Parents’ Frequently Asked Questions

We offer tutoring in a variety of subjects, including test prep for a variety of standardized tests such as SAT, ACT, AP tests, GRE and SHSAT. Our most in-demand subjects are Math, English, Test Prep, and Sciences. See our Subjects tab for a more detailed and up-to-date list.
Yes, we do offer test prep for both the ACT and SAT®.
A good attitude and a full night of sleep. If students want to bring paper and a pencil, great, but I don’t require note-taking in lessons. I’ll print homework to take home, and I often work examples right on those sheets so they have a reference. If the session needs a calculator (Algebra 1/2, SAT, etc.), please bring one.
The hours recommended vary by student, but we find that for a single subject, 1-2 hours per week is optimal. Additional, students can expect to spend double that amount of time on homework.
We match on subject fit, student level, personality, schedule, and online vs. in-person. Everyone’s busy, so there’s a little calendar Tetris—but the goal is a strong, stable pairing.
Usually within 1–2 weeks. If it’s urgent, we can sometimes start same day depending on availability—email your goals and times, and we’ll try to fast-track.

We don’t charge cancellation fees. We just ask for advance notice—ideally a week, at minimum by the day before. Same-day cancellations are tough because tutors travel and block time; please give a heads-up as early as you can.
We’ll try to fit the full hour. If that squeezes the next student, we’ll add time to a future lesson or do a quick online makeup—whatever’s easiest.
Yes—rescheduling is always better than canceling. Many topics build on themselves; steady weekly sessions matter.
Yes—this is our bread and butter. We use cameras on when possible, screen-sharing, and online whiteboards so we can write and solve together. A tablet/iPad is great for math but not required.
Generally no. Lessons are online or at our center (14 Cass Place, Brooklyn, NY 11235). In rare cases we’ll consider in-home sessions if there’s a compelling need.

Our standard rate is $100/hour (online or in-person). However, we do offer a discount if you’re meeting multiple tutors on a weekly basis (i.e. math and english with different tutors each week). In this situations, the pricing drops to $80/hr for all hours. We’ll always confirm current pricing before you book.
- Zelle: 916-367-2965 (shows as “Big Brain Tutoring”)
- Venmo: @Steven-Wendel
- Cash / check (preferred for in-person)
- PayPal / credit card (available but less ideal)
No. We cover materials. Diagnostic tests and extras like virtual co-working are free.
Yes. If after the first lesson you’re not feeling it, we’ll refund you and share diagnostic feedback that could help, and no hard feelings!

All tutors are experienced and score at top percentiles in their subjects/tests. Backgrounds vary—some have PhDs, some have teaching certifications, some are finishing college—but all are strong educators who connect with students and deliver results.
- Yes, you can request a tutor. Scheduling varies by tutor, but once paired, students typically stay with the same tutor unless you request a change or the subject wraps up.
Every lesson is pretty much bespoke: Early sessions identify strengths/weaknesses; then we set a plan, align with class syllabi, and adjust pace and homework to what the student can realistically handle each week.
Tutors track skills and assignments and adjust the plan as we go. For test prep, we add regular practice tests to measure growth. Parents can email tutors anytime for an update; tutors also check in periodically.

Absolutely. We help with college lists, resumes, applications, FAFSA/scholarships, and essay coaching. We can share before/after essay samples so you can see the level of support.
Yes, we generally hold group SAT/SHSAT programs and enrichment (accelerated math, reading/writing development, coding/tech projects) over the summer. We’ll post sign-ups on the website.
Yes—for mild learning differences, many students do great with our structured, engaging lessons. For more intensive needs requiring specialized training, we’ll refer you to providers who focus on that work so your student gets the right support.

You’ll get calendar invites with your tutor’s email. Email anytime; if a quick call or text is better, we can share a phone number as needed.
Email admin@bigbraintutoring.com or call 917-719-1771.
I’m at my desk right now, but our tutoring center is located at 14 Cass Pl, Brookyln NY 11235. We’re on the bottom level and share a space with a Property Management Company, so you’ll probably see signs for that when you’re at the right place!