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Mathnasium and Kumon are both after-school learning centers, and on the surface they look alike: a local center, a placement assessment and a monthly fee. Underneath they work very differently. This guide compares them on cost, method and fit using each company's own published information, then looks at when a 1-on-1 tutor may suit your child better than either.
Tutero is an online tutoring provider.[1] This guide reflects publicly available information as at October 2026; prices and programs can change or vary by location.
Quick answer: Mathnasium or Kumon, which is better?
In our view, Kumon suits a child who needs daily practice and works independently; Mathnasium suits a child who needs math taught, with homework help built in. Kumon is short daily worksheets in math or reading, with center visits twice a week.[2][3] Mathnasium is math only, recommends two to three visits a week and gives no homework.[4] If your child is behind this term or has a test coming, a 1-on-1 online math tutor may fit better than either.
Key takeaways
- Subjects: Kumon covers math and reading; Mathnasium is math only.[2][4]
- Time: Kumon is daily practice of under 30 minutes per subject; Mathnasium recommends two to three center sessions a week.[2][4]
- Homework: Kumon sets daily homework; Mathnasium gives none and helps with school homework in sessions.[2][4]
- Cost: center pages we checked listed Kumon at $130 to $220 per subject per month and Mathnasium at $449 to $579 per month for its memberships.[5][6][7]
How do Mathnasium and Kumon compare?
Kumon is daily worksheet practice in math and reading with two center visits a week; Mathnasium is math-only teaching in a center or online, two to three times a week, with no homework.[2][3][4] The table sets out the details from each company's own pages.
| Kumon | Mathnasium | |
|---|---|---|
| Subjects | Math and reading[2] | Math only[4] |
| Ages | From age three through high school[2] | Grades K to 12[4] |
| How it works | Worksheets, each a step harder, with worked examples[3] | Assessment, custom plan, teaching for understanding[4] |
| Where | Center twice a week, home five days; many centers offer virtual classes[2][3] | Center or live online, in small groups[4][8] |
| Time | Daily, typically under 30 minutes per subject[2] | Two to three sessions a week recommended[4] |
| Homework | Yes, daily[2] | No; school homework help is included in sessions[4] |
| First step | A placement test at no cost[3] | A free assessment[9] |
| Published price? | No; varies by location, charged per subject each month[2] | No; enrollment fee plus regular attendance, "much like a gym membership"[4] |
How much does Mathnasium cost compared with Kumon?
Neither company publishes a national price list. Kumon says tuition varies by location, with a monthly fee typically charged per subject, and asks families to contact their local center.[2] Mathnasium says pricing varies by program and geographic area.[4] Some individual center pages do list prices. These are the figures we found on 3 October 2026:
| Center (as listed on the brand's own site) | Monthly price | One-time fee |
|---|---|---|
| Kumon of College Station, TX | $130 per subject[5] | $50 registration[5] |
| Kumon of Las Vegas - Mountains Edge, NV | $195 per subject, plus a $30 materials fee[10] | $80 registration[10] |
| Kumon of Burbank - South, CA | $220 per subject[6] | $80 registration[6] |
| Mathnasium of Lake Forest, IL and of San Clemente, CA | $449 (twice a week) or $549 (unlimited) for PreK to 8th grade; $479 or $579 for 9th to 12th grade[7][11] | $199 enrollment fee[7] |
Two things change the math. Kumon charges per subject, so math and reading together cost twice the single-subject fee.[2] Mathnasium's membership is math only, and its online and in-center sessions cost the same.[12] For a full breakdown of Kumon's fees, see our guide to Kumon cost.
For comparison, Tutero's 1-on-1 online tutoring starts from US$45 an hour, so a weekly one-hour lesson is from US$180 for four weeks. There are no contracts, and you are charged after each lesson.[1][13]
How does the Kumon method work?
Kumon began in Japan in 1954, when a math teacher, Toru Kumon, created worksheets for his son.[3] Today a child starts with a placement test that puts them at a level Kumon describes as "comfortable, even easy".[14] From there:
- Worksheets do the teaching. Each worksheet is one step harder than the one before, with examples that show how to solve each type of problem so children can learn new steps themselves.[3]
- Practice is daily. Kumon says assignments take under 30 minutes per subject, every day.[2]
- Repetition is deliberate. Kumon says repetition is used on purpose to build speed and accuracy, and is assigned as needed.[2]
- The Instructor adjusts the plan. Kumon says Instructors review progress as they grade worksheets and fine-tune each child's lesson plan.[3]
- Digital is optional. Kumon Connect lets children do worksheets on their own tablet at the same price as paper, though not every center offers it.[15]
Kumon is open about what it is not. Its FAQ says Kumon focuses on independence and long-term skill development, "while tutoring typically focuses on short-term support with current schoolwork".[2]
How does the Mathnasium Method work?
Mathnasium describes a four-step method: assessment, a customized learning plan, teaching for understanding rather than memorization, and goal achievement.[4] In practice:
- It starts with an assessment. Mathnasium uses verbal and written assessments to find a child's strengths and gaps.[4]
- Sessions happen at the center or online. Mathnasium describes personalized instruction in a small-group setting, with the same enrollment valid in person and online.[8][12]
- No homework. All learning happens in sessions, and Mathnasium sets aside time to help with school homework.[4]
- Instructors are trained in its method. Mathnasium says every instructor is certified in the Mathnasium Method.[16]
Mathnasium says there are more than 1,000 centers nationwide.[4]
Is Kumon worth it?
In our view, Kumon can be worth it when the goal is fluency in the basics, such as math facts or reading speed, and your family can support a short session every day. Kumon itself says it "isn't a quick fix" and suggests considering a tutor instead if your child has a test in a couple of weeks, because the program isn't tailored to any specific exam.[14] Kumon says children often show improvements in focus and confidence within a few months, with more significant progress over six to twelve months.[2]
Is Mathnasium worth the money? In our view, it suits a child who needs math taught rather than practiced, who will go to a center two or three times a week, and whose family values having homework handled in sessions. The monthly price is higher than one Kumon subject on the center pages we checked, so the extra contact time is what you are paying for.[5][7]
What does the research say about Kumon, Mathnasium and tutoring?
There is less independent evidence on either brand than their marketing might suggest. The U.S. Department of Education's What Works Clearinghouse reviewed the Kumon Mathematics Program and, as of March 2009, found no studies that met its standards, so it could not draw conclusions about whether the program works or not.[17] We found no What Works Clearinghouse report on Mathnasium.
The research on tutoring in general is stronger. A 2020 National Bureau of Economic Research review of tutoring experiments found "consistent and substantial positive impacts on learning outcomes", with larger effects for programs led by teachers and paraprofessionals than for volunteer or parent tutoring.[18] That review covers tutoring programs in general, mostly in schools, not Kumon or Mathnasium specifically.
Is there a 1-on-1 alternative to Mathnasium and Kumon?
Yes. Both brands work best for children who fit their model: daily independent practice for Kumon, regular center visits for Mathnasium. If your child needs something different, these are the alternatives parents most often weigh:
- A 1-on-1 tutor working from school work: best when your child is stuck on a current topic, such as fractions in 4th grade, or has a test coming.
- Free practice tools: useful for extra practice at home if cost is the main concern, alongside the school's own support.
- A short block of tutoring before key tests: a way to target one goal without a long monthly commitment.
With Tutero, your child has one tutor, matched by our education team, working on the topics their class is covering, in math or in reading and English. There are no contracts.[1] See how online math tutoring with Tutero works, or compare Tutero's US pricing.
Related guides
- How much Kumon costs per month
- The best online math tutoring for kids
- Varsity Tutors reviews: cost, pros and cons
- How tutoring can improve confidence in math
References
- "Private 1-on-1 Online Tutoring", Tutero. https://www.tutero.com/us/online-tutoring, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Kumon FAQs - Kids' Tutoring Programs & After School Centers", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/frequently-asked-questions, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "After School Learning Programs for Kids - Kumon", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/how-kumon-works, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/faq, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "About the Center | Kumon of College Station", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/college-station/aboutcenter, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "About the Center | Kumon of Burbank - South", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/burbank-south/aboutcenter, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Lake Forest IL Enrollment | Math Help Near Me - Mathnasium", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/math-centers/lakeforestil/enrollment, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "How Much Does Math Tutoring Cost? See Beyond Price Tags", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/blog/cost-of-math-tutoring, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "How It Works | Best Math Tutoring Nearby", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/how-it-works, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "About the Center | Kumon of Las Vegas - Mountains Edge", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/las-vegas-mountains-edge/aboutcenter, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "San Clemente Enrollment | Math Help Near Me - Mathnasium", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/math-centers/sanclemente/enrollment, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Online Math Tutoring At Home | Online Help", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/online-tutoring, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Tutero Tutoring | Pricing for Families", Tutero. https://www.tutero.com/us/online-tutoring/pricing, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "How Kumon Is Different Than Tutoring - Student Resources", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/resources/how-is-kumon-different-than-tutoring/, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Kumon Connect - Kumon's tablet solution to learning any place, any time", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/kumon-connect, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "#1 Math Tutoring Programs & Homework Help", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "WWC | Kumon Mathematics Program", What Works Clearinghouse, Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education. https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/WWC/InterventionReport/258, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "The Impressive Effects of Tutoring on PreK-12 Learning: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Experimental Evidence (Nickow, Oreopoulos and Quan, Working Paper 27476)", National Bureau of Economic Research. https://www.nber.org/papers/w27476, accessed 3 October 2026.
Copies of these pages as they appeared on 3 October 2026 are kept on file.
What else do parents ask about Mathnasium and Kumon?
Cost, age and fit, answered briefly. For a full fee breakdown, see our guide to Kumon cost.
In our view, Kumon builds fluency through daily practice, while Mathnasium teaches math concepts in a center. Pick the one that matches what your child needs.
In our view, Kumon builds fluency through daily practice, while Mathnasium teaches math concepts in a center. Pick the one that matches what your child needs.
Mathnasium and Kumon are both after-school learning centers, and on the surface they look alike: a local center, a placement assessment and a monthly fee. Underneath they work very differently. This guide compares them on cost, method and fit using each company's own published information, then looks at when a 1-on-1 tutor may suit your child better than either.
Tutero is an online tutoring provider.[1] This guide reflects publicly available information as at October 2026; prices and programs can change or vary by location.
Quick answer: Mathnasium or Kumon, which is better?
In our view, Kumon suits a child who needs daily practice and works independently; Mathnasium suits a child who needs math taught, with homework help built in. Kumon is short daily worksheets in math or reading, with center visits twice a week.[2][3] Mathnasium is math only, recommends two to three visits a week and gives no homework.[4] If your child is behind this term or has a test coming, a 1-on-1 online math tutor may fit better than either.
Key takeaways
- Subjects: Kumon covers math and reading; Mathnasium is math only.[2][4]
- Time: Kumon is daily practice of under 30 minutes per subject; Mathnasium recommends two to three center sessions a week.[2][4]
- Homework: Kumon sets daily homework; Mathnasium gives none and helps with school homework in sessions.[2][4]
- Cost: center pages we checked listed Kumon at $130 to $220 per subject per month and Mathnasium at $449 to $579 per month for its memberships.[5][6][7]
How do Mathnasium and Kumon compare?
Kumon is daily worksheet practice in math and reading with two center visits a week; Mathnasium is math-only teaching in a center or online, two to three times a week, with no homework.[2][3][4] The table sets out the details from each company's own pages.
| Kumon | Mathnasium | |
|---|---|---|
| Subjects | Math and reading[2] | Math only[4] |
| Ages | From age three through high school[2] | Grades K to 12[4] |
| How it works | Worksheets, each a step harder, with worked examples[3] | Assessment, custom plan, teaching for understanding[4] |
| Where | Center twice a week, home five days; many centers offer virtual classes[2][3] | Center or live online, in small groups[4][8] |
| Time | Daily, typically under 30 minutes per subject[2] | Two to three sessions a week recommended[4] |
| Homework | Yes, daily[2] | No; school homework help is included in sessions[4] |
| First step | A placement test at no cost[3] | A free assessment[9] |
| Published price? | No; varies by location, charged per subject each month[2] | No; enrollment fee plus regular attendance, "much like a gym membership"[4] |
How much does Mathnasium cost compared with Kumon?
Neither company publishes a national price list. Kumon says tuition varies by location, with a monthly fee typically charged per subject, and asks families to contact their local center.[2] Mathnasium says pricing varies by program and geographic area.[4] Some individual center pages do list prices. These are the figures we found on 3 October 2026:
| Center (as listed on the brand's own site) | Monthly price | One-time fee |
|---|---|---|
| Kumon of College Station, TX | $130 per subject[5] | $50 registration[5] |
| Kumon of Las Vegas - Mountains Edge, NV | $195 per subject, plus a $30 materials fee[10] | $80 registration[10] |
| Kumon of Burbank - South, CA | $220 per subject[6] | $80 registration[6] |
| Mathnasium of Lake Forest, IL and of San Clemente, CA | $449 (twice a week) or $549 (unlimited) for PreK to 8th grade; $479 or $579 for 9th to 12th grade[7][11] | $199 enrollment fee[7] |
Two things change the math. Kumon charges per subject, so math and reading together cost twice the single-subject fee.[2] Mathnasium's membership is math only, and its online and in-center sessions cost the same.[12] For a full breakdown of Kumon's fees, see our guide to Kumon cost.
For comparison, Tutero's 1-on-1 online tutoring starts from US$45 an hour, so a weekly one-hour lesson is from US$180 for four weeks. There are no contracts, and you are charged after each lesson.[1][13]
How does the Kumon method work?
Kumon began in Japan in 1954, when a math teacher, Toru Kumon, created worksheets for his son.[3] Today a child starts with a placement test that puts them at a level Kumon describes as "comfortable, even easy".[14] From there:
- Worksheets do the teaching. Each worksheet is one step harder than the one before, with examples that show how to solve each type of problem so children can learn new steps themselves.[3]
- Practice is daily. Kumon says assignments take under 30 minutes per subject, every day.[2]
- Repetition is deliberate. Kumon says repetition is used on purpose to build speed and accuracy, and is assigned as needed.[2]
- The Instructor adjusts the plan. Kumon says Instructors review progress as they grade worksheets and fine-tune each child's lesson plan.[3]
- Digital is optional. Kumon Connect lets children do worksheets on their own tablet at the same price as paper, though not every center offers it.[15]
Kumon is open about what it is not. Its FAQ says Kumon focuses on independence and long-term skill development, "while tutoring typically focuses on short-term support with current schoolwork".[2]
How does the Mathnasium Method work?
Mathnasium describes a four-step method: assessment, a customized learning plan, teaching for understanding rather than memorization, and goal achievement.[4] In practice:
- It starts with an assessment. Mathnasium uses verbal and written assessments to find a child's strengths and gaps.[4]
- Sessions happen at the center or online. Mathnasium describes personalized instruction in a small-group setting, with the same enrollment valid in person and online.[8][12]
- No homework. All learning happens in sessions, and Mathnasium sets aside time to help with school homework.[4]
- Instructors are trained in its method. Mathnasium says every instructor is certified in the Mathnasium Method.[16]
Mathnasium says there are more than 1,000 centers nationwide.[4]
Is Kumon worth it?
In our view, Kumon can be worth it when the goal is fluency in the basics, such as math facts or reading speed, and your family can support a short session every day. Kumon itself says it "isn't a quick fix" and suggests considering a tutor instead if your child has a test in a couple of weeks, because the program isn't tailored to any specific exam.[14] Kumon says children often show improvements in focus and confidence within a few months, with more significant progress over six to twelve months.[2]
Is Mathnasium worth the money? In our view, it suits a child who needs math taught rather than practiced, who will go to a center two or three times a week, and whose family values having homework handled in sessions. The monthly price is higher than one Kumon subject on the center pages we checked, so the extra contact time is what you are paying for.[5][7]
What does the research say about Kumon, Mathnasium and tutoring?
There is less independent evidence on either brand than their marketing might suggest. The U.S. Department of Education's What Works Clearinghouse reviewed the Kumon Mathematics Program and, as of March 2009, found no studies that met its standards, so it could not draw conclusions about whether the program works or not.[17] We found no What Works Clearinghouse report on Mathnasium.
The research on tutoring in general is stronger. A 2020 National Bureau of Economic Research review of tutoring experiments found "consistent and substantial positive impacts on learning outcomes", with larger effects for programs led by teachers and paraprofessionals than for volunteer or parent tutoring.[18] That review covers tutoring programs in general, mostly in schools, not Kumon or Mathnasium specifically.
Is there a 1-on-1 alternative to Mathnasium and Kumon?
Yes. Both brands work best for children who fit their model: daily independent practice for Kumon, regular center visits for Mathnasium. If your child needs something different, these are the alternatives parents most often weigh:
- A 1-on-1 tutor working from school work: best when your child is stuck on a current topic, such as fractions in 4th grade, or has a test coming.
- Free practice tools: useful for extra practice at home if cost is the main concern, alongside the school's own support.
- A short block of tutoring before key tests: a way to target one goal without a long monthly commitment.
With Tutero, your child has one tutor, matched by our education team, working on the topics their class is covering, in math or in reading and English. There are no contracts.[1] See how online math tutoring with Tutero works, or compare Tutero's US pricing.
Related guides
- How much Kumon costs per month
- The best online math tutoring for kids
- Varsity Tutors reviews: cost, pros and cons
- How tutoring can improve confidence in math
References
- "Private 1-on-1 Online Tutoring", Tutero. https://www.tutero.com/us/online-tutoring, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Kumon FAQs - Kids' Tutoring Programs & After School Centers", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/frequently-asked-questions, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "After School Learning Programs for Kids - Kumon", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/how-kumon-works, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/faq, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "About the Center | Kumon of College Station", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/college-station/aboutcenter, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "About the Center | Kumon of Burbank - South", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/burbank-south/aboutcenter, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Lake Forest IL Enrollment | Math Help Near Me - Mathnasium", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/math-centers/lakeforestil/enrollment, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "How Much Does Math Tutoring Cost? See Beyond Price Tags", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/blog/cost-of-math-tutoring, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "How It Works | Best Math Tutoring Nearby", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/how-it-works, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "About the Center | Kumon of Las Vegas - Mountains Edge", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/las-vegas-mountains-edge/aboutcenter, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "San Clemente Enrollment | Math Help Near Me - Mathnasium", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/math-centers/sanclemente/enrollment, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Online Math Tutoring At Home | Online Help", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/online-tutoring, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Tutero Tutoring | Pricing for Families", Tutero. https://www.tutero.com/us/online-tutoring/pricing, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "How Kumon Is Different Than Tutoring - Student Resources", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/resources/how-is-kumon-different-than-tutoring/, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Kumon Connect - Kumon's tablet solution to learning any place, any time", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/kumon-connect, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "#1 Math Tutoring Programs & Homework Help", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "WWC | Kumon Mathematics Program", What Works Clearinghouse, Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education. https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/WWC/InterventionReport/258, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "The Impressive Effects of Tutoring on PreK-12 Learning: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Experimental Evidence (Nickow, Oreopoulos and Quan, Working Paper 27476)", National Bureau of Economic Research. https://www.nber.org/papers/w27476, accessed 3 October 2026.
Copies of these pages as they appeared on 3 October 2026 are kept on file.
What else do parents ask about Mathnasium and Kumon?
Cost, age and fit, answered briefly. For a full fee breakdown, see our guide to Kumon cost.
In our view, Kumon builds fluency through daily practice, while Mathnasium teaches math concepts in a center. Pick the one that matches what your child needs.
In our view, Kumon builds fluency through daily practice, while Mathnasium teaches math concepts in a center. Pick the one that matches what your child needs.
In our view, Kumon builds fluency through daily practice, while Mathnasium teaches math concepts in a center. Pick the one that matches what your child needs.
If your child is stuck on this term's topics or has a test soon, a 1-on-1 tutor working from their school work may be the better fit.
Mathnasium and Kumon are both after-school learning centers, and on the surface they look alike: a local center, a placement assessment and a monthly fee. Underneath they work very differently. This guide compares them on cost, method and fit using each company's own published information, then looks at when a 1-on-1 tutor may suit your child better than either.
Tutero is an online tutoring provider.[1] This guide reflects publicly available information as at October 2026; prices and programs can change or vary by location.
Quick answer: Mathnasium or Kumon, which is better?
In our view, Kumon suits a child who needs daily practice and works independently; Mathnasium suits a child who needs math taught, with homework help built in. Kumon is short daily worksheets in math or reading, with center visits twice a week.[2][3] Mathnasium is math only, recommends two to three visits a week and gives no homework.[4] If your child is behind this term or has a test coming, a 1-on-1 online math tutor may fit better than either.
Key takeaways
- Subjects: Kumon covers math and reading; Mathnasium is math only.[2][4]
- Time: Kumon is daily practice of under 30 minutes per subject; Mathnasium recommends two to three center sessions a week.[2][4]
- Homework: Kumon sets daily homework; Mathnasium gives none and helps with school homework in sessions.[2][4]
- Cost: center pages we checked listed Kumon at $130 to $220 per subject per month and Mathnasium at $449 to $579 per month for its memberships.[5][6][7]
How do Mathnasium and Kumon compare?
Kumon is daily worksheet practice in math and reading with two center visits a week; Mathnasium is math-only teaching in a center or online, two to three times a week, with no homework.[2][3][4] The table sets out the details from each company's own pages.
| Kumon | Mathnasium | |
|---|---|---|
| Subjects | Math and reading[2] | Math only[4] |
| Ages | From age three through high school[2] | Grades K to 12[4] |
| How it works | Worksheets, each a step harder, with worked examples[3] | Assessment, custom plan, teaching for understanding[4] |
| Where | Center twice a week, home five days; many centers offer virtual classes[2][3] | Center or live online, in small groups[4][8] |
| Time | Daily, typically under 30 minutes per subject[2] | Two to three sessions a week recommended[4] |
| Homework | Yes, daily[2] | No; school homework help is included in sessions[4] |
| First step | A placement test at no cost[3] | A free assessment[9] |
| Published price? | No; varies by location, charged per subject each month[2] | No; enrollment fee plus regular attendance, "much like a gym membership"[4] |
How much does Mathnasium cost compared with Kumon?
Neither company publishes a national price list. Kumon says tuition varies by location, with a monthly fee typically charged per subject, and asks families to contact their local center.[2] Mathnasium says pricing varies by program and geographic area.[4] Some individual center pages do list prices. These are the figures we found on 3 October 2026:
| Center (as listed on the brand's own site) | Monthly price | One-time fee |
|---|---|---|
| Kumon of College Station, TX | $130 per subject[5] | $50 registration[5] |
| Kumon of Las Vegas - Mountains Edge, NV | $195 per subject, plus a $30 materials fee[10] | $80 registration[10] |
| Kumon of Burbank - South, CA | $220 per subject[6] | $80 registration[6] |
| Mathnasium of Lake Forest, IL and of San Clemente, CA | $449 (twice a week) or $549 (unlimited) for PreK to 8th grade; $479 or $579 for 9th to 12th grade[7][11] | $199 enrollment fee[7] |
Two things change the math. Kumon charges per subject, so math and reading together cost twice the single-subject fee.[2] Mathnasium's membership is math only, and its online and in-center sessions cost the same.[12] For a full breakdown of Kumon's fees, see our guide to Kumon cost.
For comparison, Tutero's 1-on-1 online tutoring starts from US$45 an hour, so a weekly one-hour lesson is from US$180 for four weeks. There are no contracts, and you are charged after each lesson.[1][13]
How does the Kumon method work?
Kumon began in Japan in 1954, when a math teacher, Toru Kumon, created worksheets for his son.[3] Today a child starts with a placement test that puts them at a level Kumon describes as "comfortable, even easy".[14] From there:
- Worksheets do the teaching. Each worksheet is one step harder than the one before, with examples that show how to solve each type of problem so children can learn new steps themselves.[3]
- Practice is daily. Kumon says assignments take under 30 minutes per subject, every day.[2]
- Repetition is deliberate. Kumon says repetition is used on purpose to build speed and accuracy, and is assigned as needed.[2]
- The Instructor adjusts the plan. Kumon says Instructors review progress as they grade worksheets and fine-tune each child's lesson plan.[3]
- Digital is optional. Kumon Connect lets children do worksheets on their own tablet at the same price as paper, though not every center offers it.[15]
Kumon is open about what it is not. Its FAQ says Kumon focuses on independence and long-term skill development, "while tutoring typically focuses on short-term support with current schoolwork".[2]
How does the Mathnasium Method work?
Mathnasium describes a four-step method: assessment, a customized learning plan, teaching for understanding rather than memorization, and goal achievement.[4] In practice:
- It starts with an assessment. Mathnasium uses verbal and written assessments to find a child's strengths and gaps.[4]
- Sessions happen at the center or online. Mathnasium describes personalized instruction in a small-group setting, with the same enrollment valid in person and online.[8][12]
- No homework. All learning happens in sessions, and Mathnasium sets aside time to help with school homework.[4]
- Instructors are trained in its method. Mathnasium says every instructor is certified in the Mathnasium Method.[16]
Mathnasium says there are more than 1,000 centers nationwide.[4]
Is Kumon worth it?
In our view, Kumon can be worth it when the goal is fluency in the basics, such as math facts or reading speed, and your family can support a short session every day. Kumon itself says it "isn't a quick fix" and suggests considering a tutor instead if your child has a test in a couple of weeks, because the program isn't tailored to any specific exam.[14] Kumon says children often show improvements in focus and confidence within a few months, with more significant progress over six to twelve months.[2]
Is Mathnasium worth the money? In our view, it suits a child who needs math taught rather than practiced, who will go to a center two or three times a week, and whose family values having homework handled in sessions. The monthly price is higher than one Kumon subject on the center pages we checked, so the extra contact time is what you are paying for.[5][7]
What does the research say about Kumon, Mathnasium and tutoring?
There is less independent evidence on either brand than their marketing might suggest. The U.S. Department of Education's What Works Clearinghouse reviewed the Kumon Mathematics Program and, as of March 2009, found no studies that met its standards, so it could not draw conclusions about whether the program works or not.[17] We found no What Works Clearinghouse report on Mathnasium.
The research on tutoring in general is stronger. A 2020 National Bureau of Economic Research review of tutoring experiments found "consistent and substantial positive impacts on learning outcomes", with larger effects for programs led by teachers and paraprofessionals than for volunteer or parent tutoring.[18] That review covers tutoring programs in general, mostly in schools, not Kumon or Mathnasium specifically.
Is there a 1-on-1 alternative to Mathnasium and Kumon?
Yes. Both brands work best for children who fit their model: daily independent practice for Kumon, regular center visits for Mathnasium. If your child needs something different, these are the alternatives parents most often weigh:
- A 1-on-1 tutor working from school work: best when your child is stuck on a current topic, such as fractions in 4th grade, or has a test coming.
- Free practice tools: useful for extra practice at home if cost is the main concern, alongside the school's own support.
- A short block of tutoring before key tests: a way to target one goal without a long monthly commitment.
With Tutero, your child has one tutor, matched by our education team, working on the topics their class is covering, in math or in reading and English. There are no contracts.[1] See how online math tutoring with Tutero works, or compare Tutero's US pricing.
Related guides
- How much Kumon costs per month
- The best online math tutoring for kids
- Varsity Tutors reviews: cost, pros and cons
- How tutoring can improve confidence in math
References
- "Private 1-on-1 Online Tutoring", Tutero. https://www.tutero.com/us/online-tutoring, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Kumon FAQs - Kids' Tutoring Programs & After School Centers", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/frequently-asked-questions, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "After School Learning Programs for Kids - Kumon", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/how-kumon-works, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/faq, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "About the Center | Kumon of College Station", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/college-station/aboutcenter, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "About the Center | Kumon of Burbank - South", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/burbank-south/aboutcenter, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Lake Forest IL Enrollment | Math Help Near Me - Mathnasium", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/math-centers/lakeforestil/enrollment, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "How Much Does Math Tutoring Cost? See Beyond Price Tags", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/blog/cost-of-math-tutoring, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "How It Works | Best Math Tutoring Nearby", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/how-it-works, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "About the Center | Kumon of Las Vegas - Mountains Edge", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/las-vegas-mountains-edge/aboutcenter, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "San Clemente Enrollment | Math Help Near Me - Mathnasium", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/math-centers/sanclemente/enrollment, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Online Math Tutoring At Home | Online Help", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/online-tutoring, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Tutero Tutoring | Pricing for Families", Tutero. https://www.tutero.com/us/online-tutoring/pricing, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "How Kumon Is Different Than Tutoring - Student Resources", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/resources/how-is-kumon-different-than-tutoring/, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "Kumon Connect - Kumon's tablet solution to learning any place, any time", Kumon North America. https://www.kumon.com/kumon-connect, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "#1 Math Tutoring Programs & Homework Help", Mathnasium. https://www.mathnasium.com/, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "WWC | Kumon Mathematics Program", What Works Clearinghouse, Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education. https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/WWC/InterventionReport/258, accessed 3 October 2026.
- "The Impressive Effects of Tutoring on PreK-12 Learning: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Experimental Evidence (Nickow, Oreopoulos and Quan, Working Paper 27476)", National Bureau of Economic Research. https://www.nber.org/papers/w27476, accessed 3 October 2026.
Copies of these pages as they appeared on 3 October 2026 are kept on file.
What else do parents ask about Mathnasium and Kumon?
Cost, age and fit, answered briefly. For a full fee breakdown, see our guide to Kumon cost.
In our view, Kumon builds fluency through daily practice, while Mathnasium teaches math concepts in a center. Pick the one that matches what your child needs.
If your child is stuck on this term's topics or has a test soon, a 1-on-1 tutor working from their school work may be the better fit.
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On the center pages we checked, Mathnasium cost more per month. Two Mathnasium centers listed memberships from $449 to $579 a month plus a $199 enrollment fee, while three Kumon centers listed $130 to $220 per subject per month.[5][6][7] Kumon charges per subject, so math and reading together cost double.[2] Both say prices vary by location.[2][4]
In our view, it can be for a child who needs math concepts taught and will attend two to three times a week, which is what Mathnasium recommends.[4] Homework help is included in sessions.[4] If your child only needs a few sessions before a test, a shorter block of 1-on-1 tutoring may cost less.
It can, especially for building speed and accuracy in the basics through daily practice. Kumon says children often show improvements within a few months, with more significant progress over six to twelve months, and that results vary.[2] The What Works Clearinghouse found no studies of Kumon Mathematics that met its standards as of 2009, so independent evidence is limited.[17]
Kumon says its program is designed for children as young as age three and continues through high school, because it is based on ability rather than grade level.[2] In our view, the right time is when your child can sit for a short daily session and your family can support that routine.
It depends on the goal. Kumon itself suggests considering a tutor if your child has a test soon, because its program is not tailored to any specific exam.[14] For math concepts taught in a center, Mathnasium is the usual comparison. For help with current school topics, a 1-on-1 tutor may fit better. Tutero offers 1-on-1 online tutoring from US$45 an hour with no contracts.[1][13]
In our view, Mathnasium is usually the closer fit of the two, because its sessions teach concepts and include school homework help.[4] Kumon starts children at an easy level and builds up through daily worksheets, which suits fluency more than catching up on current class topics.[14] A 1-on-1 tutor can work directly on the topics your child is behind on.
Hoping to improve confidence & grades?
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