Test Preparation Services (TPS)

This page explains the environment for an international student to learn and stay in Ottawa while attending an Ottawa university or college.

Ottawa
Ontario

ESL Tutor College & University Foundation Programs

Telephone at 613-447-1622 or [email protected]

Environment for International Students in Ottawa Colleges & Universities

Ottawa’s colleges and universities provide a welcoming and inclusive environment for international students. The city’s reputation as a safe, multicultural, and bilingual hub makes it an attractive destination for students from around the world. Institutions like the University of Ottawa, Carleton University, and Algonquin College offer robust support systems to help international students succeed academically and socially.

Support Systems

1. International Student Offices: Dedicated offices provide assistance with admissions, visas, health insurance, and orientation programs to help students adjust to life in Canada.
2. Academic Support: Tutoring centers, writing labs, and study workshops are available to help students improve their academic skills.
3. Language Support: Many institutions offer English as a Second Language (ESL) or French as a Second Language (FSL) programs to help students improve their language proficiency.
4. Cultural and Social Activities: Universities and colleges organize events, clubs, and cultural celebrations to help international students connect with peers and feel at home.
5. Career Services: Career centers offer guidance on internships, co-op programs, and job placements, helping students gain valuable work experience.
   

Integration into Academic Life
International students are typically integrated into mainstream programs after completing any required language or foundation courses. For example, students at the University of Ottawa’s English Intensive Program (EIP) or Carleton University’s ESLA program can transition into degree programs once they meet the language proficiency requirements. This phased approach ensures that students are well-prepared for the academic demands of their chosen field.

Why Ottawa is a Better Choice Compared to Larger Cities
Ottawa offers several advantages over larger cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver for international students:

1. Affordability: Ottawa’s cost of living is lower than in Toronto or Vancouver, making it easier for students to manage expenses like tuition, housing, and daily needs.
2. Safety: Ottawa is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in Canada, providing a secure environment for students.
3. Bilingual Environment: As Canada’s capital, Ottawa offers a unique bilingual (English and French) environment, which can enhance students’ language skills and cultural understanding.
4. Smaller Class Sizes: Compared to larger universities in Toronto or Vancouver, Ottawa’s institutions often have smaller class sizes, allowing for more personalized attention from professors.
5. High-Quality Education: Ottawa’s colleges and universities are known for their strong academic programs, research opportunities, and state-of-the-art facilities.
   
   

What Will a Tutor Do? 

The role of a tutor in a college or University Foundation Program is to ensure that you are well prepared for the various forms of assessment that ensure that you move up the levels. The tutor will look closely at your assessment and assignment dates and prepare you to meet the criteria and edit your work for quality. The tutors are familiar with the ESL courses. 

​Registering for an ESL Tutorial 

Look through the following times for ESL tutors in the Ottawa area


Monday                   3:00 - 5:00 pm or 4:00 - 6:00 pm; 7:00 - 9:00 pm or 6:30 - 8:30 pm

Tuesday                  3:00 - 5:00 pm or 4:00 - 6:00 pm; 7:00 - 9:00 pm or 6:30 - 8:30 pm

Wednesday             3:00 - 5:00 pm or 4:00 - 6:00 pm; 7:00 - 9:00 pm or 6:30 - 8:30 pm

Thursday                 3:00 - 5:00 pm or 4:00 - 6:00 pm; 7:00 - 9:00 pm or 6:30 - 8:30 pm

Friday                      3:00 - 5:00 pm or 4:00 - 6:00 pm; 7:00 - 9:00 pm or 6:30 - 8:30 pm

Saturday                  9:00 - 11:00 am; 3:00 - 5:00 pm or 4:00 - 6:00 pm; 7:00 - 9:00 pm or 6:30 - 8:30 pm; 7:00 - 9:00 pm or 6:30 - 8:30 pm

Sunday                    9:00 - 11:00 am; 3:00 - 5:00 pm or 4:00 - 6:00 pm; 7:00 - 9:00 pm or 6:30 - 8:30 pm

​​How to Book a Class

Registering just involves going to the registration page and filling out a form or emailing us directly at [email protected] . Alternatively you are welcome to call us at 613-447-1622 to check if a time is open.

​Before You Call Us ...

Make sure you read carefully the tutor and student obligations and have a look at the ESL Course Page to determine the needs.  If you need to see what the 3 major post secondary institutions in Ottawa require in their programs in the ESL Foundation Program page and get information on study tips, with  strategies, skills and topics and information .