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Franchise - 2026 FDD
Sylvan Learning Center franchise
Sylvan Learning is an education franchise for children that provides individualized programs and specialized assessments in reading, mathematics, writing and test preparation. Owners can operate from short-term or permanent learning centers, including electronic learning environments. Franchisees have the option of an individual franchise agreement for one retail center or a development agreement for multiple territories.
Independent Franchise.com profile
Sylvan Learning, LLC 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document, issued April 24, 2026. Existing outlets and disclosed development do not establish current market availability.
Sylvan Learning is an education franchise for children that provides individualized programs and specialized assessments in reading, mathematics, writing and test preparation.
Getting started
Standard Location
Item 7 stated investment$117,600-$288,400
Initial franchise fee$46,900
Typical time to open6-9 months
Recommended prototype1,000 to 2,000 square feet
Ownership & operation
What the local business requires
Day-to-day operatorOwner or full-time Designated Manager
On-premises during peak hoursRequired, Designated Manager or Owner
Key required rolePrimary Center Director
Owner performs the service personallyNo absentee ownership; an Owner must be regularly present and engaged in operations
System size
U.S. - year-end 2025
total units433
Franchised Centers (latest disclosed FY)433
Franchised-unit change across the disclosed window-40 (-8.5%)
FPR categories disclosedYes Show moreShow less
Franchisee Gross Sales by Quartile
System Size and Recent Changes
How large is the Sylvan Learning Center system, and how has it changed?
At the end of 2025, Sylvan Learning Center had 433 franchised outlets and 0 company-owned outlets. Franchised outlets rose from 473 at the end of 2023 to 476 at the end of 2024, then fell to 433 in 2025.
2023
473
franchised outlets
2024
476
franchised outlets
2025
433
franchised outlets
Card: net change note: From 2023 to 2025, franchised outlets decreased by 40, a change of -8.5%.
Card: openings/reductions note (latest disclosed FY): In 2025, 12 franchised outlets were opened. During the same year, 10 outlets were terminated and 45 ceased operations for other reasons.
See development context, year-end system size and 2025 franchised outlet movement
Development context: As of year end 2025, 37 franchise agreements had been signed for outlets not yet open. The franchisor projects 30 new franchised outlets in the next fiscal year.
Year-end system size
| Year | Franchised outlets | Company-owned outlets | Total outlets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 473 | 5 | 478 |
| 2024 | 476 | 0 | 476 |
| 2025 | 433 | 0 | 433 |
2025 franchised outlet movement
| Measure | Count |
|---|---|
| Franchised outlets at start of 2025 | 476 |
| Opened | 12 |
| Terminated | 10 |
| Ceased operations - other | 45 |
| Franchised outlets at end of 2025 | 433 |
| Transfers to new owners | 26 |
All profile counts use the FDD's outlet terminology. Existing outlets, signed development and projections do not establish current territory availability.
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Startup costs
How much does a Sylvan Learning franchise cost?
The estimated initial investment for a Sylvan Learning Center franchise ranges from $117,600 to $288,400. Key cost drivers include real estate improvements and site preparation, which can range from $15,000 to $118,010, and the initial franchise fee of $46,900. Additional funds for the first three months are estimated between $9,500 and $35,000.
Where the money goes
$15,000-$118,010Leasehold improvements
$7,500-$13,930Computers and other Hardware, Telephone, Internet Access & Software
$9,500-$35,000 for three monthsAdditional Funds - 3 months
$10,000-$15,000Item 7 estimated opening advertising
Real-estate intensity callout: A Sylvan Learning Center must be a minimum of 1,000 square feet, with approved sizes ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 square feet. Most centers are typically between 1,500 and 2,400 square feet. The costs for improving the lease site are negotiated with the landlord and assume the space is in warm shell condition.
Launch Planning
- Typical opening timeline
- The typical time between signing the Franchise Agreement and opening a Primary Center ranges from six to nine months, depending on whether the site is known at signing. Factors affecting this timeline include site availability, lease negotiations, lender approvals, zoning, permitting, construction time, and governmental inspections.
- Contractual opening deadline
- A Primary Center must open no later than 273 days after signing the Franchise Agreement. All initial training must be completed before opening the Primary Center, but no later than six months from signing the Franchise Agreement.
- Site and lease milestones
- A Protected Area is identified in the Franchise Agreement, and a site application must be submitted for approval. Once a site is accepted, a lease must be executed within a maximum of 180 days after the effective date of the Franchise Agreement. A copy of the lease must be provided for approval at least 30 days before execution.
- Additional Funds
- Additional funds of $9,500 to $35,000 are estimated to cover initial start-up expenses and expenses for the first three months. These expenses include business licenses, utility deposits, initial local marketing, payroll costs, and required insurance, but do not include payroll for the owner.
- Grand-opening marketing
- A grand opening advertising and promotional program is required, with an expenditure of $10,000 to $15,000. This program begins 60 days prior to the grand opening and continues for 60 days after opening.
- Fee commencement
- The minimum Royalty Fee assessment is waived for the first six months after the grand opening of the Primary Center. Other ongoing fees, such as the NAF Contribution and Technology Fee, generally begin monthly on the 15th of the month or upon invoice.
See the full Item 7 cost table
| Type of expenditure | Low | High | When due |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $46,900 | $46,900 | Upon signing the Franchise Agreement. |
| Training-related expenses | $1,400 | $2,400 | Before opening. |
| First month's rent and security deposit | $1,500 | $5,500 | Per lease terms. |
| Real Estate Improvements and Site Preparation | $15,000 | $118,010 | Before opening or per lease terms. |
| Development Project Management Fee | $6,000 | $6,000 | Before opening. |
| Initial Inventory and Instructional Materials | $2,750 | $4,500 | Before opening. |
| Specialized Furnishings | $6,000 | $15,000 | Before opening. |
| Other Furniture and Miscellaneous Supplies | $3,400 | $4,500 | Before opening. |
| Signage (interior and exterior) | $2,000 | $10,000 | Before opening. |
| Grand Opening Marketing | $10,000 | $15,000 | Due 60 days before grand opening. |
| Insurance Deposit and Premium | $2,000 | $2,700 | Third month after opening. |
| Computers and other Hardware, Telephone, Internet Access & Software | $7,500 | $13,930 | Before opening. |
| Miscellaneous Supplies | $15 | $150 | As incurred. |
| Accounting Software | $135 | $600 | As incurred. |
| Optional: Sylvan Edge and/or ACE IT! programs | $0 | $3,210 | Before opening. |
| Legal, Accounting and other Professional Fees | $3,500 | $5,000 | As arranged |
| Additional Funds - Three Months | $9,500 | $35,000 | As incurred. |
| Item 7 table — stated total | $117,600-$288,400 |
The amounts in the chart are estimates only and specific amounts vary depending upon local conditions. These estimates are based on the franchisor's experience. The franchisor does not offer direct or indirect financing for the initial investment.
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Ongoing fees
Sylvan Learning franchise fees and royalties
Sylvan Learning Center franchisees pay a monthly royalty fee based on gross sales, with different percentages for various programs. There is also a National Advertising Fund contribution and a local marketing expenditure requirement. Additionally, franchisees pay a monthly technology fee and may incur other fees for services like a call center or additional training.
Royalty11% of Gross Sales (excluding Sylvan Edge and ACE IT! programs), subject to a quarterly minimum of $5,500; 12% of Gross Sales for Sylvan Edge and ACE IT! programs
Total sales-based fees16% of Gross Sales (Royalty Fee 11%, minimum $5,500 per quarter + NAF Contribution 5%)
Fixed technology and licensing feeCurrently $114 per Center per month; up to $750 per month
Fixed monthly recurring total$594-$1,184 (Technology Fee $114/month + Call Center Fee $350/month (Model B) or $700/month (Model A) + Internet service (ISP) $80-$120/month + on-line costs $50-$250/month), plus $10 per inquiry (Model A) or $30 per inquiry (Model B)
| Economic category | Amount / basis | How it works |
|---|---|---|
| Audit fee | Actual cost of the financial audit; currently $4,800-$5,500 per audit | The actual cost of the financial audit, currently $4,800 to $5,500 per audit, is payable if an audit is needed due to failure to provide reports or records, or if an understatement of Gross Sales is greater than 2%. |
| Brand fund | 5% of monthly Gross Sales (excluding Sylvan Edge and ACE IT! programs) | A continuing, non-refundable monthly contribution of up to 5% of monthly Gross Sales is paid to the National Advertising Fund, excluding revenue from Sylvan Edge and ACE IT! programs. |
| Local advertising minimum | 6% of monthly Gross Sales or $1,500 per month, whichever is greater (excluding Sylvan Edge and ACE IT! programs); 3% of Gross Sales for Sylvan Edge programs | The Local Marketing Expenditure is 6% of monthly Gross Sales or $1,500 per month, whichever is greater, excluding Sylvan Edge and ACE IT! revenue, plus 3% of Gross Sales from Sylvan Edge programs. |
See secondary recurring and conditional charges
Marketing and technology
- Advertising Cooperative
- Contributions to an Advertising Cooperative, if established, are determined by a majority vote of members and credited toward the local marketing expenditure.
- Dashboard Access License Fee
- A monthly fee of $10 per license after the first waived license, payable for dashboard access.
Training and operating obligations
- Call Center Fee
- A monthly fee for using the franchisor's call center, either $700 plus $10 per inquiry or $350 plus $30 per inquiry, depending on call volume.
- Conference Fee
- An annual fee currently ranging from $950 to $1,350 per attendee (up to $1,500 per attendee, CPI-adjusted) for the mandatory annual conference. If an absence is excused, the Designated Manager or general manager must attend instead; if neither the franchisee nor a representative attends, a $1,500 conference materials fee applies.
Ownership, staffing and support
Owning a Sylvan tutoring franchise: staffing, training and support
Sylvan Learning Centers require active owner involvement, with a Designated Manager overseeing daily operations. The franchisor provides comprehensive initial training and ongoing support to ensure centers meet brand standards and educational requirements. This includes detailed operational guidelines, marketing assistance, and technology support.
Ownership structure card
- Sylvan Learning does not permit absentee ownership; at least one owner must participate in oversight and strategic direction.
- A Designated Manager is required to supervise daily operations full-time, who can be an owner or a general manager.
- If the Designated Manager is not an owner, an owner must still be actively involved in daily operations.
Local operating team card
- Each center must have at least one primary Center Director working full-time.
- Centers with over 100 students need a second Director or a lead teacher/program manager.
- All Center Directors must be Director-certified within six months of starting, and teachers delivering SylvanSync require SylvanSync Certification.
Training and support card
- Initial training includes Franchise Fundamentals (10 classroom hours, 35.5 on-the-job hours) and Center Operations (13 classroom hours, 13.5 on-the-job hours), totaling 23 hours of classroom and 49 hours of on-the-job training; Annual Conferences add 24 classroom hours.
- This program covers educational services, customer lifecycle, marketing, sales, operations, and technology.
- Ongoing support includes access to Sylvan University, annual conferences, and updates on new developments.
Ownership signal callout: This business model suits hands-on owner-operators who are committed to daily involvement and strategic oversight. While a manager can handle day-to-day tasks, significant owner engagement is mandatory.
How customers find the business
How does a Sylvan Learning Center business attract and retain customers?
Customers find the business through a combination of national advertising efforts, local marketing activities conducted by the franchisee, and the brand's online presence. The franchisor administers a National Advertising Fund for broad marketing campaigns, while franchisees are responsible for local marketing within their protected areas. The system also includes tools and programs to manage customer engagement and services.
What the system provides
- Administration of a National Advertising Fund for brand positioning and marketing programs.
- Specifications and standards for advertising, marketing, and trademark use.
- A URL website promoting the Sylvan Learning system and identifying business locations.
- Access to a proprietary online learning portal and customer relationship management software.
- A call center for customer support, promotion, booking, and upselling.
- Training on sales and other relevant topics.
What the local operator executes
- A required monthly Local Marketing Expenditure of 6% of Gross Sales (excluding Sylvan Edge and ACE IT!) or $1,500, whichever is greater, plus 3% of Sylvan Edge Gross Sales.
- Focus marketing activities within the Protected Area, including direct marketing activities.
- Submission of proposed promotional and marketing materials for approval before use.
- Participation in all system-wide promotions conducted by the franchisor.
- Conducting a grand opening advertising and promotional program with a spend of $10,000 to $15,000.
- Mandatory participation in any established local or regional Advertising Cooperative.
The operating tension: While the franchisor provides brand recognition and marketing support, the franchisee is responsible for converting leads and retaining customers through effective local marketing, service delivery, and operational management. The success of the business depends on the franchisee's ability to execute these local efforts within the provided framework.
Brand and agreement basics
Key Sylvan Learning Center franchise agreement terms
Brand and ownership
- U.S. franchisor
- Sylvan Learning, LLC
- Headquarters
- Bedford, TX
- U.S. franchising history
- Since 2003 (predecessor since 1979)
- Parent company
- Unleashed Brands, LLC -> Leviathan Intermediate Holdco, LLC -> UA Holdings, LLC
Agreement Terms
- Initial term
- 10 years from the effective date of the Franchise Agreement
- Successor terms
- Two additional, consecutive five-year successor terms are available. Renewal requires the franchisee to be in good standing and to renovate and modernize the franchised business premises to conform to then-current image.
- Territory
- The territory is protected but not exclusive. The franchisor retains the right to sell certain programs, services, and products anywhere, directly or through third-party merchandisers, through any other channels of distribution, including retail, wholesale, mail order, electronic, direct mail, the Internet or any other form of e-commerce except a Franchised Business, whether or not such sales occur within the Protected Area.
- Multi-unit development
- Multi-unit development rights may be offered to qualified legal entities under a Development Agreement, which grants the right to establish up to three Sylvan Learning businesses in a specified area; a developer is required to open at least two.
Note: The franchisor provides historical gross sales information for franchised territories that operated continuously throughout 2025. This data is presented by quartile and also includes the top 10 and bottom 10 gross sales figures within each quartile. A subset of this data is also provided for centers operating in territories with specific demographic characteristics.
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Frequently asked questions
Sylvan Learning Center franchise FAQs
Does the owner have to personally perform the core service?
The FDD states that in some states, a Sylvan Learning Center may be subject to licensing requirements or may be required to have a state-certified instructor as a director or on the premises when instruction is being offered. It also mentions that courses offered under Sylvan Edge and ACE IT! are personally taught by trained instructors.
Is the territory exclusive?
A franchisee will not receive an exclusive territory. During the term of the Franchise Agreement, Sylvan Learning will neither operate nor grant others the right to operate another Sylvan Learning business in the Protected Area, except for rights reserved to Sylvan Learning and its affiliates. Sylvan Learning retains the right to sell certain programs, services, and products anywhere, directly or through third-party merchandisers, with or without trademarks, through any other channels of distribution, including retail, wholesale, mail order, electronic, direct mail, the Internet or any other form of e-commerce except a Franchised Business, whether or not such sales occur within the Protected Area.
Can a franchisee develop more than one location?
Sylvan Learning may offer to enter into a development agreement to establish and operate two to three Sylvan franchised businesses at specific locations under individual franchise agreements. If a development agreement is signed, the franchisee will be required to open at least two Sylvan locations.
Can a prospective owner speak with current and former franchisees?
Exhibit D lists the name, address, telephone number, and email address of all current Sylvan franchisees, including those who have signed Franchise Agreements but are not yet open. Exhibit D also lists contact information for every franchisee who had a Franchised Business terminated, canceled, not renewed, or otherwise ceased to do business during the most recently completed fiscal year or who has not communicated with Sylvan within 10 weeks of December 31, 2025.
What is the total investment required to open a Sylvan Learning Center?
The total investment necessary to begin operation of a Sylvan Learning franchised business is $117,600 to $288,400. This includes $56,900 to $61,900 that must be paid to Sylvan Learning or an affiliate.
What is the recent trend in the number of Sylvan Learning franchised outlets?
The number of franchised outlets decreased by 40 from the end of 2023 to the end of 2025, representing an 8.5% decrease. In 2025 alone, 43 franchised outlets ceased operations.
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Source and methodology
Source and methodology
Sylvan Learning, LLC 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document, issued April 24, 2026.
This profile was compiled from the brand's Franchise Disclosure Document using structured information extraction, augmented by automated drafting tools, and reviewed by a human editor for accuracy and readability.
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