Pricing Types: Duration-Based vs. Session-Based

Understand how to structure pricing using time-based, session-based, or hybrid plans.

Written by Swathi N

When creating pricing plans in Lynk, you’re not limited to choosing a single pricing type. The Plan Builder now allows you to configure pricing based on:

  • Duration (time-based)

  • Sessions (class-based)

  • Or a combination of both

Understanding these models helps you design pricing that matches how your classes are conducted.


What is Duration-Based Pricing?

Duration-Based pricing charges students for a specific time period, regardless of the number of sessions conducted within that period.

This works like a subscription model.


How Duration-Based Pricing Works

  • The student is charged based on a recurring time cycle

  • They can attend sessions scheduled during that period

  • Billing is independent of session count


Billing Frequency Options

You can define how often the payment is collected:

  • Monthly

  • Quarterly

  • Half-yearly

  • Yearly

  • Custom intervals


Billing Trigger Options

Duration-based pricing supports two billing methods:

1. Joining Date-Based (Rolling Cycle)

  • Charges are applied from each student’s joining date

  • Billing repeats based on the selected frequency using the “every” option

Example:

  • Collect every month from student’s joining date


2. Fixed Date-Based (Calendar Cycle)

  • Charges are applied on a specific date in a cycle

  • Billing is configured using the “on the” option

Example:

  • Collect on the 1st of every month or quarter


When to Use Duration-Based Pricing

This model is ideal for:

  • Subscription-based coaching programs

  • Ongoing classes with fixed schedules

  • Academies with regular monthly or quarterly fees


What is Session-Based Pricing?

Session-Based pricing charges students based on a fixed number of sessions.

Instead of paying for time, students purchase a defined session package.


Number of Sessions

When creating a session-based plan, you must define:

  • The total number of sessions included

Examples:

  • 8 sessions pack

  • 10 sessions pack

  • 12 sessions pack

This determines how many classes the student is paying for.


Session Rule: How Sessions Are Counted

You also define how sessions are deducted:

  • Conducted sessions

  • Attended sessions

Difference:

  • Conducted: Sessions are counted regardless of attendance

  • Attended: Sessions are counted only when the student is present


How Session-Based Pricing Works

  • The student purchases a fixed number of sessions

  • Sessions are tracked based on your selected rule

  • Once all sessions are used, the plan is completed


When to Use Session-Based Pricing

This model is ideal for:

  • Flexible learning schedules

  • Short-term programs or skill-based training

  • Trial packs or bundled class offerings


Combining Duration and Session-Based Pricing

Lynk also allows you to combine both duration and session logic in a single plan.

This gives you more control over how pricing is applied.


How Hybrid Pricing Works

  • You define a billing frequency (duration)

  • You also define a session limit within that period

Example:

  • Collect ₹2000 every month from joining date for 8 attended sessions


When to Use Hybrid Pricing

Use this when:

  • You want to limit sessions within a subscription

  • You want to balance time-based access with session control

  • You need more structured and controlled pricing models


Key Differences

Duration-Based

Session-Based

Based on time period

Based on number of sessions

Recurring billing cycle

One-time session pack

Not dependent on session count

Requires session count (mandatory)

Supports fixed or joining date billing

Supports conducted or attended tracking

Choosing the Right Pricing Model

Use Duration-Based pricing when:

  • You run regular, ongoing classes

  • You want a subscription model

  • You prefer fixed or recurring billing cycles


Use Session-Based pricing when:

  • You offer class packages

  • You want to limit session usage

  • You need attendance-based billing flexibility


Use a Combination (Hybrid) when:

  • You want structured subscriptions with limits

  • You want better control over session usage

  • Your program requires both time and session constraints


Conclusion

Lynk’s Plan Builder gives you the flexibility to design pricing that fits your coaching model. Whether you choose duration-based, session-based, or a combination of both, you can define exactly how and when students are charged. This ensures your pricing remains clear, flexible, and aligned with how your classes are delivered.

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