My purpose for this exploratory qualitative research was to gain insights into the perceptions of high school students in Italy who receive private tutoring in mathematics, about their experience and expectations. Little prior research from the perspective of the students has been conducted. Results suggest that some students use private tutoring as a learning crutch. Although private tutoring might help prevent high school dropouts in Italy, more research is needed to determine its influence on high school completion. (Contains 2 tables.)