Tutoring in Quebec: How to Choose (and What It Costs)
Finding the right academic support for your child can be stressful. You want to do right by them, but there are many options and prices vary widely. This guide is here to give you the straight facts — no jargon, no pressure.
At TutorAide, we believe the best tutors are often those who truly understand what students go through: passionate university students who still remember their own academic challenges. It’s this approach — young people helping each other — that makes us different.
Why do so many Quebec families turn to tutoring?
Quebec’s school system is demanding. Between specialized programs, private schools with their admission exams, and ministry exams, the academic pressure is real.
But tutoring isn’t just about “saving” grades. Families contact us for all sorts of reasons:
- A boost in math or French to solidify the basics
- Preparation for high school admission exams
- Regular homework support and time management help
- Adapted support for a child with ADHD or dyslexia
- Or simply an older student who can explain things differently than the teacher
What we often hear from parents: “My child understands better when it’s explained by someone closer to their age.” And it’s true — there’s something powerful about learning from someone who’s been through it recently.
The different types of tutoring available
In-home tutoring
The classic. The tutor comes to your home, settles at the kitchen table or in your child’s room, and works with them in their own environment.
Why it works well: The student is in a familiar space, there’s no commute to manage, and the tutor can see how the child organizes (or doesn’t organize!) their study area.
Ideal for: Elementary students and those who need structure and physical presence.
Online tutoring
In recent years, online tutoring has really taken off. Via Zoom or Google Meet, our tutors can support students with screen sharing, virtual whiteboards, and lots of flexibility.
Why it works well: No time wasted in transit, more flexible schedules, and honestly, teens are often more comfortable in front of a screen than with someone sitting next to them. It’s also the best option for families in rural areas.
Ideal for: High school students, busy schedules, or families outside major urban centers.
Semi-private tutoring (small groups)
An interesting option: 2 to 4 students at the same level work together with a tutor. It’s more affordable and creates a dynamic of mutual support.
Why it works well: Students learn from each other, motivate one another, and the rates are reduced.
Ideal for: Exam preparation or students who thrive in a group setting.
How much does tutoring cost in Quebec in 2026?
Let’s talk pricing clearly. Here’s what you can expect:
| Type of service | Price | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Student tutor (independent) | $25 - $35/h | Variable — some are excellent, others less reliable |
| Agency like TutorAide | $33 - $39/h | Verified tutors, follow-up, replacement if it’s not a match |
| Admission exam specialist | $40 - $60/h | Targeted preparation for private schools |
| Educational therapist | $80 - $120/h | For diagnosed learning disabilities |
Our rates at TutorAide:
- Plus Package: $33/hour (with commitment)
- Regular rate: $39/hour
All our tutors are university students who go through a selection process, background check, and training. If the match doesn’t work out, we find another one — it’s included.
How to choose the right tutor?
This is THE question. And the answer isn’t always what you’d expect.
The human “fit” matters as much as skills
A tutor can have perfect grades and still not be the right match for your child. What really matters: does your child feel comfortable? Are they looking forward to their next session (or at least not resisting it)?
Our tutors are students who chose to help because they enjoy it. They remember what it’s like to struggle with a subject, and they know how to explain things patiently, in accessible language.
Background checks: non-negotiable
It seems obvious, but make sure the tutor has passed a criminal background check. At TutorAide, it’s automatic for all our tutors.
Ask the right questions
Before starting, clarify:
- What are the specific goals? (Not just “improve in math,” but “understand fractions” or “go from 62% to 75%”)
- How often? (Once a week is often enough to maintain momentum)
- How will the tutor communicate progress?
A good tutor will ask you these questions themselves. If they don’t, that’s a red flag.
Getting the most out of tutoring
The tutor is only part of the equation. Here’s how to optimize your investment:
Before the first session: Gather recent exams, notebooks, and identify problematic chapters. The more information the tutor has, the more effectively they can help.
Between sessions: Encourage your child to practice what was covered. Even 15-20 minutes of review makes a difference.
After a few weeks: Check in. Are grades improving? Is your child less stressed about homework? That’s a good sign. If after 5-6 sessions there’s no progress, talk to the tutor or ask for a change.
The tax credit for tutoring in Quebec
Good news: tutoring is eligible for the tax credit for children’s activities (line 462). Note: this is not the childcare expense credit (line 455), which is for daycare — they’re two different credits.
Conditions:
- Sessions must span a minimum of 8 consecutive weeks
- The child must be at least 5 years old but under 16 at the start of the year
- Family income under $168,470
The calculation:
- 20% credit on your tutoring fees
- Maximum of $500 in eligible expenses per child
- So a credit of $100 per child
- Declare on line 462
If your child has a diagnosis (ADHD, dyslexia, etc.):
- You can also potentially claim tutoring fees as medical expenses
- You need a written certificate from your doctor
- The credit can be more substantial
In all cases: keep your receipts! We automatically provide them to all our clients.
Regions served in Quebec
In-home, our tutors travel throughout the Greater Montreal Metropolitan area and beyond:
- Montreal: Plateau, Rosemont, Ahuntsic, Villeray, NDG, Cote-des-Neiges, Outremont, Westmount, Verdun, LaSalle
- Laval: Chomedey, Vimont, Sainte-Dorothee, Duvernay
- North Shore: Terrebonne, Mascouche, Repentigny, L’Assomption, Blainville, Sainte-Eustache
- South Shore: Longueuil, Brossard, Saint-Lambert, Boucherville, Saint-Bruno
- West Island: Pointe-Claire, Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Kirkland, Beaconsfield
- Sherbrooke: Downtown, Fleurimont, Rock Forest, Lennoxville
- Quebec City: Sainte-Foy, Beauport, Charlesbourg, Levis
Online, we serve all of Quebec — from Gatineau to Rimouski, including Trois-Rivieres and Saguenay.
Frequently asked questions
My child just needs homework help. Is it worth it?
Yes! Regular homework help can transform your evening routine. Instead of battles and frustration, your child has someone patient to guide them. And often, that’s where we discover the real gaps to work on.
How long before seeing results?
It depends on the situation, but generally we see changes after 4 to 6 sessions — not necessarily in grades right away, but in confidence, work methods, and attitude toward homework. Grades follow.
Do you offer admission exam preparation?
Yes. Our tutors can prepare your child for private school exams. We work on math, French, and especially stress and time management.
Ready to find the right tutor?
At TutorAide, we match each student with a student tutor who understands their challenges — because they’ve been through it not so long ago. It’s human, accessible, and effective academic support.
Questions? Email us at info@tutoraide.ca — we always respond.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does tutoring cost in Quebec in 2026?
Tutoring in Quebec generally costs between $25 and $50/hour depending on the level and the tutor's experience. At TutorAide, our rates are $33/hour with a package or $39/hour at the regular rate. Educational therapists, for specialized needs, charge between $80 and $120/hour.
Is tutoring tax-deductible in Quebec?
Yes! Tutoring is eligible for the tax credit for children's activities (line 462) if sessions span at least 8 consecutive weeks and the child is between 5 and 15 years old. The credit is 20% of fees, up to $500 per child — a maximum credit of $100. Family income must be under $168,470. If your child has a medical diagnosis (ADHD, dyslexia, etc.), you can also claim fees as medical expenses.
Is online tutoring as effective as in-home tutoring?
It really depends on the age and learning style. For elementary students, in-person tutoring generally works better. For high school students, online tutoring is often just as effective — teens are comfortable with technology and appreciate the flexibility.
At what age can a child benefit from tutoring?
Tutoring can help as early as Grade 1, especially for building strong foundations in reading and math. For younger children, we recommend shorter sessions (30-45 minutes) with a playful approach.
How do I know if my child needs a tutor?
Some signs include: dropping grades, frustration with homework, lack of confidence, or homework taking much longer than expected. If you're unsure, a tutor can do an initial assessment to help you see clearly.
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