Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about private tutoring with Dr. Stuart Donnelly -- session logistics, pricing, test coverage, and what to expect.
Getting Started with Tutoring
How does private tutoring with Dr. Donnelly work?
Every student begins with a free phone consultation so Dr. Donnelly can understand your goals, timeline, and starting level. From there, he designs a fully customized lesson plan targeting your specific weaknesses. Sessions take place either in person at our NYC or San Diego offices or online via Zoom.
Dr. Donnelly provides all teaching materials, homework assignments, and practice tests. After the initial meeting, each lesson becomes increasingly individualized as he adapts the curriculum to your particular needs. Any weaknesses are quickly addressed to solidify your conceptual and methodological foundations.
How much does tutoring cost?
Rates depend on the number of hours and format you choose. Dr. Donnelly offers several package options at different price points to accommodate a range of budgets. During your free consultation, he will recommend the package that best fits your goals and timeline -- with absolutely no pressure to commit.
Contact us at 917-568-2473 or use our contact form for current pricing details.
How do I get started?
Simply call 917-568-2473 or submit our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. Dr. Donnelly accepts a limited number of students each term, and his schedule tends to fill up quickly, so it is best to reserve your slot well in advance. Places are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.
How long are tutoring sessions?
Students choose from 1-hour, 1.5-hour, or 2-hour sessions. Most students schedule one or two lessons per week at a regular time slot. Sessions are available Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM EST.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on your starting level, target score, and test date. Some students see major improvements in as few as 3-5 sessions, while comprehensive prep programs typically run 10-20 sessions over several weeks or months. Dr. Donnelly will give you an honest assessment during your free consultation -- there is never any pressure to book more hours than you need.
Online, In-Person, and Hybrid Options
Do you offer online tutoring?
Yes. The majority of students now study online via Zoom and achieve the same outstanding results as in-person students. Online sessions are convenient since no time is wasted commuting, and homework and teaching materials are shared digitally. No matter where you live, world-class tutoring is just a click away.
Can I switch between in-person and online sessions?
Absolutely. Many students use a hybrid approach -- attending in-person sessions when convenient and switching to Zoom when their schedule or travel requires it. The quality of instruction is identical in both formats.
Do you record online sessions?
Yes. Zoom sessions can be recorded at no extra charge so you can revisit key concepts and strategies between lessons. Many students find this especially helpful for reviewing practice problem walkthroughs and reinforcing what was covered in class.
Test Coverage and Score Improvements
Which tests do you cover?
What score improvements can I expect?
Results depend on your starting level, study commitment, and the number of tutoring hours. Based on past student outcomes:
- MCAT: Typical gains of 10-17 composite points (students have scored up to 523)
- GMAT: Improvements of 60-80 points (students have reached 710+)
- GRE: Students regularly reach the 90th-99th percentile
- ACT: Composite improvements of 3-4+ points
- SHSAT: Students accepted to Stuyvesant, Bronx Science, and Brooklyn Latin
Read verified student reviews on our reviews page.
Do you offer group tutoring?
Dr. Donnelly's practice is focused on one-on-one private tutoring because it delivers the fastest, most consistent results. Unlike large group classes, every minute of your session is spent on your specific areas for improvement. However, small group sessions (2-3 students) may be available for students preparing for the same test on a similar timeline -- contact us to discuss.
Credentials, Locations, and Policies
What are Dr. Donnelly's credentials?
Dr. Stuart Donnelly holds a Ph.D. from Oxford University, awarded by age 25, along with an honors degree in Mathematics and Physics. He has over 20 years of dedicated private tutoring and teaching experience at all levels and is considered by many leading educators to be one of the most qualified private tutors in the country.
He is also the author of several critically acclaimed test prep books in the best-selling For Dummies series by Wiley & Sons Publishing. Learn more on our About page.
Where are your offices located?
New York City: 750 Columbus Avenue, Suite 3G, New York, NY 10025 (Upper West Side, Manhattan)
San Diego: 5425 Oberlin Drive, Suite 202, San Diego, CA 92121
Both offices are fully equipped with all the teaching materials required to provide an ideal learning environment. There is also a comfortable seating area for the parents of younger students who may wish to be present during the lesson.
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask for at least 24 hours' notice if you need to reschedule or cancel a session. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours' notice may be charged in full. We understand that emergencies happen and will always try to accommodate unexpected situations.
Do you offer discounted packages?
Yes. Dr. Donnelly offers discounted multi-session packages at several price points. Packages allow you to lock in a lower per-session rate while ensuring consistent progress toward your target score. Contact us at 917-568-2473 to discuss which package best fits your needs and budget.
Dr. Donnelly accepts cash, checks, Venmo, Zelle, PayPal, and all major credit or debit cards.