How Can We Make an Education App?
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February 14, 2025
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Educational app development has revolutionized learning in recent years. But how can we make an education app that meets the demands of learners and educators while standing out in a competitive market? This guide will walk you through the process, from ideation to launch.
And if you're stuck figuring out the scope, design, or team roles, use our AI App Cost Calculator. It’s free, fast, and gets the job done in under 3 minutes.
Why Build an Educational App?
The rise of educational apps isn’t just a trend; it’s a shift in how knowledge is consumed, delivered, and monetized. As Sal Khan, the founder of Khan Academy, famously said, "Technology is the enabler, not the solution, but it can democratize access to quality education.” This statement captures the essence of why building an educational app today isn’t just about innovation—it’s about impact and opportunity.
Online Learning Is No Longer Optional
Education is moving beyond classrooms. With over 90% of students worldwide disrupted during the pandemic (UNESCO), digital learning isn’t a convenience—it’s a necessity. Apps have filled this void by providing flexible, on-demand access to lessons, bridging the gap between traditional and modern education systems.
But here’s the deeper insight: people don’t just want convenience—they expect results. Apps that combine adaptive learning (think AI-driven content like Duolingo) with practical outcomes (certifications, measurable skill acquisition) are thriving. The question isn’t if your app can teach; it’s whether it can prove its value.
Market Gaps Are Waiting to Be Solved
While the EdTech market is projected to hit $1.72 trillion by 2026, this figure isn’t just driven by big names. Niche opportunities are fueling the rise of smaller, targeted apps. For instance:
- Gamified test preparation (e.g., Quizlet) taps into underserved regions where standardized exams dominate career paths.
- Corporate learning apps like Coursera for Business cater to companies struggling to upskill employees.
The biggest gap: apps that offer engagement without burnout. Most apps lose 80% of users within the first month due to poorly designed experiences. Startups focusing on personalization (AI recommendations) and community (peer challenges, mentorship integrations) have a clear advantage.
Better Learning Outcomes Create Loyalty
Technology doesn’t just replicate traditional education—it amplifies it. Adaptive learning platforms, like ScribeSense, use AI to identify student weaknesses in real time, offering targeted solutions. This shifts the focus from “one-size-fits-all” to highly effective individualized education.
An app isn’t just a tool; it’s an experience. Think about this: the average retention rate for gamified content is 25% higher than traditional methods. Combine this with the global hunger for microlearning (short, digestible lessons), and your app can not only educate but transform learning into a habit.
Build for Outcomes, Not Features
As Seth Godin, marketing guru and author, put it: "Don’t find customers for your product. Find products for your customers.” Your app’s success lies in addressing unmet learning needs. That might mean:
- Helping users learn faster with spaced repetition and interactive tools.
- Offering tools for parents and educators to track progress and customize content.
- Providing offline modes for regions with limited connectivity.
Solve real problems with precision, and users will not only pay but promote your app.
Start planning your educational app the right way with our guide.
Steps to Create an Educational App
Creating an educational app requires more than just an idea—it demands thoughtful planning, strategic decisions, and precise execution. Here’s a step-by-step approach that ensures your app not only meets user needs but also outshines competitors.
Step 1: Define Your Target Audience and Goals
To create an app that truly resonates, you need to start with clarity:
- Who are your users? Are they students, teachers, parents, or professionals?
- What’s your goal? Are you gamifying learning, offering test prep, or providing skill development?
As the founder of Duolingo, Luis von Ahn, said: “We’re obsessed with making learning fun and accessible for everyone.” Start by answering how can we make an education app that’s engaging and solves real problems for your target audience.
Use surveys, forums, and social media to directly ask your audience what they need and where existing apps fall short.
Step 2: Research the Market
Don’t reinvent the wheel—study what works and what doesn’t:
- Analyze competitors’ strengths and weaknesses. For example, what features make Coursera popular? Where does it fail to engage?
- Identify market gaps. Are there underserved niches, like gamified learning for STEM subjects or region-specific test prep?
Use tools like Google Trends, SEMrush, or App Annie to uncover trending features and audience preferences.
Step 3: Plan Features and Functionality
Features can make or break your app. Start with the essentials, but think about what will set your app apart:
- Must-haves: User profiles, gamification, progress tracking, and offline access.
- Differentiators: AI-based adaptive learning, live feedback from teachers, or AR simulations.
- Future-ready: Build your app with scalability in mind, so you can add features as demand grows.
Browse user reviews of top apps like Photomath or Khan Academy. Their comment sections are goldmines for feature ideas.
Discover the perfect features for your MVP and estimate app development costs with our guide.
Step 4: Choose the Right Development Approach
Your development path depends on your budget, timeline, and goals:
- Custom Development: Offers complete control but requires a bigger investment. Ideal for unique, feature-rich apps.
- No-Code Platforms: Quick and cost-effective. Platforms like Bubble or Twinr let you build an MVP fast.
Think about scalability. Starting with no-code doesn’t mean you can’t transition to custom development as your app grows.
Save time and build your app faster with the right tools.
Choose the optimal tech stack with our AI tool.
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Step 5: Design User-Centric UI/UX
Great design isn’t just about looking good—it’s about feeling effortless.
- Age-appropriate design: Bright visuals and animations for younger users; clean, professional layouts for adults.
- Accessibility matters: Add features like text-to-speech, adjustable font sizes, and dark modes.
Test your designs early with a small group of users and refine based on feedback. Tools like Figma can speed up the process.
Our AI calculator instantly generates a unique design with features and visualizations tailored to your educational app idea.
Step 6: Development and Integration
This is where your app comes to life:
- Use frameworks like Flutter or React Native for cross-platform development. They’re cost-effective and efficient.
- Third-party integrations: Add ready-made tools for payment systems, analytics, or AI-based features.
Start small. Build an MVP that solves one specific problem, then expand based on user feedback.
Learn how to write a professional technical specification for app development here, and discover the next steps to build an MVP here.
Step 7: Test, Launch, and Market
Don’t just launch—launch smart:
- Testing: Use both manual and automated testing to fix bugs and ensure smooth functionality.
- App Store Optimization (ASO): Write descriptions that highlight your app’s unique value. Use keywords like "how to create an educational app" to increase visibility.
- Marketing: Create a buzz before your launch with teasers, influencer collaborations, or early-access offers.
Launch in phases. Start with a beta version for a smaller audience, gather feedback, and refine before a full-scale release.
Find more technical details about building a successful learning app here.
Key Features for Educational Apps: Costs and Priorities
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Not all features are created equal when building an educational app. Some are essential for success, while others can wait. Here's a clear breakdown of the top features, their costs, development time, and how they can make your app stand out.
Read a detailed cost breakdown for developing an educational app here.
To choose the right features and get a detailed estimate for your project, including the tech stack and development timeline for your educational app, try our App Cost Calculator.
Features of a Successful Educational App
Here’s a deep dive into the features that can make your app indispensable for learners, educators, and institutions.
1. Adaptive Learning: Personalization at Its Core
No two learners are the same, and that’s where adaptive learning comes in. This feature uses AI to assess a user’s progress and tailor content to their strengths and weaknesses. For example:
- If a student struggles with a math concept, the app can provide additional resources like video tutorials or quizzes.
- Language apps like Duolingo leverage adaptive algorithms to adjust lesson difficulty based on user performance.
Personalized learning boosts engagement, retention, and results. It’s not just a nice-to-have—it’s a competitive advantage in educational app development.
2. Push Notifications: Beyond Reminders
Push notifications are often seen as a tool to boost engagement, but they can be so much more:
- Motivation Boosters: Encourage users with progress updates (e.g., “You’re 3 lessons away from completing Level 1!”).
- Behavior Triggers: Nudge inactive users back with tailored messages like, “Haven’t practiced in a week? Let’s get back on track!”
Notifications shouldn’t feel spammy. Use analytics to send personalized, actionable updates that add value, not annoyance.
3. Offline Access: Learning Without Limits
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Internet access isn’t always reliable, especially in developing regions or while traveling. Offline functionality ensures users can:
- Download lessons or videos for uninterrupted learning.
- Sync their progress once they’re back online.
Apps like Khan Academy allow students to access entire courses offline, making education accessible even without stable connectivity.
Offline access not only expands your app’s reach but also shows your commitment to inclusivity—an often-overlooked factor in educational application development.
Learn how to implement a high-quality feature on a budget using Flutter with insights from our lead Flutter developer, Sukhrob Djumaev: Making Your Flutter App Work Offline.
4. Real-Time Analytics: Actionable Insights
Data is power—both for users and educators. Real-time analytics can:
- Show learners their progress with intuitive dashboards.
- Provide teachers with insights into student performance, helping them customize instruction.
Analytics aren’t just about stats. Presenting them visually (graphs, heatmaps) makes the data actionable. For example, showing students their strengths and weaknesses visually helps them focus better.
5. Gamification: Learning That Feels Like Play
Gamification isn’t about turning education into a game; it’s about using game-like elements to engage users:
- Badges, rewards, and leaderboards motivate learners to keep progressing.
- Challenges or time-limited goals create a sense of urgency and excitement.
Apps like Quizlet have nailed gamification by making learning competitive yet fun.
People are wired to respond to rewards. Gamification taps into that psychology, turning mundane learning tasks into addictive habits.
6. Social Learning: Building Communities
Education thrives on collaboration, and social learning features create a sense of community:
- Discussion forums for students to share ideas or ask questions.
- Peer challenges and group projects to foster collaboration.
Adding a "social feed" where users can share achievements or resources can significantly increase engagement.
7. Multilingual Support: Breaking Barriers
If your app aims to reach a global audience, multilingual support is non-negotiable:
- Provide content in multiple languages to cater to diverse demographics.
- Ensure your UI adapts seamlessly for right-to-left languages like Arabic.
The more inclusive your app is, the bigger your audience—and your revenue potential.
8. Parental Controls and Progress Reports
For apps targeting younger users, parental features are critical:
- Progress dashboards for parents to track their child’s learning journey.
- Customizable controls to limit screen time or restrict specific content.
Apps like ABCmouse successfully integrate these features to earn trust from parents while keeping kids engaged.
Focus on:
- Solving real user pain points.
- Combining convenience with innovation (e.g., adaptive learning paired with gamification).
- Keeping the experience seamless, regardless of device or location.
And remember: features aren’t just tools—they’re what turn casual users into loyal advocates.
Technologies Used in Educational App Development
Let’s explore cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future of educational app development and how to use them effectively.
Monetization Strategies for Educational Apps
Building an educational app is just the start—making it profitable is where the challenge lies. Here are three proven revenue models to consider:
1. Freemium and Subscriptions
Offer a free version with basic features and a premium version with advanced content or tools. This model helps you attract a broad audience while converting dedicated users into paying subscribers.
2. In-App Purchases
Monetize specific features, content, or virtual items directly within the app. For example, charge for advanced lessons, practice exams, or gamified rewards.
3. Licensing for Institutions
Sell your app as a package to schools, universities, or corporations. Institutions value tools that enhance teaching efficiency or streamline learning processes.
Want a deeper dive into these strategies? Check out our detailed guide here: How to Monetize Your Educational App.
The Untold Stories Behind Educational Apps
When you see apps like Duolingo, Khan Academy, or Photomath dominating the education space, it’s easy to assume they just got everything right from the start. But behind every slick interface and polished feature is a journey filled with mistakes, course corrections, and tough lessons. Let’s break down their real stories and what they teach us about building an educational app that lasts.
Duolingo: Turning Dropouts into Daily Users
At first, Duolingo looked like a sure bet. People loved the cute animations, gamified lessons, and the fact that it was free. But the team quickly realized that their app had a major flaw: users loved it for a week or two and then stopped coming back.
The solution wasn’t more content—it was psychology. The team tapped into behavioral science and asked: What motivates people to stick with a habit? That’s how they came up with streaks, where users earn a little flame icon for practicing daily. Breaking a streak feels like a loss, so users would go out of their way to keep it alive—even paying for streak freezes in the premium version.
Khan Academy: Building Trust at Scale
Khan Academy started as a small side project, with Sal Khan tutoring his cousin on YouTube. Fast-forward a few years, and it became the go-to platform for free, high-quality education. But as their user base grew into millions, they hit a wall. Schools didn’t just want free lessons—they needed trust.
One big issue was data privacy. Schools wouldn’t adopt the platform unless it met strict compliance standards like GDPR. So, the team restructured their entire data system, encrypting everything and creating clear data-sharing policies. At the same time, they leaned on cloud computing to keep the platform running smoothly for users in every corner of the world.
Photomath: When AI Wasn’t Smart Enough
Photomath’s early pitch sounded like magic: snap a picture of a math problem, and the app will solve it instantly. But in reality, the first version of their AI was far from perfect. It struggled with anything outside textbook examples—handwritten problems, word equations, or even slightly tilted camera angles threw it off.
Instead of selling users an illusion of perfection, Photomath leaned into transparency. They actively asked users to report incorrect answers, turning every error into an opportunity for the AI to learn. Over time, the app evolved into a tool that didn’t just give answers but explained them step by step.
How Ptolemay’s Educational Apps Deliver Real Results
At Ptolemay, we’ve built over 15 educational apps for different audiences—from kids learning math to influencer-led platforms that engage millions. One of our standout projects, Hanson App, hit #2 in the App Store rankings for educational apps in the influencer's home country just a month after launch.
Our apps don’t just look good—they deliver real results. Clients have seen a 40% boost in user retention and consistent 5-star reviews across app stores.
Learn more about our expertise in transforming children's education with AI and strategies for launching self-development apps.
The Common Challenges Every EdTech App Faces
These success stories highlight challenges that almost every educational app will face at some point:
1. Keeping Users Engaged
It’s easy to attract users, but keeping them is another story. Most apps see a massive drop in engagement after the first few weeks. Gamification, as Duolingo showed, isn’t about badges—it’s about tapping into human behavior to build habits.
2. Scaling Without Breaking
Khan Academy’s reliance on cloud solutions wasn’t just smart—it was essential. If you’re building an app, you have to prepare for the possibility of success. Scaling early ensures that your app can handle rapid growth without frustrating users.
3. Building Trust
Whether it’s data privacy, reliability, or transparency, trust is non-negotiable. This is especially true for apps targeting schools or children. A misstep here isn’t just a setback—it can ruin your reputation.
FAQ: How to Develop a Education App and Maximize Profitability
How can I create my own app?
Creating your own app starts with identifying your target audience and defining core features. You can use app builders like FlutterFlow for simplicity or hire a developer for a custom solution. For example, startups often choose cross-platform frameworks like Flutter to save costs and reach both iOS and Android users.
Can I teach myself to build an app?
Yes, you can teach yourself app development by learning programming languages like Swift (iOS) or Kotlin (Android). Platforms like Codecademy and Udemy offer beginner-friendly courses. For example, a basic e-commerce app could take 6–12 months to build with consistent effort.
How much does it cost to build your own app?
Building an app typically costs between $10,000 and $150,000, depending on complexity and features. MVPs with basic functionality are more affordable, while advanced apps with integrations cost more. For instance, developing a ride-sharing app like Uber could cost $100,000 or more.
How do I create an online education platform?
To create an online education platform, focus on features like video streaming, quizzes, and user profiles. Choose scalable technologies like AWS for hosting and integrate payment options for monetization. For example, platforms like Coursera started as MVPs targeting specific courses.
How long does it take to develop an educational app?
Developing an educational app takes 3–9 months, depending on complexity and the size of the development team. A basic app with video lessons can be built in under 3 months, while more interactive apps with AI tutors or gamification may require additional time.
How much does an educational app cost?
Educational app development costs range from $20,000 for a simple app to $200,000 for advanced apps with AI or AR features. For example, a language learning app like Duolingo might cost $150,000 to build due to gamification and scalability.
How much does it cost to create an app?
App creation costs depend on factors like features, platforms, and design. A basic app costs around $10,000–$50,000, while a complex app with custom features can exceed $150,000. For instance, creating a food delivery app with GPS tracking might cost $50,000–$100,000.
How do I make an educational app for free?
You can create an educational app for free using platforms like Glide or AppGyver, which offer no-code tools for basic apps. However, these tools may limit scalability. For instance, creating a vocabulary flashcard app is achievable without coding skills.
How much will my app cost to make?
The cost of developing your app depends on complexity, platforms, and team size. A simple MVP might cost $15,000–$30,000, while a feature-rich app can exceed $100,000. For instance, a fitness app with tracking features costs $50,000 on average.
How much do app ideas sell for?
App ideas alone typically don’t sell unless accompanied by a validated concept or MVP. When monetized, successful apps can be valued at 2–3 times their annual revenue. For example, a revenue-generating health app could sell for $500,000 or more.
How much do paid apps make?
Paid apps can generate anywhere from a few hundred dollars to millions annually, depending on market demand. For instance, productivity apps like Notability earn over $10 million annually through upfront sales and subscriptions.
Can you make money in education?
Yes, educational apps can be highly profitable through subscriptions, ads, or in-app purchases. For example, Duolingo earns over $250 million annually by offering freemium content and premium upgrades like ad-free experiences.
Does owning an app make money?
Owning an app can make money through ads, subscriptions, or sales, but success depends on market fit. For instance, fitness apps like MyFitnessPal earn millions by combining free features with premium subscriptions.
What is the most profitable app to make?
The most profitable apps are those addressing high-demand markets like fitness, e-commerce, or education. For example, a subscription-based meditation app like Calm generates over $100 million annually.
Is creating an app a good investment?
Creating an app can be a great investment if it solves a specific problem and targets a growing market. For instance, e-commerce apps have seen a 30% annual growth in downloads, making them a lucrative opportunity.
How do apps make so much money?
Apps earn money through ads, subscriptions, and in-app purchases. Gaming apps like Candy Crush, for example, generate millions by offering free gameplay with optional purchases for extra features.
Can you make money from an app idea?
Yes, you can monetize an app idea by developing an MVP, validating demand, and seeking funding. For instance, many startups secure investment by presenting their app prototype to investors.
Overcome Challenges and Build a Successful Educational App
Want to take the first step toward building your own educational app? Use our App Cost Calculator to map out the features, budget, and development timeline you’ll need to turn your idea into reality.
Meet Our Expert Flutter Development Team
Our full-cycle Flutter development team at Ptolemay specializes in building high-quality, cross-platform apps from start to finish. With expert skills in Dart, backend integrations, and seamless UX across iOS and Android, we handle everything to make your app launch smooth and efficient.