntington Learning Center

Sylvan Learning Center Alternatives #3 - Huntington Learning center

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What is Huntington Learning Center?

Huntington Learning Center is an educational learning center in the United States offering in-center and online tutoring services. Huntington is among the oldest providers of tutoring services in the U.S. 

Huntington offers tutoring help from Pre-K to 12th grade in subjects like reading, writing, math, science, and test prep for SAT, PSAT, and ACT. 

Huntington Learning Center was founded in 1977 by Dr. Raymond Huntington and his wife, Eileen. The couple opened a second center in 1978 and began franchising locations in 1985. They have 300 centers across the country.

Pros and Cons of Huntington Learning Center

Pros Cons
Huntington provides tutoring from Pre-K to 12th grade.Huntington charges an initial assessment fee starting from $150.
Huntington has a tailored tutoring program unique to your individual learning style.You have limited ability to define a learning schedule and have to pick a lesson frequency prescribed by Huntington. 
Pros and Cons of Huntington

How much does Huntington Learning Center cost?

After the initial assessment, Huntington provides a schedule that details how many tutoring sessions you will need, and based on the number of tutoring sessions, they decide the tutoring cost.

Here is a general idea of the pricing range of Huntington Learning Center.

Tutoring TypeCosts
Initial assessment feeStarting from $150 
Personalized academic tutoringRanges from $40 to $75 per hour
ACT or SAT prep (14 hours)$1,220 per subject
SAT or ACT prep (32 hours)$2,645 per subject
Pricing of Huntington

Note: Pricing info is subject to change. Please check with Huntington Learning Center for updated info.

Sylvan Learning Center vs Huntington Learning Center

Sylvan and Huntington Learning Centers both offer personalized tutoring, but differ in their approach.

Sylvan provides flexible one-on-one and small-group sessions-online or in-person-across subjects like reading, math, and test prep.

Huntington focuses on more structured, in-person 1-on-1 tutoring with a strong emphasis on academic and exam performance.

In terms of pricing, Sylvan Learning Center charges $40 to $100 per hour for private tutoring and STEM programs. Huntington Learning Center costs $40 to $75 per hour for private tutoring sessions in reading, math, study skills, writing, phonics, and vocabulary. Huntington SAT and ACT prep cost $1,220 per subject for 14 hours of tutoring and $2,645 per subject for 32 hours of tutoring.

Both Sylvan Learning Center and Huntington Learning Center are good platforms for kids, but the best choice depends on your child’s specific needs and preferences. If you want to know more about these tutoring companies, you can check out our blog on Sylvan Learning Center vs Huntington Learning Center.

Bottom line:

Huntington Learning Center is an educational learning center in offering in-center and online tutoring services. Huntington Learning Center is a good option for students who need help in a variety of subjects and who are looking for a personalized tutoring program.

However, Huntington is also one of the more expensive tutoring services available, and it does not offer as much flexibility in scheduling as some other tutoring services.

The Best Tutors, Handpicked for You!

Don’t waste time searching. Wiingy’s tutors are carefully selected for their expertise and teaching skills. Find yours today and start with a free trial.

Learning math can feel challenging, but finding the right guidance shouldn’t be. At Wiingy, students can explore and connect directly with experienced math tutors online who specialize in a wide range of topics.

Whether you need to strengthen your basics in algebra classes online, prepare for exams with algebra 2 tutoring, or want help with advanced calculus lessons online, you’ll find a tutor who fits your learning style.

From geometry tutors online to experts in pre-calculus tutoring or statistics tutors online, learners of all levels can discover personalized support on Wiingy.

The best part? You choose the tutor, time, and pace that work for you.

Alternative #4: Mathnasium

What is Mathnasium?

Mathnasium is a supplemental math learning franchise consisting of over 1,000 learning centers in the United States. The primary goal of Mathnasium is to help students build a solid foundation in math and develop strong mathematical skills.

Their teaching approach is designed to help students develop a deep understanding of math concepts and build confidence in their math abilities.

Mathnasium learning centers offer a supportive learning environment where students can work at their own pace, ask questions, and receive personalized instruction from trained math instructors.

The Mathnasium Method focuses on three main components: assessment, customized learning plans, and ongoing support. 

The program begins with an assessment to identify the student’s strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in their math knowledge. Based on the assessment results, a personalized learning plan is created for students, targeting their specific needs and goals.

Pros and Cons of Mathnasium

Pros Cons
Mathnasium’s program is customized to each student’s individual needs and learning style.Mathnasium doesn’t teach any other subject except math. So it may not be suitable for some of the students.
Mathnasium’s program emphasizes mastery of key mathematical concepts, rather than just memorization or rote learning.Mathnasium doesn’t provide one-on-one tutoring.
Mathnasium offers flexible scheduling, with sessions available during after-school hours and on weekends. 
Pros and Cons of Mathnasium

How much does Mathanasium cost?

Mathnasium pricing varies by location, as each center sets its own fees based on factors such as local operating costs and the services offered.

Mathnasium monthly plan includes regular sessions with a Mathnasium instructor, personalized learning plans, and ongoing progress monitoring.

Note: Pricing info was retrieved from the Mathnasium website in Novemeber 2023 may change over time.

Sylvan Learning Center vs Mathnasium

Sylvan Learning Center offers personalized tutoring in multiple subjects, including math, reading, writing, and test prep, with both one-on-one and small-group options.

In contrast, Mathnasium focuses exclusively on math, helping students build a strong foundation through concept-based learning. The key difference lies in subject coverage-Sylvan is multi-subject, while Mathnasium is math-only.

In terms of pricing, Sylvan Learning Center charges $40 to $100 per hour for private tutoring and STEM programs. Mathnasium’s pricing varies depending on the location, but it typically ranges from $200 to $300 per month for two sessions per week.

Both Sylvan Learning Center and Mathnasium are good platforms for kids, but the best choice depends on your child’s specific needs and preferences. If you want to know more about these tutoring companies, you can check out our blog on Sylvan Learning Center vs Mathnasium.

Bottom line:

Mathnasium is a math tutoring franchise that offers personalized instruction and a supportive learning environment for students of all ages.The program is customized to each student’s individual needs and learning style, and it emphasizes mastery of key mathematical concepts rather than just memorization.

However, Mathnasium pricing varies by location, but monthly plans typically include regular sessions with a Mathnasium instructor, personalized learning plans, and ongoing progress monitoring.

Alternative #5: Learner

Sylvan Learning Center Alternatives #5 - Learner


What is Learner?

Learner is one-on-one online tutoring. Learner offers personalized sessions tailored to the needs of the child. The lessons are also recorded so students can use them afterward to review or study. 

Learner has stringent eligibility requirements to be a tutor. Only 5% of tutor applications are accepted. Tutors must have a bachelor’s degree from an authorized university and prior teaching experience! 

Pros and Cons of Learner 

Pros Cons
Learner has a detailed assessment test to find the best tutor. Pricing can only be found out after consulting with their team. No indication of pricing on the website. 
Learner only provides tutoring in math.
Pros and Cons of Learner

How much does Learner cost?

Learner’s website hasn’t provided information about the prices of its tutoring session.
The cost varies depending on the exact setup of each student’s tutoring plan.

The minimum purchase is $40 per hour. 

Note: Pricing info was retrieved from the Learner website in June 2023 and may change over time.

Sylvan Learning Center vs Learner 

Sylvan Learning Center is a well-established tutoring company offering a wide range of subjects, including math, reading, writing, study skills, and test preparation. They provide personalized instruction through one-on-one or small-group tutoring sessions. With certified teachers as tutors, Sylvan Learning Center aims to help students improve their academic skills and build confidence.

Learner tutoring company, on the other hand, focuses on online tutoring services, specializing in math, English, science, and social studies. Their tutors are all certified teachers with experience in online instruction. Learner’s flexible scheduling and affordable rates make it an accessible option for many students.

When deciding between Sylvan Learning Center and Learner, consider your child’s learning style and preferences. If your child thrives in a personalized in-person setting, Sylvan Learning Center might be a better fit. For those who prefer the convenience and flexibility of online learning, Learner could be a more suitable choice.

Bottom line:

Learner is a one-on-one online math tutoring platform that provides personalized instruction tailored to the needs of each student. The platform has a rigorous tutor selection process and offers a variety of features, including recorded lessons for review and study. However, Learner only provides tutoring in math and does not provide pricing information on its website.

What is the best alternative to Best Sylvan Learning Center

The table below clearly shows why Wiingy stands out as the best alternative to Sylvan Learning Center.

Whether it’s the affordability of lessons, the flexibility of online 1-on-1 tutoring, or the unmatched variety of 350+ subjects, Wiingy offers a more modern and accessible tutoring experience compared to traditional learning centers like Sylvan.

FeatureWiingy (Recommended)Sylvan Learning Center
PricingStarts at $19/hour$52–$103/hour (varies by center)
Live 1-on-1 Tutoring✅ Expert-vetted tutors✅ Certified teachers, also small groups
Subject Coverage350+ subjects (math, coding, music, languages)Core academic + test prep
Free Trial Available✅ Free first lesson
Trustpilot Rating⭐ 4.4/5⭐ 3.2/5
Wiingy vs Sylvan Learning Center

With flexible scheduling, affordable pricing, and access to top-rated tutors in 350+ subjects, Wiingy is the ideal choice for students and parents seeking personalized, high-quality 1-on-1 support.

Explore from 4,500+ expert tutors and book a free trial lesson to find your perfect learning match today.

In summary

After evaluating and comparing the top online tutoring platforms, it’s evident that each offers unique advantages tailored to students seeking to enhance their learning experience.

Whether you prefer the convenience of on-demand tutoring, the personalized attention of one-on-one sessions, or the flexibility of self-paced learning, there’s an option on this list that aligns with your needs.

These companies stand out with exceptional features, experienced tutors, and affordable pricing, making them ideal choices for students looking to refine their academic skills.

  • Wiingy is a top-rated tutoring marketplace that connects students with expert-vetted tutors for 350+ subjects. Its rigorous tutor selection process where every tutor is interviewed individually ensures the highest quality of instruction. Pricing on Wiingy starts at just $28 per hour.
  • Kumon is a global franchise that offers self-paced instruction in math and reading. Kumon’s worksheets are designed to help students develop strong foundational skills.
  • Huntington Learning Center is a supplemental education provider that offers tutoring and classes in a variety of subjects, including math, reading, English, science, and writing. Huntington’s programs are designed to help students improve their academic skills and achieve their educational goals.
  • Mathnasium is a math-focused tutoring center that offers personalized instruction to students in grades K-12. Mathnasium’s programs are designed to help students develop a deep understanding of math concepts and improve their problem-solving skills.
  • Learner is an online tutoring platform that offers personalized instruction in math. Learner’s tutors are experienced and certified, and they offer flexible scheduling to meet the needs of busy families. Learner also uses adaptive learning technology to provide students with a personalized learning experience.

The best Sylvan Learning Center alternative for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as preferred learning style, subject matter requirements, and budget when making your decision.

The Best Tutors, Handpicked for You!

Don’t waste time searching. Wiingy’s tutors are carefully selected for their expertise and teaching skills. Find yours today and start with a free trial.

Learning math can feel challenging, but finding the right guidance shouldn’t be. At Wiingy, students can explore and connect directly with experienced math tutors online who specialize in a wide range of topics.

Whether you need to strengthen your basics in algebra classes online, prepare for exams with algebra 2 tutoring, or want help with advanced calculus lessons online, you’ll find a tutor who fits your learning style.

From geometry tutors online to experts in pre-calculus tutoring or statistics tutors online, learners of all levels can discover personalized support on Wiingy.

The best part? You choose the tutor, time, and pace that work for you.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What are the companies similar to Sylvan?

Sylvan Learning Center is a leading provider of supplemental education services for students of all ages. Here are some of the companies that are similar to Sylvan Learning Center:
Wiingy: It is an online tutoring platform that connects students with highly qualified tutors for a wide range of subjects. Its rigorous tutor selection process ensures the highest quality of instruction, and its services are highly rated by students. With flexible scheduling, a free trial lesson, and pricing starting at just $28 per hour, Wiingy offers exceptional value.
Kumon: is a global franchise that offers self-paced instruction in math and reading. Kumon’s worksheets are designed to help students develop strong foundational skills.
Mathnasium: A franchise-based math tutoring center that offers individualized instruction for students in grades K-12.
Huntington Learning Center: A franchise-based tutoring center that offers individualized instruction for students in grades K-12.
Learner: An online tutoring platform that offers personalized tutoring for students in grades K-12.

Is there an affordable alternative to Sylvan Learning Center?

The affordable alternative to Sylvan Learning Center is Wiingy. Wiingy is an online tutoring platform that offers a variety of services to students of all ages. Here’s what sets Wiingy apart:
Expert Verified Tutors: Wiingy has over 1,000 expert verified tutors who can provide 1-on-1 online help for subjects of your choice.
Wide Range of Subjects: Wiingy provides tutoring for Coding, Math, Science, AP and 100+ subjects for every learning stage – school, college, and work.
Flexible Learning Options: Whether you need tailored one-on-one tutoring, homework assistance, or comprehensive test prep to excel in exams, Wiingy can connect you with highly qualified tutors.
Affordable Pricing: Wiingy’s lessons start at $28 per hour, making it an affordable option for many families.
Free Trial Lesson: Wiingy offers a zero-cost Free Trial Lesson, allowing students to experience a real session with an expert tutor.

In comparison, Sylvan Learning offers in-center and online tutoring with a focus on math, reading, writing, and test prep. However, Sylvan’s pricing may not be as affordable as Wiingy’s, and they do not offer a free trial lesson.
So,if you’re looking for an affordable, flexible, and wide-ranging online tutoring platform, Wiingy could be a great alternative to Sylvan Learning Center. It offers a broad range of subjects, expert tutors, and a free trial lesson, making it a potentially better choice for many students.

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Reviewed by Wiingy

Jul 04, 2025

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