Is preply good? What you should know before signing up

1. Is Preply good?

Yes, Preply is good for most language learners who want personalized one-on-one tutoring; however, you need to understand its limitations before signing up. The platform connects you with over 100,000 tutors teaching more than 90 languages and 120 subjects. According to Preply's 2025 Efficiency Study, learners who completed 24 or more lessons progressed three times faster than industry expectations.

In this review, I will explain how Preply works, what it costs, how to find quality tutors, and (critically) how to avoid losing money on lessons you cannot use. By the end, you will know whether Preply is good for your specific learning goals.

2. What is Preply?

Preply is an online tutoring marketplace founded in 2012 by Ukrainian entrepreneurs. The company has raised over $170 million in funding and now operates offices in Barcelona, New York, and London. The name comes from "prepare to speak with confidence"; this philosophy shapes everything about the platform.

Unlike language learning apps like Duolingo or Babbel that use pre-recorded content, Preply connects you with real human tutors for live video lessons. You browse tutor profiles, watch introduction videos, read reviews, and book lessons directly through the platform. All sessions happen in Preply's virtual classroom, which includes video conferencing, screen sharing, a whiteboard, and chat features.

Preply primarily focuses on language learning but also offers tutoring for academic subjects (math, science, history), test preparation (TOEFL, IELTS), business skills, and even hobbies like music and art. The platform serves over 2 million learners worldwide and has facilitated more than 50 million lessons since its founding.

3. How Preply works

Understanding how the platform operates will help you decide if Preply is the right fit for your learning style and budget.

3.1 Finding and selecting tutors

Preply uses a sophisticated search and matching system. When you first visit the platform, you answer questions about your learning goals, current level, schedule preferences, and budget. Preply then shows you a personalized list of tutors who match your criteria. You can further filter by native language, country of origin, availability, specialty (such as business English or exam preparation), and hourly rate.

Each tutor has a detailed profile that includes an introduction video, written bio, teaching credentials, student reviews, ratings, and lesson statistics. The introduction videos are particularly helpful because you can assess the tutor's speaking style, accent, and personality before committing. I recommend watching several videos before making your choice; the tutor's communication style matters as much as their qualifications.

3.2 Trial lessons

Your first lesson with any tutor is considered a "trial lesson." This lesson is typically discounted (though not free); you pay the tutor's rate, and if you are unsatisfied, Preply offers either a free replacement with another tutor or a full refund for that lesson. The trial is designed for you and the tutor to assess compatibility, discuss learning goals, determine your current level, and outline a study plan.

Preply recommends spending no more than 10 minutes of the trial lesson actually teaching. The rest should be spent understanding your goals and establishing expectations. If the tutor dives straight into instruction without discussing your needs, that is a red flag.

3.3 Subscription model

After your trial lesson, Preply operates on a subscription model. You choose how many lessons you want per week (typically 1 to 5) and pay monthly based on your tutor's hourly rate multiplied by your weekly lessons. The subscription renews every 28 days. This model encourages consistent practice but can be inflexible if your schedule changes.

Important: if you do not use all your lessons within the 28-day cycle, only one unused lesson rolls over to the next period. The rest expire. This policy frustrates many users who pay for lessons they cannot take due to scheduling conflicts or unexpected circumstances.

3.4 Preply classroom

All lessons take place in Preply's virtual classroom (previously called Preply Space). The classroom includes video conferencing, screen sharing, an interactive whiteboard, a chat function, and document sharing. You can take notes directly in the platform, and AI-generated "Lesson Insights" summarize what you learned after each session.

The classroom generally works well, though some users report occasional glitches. You need a stable internet connection for smooth video quality. If technical issues on Preply's end prevent a lesson from happening, you can request a makeup lesson or refund (though getting that refund can be challenging; more on that later).

4. Languages and subjects available

Preply offers an impressive range of learning options. The platform lists over 90 languages and 120 total subjects. Language learners have the most options; you can find tutors for everything from Spanish and Mandarin to Yoruba, Icelandic, and Gujarati.

Beyond languages, Preply offers academic tutoring in subjects like mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, history, and computer science. You can also find tutors for test preparation (SAT, GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS), business skills (public speaking, Excel), and creative pursuits (music, art). English tutoring is by far the most popular category, with over 17,000 tutors available.

5. Preply pricing

Pricing on Preply varies dramatically because tutors set their own rates. Understanding the cost structure is essential before signing up.

5.1 Lesson costs

Tutor rates range from as low as $3 to $4 per hour (typically tutors from countries with lower costs of living) to $100+ per hour (highly experienced professionals or specialized coaches). The average range for most popular languages falls between $15 and $40 per hour. English tutors typically charge $15 to $50 per hour depending on their qualifications and experience.

Cheaper is not always better. Tutors charging very low rates (under $10) may be inexperienced, non-native speakers, or provide lower quality instruction. That said, excellent tutors exist at all price points; I recommend reading reviews carefully rather than assuming expensive means better.

5.2 Subscription fees

After your trial lesson, you must subscribe to continue learning. You choose how many lessons per week you want, and Preply calculates your monthly cost based on your tutor's rate. For example: if your tutor charges $20 per hour and you want 2 lessons per week, your monthly subscription would be approximately $160 (4 weeks × 2 lessons × $20).

You can purchase additional "extra lessons" outside your subscription if you want more practice in a given month. You can also change your subscription (number of weekly lessons) or switch tutors at any time, though some changes may affect unused lesson credits.

5.3 Hidden costs to know about

Preply charges a "processing fee" on each purchase (typically a small percentage). If you switch tutors and the new tutor has a different rate, credits may not transfer equally. Currency conversion fees apply if you pay in a currency different from the tutor's listed rate. These costs are not always transparent upfront.

The biggest hidden cost is unused lessons. If you pay for 4 lessons per week but only take 2, you lose most of those credits at the end of your billing cycle. Unlike some platforms that let credits accumulate indefinitely, Preply's policy means you essentially lose money if you cannot maintain a consistent schedule.

6. Tutor quality

Because Preply is a marketplace (not an employer), tutor quality varies significantly. Some tutors are certified teachers with years of classroom experience; others are native speakers with no formal training who simply enjoy helping people learn.

Preply allows tutors to list their credentials, certifications, and teaching experience on their profiles. Look for tutors with certifications like TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA for English; similar certifications exist for other languages. The platform also designates "Super Tutors" who have high ratings, quick response times, and consistent lesson completion rates.

I recommend filtering for tutors with at least 50 completed lessons and a rating of 4.8 or higher. Read multiple reviews to understand common praise and complaints. Watch the introduction video to assess communication style. If possible, message the tutor before booking to discuss your specific goals and gauge their responsiveness.

7. Platform features

Preply has invested heavily in features designed to enhance learning beyond live lessons.

7.1 AI-powered tools

The platform now includes several AI-enabled features. "Lesson Insights" automatically summarizes each session, highlighting vocabulary learned, grammar covered, and areas for improvement. "Daily Exercises" provide personalized practice between lessons. "Scenario Practice" (currently in beta) lets you practice conversations with AI on specific topics.

These AI tools do not replace human tutoring but extend your learning between live sessions. According to Preply, combining tutor-led lessons with AI practice accelerates progress. The company raised $70 million in 2023 specifically to develop these AI capabilities.

7.2 Learning materials

Preply provides some learning materials, particularly for English courses. Tutors can access structured curricula, lesson plans, and exercises through the platform. However, many tutors create their own materials or use external resources. The availability and quality of materials varies by tutor and subject.

Unlike comprehensive platforms like Rosetta Stone or Babbel, Preply does not offer standalone courses you can complete on your own. The platform is built around live tutoring; self-study materials are supplementary.

7.3 Progress tracking

The platform tracks your lessons completed, vocabulary learned, and tutor feedback. Lesson Insights provide session-by-session summaries you can review anytime. Some tutors also conduct periodic assessments to measure your progress toward specific goals (like reaching a certain proficiency level or passing an exam).

8. Pros of using Preply

Based on my experience and extensive research, here are Preply's genuine strengths:

• Personalized one-on-one instruction: Every lesson is customized to your goals, level, and learning style. You are not following a generic curriculum; your tutor adapts to you.
• Massive tutor selection: With 100,000+ tutors, you can find someone who matches your schedule, budget, learning style, and personality. If one tutor does not work out, you have many alternatives.
• Flexible scheduling: You choose when to learn. Tutors are available across time zones, so you can find lessons at almost any hour.
• Real conversation practice: Unlike apps that focus on reading and listening, Preply prioritizes speaking. You practice real conversations from lesson one.
• Wide language and subject selection: 90+ languages and 120 subjects mean you can likely find what you want to learn.
• Price range for every budget: Tutors range from $3 to $100+ per hour, so you can find someone within your budget.
• AI-enhanced learning: Lesson Insights, Daily Exercises, and Scenario Practice extend learning beyond live sessions.

9. Cons and limitations

Preply is not perfect. These are the legitimate concerns you should consider:

• Inconsistent tutor quality: Because anyone can become a tutor, quality varies dramatically. You may need to try several tutors before finding a good match.
• Subscription model inflexibility: You must commit to weekly lessons. Unused lessons expire (only one rolls over). This penalizes learners with variable schedules.
• Refund difficulties: Many users report frustration getting refunds for unused lessons. The refund policy is complicated and not always honored as expected.
• Customer support issues: Support is available only via chat and email; there is no phone support. Response times vary, and some users report unresolved complaints.
• Processing fees and hidden costs: Currency conversion, processing fees, and credit transfer issues can add unexpected costs.
• No free trial: Your first lesson costs money (though it is refundable if you are unsatisfied). This is a barrier compared to platforms offering genuinely free trials.
• Aggressive upselling: Preply frequently encourages you to add more lessons, upgrade subscriptions, or try new tutors. Some users find this pushy.

10. Refund policy explained

The refund policy is one of the most complained-about aspects of Preply. Here is what you need to understand:

Trial lesson guarantee: If you are unsatisfied with your first lesson with a tutor, you can request a free replacement tutor or a full refund for that lesson. This guarantee applies only to trial lessons (your first lesson with each tutor), not subsequent lessons.

Subscription refunds: Once you subscribe, getting refunds for unused lessons is difficult. Preply's policy states that only lessons unused due to technical issues on their end qualify for automatic refunds. If you simply cannot attend lessons due to personal reasons, those credits are generally lost.

Extra lesson refunds: Refunds for extra lessons (purchased outside your subscription) are available upon request within 90 days of purchase, but approval is at Preply's discretion.

How to request a refund: You must email [email protected] with details about your situation. The refund decision can take up to 30 calendar days. Many users report denied requests or unclear explanations. If you delete your account, any remaining balance expires with no refund.

My advice: only commit to lessons you are confident you can attend. Start with a smaller subscription (1 lesson per week) before increasing. Read the full refund policy before purchasing, and keep records of all communications with support.

11. User reviews and ratings

Preply's reputation varies depending on where you look:

Positive reviews commonly praise: excellent individual tutors, flexible scheduling, real progress in speaking skills, user-friendly platform, helpful AI features, and responsive customer support (when issues are resolved).

Negative reviews commonly complain about: refund difficulties, unused lessons expiring, subscription cancellation problems, inconsistent tutor quality, technical glitches, and customer support delays or denials.

The pattern suggests that when Preply works well, it works very well. Users who find great tutors and maintain consistent schedules report excellent experiences. Problems arise when users need flexibility, refunds, or support for non-standard situations.

12. Is Preply effective for learning?

The fundamental question: will you actually learn on Preply? Based on research and user feedback, the answer is yes; if you use it consistently.

Preply's 2025 Efficiency Study found that learners who completed 24+ lessons over approximately 12 weeks progressed 3 times faster than industry expectations. 94% felt more fluent, 91% felt confident speaking, and 99% agreed their learning experience was personalized to their goals. These results align with what we know about effective language learning: regular speaking practice with feedback accelerates progress.

One-on-one tutoring is widely considered the most effective way to learn a language because it provides immediate feedback, personalized instruction, and forced speaking practice. Apps can teach vocabulary and grammar, but they cannot replicate real conversation. Preply fills this gap.

However, effectiveness depends on you. If you skip lessons, do not practice between sessions, or switch tutors constantly, you will not see results. Preply is a tool; your commitment determines the outcome.

13. Who is Preply best for?

Preply is ideal for:

• Learners who prioritize speaking practice over self-study
• People with consistent schedules who can commit to regular weekly lessons
• Those who want personalized instruction tailored to specific goals (exam prep, business communication, travel preparation)
• Learners who thrive with human connection and accountability
• Anyone who has tried apps but plateaued and needs real conversation practice
• Busy professionals who need flexible scheduling across time zones

Preply may not be ideal for:

• Learners with highly variable schedules who cannot commit to consistent lessons
• Those on very tight budgets (apps are cheaper for self-study)
• People who prefer structured, curriculum-based learning over conversational practice
• Anyone uncomfortable with subscription models or strict refund policies
• Learners who need extensive customer support or phone-based assistance

14. Final verdict

So, is Preply good? Yes, with caveats.

Preply excels at its core function: connecting you with real human tutors for personalized, one-on-one language instruction. The platform offers unmatched tutor selection (100,000+ tutors, 90+ languages), flexible scheduling, and AI-enhanced learning tools. Users who find compatible tutors and maintain consistent schedules report significant improvements in speaking confidence and fluency.

However, Preply's subscription model, strict refund policies, and variable customer support create real frustrations. You need to understand exactly what you are committing to before signing up. Start with a small subscription, read the refund policy carefully, and do not pay for more lessons than you can realistically complete.

If you want personalized language tutoring with real human interaction, Preply is one of the best options available. It is not perfect, but for learners who prioritize speaking practice and can commit to regular lessons, the platform delivers genuine value. Just go in with realistic expectations and a clear understanding of the policies.

My recommendation: Try Preply with a single trial lesson first. If you like your tutor and the platform, start with a modest subscription (1 to 2 lessons per week). Only increase your commitment once you have confirmed the schedule works for you. This approach minimizes risk while letting you experience Preply's benefits firsthand.