Standardized Test Preparatory Services

Thousands of students each year must take standard tests for entry into college, and they usually must spend weeks preparing for these all-encompassing tests. There are sections on math and language usage in most of these tests, and you can help students prepare for each by answering their questions and presenting them with similar questions or problems as practice guides. Perhaps you’ll choose to work with a more specialized test such as the LSAT, which people must pass before being accepted to law school. Whatever area you choose to specialize in, you’ll need to work with groups of students at one time to make it truly profitable.


Your start-up costs will be relatively low, because you’ll only need some workbooks, pencils, and timers. Since your clients will be paying up front for your services, you don’t have to worry about maintaining an inventory prior to accepting clients. It would be great, if you already own a computer, to create your own Web site and give it some value with free study tips and links to related resources. You may have to spend $35 or so per session on space rental; check with local schools for their after-hour rates. At $75 to $175 per student, you can easily see an income potential of $30,000 to $45,000.


If you enjoy repetition, this could be a relaxing and comfortable way to make a living. All you have to do is provide the same services over and over, and collect your checks as you do. On the other hand, it could become too repetitious, and therefore less challenging than most entrepreneurs would like. You decide what your comfort level is.


Approx. cost of start-up: $1,000 to $5,000


Approx. potential earnings:$30,000 to $45,000Typical fees: $75 to $175 per clientWhere to promote: Yellow Pages, direct mail to students/parents, Web site


that offers study tips and links to related resourcesQualifications: Familiarity with all standardized tests (including SAT, ACT, GED, LSAT), teaching degree helpful and required in some statesThings needed: Practice tests, pencils, timers, computer with high-speed Internet access


Required staff:No


Hidden costs:Insurance