Frequently Asked Questions.

Tremblay Education is a Canadian education consultancy that helps international students apply to and enrol in Canadian universities and colleges. Founded in 2019 by immigration lawyer Marie Tremblay, we provide end-to-end support including university matching, application management, visa assistance, and pre-departure orientation - all completely free for students.

Yes, 100%. We're paid by our partner universities when you enrol. You never pay for our counselling, application support, visa assistance, or any other service. There are no hidden fees, no charges for consultations, and no costs for document reviews.

Three key differences: we're Canada-exclusive (deep expertise rather than spreading thin across many countries), we have licensed immigration lawyers on staff (not just counsellors), and we're transparent about your chances (no false promises). Our 94% visa approval rate speaks to the quality of our approach.

We work with students from over 40 countries including Nigeria, India, Brazil, Philippines, Vietnam, Iran, Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, Colombia, Ghana, Kenya, and many more. Our team includes regional managers who understand the specific needs and challenges of students from different parts of the world.

From first consultation to university acceptance, typically 2-4 weeks. Visa processing adds another 4-8 weeks depending on your country. The entire process from start to arrival in Canada usually takes 3-5 months. We recommend starting at least 4-6 months before your intended start date.

Requirements vary by program and institution, but typically include: academic transcripts, proof of language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a valid passport. Graduate programs may require GRE/GMAT scores, a CV, and a research proposal. Our advisors provide a personalized checklist based on your target programs.

No ethical counsellor can guarantee admission. What we do guarantee is that your application will be as strong as possible, reviewed by experts, and submitted correctly. We're honest about your chances and recommend programs where you have a realistic prospect of acceptance. Our multi-application strategy ensures the best odds.

Most undergraduate programs require an IELTS score of 6.0-6.5 overall (with no band below 6.0). Graduate programs typically require 6.5-7.0. Some professional programs like Nursing or Education may require 7.0 or higher. We can also help you find programs that accept Duolingo, TOEFL, or PTE scores as alternatives.

Yes, education gaps are common and acceptable if properly explained. Canadian universities understand that students may take time off for work, family responsibilities, or personal reasons. The key is to address the gap honestly in your statement of purpose and show how the experience has prepared you for your studies.

We recommend starting 4-6 months before your intended start date. For the Fall (September) intake, begin in October-November. For Winter (January) intake, begin in June-July. Early applications often have a higher acceptance rate and better scholarship opportunities.

Absolutely. Our licensed immigration lawyers review every study permit application. This includes preparing your study plan, organizing financial documentation, and ensuring your application is as strong as possible. This service is included at no extra cost.

The PGWP is an open work permit that allows you to work in Canada for up to 3 years after completing your studies at a designated learning institution. The length of the permit depends on the duration of your program. It's a key pathway to permanent residency through Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs.

Yes! Study permit holders can work off-campus up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks (summer, winter holidays). You can also work on-campus without any hour restrictions. No separate work permit is needed for off-campus work.

Yes, your spouse or common-law partner can apply for an open work permit that is valid for the same duration as your study permit. Your dependent children can also study in Canadian public schools. We handle family visa applications alongside your study permit.

Yes, Canada has several immigration pathways for international graduates. The most common route is: complete your studies → obtain a PGWP → gain Canadian work experience → apply through Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program. Canadian education and work experience significantly boost your PR application score.

International student tuition ranges from CAD $15,000-$35,000 per year for most undergraduate and master's programs. MBA and professional programs can cost $30,000-$60,000+. Living expenses (rent, food, transportation) average $15,000-$20,000 per year depending on the city. Smaller cities like Winnipeg or Halifax are significantly cheaper than Toronto or Vancouver.

Many Canadian universities offer entrance scholarships for international students, ranging from $1,000 to full tuition. Our scholarship specialist helps you identify and apply for all opportunities you're eligible for. Our students have collectively secured over $2 million in scholarships. Visit our Scholarships page for more details.

You need to show proof of funds for your first year of tuition plus living expenses (approximately CAD $20,635 per year as of 2024, or $10,000 for Quebec). This can be demonstrated through bank statements, a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), education loans, or a combination. Our advisors provide specific guidance based on your situation.

Yes, you can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions and full-time during breaks. At minimum wage (varies by province, roughly $15-17/hour), this can cover a significant portion of your living expenses. Many students also find on-campus jobs, teaching assistantships, or co-op placements that pay well.

We can help you apply for undergraduate degrees (Bachelor's), graduate degrees (Master's, PhD), graduate certificates, diplomas, and advanced diplomas across all fields of study. Canada has over 10,000 programs at designated learning institutions, and our database covers 1,500+ programs at our partner institutions.

The most popular fields include Computer Science & IT, Business & Management, Engineering, Health Sciences, Data Science & Analytics, and Biotechnology. However, Canada offers excellent programs in virtually every field. Our advisors help you find the program that best fits your career goals, not just what's popular.

Co-op (cooperative education) programs alternate academic semesters with paid work placements in your field of study. These programs give you real Canadian work experience, help you build a professional network, and earn money while studying. Universities like Waterloo, Toronto Metropolitan, and Concordia are famous for their co-op programs.

Yes, you can change programs or transfer universities, but there are important immigration implications. You must remain enrolled at a designated learning institution and maintain full-time student status. If you change institutions, you may need to update your study permit conditions. Always consult with our team before making changes.

Options include on-campus residence (dormitories), off-campus apartments, homestays with Canadian families, or shared housing with other students. Most universities guarantee residence for first-year students if you apply early. Our pre-departure team helps you explore options and can assist with temporary accommodation for your first few days.

On-campus residence typically costs $800-$1,500/month including meals. Off-campus shared accommodation ranges from $500-$1,000/month depending on the city. A one-bedroom apartment costs $1,000-$2,000/month. Toronto and Vancouver are the most expensive, while cities like Montreal, Winnipeg, and Halifax offer more affordable options.

Yes, our pre-departure support includes accommodation guidance. We help you understand your options, connect you with university housing offices, and provide resources for finding off-campus housing. We can also arrange temporary accommodation for your first week while you settle in and find permanent housing.

We generally recommend arranging temporary accommodation (1-2 weeks) and then viewing permanent options in person. Rental scams targeting international students are common. If you do rent from abroad, use verified platforms, never send money before verifying the listing, and have someone you trust view the property. Our team can provide guidance on safe housing searches.