If you are interested in opening a tutoring franchise, one of the most highly rated franchise systems is Kumon Centers. Review this franchising guide for information on how to open a Kumon franchise.

Kumon reading and math centers were established more than 50 years ago when Mr. Toru Kumon, a Japanese educator, developed a system to enhance his own son's school achievement. With the belief that every child has the potential to excel, the Kumon method is offered in more than 44 countries around the world.http://www.kumon.com/franchise/profile/default.asp?language=USA With a #12 top franchise ranking by Entrepreneur magazine's top franchise rankings and a #4 ranking as a low-cost franchise option, a Kumon Math & Reading center franchise is a reliable and proven franchise business in the education franchise industry.http://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/kumonmathandreadingcenters/282507-0.html

As a member of the International Franchise Association, Kumon is dedicated to growing their business through a franchise model. The company prides themselves on providing a strong system that relies on increasing a child's foundation in math fundamentals such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division are keys to increasing a child's ability to progress to upper level math courses. Through daily practice and child-centered approach, Kumon center participants are providing with a nurturing environment and the attention of a tutor that is shared with only 2 other students. If this type of environment sound appealing, a Kumon Math and Science center franchise may be a good opportunity for you. If you are unsure if you would be a good fit for a Kumon Franchise, you can take their free online franchise quiz.http://www.kumon.com/franchise/quiz/default.asp?language=USA

If you are interested in opening your own Kumon franchise, you are probably wondering what costs are involved, the requirements and your financial requirements. Kumon franchises require individuals to be interested in working with children as absentee ownership is not allowed. You must also be willing to open a location that is currently within the list of franchise territories currently being offered by the company, or purchase a pre-existing center that is for sale. If you think you have a strong background in Math and English and are a good fit to be a franchisee, you must fill out an application. Afterwards, you must pass a phone interview. Those who pass the phone interview will be scheduled for an in-person interview to ensure a proper franchise fit.http://www.kumon.com/franchise/gettingstarted/default.asp?language=USA You will also be required to pass a math and reading proficiency test with at least a 70% score.http://www.docstoc.com/docs/25348799/Kumon-FAQ-Franchisee . After passing the interview and testing phase, you must pass a financial assessment and a background check.

After completing all pre-requisite steps, you will sign a franchisee agreement and pay the $1,000 franchise fee. You will also pay a one-time materials fee of $1,000. This low franchise fee is only part of your financial obligation. Typically, a franchisee should have a net worth of at least $150,000, with $50,000 in liquid or cash assets.http://blog.globalbx.com/2009/10/10/how-much-does-a-kumon-franchise-cost/

You will also be required to find a location that provides at least 1,200 usable square feet, advertise your center and set up the facility based on the Kuman requirements. Walls in the Kumon centers must be painted specified colors, must have carpet and you must purchase Junior Kumon furniture must be purchased from the company. The furniture kit includes tables and chairs. Additionally, you will be required to purchase file cabinets, worksheet shelves, additional tables and chairs. Kumon offers recommendations on where you can find sources for these additional needs, but you can use any source you prefer.http://www.docstoc.com/docs/25348799/Kumon-FAQ-Franchisee

Ongoing requirements include a $36 fee per student, per subject per month. After two years in business, you will also be required to resign a franchise agreement and pay the $1,000 franchise fee. At a minimum, you will be required to have a 4 year college degree and the ability to dedicate full time time to the business. Overall, the estimated cost to start a center is between $32,000 and $131,070.http://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/kumonmathandreadingcenters/282507-0.html

So, you may be asking yourself, what do you get for your franchise fee and investment? The relationship between the main franchise and franchisees is considered to be a warm relationship of mutual support. Kumon specifically sets the franchise fee low, because they want the support they provide to help you increase earnings to be their primary source of income.http://blog.globalbx.com/2009/10/10/how-much-does-a-kumon-franchise-cost/

From the time you sign your franchise agreement, you will be provided with a strong support system that include assistance finding a location. They offer Realogy, a national real estate company, that can help you with scouting locations, negotiating rental agreements and signing contracts. While you are responsible for your own advertising, marketing personnel can help you with knowing how and were to market your tutoring services. The company also provides pre-packaged marketing materials that you can use.

One of the most noted parts of the Kumon franchise system is the intense training offered. You will undergo training for 8 days. You must pay $500 for yourself and $100 for any additional trainers along with all your expenses such as food and lodging while attending start up training in Teaneck, New Jersey. Training is provided for tutoring methodology, running a franchise, business plan creation and other areas to help you be successful. Kumon also provides a large display sign, a rental subsidy of up to $12,000 a month for 24 months, monthly meetings, national conference, followup training and consultation through local Kuman branches.

While the franchising fees of a franchise are low and a rent subsidy is offered, you may still need some additional capital to help purchase supplies, furniture and to prepare your new facility. Official financing options are not provided by Kumon.http://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/kumonmathandreadingcenters/282507-0.html Obtaining these funds can come from your personal savings, with the assistance of family or friends, or through loans from a bank. Often, to qualify for a business loan, you will need to go through the Small Business Administration who may provide loan guarantees that makes getting a loan easier.

In addition to funding you should also set up your own separate business entity (such as an S-corporation) to help provide some protection for your personal assets and make it simpler to keep your business and private affairs simpler. It may also provide some tax benefits, so make sure to consult a tax adviser for additional information for your situation. You will also need to find insurance coverage, such as rental insurance and liability insurance. For any employees you hire, ensure you process them through a strong background check to prevent any problems. Once you have everything set, stage your grand opening event and you will have opened a Kumon franchise.

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional financial advice. Please contact a finance professional before using the information presented here.