Parents warned about dodgy tutors

As students head back to school, authorities are warning parents about using tutors who lack qualifications and aren't upfront about the total cost of services.

There were 14 complaints and 36 inquiries about tutoring services across the state last year, according to NSW Fair Trading.

"The majority of complaints related to the quality of services, with others related to services not provided and refunds for payments paid in advance when the tutoring services were cancelled," Fair Trading Commissioner Rod Stowe said in a statement on Wednesday.

He advised parents to be particularly careful when using overseas or interstate tutors via the internet.

Parents should also be aware of businesses that offer assignment or essay help online.

"Such help encourages plagiarism and academic dishonesty," said Mohan Dhall, CEO of Australian Tutoring Association.

"Tutors must not do the work for students."