Sylvan Learning Centers Franchise FDD, Profits & Costs (2025)

Sylvan Learning Centers, founded in 1979, is a premier provider of personalized supplemental and enrichment education for students in grades K–12. Headquartered in Hunt Valley, Maryland, Sylvan began franchising just a year after its founding, in 1980. 

Sylvan is recognized for its innovative approach to education, offering a broad range of academic curriculums that cater to various student needs. The services are delivered through an omnichannel platform, allowing for flexible learning environments including on-premises, online, one-on-one, and group tutoring sessions.

This versatility helps Sylvan stand out in the market by adapting to the diverse learning preferences and needs of students. The franchise is backed by Franchise Group which acquired Sylvan in 2021, providing robust support and resources that contribute to the franchise’s growth and operational efficiency. 

Initial Investment

How much does it cost to start a Sylvan Learning Centers franchise? It costs on average between $101,000 – $227,000 to start a Sylvan Learning Centers franchised center.

This includes costs for construction, equipment, inventory, and initial operating expenses. The exact amount depends on various factors, including the type of facility you choose, the location, and whether the franchisee chooses to lease or purchase the property.

Type of ExpenditureAmount
Initial License Fee$36,900
Travel and Living Expenses While Attending Initial Training$1,400 – $2,400
Initial Three Months’ Rent and Security Deposit$4,000 – $15,500
Real Estate Improvements and Site Preparation$15,000 – $75,000
Initial Inventory and Instructional Materials$2,750 – $3,050
Specialized Furnishings$6,000 – $15,000
Other Furniture and Miscellaneous Supplies$3,400 – $4,500
Signage$2,000 – $8,000
Marketing During Initial 3-Month Period When Primary Center First Opens$10,000
Computers and other hardware, Telephone, Internet Access & Software$7,500 – $13,930
FOA Annual Membership Fee for Initial Period$330
Miscellaneous Supplies$15 – $150
Hub Technology Platform$342
Contact Center Participation$1,480 – $2,930
QuickBooks or Equivalent Accounting Software$135 – $600
Optional: Sylvan Edge$0 – $3,210
Additional Funds – Three Months$9,500 – $35,000
TOTAL$100,752 – $226,842

Average Revenue (AUV)

How much revenue can you make with a Sylvan Learning Centers franchise? A Sylvan Learning Centers franchised location makes on average $399,000 in revenue (AUV) per year.

Here is the extract from the Franchise Disclosure Document:

Sylvan Learning Centers fdd item 19 extract

This compares to $205,000 yearly revenue for similar tutoring franchises. Below are 10 Sylvan Learning Centers competitors as a comparison:

Sylvan Learning Centers competitors

Sylvan Learning Centers Franchise Disclosure Document

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Sylvan Learning Centers locations are there?

As of the latest data, Sylvan Learning Centers has more than 710 locations worldwide, consisting of points of presence that are largely franchised.

What is the total investment required to open a Sylvan Learning Centers franchise?

The total investment required to open a Sylvan Learning Centers franchise ranges from $101,000 to $227,000.

What are the ongoing fees for a Sylvan Learning Centers franchise?

The ongoing fees for a Sylvan Learning Centers franchise include a royalty fee of 16% of gross revenues. Additionally, there is a marketing fee, which is set at 8% of gross revenues. These fees are standard for supporting the franchise’s operational infrastructure, brand marketing, and advertising initiatives.

What are the financial requirements to become a Sylvan Learning Centers franchisee?

To become a Sylvan Learning Centers franchisee, the financial requirements include a minimum net worth of $150,000 and liquid capital of at least $75,000. These requirements help ensure that potential franchisees have the financial capacity to support the investment and operational needs of the business.

How much can a Sylvan Learning Centers franchise owner expect to earn?

The average gross sales for a Sylvan Learning Centers franchise are approximately $0.4 million per location. Assuming a 15% operating profit margin, $0.4 million yearly revenue can result in $60,000 EBITDA annually.

Who owns Sylvan Learning Centers?

Sylvan Learning Centers is owned by Sylvan Learning, LLC. In 2016, the franchise was acquired by a private equity firm, Franchise Group, LLC.

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: This content has been made for informational and educational purposes only. We do not make any representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness, or completeness of the information presented in the article. You should not construe any such information or other material as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other professional advice. Nothing contained in this article constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, advertisement, or offer to buy or sell any franchises, securities, or other financial instruments in this or in any other jurisdiction in which such solicitation or offer would be unlawful under the franchise and/or securities laws of such jurisdiction.

All content in this article is information of a general nature and does not address the detailed circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Nothing in the article constitutes professional and/or financial and/or legal advice, nor does any information in the article constitute a comprehensive or complete statement of the matters discussed or the law relating thereto. You alone assume the sole responsibility of evaluating the merits and risks associated with the use of any information or other content in this article before making any decisions based on such information or other content.

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