A tutor is a person who has expertise in one or more subjects who uses that knowledge to help others learn about a subject. This is typically done to help the student pass a class at either the undergraduate or graduate level, though such services are not uncommon even in high school. To become an economics tutor you will need to be able to show that you have a strong economics background as well as an ability to communicate that knowledge. At the very least you should have taken the class you want to provide tutoring for, or its equivalent, and passed with a very high grade.
The number one requirement to become an economics tutor is to be an expert in the subject. If you are a student or a recent graduate, be prepared to show prospective students a copy of your grades. In many cases you don’t need to have taken a lot of other classes as long as you have an excellent understanding of the required material. It isn’t uncommon for students who do very well in a class one term to become an economics tutor for new students in the same class the following term.
If you are an industry professional you may be able to become an economics tutor on the strength of your knowledge and experience, but it is important that you also have a grasp of the students’ needs. Though you work in the field and have a good comprehension of economics, unless you can use that information to help students pass their classes you are unlikely to find much work as a tutor. Most students looking for help want to understand economics, but they are typically focused on specific information necessary to pass a class.
The last step needed to become an economics tutor is to make yourself available and advertise your services. You might consider creating a web page listing your skills and experience, placing ads on the school bulletin board, and talking to instructors to let them know you are available to help students looking for some extra assistance. Ask students you have worked with for references so that others will be more comfortable using your services, and request that they tell other students about you so that you can get more work as an economics tutor.
Charge a fair price that is in line with your skill level and with what other tutors in your area charge, and consider giving discounts when you are getting started to help students decide to try your services. If you plan to become an economics tutor online, you might want to consider signing up to work with an existing tutoring service that advertises for students. They will keep some of your income, usually a small percentage, but they will help students to find you without a lot of effort or expense on your part.
