Questions
Frequently asked questions
Including the ones that are awkward for us to answer. If something here is unclear, ask and we will add it.
Getting started
Is the consultation really free?
Yes. It lasts about twenty minutes, no card details are taken, and there is no obligation. If we cannot help, we will say so and suggest what you should look for instead.
Who teaches the lessons?
A tutor from the Shaw Academics team, matched to your subject, test or application at the consultation. Our tutors have taught students into UCL, Oxford, Cambridge, LSE, Imperial, Harvard, MIT and Yale, and the same tutor stays with you throughout.
Can I read what other students say?
Yes. Reviews from students and parents in London, Beijing, Milan, Madrid, Hong Kong, Chennai and elsewhere appear on this page, each naming the programme it relates to. We publish no success rates, because outcomes belong to universities and test providers, not to us.
What does it cost?
The consultation is free. Fees for teaching are shown on the fees page as indicative amounts pending final approval, with what is included and excluded stated plainly.
Can you guarantee a grade, score or offer?
No. Universities, test providers and employers make their own decisions. Any service that guarantees an outcome is misleading you.
Do you help with visas or immigration?
No. Our international content is general educational information with links to official sources. For your own circumstances you need an appropriately authorised immigration adviser.
Is the consultation a booking?
No. Real-time scheduling is not connected, so you send preferred windows and we reply to agree an exact time. Nothing is held until we confirm it.
What happens to what I write in the form?
It is stored in a private database that is not publicly readable, and you receive a reference. Only signed-in staff accounts can read it, and every status change is logged.
Teaching and expectations
How much work will I have to do between lessons?
Typically 45 to 90 minutes for subject tuition. Progress depends on it, and we check it.
How many lessons will I need?
Decided after the diagnostic, not before. Most people work in blocks of six to ten lessons and review before continuing.
Will you mark everything I write?
No. Each service states a feedback allowance, usually one marked piece per lesson cycle. Unlimited marking is never promised because it could not be honoured.
Can you help with coursework or an EPQ?
We can teach method and give the feedback your institution permits. We will not draft or rewrite work you submit as your own.
Money
Why do the prices say “indicative”?
Because the fee schedule is still awaiting the owner’s approval. Showing a firm price would imply a commitment that cannot yet be honoured.
Can I pay on the website?
No. No payment provider is connected, no card details are taken and nothing recurs. Fees are agreed in writing after the consultation.
What if I cancel a lesson?
Rescheduled with at least 24 hours’ notice, there is no charge. Later cancellations may be charged, and the exact terms are in your written agreement.
Limits
Do you have testimonials?
Yes. Reviews from students and parents appear on the home page, each naming the programme it relates to, alongside a sample plan and marked feedback sheet so you can judge the process itself.
Can you tell me which visa I need?
No. That is regulated work. Our international pages give general educational information and link to official sources; for your circumstances you need an authorised immigration adviser.
Do you offer counselling or diagnose learning difficulties?
No. Support is educational only. It is not counselling, psychotherapy, diagnosis or crisis care.
Is there a team of tutors?
Yes. Shaw Academics is a small, selective team of subject tutors, admissions specialists and test coaches, and you are matched to the right one at the consultation.
Practicalities
Which timezone do you teach in?
Times are agreed in your own timezone, with Europe/London working hours as a reference.
Are lessons online or in person?
Online and one-to-one. In-person teaching is not offered.
I am under 18. What do you need?
A parent or guardian involved, and their consent confirmed in writing before paid teaching begins. Under-16 enquiries should come from an adult.
I have an access need. Where do I say so?
Tick the box on the form asking to discuss it privately. We will ask in the call rather than store a description of it.
Still unsure?
The consultation lasts about twenty minutes, costs nothing and takes no payment details. If we are not the right fit, we will tell you.