Tutors
How are tutors verified?
Every tutor on Qalam is manually reviewed by our team before being listed. We check their qualifications, teaching experience, and specialisation, run a knowledge assessment and demo lesson, and a number of our tutors hold a verified Ijazah with a traditional isnad.
How do you ensure quality?
We verify each tutor before they join, and every tutor keeps to high standards. After a paid session, you can rate and review your tutor. Not the right fit? We'll help you switch — your first 30-minute trial is always free.
Can I book the same tutor regularly?
Yes. If you find a tutor you connect with, you can book sessions with them as often as you like.
What specialities are available?
Tajweed (correct recitation), Hifz (memorisation), Tafsir (Quranic interpretation), Classical Arabic grammar, Arabic vocabulary, and classical text study. Use the filters on the tutors page to narrow by speciality.
Gender & privacy
Why are tutors separated by gender?
We built gender separation into the foundation of the platform as an Islamic principle, not an afterthought. Brothers see and can only book brothers' tutors. Sisters see and can only book sisters' tutors. Parents can book either for their children.
Why don't female tutors have profile photos?
Out of respect for the preferences of many female scholars and students, female tutors are represented by their initials and credentials rather than a photo. This is their choice and we support it by default.
Is my personal data safe?
Yes. We store only what's necessary — your email, student type, and booking history. We never sell data. See our Privacy Policy for full details.
Bookings & cancellations
How do I join my session?
A Jitsi Meet link is generated when you book. You'll find it in your confirmation email and on your dashboard under My Sessions. No app download required — it runs in your browser.
Can I cancel a booking?
Yes. Go to My Sessions on your dashboard and click Cancel on any upcoming session. Cancelling frees your slot so you can rebook. Paid sessions require contacting [email protected] for a refund.
What happens if a tutor doesn't show up?
Contact us at [email protected] and we'll resolve it. Your session slot will be returned.
Classical Arabic
Do you offer Classical Arabic lessons?
Yes. Qalam tutors teach Classical Arabic alongside Quran — including Arabic grammar (nahw and sarf), vocabulary, and reading of classical Islamic texts. You can filter by Arabic speciality on the tutors page.
What level of Arabic do you teach?
We cater to all levels — from complete beginners learning the Arabic alphabet through to advanced students reading classical texts in their original form. Your tutor will assess where you are and tailor the lesson accordingly.
Is Classical Arabic different from spoken Arabic?
Yes. Classical Arabic (Fusha) is the language of the Quran and centuries of Islamic scholarship. It differs in vocabulary and grammar from modern spoken dialects. Our tutors focus on Classical Arabic — the form most beneficial for understanding the Quran and classical texts — rather than conversational dialect.
Becoming a tutor
How do I apply to teach on Qalam?
Visit our Become a Tutor page and fill in the application form. Our team reviews every application and will get back to you within a few days.
What qualifications do I need?
You should have demonstrable expertise in your speciality — relevant certifications, degrees, formal ijazah, or significant verified teaching experience. We review all applications carefully and only approve qualified teachers.
How much can I earn?
Qalam uses a single platform rate for all paid sessions — one clear price for a 30-minute or 1-hour session, the same regardless of which tutor you book. See our Pricing page for the current rate.
Quran & Arabic Learning
How much do online Quran tutoring sessions cost?
Qalam charges £5–£12 per 30-minute lesson for 1-to-1 online Quran tutoring, depending on tutor level — that works out at £10–£24 per hour, with monthly plans from £40. Your first 30 minutes are free with the verified tutor we match you with. No subscriptions, no hidden fees — you only pay for sessions you book.
Can I get a free trial before booking paid sessions?
Yes. Every new student gets a free 30-minute trial session with a verified tutor we match to your subject and preferences. No credit card required, no commitment. If it's the right fit, continue with paid sessions. If not, we'll help match you with a different tutor.
How long does it take to learn Quran?
It depends on your goal and starting level. Most students taking 2-3 one-hour sessions per week progress through Noorani Qaida in 3-6 months, reach fluent Quran reading in 6-12 months, and complete Hifz memorization in 1-3 years. Your tutor will give you a realistic timeline based on your situation.