Online language lessons, one-to-one and in small groups
Starting costs about $335 in the United States and 75,300 NGN in Nigeria. After 12 months, this business can bring in about $2,120 net per month in the United States and 527,000 NGN in Nigeria. The starting money comes back in about 2 months, with 25 hours of work per week.
Mundyo estimates, data as of 2026-11-02.
See the numbers for my countryFree, no account, in the currency of 243 countries.
The numbers
| Country | To start | Net per month (month 12) |
|---|---|---|
| United States | $335 | $2,120 |
| Nigeria | 75,300 NGN | 527,000 NGN |
| United Kingdom | £208 | £1,500 |
| Kenya | 14,500 KES | 72,700 KES |
| India | 5,300 INR | 53,000 INR |
Amounts adjusted to each country's price and income levels.
The problem
Many adults need a language for a job, studies or a move abroad, but language schools are expensive, far away or tied to fixed hours.
The solution
Lessons by video call, one-to-one or in groups of three to five, in your native language or one you master, with exercises between sessions.
Your customers
Adults preparing for a job interview, a language exam, a move abroad or a trip, mobile employees and children of families living abroad.
How you make money
€15 to €35 per one-to-one hour, packs of 10 lessons paid in advance, small groups at €8 to €15 per learner per session.
Competition
Large online lesson platforms, free apps, language schools, private tutors and free language exchanges.
Who has an edge
A native or very fluent speaker who targets a clear goal (job interviews, exams, healthcare, business) stands out from general teachers and keeps learners longer.
The risks
Strong competition and low prices on platforms, learners quitting after a few weeks, time zones, income tied to the founder's hours.
The first 3 steps
- Pick one language and a clear audience, for example job interviews
- Create a profile on a lesson platform and a simple page with your prices
- Give 5 discounted trial lessons and ask for a written review
How the numbers are calculated
Example in a high-income eurozone country, at month 12: revenue €2,200 − costs €700 = €1,500 net per month. Revenue: 60 one-to-one lessons × €25 + 4 small groups × €175. Costs: platform commission, video call tools, advertising, social contributions. For other countries, Mundyo adjusts the starting budget to the price level (World Bank) and the income to prices and customers' purchasing power, then converts at the day's exchange rate.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start: Online language lessons?
About $335 (United States), 75,300 NGN (Nigeria), £208 (United Kingdom), depending on the country. Mundyo calculates the amount for 243 countries.
How much can you earn per month?
After 12 months, about $2,120 (United States), 527,000 NGN (Nigeria), £1,500 (United Kingdom) net per month, after costs.
How long until I get my starting money back?
About 2 months, with 25 hours of work per week.
What are the risks?
Strong competition and low prices on platforms, learners quitting after a few weeks, time zones, income tied to the founder's hours.
Where do I start?
1. Pick one language and a clear audience, for example job interviews 2. Create a profile on a lesson platform and a simple page with your prices 3. Give 5 discounted trial lessons and ask for a written review
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