How To Start Teaching Online in India

written byAyush Gupta

updated onSeptember 12, 2025

Online teaching in India is a growing opportunity for anyone with expertise in a subject or skill. Whether you’re a professional, homemaker, or hobbyist, you can turn your knowledge into income through online platforms or by creating your own courses. The online education market in India is expanding rapidly, driven by affordable internet, smartphone access, and increasing demand for flexible learning.

Here’s how to get started:

• Who Can Teach: Anyone with subject knowledge, strong communication, and basic tech skills.
• Benefits: Flexible schedule, ability to reach a large audience, and potential for passive income through recorded courses.
• Platforms: Options include Unacademy, BYJU’S, Vedantu, Udemy, and Google Classroom. You can also build your own course website using tools like Teachable or WordPress with LearnDash.
• Creating Courses: Focus on clear, engaging content tailored to Indian students. Use relatable examples and mix live sessions with recorded lessons.
• Marketing: Use WhatsApp, social media, free webinars, and email campaigns to attract students.
• Payments & Taxes: Choose payment methods like UPI, Paytm, or Razorpay for INR transactions. Understand GST requirements and income tax rules for online teachers.

How To Start TEACHING ONLINE in India | SUCCESS Guide for Beginners in 2022

How to Choose an Online Teaching Platform

The platform you choose for online teaching plays a crucial role in shaping your interaction with students, managing courses, and determining your earnings. With numerous options available in India, selecting the right one requires aligning the platform’s features with your goals and requirements.

What to Look for in a Platform

When evaluating platforms, focus on ease of use, payment options, technical features, security, support, and scalability. A user-friendly interface that works seamlessly on both mobile and desktop is essential, especially since many Indian students prefer accessing courses on their smartphones.

For Indian educators, payment options in INR are a must. Look for platforms supporting local methods like UPI, net banking, and digital wallets. Be mindful of platforms that charge conversion fees for international transactions, as these can reduce your earnings. Compare platforms to find one that maximises payouts in INR.

Understand the pricing model – whether it’s commission-based or subscription-based – and calculate how these fees compare to your expected earnings. This will help you choose the most cost-effective option for your teaching needs.

Key features like video conferencing, screen sharing, interactive whiteboards, breakout rooms, and recording capabilities are non-negotiable. For live classes, ensure the platform can handle multiple participants without lag or connectivity issues.

Security and privacy are equally important. Choose platforms with strong encryption and compliance with data protection regulations, especially if you’re teaching younger students or handling sensitive information.

Reliable customer support is critical. Look for platforms offering 24/7 assistance via live chat, email, or phone. Quick troubleshooting during live classes can save you from disruptions and help maintain your reputation.

Finally, scalability matters if you plan to grow your teaching business. Opt for platforms that support unlimited courses, a large number of students, and offer tools to help you expand your reach.

Top Online Teaching Platforms in India

India’s online education market has several established platforms, each catering to different types of educators. Here are some of the most prominent:

• Unacademy: Known for its focus on competitive exam preparation, Unacademy has over 100 million registered users and 50,000+ educators. It offers live and recorded lectures, topic-wise practice tests, and direct interaction between educators and students. It’s ideal for teaching entrance exams like JEE, NEET, or UPSC.
• BYJU’S: With 150 million registered users and 7.5 million paid subscribers, BYJU’S stands out for its engaging, visual learning content. It uses animated videos and games to teach school-level subjects, making it a great choice for educators who excel at creating multimedia-rich content.
• Vedantu: This platform focuses on interactive live classes and uses AI-driven tools for analysing student performance. In 2023, Vedantu introduced its WAVE technology, incorporating real-time quizzes, polls, and interactive whiteboards. This resulted in a 25% improvement in student test scores and a 30% drop in dropout rates.
• Udemy: Offering over 200,000 courses and 62 million learners globally, Udemy is perfect for educators teaching practical skills, hobbies, or industry-specific knowledge. It provides flexibility for course creators and covers topics beyond traditional academics.
• Google Classroom: With 150 million users worldwide, Google Classroom is a go-to for managing online assignments and structured curriculum-based teaching. Its integration with other Google tools makes it especially handy for educators.
• Specialised Platforms: For one-on-one tutoring, platforms like Interval Learning and Tutoroot are excellent. Chegg India is another option for educators and college graduates looking to earn flexibly by sharing subject expertise.

"Online teaching platforms offer individuals a great chance to earn some more money in their spare time, whatever the situation. Once they determine their area of expertise, they can educate the audience."
– Mayank Singhal, Founder (Digital Marketing Specialist) at Markbee

While these platforms provide ready-made tools and a built-in audience, creating your own teaching website can offer greater independence and better profit margins.

Creating Your Own Course Website

Building your own course website gives you complete control over your content, pricing, and student relationships, eliminating the need to pay commission fees.

You can use Learning Management Systems (LMS) like WordPress with LearnDash, Teachable, or Thinkific to create an independent teaching platform. These tools manage course delivery, student enrolment, and payments while letting you maintain your brand identity.

When designing your platform, prioritise user experience. Indian students expect fast-loading, mobile-friendly websites with intuitive navigation. Make sure your site is optimised for mobile use.

Integrating INR payment options like UPI, Paytm, and Razorpay is essential. Offering local payment methods can significantly increase your potential student base.

For content delivery, choose reliable hosting and video streaming solutions that can handle high traffic, especially during course launches or promotional campaigns.

Marketing your independent platform requires effort. You’ll need to build an audience through social media, content marketing, and possibly paid ads. While this involves more work upfront, the rewards include higher profit margins and direct relationships with your students.

How to Set Up Your Teaching Profile

Your teaching profile is like your virtual shop window – it’s the first thing potential students see and plays a big role in whether they choose you over other educators. A well-thought-out profile can make all the difference between a steady stream of students and struggling to find any.

Building a Professional Profile

To create a standout teaching profile, you need to understand what students are looking for. Your profile should grab attention, build trust, and show how you can help students achieve their goals.

Start with a strong headline (50–75 characters) that showcases your expertise. Avoid generic phrases and instead focus on what sets you apart. For instance, instead of "Experienced Teacher", try something like "Certified Math Tutor with 10+ Years of Experience."

Your profile photo is crucial – it’s the first impression you make. Choose a professional yet approachable image that shows your face clearly, framed from the shoulders up. A friendly expression, neat attire, and a clean, neutral background work best. Avoid casual selfies or group photos that could make your profile seem less polished.

Next, write a concise, three-paragraph bio in a welcoming, conversational tone. Start with a warm introduction, sharing your passion for teaching and what drives you to help students succeed. In the second paragraph, highlight your teaching experience, qualifications, and areas of expertise. For example, if you teach coding, mention the programming languages you specialise in, the companies you’ve worked for, or notable projects you’ve completed. If your focus is academic subjects, include details like your degrees, years of teaching, and notable student achievements.

Wrap up your bio by describing your teaching style and what students can expect from your lessons. Mention whether you use interactive discussions, hands-on exercises, or visual aids, and highlight any additional resources you provide, like practice worksheets or personalised feedback.

Upload a clean, easy-to-read resume that outlines your skills, responsibilities, and accomplishments. Adding digital badges from relevant certifications can also help showcase your expertise.

Consider creating a short introduction video (1–3 minutes) to connect with potential students on a personal level. Speak clearly and confidently, summarising your qualifications and teaching approach. Including a brief mention of your hobbies or interests can make your profile feel more relatable.

Once your profile is polished, the next step is deciding how to price your courses.

How to Price Your Courses

Setting the right price for your courses in India involves balancing affordability for students with fair compensation for your time and expertise.

Start by researching what other instructors in your field charge. Consider factors like the complexity of the subject, your teaching experience, and platform fees. Offering pricing tiers can help cater to students with different budgets. If you’re new to teaching, introductory rates can attract your first batch of students.

Regional pricing is another important factor. Students in metro cities may have different budget expectations compared to those in smaller towns. Keep an eye on student demand and feedback, and adjust your pricing as your reputation and experience grow.

Planning Your Course Structure

A well-organised course not only keeps students engaged but also helps them achieve their learning objectives efficiently. In India’s competitive online education market, clarity and structure are key.

Start by defining your course schedule and duration, using Indian Standard Time (IST) to avoid confusion. Specify the length of each session – whether it’s 45, 60, or 90 minutes – and outline your availability. For instance, you might offer evening slots on weekdays and more flexible timings on weekends.

Decide on the format of your course: live sessions, recorded lessons, or a mix of both. Live classes are great for subjects that need real-time interaction, while recorded sessions allow students to learn at their own pace.

Break your curriculum into logical modules that build on each other. Each lesson should include a quick recap of previous material, interactive new content, practice time, and a preview of what’s coming next. Supplement the learning experience with resources like downloadable PDFs, practice worksheets, or additional reading materials.

Set clear expectations for homework, assignments, and participation. Let students know how often they’ll receive feedback and what kind of preparation is required before each session.

Finally, build flexibility into your course to accommodate different learning speeds. Use assessments – like quizzes, assignments, or projects – to track progress and reinforce learning.

A well-structured course not only improves the student experience but also strengthens your reputation as a professional educator.

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Creating and Marketing Your Courses

Once you’ve set up your profile and planned your course, the next step is to create engaging content and promote it effectively. This stage is where your teaching venture either grows into a steady income source or remains a side hustle.

How to Create Course Content

Your course content should go beyond just delivering facts – it needs to address challenges and help students achieve their goals. For Indian students, this often means providing practical solutions to real-world problems.

Break down complex topics into manageable modules, each with clear learning outcomes. Structured learning paths are especially appreciated by Indian students as they offer a sense of progression. For instance, if you’re teaching digital marketing, don’t just explain concepts. Create relatable scenarios, like launching a product for a small Indian business or managing social media for a local restaurant.

Storytelling is a powerful tool to engage your audience. Use relatable characters and narratives to explain complex ideas. For example, you could create a story about a software engineer transitioning to freelancing or a homemaker starting an online business. These examples resonate deeply and make the content more memorable.

Keep your teaching methods varied. Combine videos, text materials, quizzes, and interactive elements to turn passive learners into active participants. Add gamification features like completion certificates, progress badges, or milestone rewards to keep students motivated.

When crafting examples, consider the local context. Use references that Indian students can relate to, such as Indian companies, festivals, or commonly available ingredients in local markets if you’re teaching cooking.

Success stories highlight the potential of well-tailored content. Take Geetha Mikkilineni, for example. She created a course on menopause awareness and management for Indian women, addressing a topic often avoided in Indian society. Her culturally sensitive approach earned her ₹12 lakhs in six months and over ₹1 crore in total earnings. Similarly, Pranit Shilimkar’s "7-DAY FITNESS CHALLENGE" generated over ₹1 lakh in just one week by focusing on Indian dietary habits and lifestyle needs.

Recording and Publishing Your Courses

Creating high-quality video content is crucial for online teaching. You don’t need an expensive setup to get started – just a budget-friendly arrangement that ensures clear audio and video.

For video editing, tools like DaVinci Resolve (free with professional features), Wondershare Filmora (user-friendly with AI tools), Adobe Premiere Pro (an industry standard), or CyberLink PowerDirector (known for fast rendering) are excellent choices.

Good lighting is essential for professional-looking videos. Natural light works well, but you can also use a simple ring light. Invest in a decent microphone, as clear audio is more important than perfect video quality. Students are more forgiving of average video than poor sound.

Structure your videos with clear introductions, a focused main section, and concise summaries. Keep each video between 5-15 minutes to maintain attention spans. To create a consistent brand identity, use intro and outro sequences.

When it comes to publishing, platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, and Coursera are great options. They offer different revenue-sharing models and cater to varied audiences, so choose the one that aligns best with your course and target students.

Once your course is live, the next step is to focus on marketing it effectively to reach Indian students.

Marketing Your Courses to Indian Students

Marketing in India requires a blend of digital outreach and relationship-building. Understanding local preferences can make all the difference.

WhatsApp marketing is incredibly effective in India, boasting an open rate of around 98%, far higher than the average email open rate of 20%. Create WhatsApp groups for your course topics, share valuable tips, and build relationships through personalized messages. For instance, Animeal, an Indian pet care company, generated ₹1 million in three months using WhatsApp to send personalized product recommendations, with 35% of conversations turning into sales.

Content marketing through blogging is another way to establish authority and attract leads. Write meaningful, informative blogs related to your course topics to build trust and showcase your expertise.

Social media engagement works best when you focus on providing value. Share tips and advice on platforms where your audience is active. Join Facebook groups, LinkedIn communities, and Telegram channels relevant to your niche to connect with potential students.

Offering free coaching calls or webinars is a proven strategy. Harvi Shah, for example, conducted over 130 free webinars before selling her premium coaching packages, earning ₹3.8 crore in just 21 months. This approach builds trust and gives students a preview of your teaching style.

Email marketing is another powerful tool to nurture leads. Share helpful advice, updates, and exclusive discounts through newsletters. A simple sign-up form on your website can help you gather interested leads.

Video content is particularly engaging. Create high-quality promotional videos, tutorials, and how-to guides to demonstrate your expertise and connect with potential students.

Collaborating with influencers in your field can also expand your reach. For example, Dipti Vartak, a cake artist, partnered with food photographers and event planners, which helped her grow her audience significantly.

Finally, consider hosting webinars, workshops, or boot camps, either online or offline. These events let potential students experience your teaching style firsthand, making them more likely to enroll in your paid courses.

Consistency and authenticity are key when marketing in India. Focus on delivering value and solutions tailored to local challenges.

By building genuine relationships instead of chasing quick sales, you’ll improve course completion rates and generate positive word-of-mouth, driving long-term growth.

Managing Payments, Taxes, and Money

Handling the financial side of your online teaching business is a must if you’re aiming for long-term success.

From receiving payments to tackling taxes and planning your finances, having a clear strategy can help you maintain stability in your teaching career. Let’s dive into payment options, tax responsibilities, and smart financial planning.

Payment Options for Indian Teachers

Choosing the right payment method can make a big difference in how smoothly your earnings flow. Here are some reliable options for Indian online teachers, each with its own pros and cons:

• UPI and Digital Wallets: These are perfect for domestic payments. UPI is fast, affordable, and widely accepted, while digital wallets like Paytm offer similar convenience with small transaction fees.
• Bank Transfers: Trusted for larger payments, bank transfers usually take 1-3 days and come with lower fees compared to international processors. If you’re using platforms like Tipalti, their Local Bank Transfer service is great for Indian instructors, offering better exchange rates and lower costs than PayPal or Payoneer.
• International Payment Processors: PayPal and Payoneer are essential if you teach international students. However, PayPal charges a hefty 3-6% fee per transaction, while Payoneer often offers more competitive rates.
• Platform-Specific Payment Systems: Different teaching platforms have unique payment structures. For example, TeacherOn charges a 15% fee for payments via bank accounts or PayPal but only 10% for payments made in their TeacherOn coins. On iTalki, a 15% service fee applies to one-on-one lessons.
• Razorpay for Course Creators: If you’re running your own course website, Razorpay is a solid option. It offers tools like Payment Links for easy transactions or Payment Pages that act as a mini-website. For subscriptions, Razorpay Subscriptions with UPI AutoPay ensures a smooth experience for both you and your students.

Make sure to check the fees and processing times for any platform you use, as these can vary based on location and transaction volume. Diversifying your payment methods can also help you cater to different student preferences and avoid relying too heavily on one system.

Now that you’ve got payment options sorted, let’s look at how to stay on top of your tax responsibilities.

Tax Rules for Online Teachers

Understanding your tax obligations is crucial to avoid penalties and stay compliant. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:

• Income Classification and Tax Rates: Income from online teaching is classified as "Profits and Gains from Business or Profession" (PGBP) under the Income Tax Act. This means you’ll need to file returns as a business rather than as salaried income.
• GST Requirements: If your annual income exceeds ₹20 lakh (₹10 lakh in special category states), you must register for GST. Online courses are taxed at 18% under GST as a supply of services. However, some educational services are exempt:

• Tax Deductions and Credits: Platforms like Udemy or Skillshare may deduct TDS from your payments. You can claim this as credit when filing your returns. Keep track of all business-related expenses to maximise your deductions.
• International Income: Earnings from international students are taxable in India. However, GST on export of services is exempt if you meet certain conditions. Ensure you maintain proper documentation for zero-rated GST claims.
• Simplified Tax Options: If your gross receipts are under ₹2 crore, you can opt for the presumptive taxation scheme under Section 44ADA or 44AD. This allows you to declare 50% of your income as expenses without the need for detailed bookkeeping.

As your income grows, consider structuring your teaching business as an LLP or partnership for better tax optimisation. Professional tax advice can help you customise your approach and take advantage of all available deductions.

Using Money Mattr for Financial Planning

Managing irregular income from online teaching requires a solid financial plan. Money Mattr offers tools and resources designed to help educators like you build a secure financial future.

• Budget Planning: Start by tracking your income and expenses. Money Mattr’s free budget planner can help you manage unpredictable earnings and prepare for leaner months. Their guides also suggest using the 50/30/20 rule: allocate 50% for essentials, 30% for discretionary spending, and 20% for savings or debt repayment.
• Emergency Fund: Having an emergency fund covering 3-6 months of expenses is critical for online teachers. Money Mattr’s guides provide step-by-step advice on building this safety net.
• Tax Planning and Record Keeping: With GST and income tax obligations, keeping organised records is essential. Money Mattr’s resources simplify this process, showing you how to categorise expenses and set aside funds for taxes.
• Investment and Retirement: Don’t overlook the importance of long-term planning. Money Mattr’s investment guides can help you grow your income, while their retirement planning tips are particularly useful for teachers without employer-provided benefits.
• Debt Management: If you have debts, Money Mattr’s strategies focus on paying off high-interest loans first, freeing up more funds for savings or reinvestment in your teaching business.

Regularly reviewing your finances using Money Mattr’s tools can help you stay on track with your goals. By combining smart budgeting, tax planning, and investment strategies, you can turn your teaching income into a stable and sustainable source of financial security.

Conclusion

Teaching online in India has never been more accessible or rewarding. With the online tutoring market projected to grow at an annual rate of 4.8% until 2033, there’s a wealth of opportunity for educators to turn their knowledge into income.

The steps to success are straightforward: identify your area of expertise, choose the right platforms, create a professional profile, and use targeted marketing to attract students. These strategies can help you transition from a beginner to a seasoned online educator.

One of the biggest draws of online teaching is its flexibility. You can start small, balancing it alongside your current job, and then expand as your student base grows. By offering live classes, selling pre-recorded courses, and providing additional resources, you can build multiple income streams from a single skill.

Financial management is also key. Understanding GST regulations and selecting suitable payment methods ensures smoother operations. Tools like Money Mattr’s budget planner can help you manage irregular income and prepare for taxes effectively.

Rajesh Dedhia, Founder and CFO of Vantage Knowledge Academy, captures the essence of this opportunity:

"Wealth building is no longer exclusive to finance graduates; it’s accessible to anyone who wants to learn, adjust, and control their destiny. E-learning drives this process, opening up access to financial knowledge and creating a culture of continuous improvement." – Rajesh Dedhia

Online teaching not only makes education more accessible but also allows you to create a sustainable income. Whether your expertise lies in coding, maths, languages, or any other subject, it can be transformed into a lasting source of revenue. The key is to start with a clear plan, consistently refine your methods based on feedback, and remain committed to growth.

FAQs

What are the first steps to start teaching online in India, and how do I pick the right platform?

To begin teaching online in India, the first step is to identify your area of expertise and the skills you’re excited to share. Build a professional profile that showcases your qualifications and relevant experience to establish credibility. Then, look into online platforms that suit your subject, target audience, and budget. Some platforms focus on niche topics, while others cover a wide range of subjects.

After selecting a platform, create content that’s engaging and tailored to your audience’s needs. When setting your course fees, consider the local market and price them competitively in ₹ (Indian Rupees). Promote your offerings through social media, personal networks, and testimonials from your initial students. With thoughtful planning and effort, online teaching can become a fulfilling way to share your knowledge while earning a steady income.

How can I attract Indian students and grow my online teaching business?

To connect with Indian students and establish a loyal audience, focus on targeted digital marketing. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp are widely used in India, making them perfect for sharing engaging content, promoting special offers, and encouraging referrals. Highlighting the flexibility and affordability of your courses can strike a chord with Indian learners.

Ensure your website is optimised for mobile devices, as many Indians primarily access the internet through smartphones. Incorporate SEO strategies to boost your visibility on search engines, and consider running paid ads specifically tailored to Indian preferences. Localising your content is key – use relatable examples and display prices in ₹ (INR) to make your courses feel more accessible and relevant.

What financial aspects should online teachers in India consider, including payment methods and taxes?

Online teachers in India need to keep a few financial aspects in mind, particularly tax requirements and payment options. If your annual earnings cross ₹20,00,000, you might need to register for GST, with the applicable rate varying based on the type of service you provide. Also, income from online teaching is subject to Indian income tax laws. Currently, no tax is levied on annual earnings up to ₹2,50,000, but higher income brackets come with corresponding tax rates.

When it comes to receiving payments, you have several options, including bank transfers, UPI, digital wallets, and online payment platforms. It’s crucial to maintain detailed records of all transactions to simplify tax filing and compliance. By staying on top of these financial matters, you can direct your energy towards growing your online teaching career.

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Ayush Gupta

Ayush Gupta is an entrepreneur and SEO consultant with over a decade of experience helping businesses grow. As the founder of Visibility Ventures, he combines technical expertise with practical financial knowledge to guide readers through credit cards, investments, and tax optimization. He holds certifications in Entrepreneurship and Business Laws from NUJS Kolkata and regularly advises companies on digital growth strategies.