Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

How does KIS Academics' pricing compare to Excel Academics?

Accepted Answer

KIS Academics offers a tiered pricing model (Gold, Platinum, Executive) ranging from $70 to $150 per hour, which includes access to the KIS Plus resource library. Excel Academics generally maintains a flat rate for online tutoring (approx. $80/hr) and a higher rate for in-person sessions. While Excel offers prepaid 10-hour discounts, KIS provides more ongoing value by including $12,000+ worth of study resources in their hourly rate.

Question 2

What is the difference in tutor qualifications between the two?

Accepted Answer

Both platforms hire high achievers, but KIS Academics is more exclusive, hiring only the top 3% of applicants with a median tutor ATAR of 99.50. Excel Academics hires from the top 5% and also utilizes qualified teachers. KIS tutors are specifically trained in the 'KIS Method,' focusing on mindset and exam strategy alongside subject content.

Question 3

Does Excel Academics offer a resource library like KIS Plus?

Accepted Answer

No. Excel Academics provides high-quality lesson notes and summary sheets as part of their tutoring. However, KIS Academics features 'KIS Plus,' a comprehensive digital ecosystem with 30+ video courses, practice quizzes, and exam masterclasses that students can access 24/7. This makes KIS a better choice for students who want to study independently between sessions.

Question 4

Is there a free trial for both KIS and Excel?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but the format differs. KIS Academics offers a 30-minute 'Study Skills Consultation' to diagnose learning gaps and mindset. Excel Academics offers a 15-minute introductory call to match the student with a tutor. The KIS session is more of a diagnostic working session, while Excel's is a standard introductory meeting.

Question 5

How do the payment and cancellation policies work?

Accepted Answer

KIS Academics uses 'TutorPay,' an automated system where you are billed only after the lesson occurs, offering total financial security. Excel Academics offers Pay-As-You-Go but also promotes prepaid packages. KIS is generally more flexible for families who want to avoid upfront costs or long-term commitments.

Question 6

Which platform is better for VCE, HSC, and QCE results?

Accepted Answer

Both platforms have stellar track records for ATAR results. However, KIS Academics provides state-specific 'High Performance Programs' created by past Premier’s Award winners and 99.95 scorers. This hyper-specific curriculum focus—combined with the Mindset Module—gives KIS students a competitive edge in high-stakes ranking systems.

Question 7

How do I contact a tutor I'm interested in?

Accepted Answer

Simply click on the profile of a tutor you like and select "Book a Free Trial". You'll enter your details and preferred times, and the tutor will get in touch to organise your 30-minute free trial lesson. This lets you meet the tutor first and make sure they're the right fit before committing.

Question 8

Are the tutors verified and safe to work with?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All KIS tutors are carefully vetted before being listed. Every tutor holds a valid Employee Working With Children Check (WWCC) and has been screened for subject knowledge, communication skills, and suitability to work with students. Parents can feel confident knowing tutors meet strict safety and quality standards.

Question 9

How does payment work?

Accepted Answer

You are invoiced after the lesson is completed — never before. Once the session finishes, you'll receive an invoice for that lesson. You only pay for lessons that have already taken place. There are no upfront payments required to get started.

Question 10

How soon can tutoring start?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, tutoring can begin within a few days — depending on tutor availability. Tutors typically respond quickly after you book a free trial, so you can organise your first session without long delays.

Question 11

What if I'm not happy with the tutor I choose?

Accepted Answer

Every tutor includes a 30-minute free trial lesson, so you can ensure they're the right fit. If you'd like to try someone else, simply let us know — or use our website search filters to browse and connect with another tutor anytime. We want you to feel completely confident in your choice.

Benefits	KIS Academics	Excel Academics
Elite Tutor Quality	🏆 Top 3% Performers Strict hiring: Average tutor ATAR of 99.50. Tutors are vetted for teaching personality, not just high marks.	⚠️ Top 5% Standard Quality is high, but the selection threshold is wider, including more general high-achievers.
Resource Ecosystem	🚀 KIS Plus ($12,000+ Value) Unlimited 24/7 access to a massive library of video lessons, worksheets, and quizzes—included for free.	📄 Standard Resources Offers lesson notes and mock exams, but lacks the on-demand video course infrastructure.
Trial & Matching	✅ 30-Min Study Consultation A full 30-minute diagnostic to assess subject habits and design goal pathways—before you pay a cent.	⏱️ 15-Min Brief Call A shorter introductory call primarily focused on administrative setup rather than study strategy.
Risk & Flexibility	🛡️ TutorPay (Post-Paid) Ultimate security: You are only charged AFTER the lesson is complete. Zero upfront risk.	💳 Pre-Paid / Term Blocks Often requires payment upfront or booking in multi-week blocks, reducing financial flexibility.
Holistic Support	🧠 Mindset & Strategy Modules Exclusive modules on 'Learning How to Learn' and exam anxiety management, not just subject content.	📚 Subject-Focused Focuses primarily on the school curricula and content delivery without the broader mindset training.
Support Availability	📞 24/7 Executive Support Round-the-clock text support for students and parent strategy calls to track long-term progress.	📧 Standard Support Support is generally limited to business hours or direct contact with the individual tutor.
Tutor Transparency	🔍 100% Tutor Transparency ALL tutors proudly showcased on our website, and YOU choose the tutor who resonates with you.	👤 Limited Visibility Only lists some of their tutors on their site, students are assigned to a tutor.

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