Best 10 Mathnasium Competitors & Alternatives in 2025
reviewed by Jo-ann Caballes
Updated on March 14, 2025
If you’re seeking a platform for your kid’s learning, discovering Mathnasium competitors may be just right for you. In this article, I review 10 alternative resources while highlighting their strong and weak sides.
Key Points
- Mathnasium schedules have several distinct drawbacks, which make parents seek alternatives.
- Brighterly math tutoring platform provides tailored math schedules adjusted to individual needs.
- Sites like Sylvan and Thinkster prioritize interactive learning.
- Kumon, Best Brains, and Khan Academy are suitable as supplementary learning resources.
- Learner, Huntington Learning Center, Russian Math, and Wiingy are my strong recommendations for exam preparation.
What are the reasons to consider Mathnasium competitors?
Mathnasium is differentiated in a few ways:
▶️ It teaches kids to love math while adjusting the program to individual needs.
▶️ Its programs help kids understand math instead of memorizing concepts blindly.
▶️ Mathnasium is flexible regarding scheduling options, allowing kids to take classes at any convenient time.
The downsides, however, outweigh the benefits, as parents commonly complain about the lack of tutor attention. They also criticize rigid performance testing primarily based on how well kids deal with Mathnasium worksheets.
Allie, Trustpilot: Very expensive and not worth what you pay. They give you a booklet and watch you do the same problems repeatedly. They don’t teach the material or the concepts. Repetition rarely works, especially when you’re not taught why the answers are correct or incorrect.
Reasons to choose Mathnasium alternatives
Lack of academic success
Worksheets are one of the core elements of Mathnasium’s learning programs. They serve to introduce the material, learn, and review it. This approach eats up on personalization, making Mathnasium cling towards a more standardized learning approach.
Unfortunately, with worksheet-reliant plans, some students may experience a lack of academic progression. At the same time, most alternatives to Mathnasium include school progress as their key strength.
A no-refund policy
Even though Mathnasium is a relatively costly service, it still doesn’t introduce refund opportunities. The situation may vary by location, but most centers will require an early cancellation notice so that you can get at least some of your funds back. In other cases, they will likely refuse your refund request.
If you’re now wondering, “How much does Mathnasium cost per month?” I have to tell you that prices will generally vary by location. Still, as parent reviews show, monthly prices can range from $200 to $400. Plus, the average cost per hour of studies at this service fluctuates from $25 to $75.
Unprofessional tutors
Studying at Mathnasium happens primarily in small groups, so tutors sometimes fail to devote enough attention to a specific kid. Similarly, some of the staff here lack the qualifications for high-quality tutoring.
Now that you know all the potential cons, let’s move on and answer that popular question of “Who are the competitors of Mathnasium?”
What are the best Mathnasium competitors?
- Brighterly
- Kumon
- Sylvan
- Learner
- Thinkster
- Huntington Learning Center
- Best Brains
- Khan Academy
- Russian Math
- Wiingy
Mathnasium alternative #1: Brighterly
Best for: kids seeking personalized learning help
Brighterly is the top Mathnasium competitor. It’s a tailored math-tutoring platform that provides learning in the 1:1 format and emphasizes personalization in its schedules.
Check out more on its features below.
Brighterly features
Professional math tutors
Brighterly math tutors are the most complimented element of the learning process on this platform. Skilled in math and psychological practices, they can teach every kid the right words and thus help them fall in love with the subject.
But what makes their approach so unique?
- Brighterly math tutors won’t push your child to memorize lengthy formulas without knowing their logic.
- 1:1 classes guarantee a friendly and cooperative environment where kids are encouraged to ask questions.
- Personalized learning plans that evolve around your kid’s needs guarantee maximum efficiency.
Services provided by Brighterly math tutors
With an increased focus on personal needs, the Brighterly math tutoring platform provides lessons for kids in grades 1 to 9. Their services include:
- Game-based learning for elementary learners to guarantee easy and fast grasp of basic math topics.
- Detailed explanations for kids in middle school. Tutors here always strive to provide a real-world context and show the practical application of theory.
Focus on personalization
When we talk about Brighterly, we unavoidably talk about personalization. Immediately after registration, your kid will have to complete a free diagnostic test. Based on the results, they will be matched with the best fitting tutor, ready to build a personalized program according to their current level and requirements.
Furthermore, any Brighterly math program is aligned with:
- STEM principles, meaning a predominant focus on bringing practical value and the ability to apply theoretical knowledge in practice.
- Common Core requirements, so that studying plans could match academic programs adopted in American schools. As shown by Brighterly reviews, this approach helps to increase academic performance and is suitable for college exam preparation.
A wealth of free materials
Brighterly math tutoring platform is more than just a paid resource. It also offers a bunch of charge-free services parents favor for home-based learning:
- The theoretical sections provide in-depth knowledge of math topics for grades 1 to 9. They are handy when learning new material or for repetition.
- Math tests are a bunch of questions (usually up to 5 per topic) that immediately follow the theory and allow to test the kid’s progress.
- Brighterly math worksheets contain colorful and non-trivial collections of tasks and are meant to give your kid some extra practice.
Worksheets will suit literally any parent as they can be used on both your device and as printed sheets. They usually contain solutions at the back, which adds to their convenience!
Brighterly: Pricing packages
The Brighterly math tutoring platform is quite flexible in terms of pricing. Below, I cover the minimum subscription package for 1 month and the maximum for 1 year. But you can also check the options for 3 and 6 months. Also note that I have specified each Brighterly price per month of studying.
- Learning plan for 1 lesson per week: from $105 to $124
- Learning plan for 2 lessons per week: from $161 to $211
- Learning plan for 3 lessons per week: from $234 to $298
Plus, Brighterly offers a trial version, which means you can test it during a free lesson without commitments.
How does Brighterly compare to Mathnasium?
Mathnasium is an excellent choice if you’re seeking offline learning options, which Brighterly doesn’t provide. Still, the latter can prove more convenient if you favor 1:1 online lessons in a peaceful and friendly format.
Additionally, Mathnasium can be of better use if you aim to boost student math confidence in a small-group environment. But pay attention to Brighterly if you aim for personalized learning with a specific concentration on individual needs.
Unlike Mathnasium, the other option is quite flexible in pricing options, making it a popular choice among learners. So, it’s worth saying that the most affordable alternative to Mathnasium is Brighterly.
Brighterly math tutoring platform: Pros & cons
Pros |
Cons |
| ✅Learning during individual 1:1 classes | ❌Only for kids in grades 1 to 9 |
| ✅Tutor rates that start at $19.5/hour (with the average across the industry reaching $25-$80) | ❌Covers only math |
| ✅Lots of free resources for additional training |
Mathnasium alternative #2: Kumon
Kumon is a tutoring platform that offers online and offline possibilities. The learning here is based on a sequence of rigid worksheets that boost self-organization with students. The e-source is the perfect Mathnasium alternative for after-school studying.
Best for: enhancing independent learning and better problem-solving skills.
So, is Mathnasium better than Kumon? Eventually, the main difference between the two is that studying in Kumon is purely worksheet-based. While both services offer tutor guidance, Kumon still puts more stress on individual work.
Who is it for?
Grades: Preschool to 12th grade
Kumon top features
- Kumon introduces math material and practice in the form of worksheets
- While a child works on worksheets, a tutor carefully monitors their progress and can guide them whenever needed
- With 20,000+ Kumon offline learning centers, you can definitely find the most convenient location
How much is Kumon?
Kumon doesn’t offer a single pricing option, as the final charge will depend on your chosen location. It will usually be fixed at about $165 per month, which includes 1-2 weekly sessions, each 30 minutes long. But mind the extra prices:
- $80 registration fee
- $30 fee for the materials
Wondering which to choose: Mathnasium or Kumon? Even considering the hidden fees, the latter is still more cost-effective. For a further in-depth look into its pricing, please check this guide.
Is Kumon good or bad for kids: Pros and cons
Is Kumon good for kids? |
What are the disadvantages of Kumon? |
| ✅Proves to be effective as a supplementary learning resource | ❌Lacks personalized approach |
| ✅Suits determined learners who know how to set and achieve their goals | ❌May seem overburdening at times |
| ✅Can be used for exam preparation | ❌Is heavily result-oriented and focuses less on the learning process |
Mathnasium alternative #3: Sylvan
Just like Mathnasium, Sylvan allows studying in both online and offline settings. It provides personalized learning in small groups to guarantee maximum teacher and student cooperation. Its regular reassessment and testing enable the creation of the most accurate learning roadmap.
Best for: students who need positive reinforcement in a variety of subjects
Unlike Mathnasium, Sylvan uses a combination of learning resources, including close teacher-student work, interactive technology called SylvanSync™, hands-on activities, and traditional worksheets. Plus, it’s not explicitly tied to math and lists several other subjects, like reading and writing.
Who is it for?
Grades: Pre-K to 12th grade
Sylvan top features
- Each student goes through an individual assessment, so lessons are carefully customized to their needs
- A merged learning approach that combines tutor instructions with interactive systems
- Wide subject coverage and test prep opportunities (SAT/ACT/AP)
How much is Sylvan tutoring?
Each Sylvan Center is managed separately, so the prices can vary. However, these are some general clues:
- Personalized tutoring is worth about $50/session
- Classes for exam preparation will cost you about $900/class
- STEM & academic camps will be priced at about $200+/camp
If you ask, “Which is better, Sylvan or Mathnasium?” you’ll probably have to rely on your preferred learning style to choose the best option as prices at the two are at the same level.
Is Sylvan Learning Center worth it: Pros and cons
Is Sylvan Learning Center good? |
Disadvantages of Sylvan |
| ✅Personalized learning options | ❌Can be expensive |
| ✅Blended learning approach for maximum effectiveness | ❌Not the best option for learning math |
| ✅Great for test preparation | ❌Limited tutor attention when in a small group setting |
Mathnasium alternative #4: Learner
Learner service is known for its high demands for tutors. Only a few can pass rigorous testing and prove their preparation to work with kids. Individual lessons at Learner are recorded so your child can later use them to revise the material.
Best for: students seeking the highest qualified instructors
The Learner platform is all about personalization — it conducts lessons in 1:1 settings, carefully picks a tutor for each kid, and provides fully customized plans. While still effective, Mathnasium is more about template-like worksheets and group cooperation.
Who is it for?
Grades: K-12
Learner top features
- 1:1 learning, which allows for a customized approach
- Hand-picked, world-class team of tutors
- Online sessions held in a convenient format
How much is Learner tutoring?
Regarding this Mathnasium alternative cost, expect to pay between $20 and $100 per session, depending on a tutor’s qualification and experience.
While the minimum price is about the same level as Mathnasium’s, the max cap is far beyond its pricing. It also exceeds the industry average, making the Learner service quite pricey.
Is Learner worth it: Pros and cons
Advantages of Learner |
Disadvantages of Learner |
| ✅Detailed diagnostic assessment | ❌Is limited to math |
| ✅The team of first-class tutors | ❌Final price depends on multiple factors |
| ✅1:1 learning | ❌Hefty price tags |
Mathnasium alternative #5: Thinkster
Thinkster focuses heavily on AI integration and interactivity. It utilizes artificial intelligence to provide initial skills testing. Then, it employs digital worksheets and other interactive tools for practice. The learning here is guided by dedicated coaches who conduct regular progress diagnostics.
Best for: students who prefer data-driven insights and interactive practice
Thinkster is all about a digitalized approach, so it definitely won’t leave your kids bored. The learning experience here is flexible and relies on the child’s needs. Compared to this approach, Mathnasium worksheets may seem too old-school. Yet, their effectiveness remains unquestionable.
Who is it for?
Grades: 1 to 12
Thinkster top features
- AI-driven and personalized learning
- Focus on interactive tasks
- Real-time progress tracking
How much is Thinkster math?
Just like with other platforms, pricing plans at Thinkster will vary. However, the official website specifies they will be around $100-$150 monthly. So, its low price makes Thinkster a noteworthy mention among the other top 10 Mathnasium competitors.
Is Thinkster worth it: Pros and cons
Advantages of Thinkster |
Disadvantages of Thinkster |
| ✅Focus on individual student needs | ❌Requires strong self-motivation |
| ✅Personalized tutoring | ❌Intense, screen-relied lessons |
| ✅Constant progress tracking and reporting | ❌Primarily AI-driven approach, lack of live instructions |
Mathnasium alternative #6: Huntington Learning Center
One of the oldest learning providers, Huntington Learning Center, offers studying in online and offline settings. As of 2025, it owns 300+ locations across the US. The variety of subjects to study is quite broad, including math, science, writing, reading, and exam preparation.
Best for: students who need a structured approach in both in-person and online formats.
Now, what is the difference between Mathnasium and Huntington? The latter offers personalized tutoring across multiple subjects with small group options. Thus, it will best suit students who need broader academic support.
Who is it for?
Grades: Kindergarten to 12th grade
Huntington Learning Center top features
- Each student learns according to a customized plan
- Specialized test prep for exams like the SAT, ACT, and state standardized tests
- Both in-person and online tutoring
How much does Huntington Learning Center cost?
Unfortunately, I couldn’t find any exact details about the pricing at Huntington Learning Center. What they do say, though, is that your child has to go through a diagnostic test before they can get any further information.
Is Huntington Learning Center worth it: Pros and cons
Advantages of Huntington Learning Center |
Disadvantages of Huntington Learning Center |
| ✅Paying attention to individual strengths and weaknesses | ❌No pricing details |
| ✅Comprehensive subject coverage | ❌Poor average customer reviews |
| ✅ Flexible learning formats | ❌May be unsuitable for high-schoolers |
Mathnasium alternative #7: Best Brains
Best Brains focuses on small group tuition, which allows their teachers to pay sufficient attention to each kid. The main aim is to build a strong theoretical base, which they achieve through continuous repetitions of the materials.
Best for: learners who prefer to practice in small groups
Unlike Mathnasium, Best Brains offers a broader range of subjects and focuses primarily on preschoolers to middle schoolers. If you’re exploring Mathnasium alternative reviews, you’ll find that Best Brains prioritizes building a strong foundation for theoretical knowledge by combining self-paced worksheets and instructor guidance.
Who is it for?
Grades: Preschool to 8th grade
Best Brains top features
- Learning in a structured, step-by-step manner
- Strongly emphasizes understanding of the theoretical material instead of simple memorization
- Learning in small groups, which strengthens communicative skills
How much does Best Brains cost?
As Best Brains offers a multitude of subjects, its pricing plans also depend on how many of them you choose to study. Generally, prepare to pay $159 per month if math is your sole focus.
Note that even if you choose a single subject, Best Brains still remains more budget-friendly than Mathnasium.
Is Best Brains worth it: Pros and cons
Advantages of Best Brains |
Disadvantages of Best Brains |
| ✅Strong concept-based learning | ❌Doesn’t cover high-graders |
| ✅Reasonable pricing | ❌No 1:1 learning |
| ✅Available programs for preschool students | ❌The process may get chaotic at times |
Mathnasium alternative #8: Khan Academy
Khan Academy is an open-source online learning platform. If you’re searching for Mathnasium alternatives for free, this platform is an excellent choice. It covers various subjects and is perfect as an extra learning resource. With scrupulous testing and path-building options, it has fantastic opportunities for progress tracking.
Best for: anyone looking for a supplementary learning resource
Khan Academy is great when one needs to strengthen a specific math topic or get extra learning practice. It’s charge-free, so anyone can join. Still, Mathnasium remains a better option if you seek tailored guidance and tutor support.
Who is it for?
Grades: Kindergarten to college
Khan Academy top features
- Personalized learning plans available for free
- Trusted content in 10+ subjects tailored for all levels
- Theoretical sections followed instantly by practical tasks
How much is Khan Academy tutoring?
“Is Khan Academy free?” is the most common question learners ask. And the answer is – yes, it is!
Is Khan Academy worth it: Pros and cons
Advantages of Khan Academy |
Disadvantages of Khan Academy |
| ✅Vast pool of learning materials | ❌Won’t suit as an autonomous learning resource |
| ✅Ability to study at a convenient pace | ❌No support from teachers |
| ✅Suitable for all levels | ❌May require some time to get accustomed to |
Mathnasium alternative #9: Russian Math
The Russian School of Mathematics offers a rigorous K-12 after-school math program to enhance math fluency, intellect, and character. Core features are a personalized curriculum, math competitions, online and in-person options, and a focus on building critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Best for: schoolers looking to enhance their logical thinking and reasoning
Which is better, RSM or Mathnasium? Well, Russian Math focuses on a rigorous, advanced curriculum to foster critical thinking and prepare students to excel in math competitions. It is structured around deep problem-solving. Mathnasium, in turn, emphasizes concept mastery and helps students improve math fluency through a fun, visual method.
Who is it for?
Grades: Elementary to high school
Russian Math top features
- Rigorous curriculum that focuses on deep solving of math problems
- Preparation for national and international competitions
- High-level courses extending beyond school curricula
How much does the Russian School of Math cost?
With RSM, you’ll have to pay around $1512 to $2520 per year, which makes $168 up to $444 per month. Also, note that the average price per lesson is around $50, which makes Russian math slightly more costly than Mathnasium.
Is Russian Math worth it: Pros and cons
Advantages of Russian Math |
Disadvantages of Russian Math |
| ✅Learning plan that promotes critical thinking | ❌Intensive learning path may be overwhelming for some |
| ✅In-depth competition preparation | ❌Best suited for older students |
| ✅Advanced math courses | ❌More expensive than Mathnasium |
Mathnasium alternative #10: Wiingy
Wiingy stands out among other Mathnasium alternatives reviews as it’s an advanced tutoring marketplace that connects school students and college learners with experienced tutors. The platform is known for its intense hiring process, which allows the creation of a team of senior-level experts in line with the top industry standards.
Best for: students of all ages and professionals seeking a strong tutoring resource
Wiingy offers an immense selection of subjects to learn. Even though it caters to all ages, its primary audience includes high schoolers and older individuals.
Who is it for?
Grades: Kindergarten to college students and adult learners
Wiingy top features
- 350+ subjects covered
- 1:1 personalized learning format
- Only highest-qualified tutors on board
How much is Wiingy tutoring?
The price for Wiingy tuition is estimated individually depending on the tutors’ hourly rate. As stated by the platform, fees start from $28/hour. I did some digging, and the highest-paying tutor I could find had a rate of $50, but prices can probably climb above the mark.
Overall, these options are slightly higher than what you will find at Mathnasium.
Is Wiingy worth it: Pros and cons
Advantages of Wiingy |
Disadvantages of Wiingy |
| ✅Intense focus on STEM approach | ❌No progress reports |
| ✅Detailed programs for exam preparation | ❌No long-term subscription |
| ✅Ability to shift tutors if needed | ❌Poor ongoing support from tutors |
What’s next: Choose the best Mathnasium competitors
Now you know all the options to substitute Mathnasium, each with a unique approach to math education. Undisputably, any alternative on my list has its strong and weak points, so if you’re still hesitating with the final decision, let me remind you that Mathnasium’s competitors include:
- Kumon, Thinkster, Huntington Learning Center, Best Brains, and Khan Academy for those seeking an ideal resource for elementary or middle school practice.
- Sylvan, Learner, Russian Math, and Wiingy for those striving for extra practice for your high schooler.
- But if you want your kid to study under rigorous tutor supervision and according to a personalized schedule, the Brighterly math tutoring platform is definitely a must-try.
Other platforms comparison
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- What are the reasons to consider Mathnasium competitors?
- Reasons to choose Mathnasium alternatives
- What are the best Mathnasium competitors?
- Mathnasium alternative #1: Brighterly
- Brighterly features
- Brighterly: Pricing packages
- How does Brighterly compare to Mathnasium?
- Brighterly math tutoring platform: Pros & cons
- Ready to discover the next-level personalized learning?
- Mathnasium alternative #2: Kumon
- Who is it for?
- Kumon top features
- How much is Kumon?
- Is Kumon good or bad for kids: Pros and cons
- Want to get tailored teacher-guided learning?
- Mathnasium alternative #3: Sylvan
- Who is it for?
- Sylvan top features
- How much is Sylvan tutoring?
- Is Sylvan Learning Center worth it: Pros and cons
- Mathnasium alternative #4: Learner
- Who is it for?
- Learner top features
- How much is Learner tutoring?
- Is Learner worth it: Pros and cons
- Mathnasium alternative #5: Thinkster
- Who is it for?
- Thinkster top features
- How much is Thinkster math?
- Is Thinkster worth it: Pros and cons
- Mathnasium alternative #6: Huntington Learning Center
- Who is it for?
- Huntington Learning Center top features
- How much does Huntington Learning Center cost?
- Is Huntington Learning Center worth it: Pros and cons
- Mathnasium alternative #7: Best Brains
- Who is it for?
- Best Brains top features
- How much does Best Brains cost?
- Is Best Brains worth it: Pros and cons
- Mathnasium alternative #8: Khan Academy
- Who is it for?
- Khan Academy top features
- How much is Khan Academy tutoring?
- Is Khan Academy worth it: Pros and cons
- Mathnasium alternative #9: Russian Math
- Who is it for?
- Russian Math top features
- How much does the Russian School of Math cost?
- Is Russian Math worth it: Pros and cons
- Mathnasium alternative #10: Wiingy
- Who is it for?
- Wiingy top features
- How much is Wiingy tutoring?
- Is Wiingy worth it: Pros and cons
- What’s next: Choose the best Mathnasium competitors
- Other platforms comparison
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