Public service exam prep classes

Job seekers, students and newcomers who want structured study, plus some employers or community groups who book sessions for their members.

Course fees per student for a block of classes, plus extra for mock tests, one-on-one feedback and study materials.

• Teaching groups
• Organising schedules and bookings
• Marketing to local communities
• Writing course material

• Some provinces regulate private training schools, so check with your provincial regulator whether you must register
• Commercial general liability insurance and a lease or room-rental agreement
• Never guarantee results or imply a link with government, and write your own practice questions
• Winter weather can lower evening attendance, so keep an online option
• In Quebec, check French-language rules for advertising and course material

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on the room you rent, your course materials and how you market the classes. Treat this as an estimate and get real quotes for your area.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,000 to $9,000, depending on class sizes, how often you run sessions and your pricing. The estimate assumes at least about 12 hours a week, so actual results will vary.

Check with your provincial regulator whether private training schools must register. Also check commercial general liability insurance, your lease or room-rental agreement, and Quebec French-language rules. Never guarantee results or imply a government link, and write your own practice questions.