Sylvan Learning
Sylvan Learning offers educational centers focusing on reading, math, writing, and test preparation for children. Known for personalized learning programs, it operates both short-term and permanent locations under various trademarks in the education franchise sector.
About Sylvan Learning
Sylvan Learning, Inc. is an American education and tutoring company. It consists of franchised and corporate supplemental learning centers which provide personalized instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, study skills, homework support, and test preparation for college entrance and state exams. Some centers also offer STEM courses in robotics and coding. Sylvan provides personalized learning programs and primarily serves students in primary and secondary education.
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Sylvan Learning franchise FAQ
How much does it cost to open one — the total initial investment?
The total initial investment necessary to begin operation of a single Sylvan Learning franchised business ranges from $117,600 to $288,400. For two to three centers under a development agreement, the total initial investment ranges from $163,310 to $246,500. [p.1]
What is the initial franchise fee?
The initial franchise fee is $46,900 and includes licenses for all programs offered by Sylvan. This fee is non-refundable and payable in full upon signing the Sylvan Franchise Agreement [p.16].
What are the ongoing royalty and advertising fees?
The ongoing royalty fee ranges from 7% to 16% of gross revenue based on the franchise brand [p.146]. Additionally, you must make minimum royalty or advertising fund payments regardless of your sales levels, though specific amounts for these mandatory minimums are not detailed in the provided excerpts [p.4].
How long is the initial franchise agreement, and can I renew it?
This isn't specified in the excerpts. The provided FDD excerpts do not detail the length of the initial franchise agreement or specify its renewal terms beyond mentioning that there are Successor Terms which may require payment of a Renewal Fee as defined in the Renewal Franchise Agreement [p.288].
Can I sell or transfer my franchise, and what does that require?
To sell or transfer your franchise, you need to provide advance notice to the franchisor and obtain their prior written consent, which they may not unreasonably withhold [p.343]. Additionally, if you are a Business Entity, any transfer of ownership interests among existing owners or up to a Non-Controlling Interest (20% or less) to third parties requires amending Attachment C, having new Owners sign an Undertaking and Guaranty, signing general releases, paying an administrative fee ($3,500 for the first transfer in a rolling 12-month period; 25% of the initial franchise fee thereafter), and being in compliance with the Development Agreement [p.343].
On what grounds can the franchisor terminate the agreement?
The franchisor may terminate the franchise agreement on any grounds available by law [p.91]. This isn't specified in the excerpts for specific grounds the franchisor can use to terminate the agreement.
What financial requirements — net worth and liquid capital — do I need to qualify?
To qualify as a transferee, you must demonstrate to the Franchisor's satisfaction that your net worth is equal to or exceeds the net worth of the current franchisee at the time of transfer, excluding the value of the Franchised Business. This condition presumptively satisfies the requirement for sufficient equity capital to operate the Franchised Business [p.250].
Do I get an exclusive or protected territory?
No, you do not receive an exclusive territory [p.45]. You may face competition from other franchisees, outlets owned by the franchisor, or other competitive brands controlled by them [p.45]. Additionally, Sylvan retains the right to offer services through its Marketplace Platform within your Protected Area without seeking consent or providing compensation [p.325].
What training and ongoing support does the franchisor provide?
The franchisor provides training through Sylvan University (SU), a proprietary online learning management system, as well as additional training via instructor-led in-person sessions, group webinars, and online methods. The specific requirements and features of these training programs are detailed in the Manual provided to franchisees. [p.37]
How many franchised outlets are there, and how many have closed or been terminated?
As of December 31, 2025, there were 433 open and operating Sylvan Learning Centers in the United States. Out of these, 409 centers provided continuous operation and revenue reports for the entire fiscal year 2025. The financial performance of the remaining 24 centers (which either did not operate the full year or provided incomplete data) is not included in this figure. This isn't specified in the excerpts regarding how many have closed or been terminated specifically, but it does indicate that some franchise agreements may have resulted in the termination or non-renewal of certain franchises as detailed in Exhibit D [p.82].
Does the franchisor share any financial performance or earnings information?
The franchisor, Sylvan, does not make any direct financial performance representations. However, if purchasing an operating business in an existing territory, you may receive actual records from that territory's selling franchisee [p.71]. The only financial performance information provided by the franchisor is contained in Item 19 of the FDD for United States franchised territories that operated continuously throughout 2025 [p.68].
What am I restricted to selling, and where must I buy supplies?
You are restricted from selling products through catalogs, mail order, toll-free numbers for delivery, or electronic means (e.g., the Internet) [p.199]. Additionally, you may have to buy or lease items from the franchisor or a limited group of suppliers designated by them, which might be more expensive than other options [p.3].