London-based edtech startup Medly AI has successfully secured $8 million in a seed funding round led by Felix Capital. Founded by two former NHS doctors, the company aims to democratize private tutoring through its advanced artificial intelligence platform. This new investment will accelerate its mission to provide personalized academic support to students preparing for crucial exams.
Founders' Mission and Market Opportunity
Medly was co-founded by Dr. Paul Jung and Dr. Kavi Samra, who met in secondary school and both studied medicine at UCL. Their personal experiences of being unable to afford private tutoring directly inspired the company's creation. This shared background provides an authentic origin story and a powerful market thesis for the exam-prep platform.
Co-founder Dr. Paul Jung highlighted the disparity, stating that tutoring is a "powerful advantage" for those who can afford it. With nearly a third of UK secondary students receiving private tuition, Medly addresses a significant market gap. The company aims to level the playing field by making high-quality academic support accessible to all.
An AI-Powered Tutoring Platform
The platform's core is a proprietary AI system that combines seven large language models with principles from neuroscience and teaching theory. This technology allows the AI tutor to track a student's learning patterns and adapt its feedback accordingly. The system delivers personalized support through a conversational interface, moving beyond traditional worksheet-based learning methods.
Students can answer practice questions and receive immediate, detailed feedback, including guidance on how to earn additional marks. A key feature is its handwriting recognition, which is particularly useful for subjects like mathematics and chemistry. The platform currently covers major UK curricula such as GCSEs, A-levels, and the International Baccalaureate.
Growth, Expansion, and Government Backing
Since its launch in February 2025, Medly has reported impressive growth, attracting over 400,000 users in the UK. The company claims high engagement, with students spending around an hour per day on the platform. Medly is conducting further trials to formally assess the platform's impact on student grades.
Medly has already begun its international expansion by launching SAT preparation services in the United States. The company plans to broaden its American offerings by adding support for AP and ACT exams before the end of the year. This strategic move signals its ambition to become a global leader in AI-driven educational support.
In a significant endorsement, the UK government selected Medly for its AI Tutoring Tools Pioneers Programme. As one of only eight suppliers chosen, the company secured a research contract aimed at raising attainment among disadvantaged pupils. This government backing provides both funding and validation for Medly's approach to educational technology.
Strategic Investment and Future Plans
The $8 million seed round was led by Felix Capital, with continued support from existing investors Eka Ventures and Ada Ventures. Investors have expressed strong confidence in the founders' personal mission and the rapid pace at which the company has scaled. This funding follows a previous £1.7 million round announced earlier in the year.
The new capital will be used to expand Medly's student community in the UK and support its ongoing international growth. Funds are also earmarked for developing additional AI capabilities, including proprietary models for marking and pedagogy. Furthermore, the investment will support expanded research into the platform's impact on academic outcomes.
With its latest $8 million in funding, Medly AI is positioned to scale its innovative solution for educational inequality. The company's blend of advanced AI, a strong social mission, and its founders' vision has attracted significant investor support. As it expands globally, Medly is poised to make a substantial impact on how students prepare for their academic futures.