Become a peer tutor and make a difference.
The evidence-based, virtual Peer Tutor Training Program prepares high school students (grades 10-12) to support peers in improving their math skills, strengthen learning communities, and develop the reflective skills needed for success in high school, college, online, and beyond. Delivered by Penn Learning Network in partnership with Thinkist, the program was designed to open pathways to postsecondary success, and potentially interest students in pursuing a career in the field of education..
| The cost of this program is funded by the Rural Pathways to Success Grant (RPtS) through the U.S. Department of Education, therefore participation in this program is FREE for both peer tutors and the students receiving tutoring support. |
About the Program
The Peer Tutor Training Program offers tutor training courses for high school students in grades 10, 11, and 12. These trained students concurrently provide tutoring to peers (learners) in grades 6-12.
The program is designed to nurture student growth and metacognition through two levels of training. The first, called Foundations of Professional Tutoring, emphasizes kindness, confusion, and student agency. The second level of training, called Becoming an Educational Professional, seeks to provide peer tutors with the leadership skills and sense of purpose that might carry them into education careers. Both focus on improving academic outcomes for struggling students being tutored.
Benefits and Outcomes
Participants who complete all components of the program will earn:
- 2 undergraduate-level course units "CU" from the University of Pennsylvania. See details
- A certificate from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education and Thinkist
- Volunteer hours that can count toward NHS or graduation requirements
Take the Next Step
This program offers two participation options: train as a peer tutor or receive peer tutoring support.
Course Requirements
Program Format
This fully virtual program consists of two courses. Each course runs for 15 weeks, with a 1.5-hour class session each week. In addition to class time, registered students are required to tutor one student for 1–1.5 hours per week. Courses are offered during the summer, in the evenings, and on weekends to support students’ busy schedules.
Spring 2026 classes will run from February 2 to May 24, with a break from March 30 to April 5.
Technology Access
Participants must have access to a computer with a camera, microphone, and speakers, as well as a reliable high-speed internet connection.
Eligibility
To receive training to become a peer tutor, students must:
- Currently be in 10th, 11th, or 12th grade
- Enrolled in a Pennsylvania high school
- Have at least a 3.0 overall GPA
- Currently be earning a grade of B or better in math, or have earned a B or better in a previous math course if not enrolled in math this semester
Yes! Participants who successfully complete the Peer Tutoring Training Program will be awarded two undergraduate-level CUs from the University of Pennsylvania. One course unit represents four semester hours. This program is two semesters in length and offers one course per semester, which is the equivalent of earning 8 college credits.
No! The cost of this program is covered under the Rural Pathways to Success Grant (RPtS) funded through the U.S. Department of Education, therefore participation in this program is FREE for both tutors and tutees (learners).
Grant-funded math tutoring for 6th-12th grade students is also available as part of this program at no cost to schools or parents ! Click here to learn more and reserve a spot for your child.
Tutees (Learners) are asked to commit to attending weekly tutoring sessions during a series of 12 weeks: October-January and/or February-June. Learners can register for either session. After fulfilling this commitment, learners will receive an email certificate of participation from Thinkist.
You will be notified within 7 business days.
Contact Us
For more information, send us an email.
Students should contact the advising office of their prospective undergraduate institution to discuss their decision to enroll in these classes, as their university/college may not accept pre-freshman credit and may have restrictions on coursework taken prior to matriculating. Penn GSE cannot guarantee transfer credit, and students must confirm with their college advisors prior to enrollment as a visiting student.