1. Introduction
At UK School of English (UKSE), we prioritize transparency and fairness in our interactions with applicants, prospective students, and enrolled learners, particularly regarding fee payments and refund policies. Enrolment in a course at UKSE constitutes a legally binding agreement, requiring students to adhere to the terms outlined here in exchange for the educational services provided.
This policy aims to define the rights and responsibilities of students concerning fees and refunds, ensuring clarity and compliance with consumer protection laws, including the guidance provided by the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) and sector best practices.
While the School cannot be held accountable for changes in a student’s personal circumstances, UKSE will review exceptional cases individually to maintain fairness in line with CMA guidelines.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all tuition and non-tuition fees charged by UKSE for international and online students. It ensures students understand their rights and obligations related to payments and refunds, including administrative and visa-related fees. Examination fees are not covered by this policy.
3. Policy Objectives
- To provide clear guidance on the limited circumstances under which refunds or cancellations are granted.
- To ensure fair and transparent practices, complying with CMA guidelines.
- To outline how refunds are calculated and processed.
4. Refund Principles
Refunds are granted only under specific conditions. Requests must be processed within 30 calendar days, and a non-refundable administrative fee of £350 will be deducted where applicable plus bank transfer charges which can be upto 3% of the fee.
5. Circumstances for Refunds
Refund:
- If a visa refusal results from an administrative or procedural error by UKSE exclude the registration fee and bank charges.
6. Circumstances Where Refunds Are Not Granted
Refunds will not be issued under the following circumstances:
- Withdrawal after receiving a visa sponsorship letter but before applying for a visa.
- Visa refusals due to insufficient personal funds or failure to provide required documentation.
- Refusals caused by inaccurate information supplied by the student or prior visa rejections impacting the current application.
- Non-compliance with attendance or performance regulations leading to withdrawal or deportation.
- Withdrawal within 14 days before the course start date or after the course has started.
Refund requests based on visa refusal will only be considered after a final administrative review decision.
7. Deferrals
Students unable to start their course may apply to defer their enrolment. Approval is at the discretion of UKSE, and a non-refundable administrative fee of £500 will be charged. Deferral requests must include supporting evidence and be submitted in writing.
8. Refund Application Process
Refund requests must be made in writing to admission@ukse.ac.uk, signed by the student, and include relevant supporting documentation. UKSE will review each application fairly and notify the student of the outcome within a reasonable timeframe.
9. Refunds for Online Courses
Refunds for online courses will only be granted in exceptional cases. A minimum of 28 calendar days is required for processing.
Cooling-off Period:
Students who cancel within 14 days of enrolment will receive a refund minus an administrative fee of 20% (minimum £350) and any non-tuition costs. Notification must be submitted in writing within this period.
After 14 Days:
Refunds are not available, but students may transfer to another course without additional charges.
10. Non-Tuition Costs
Non-tuition costs include:
- Administrative fees for processing refunds or changes.
- Postage and printing costs for course materials.
- Accommodation booking fees or travel arrangements facilitated by UKSE.
- Visa application or processing charges.
11. Liability and Course Materials
Course materials provided are for personal use only and cannot be sold, loaned, or reproduced without written permission from the School. While UKSE makes every effort to provide accurate information, students are responsible for applying the skills learned, and UKSE cannot be held liable for individual outcomes.
12. Important Notice
UKSE reserves the right to amend courses, facilities, or policies as needed. Information provided is accurate at the time of publication, but changes may occur due to government policy or operational requirements.
13. Glossary
- Applicants: Individuals who have applied for a course but have not received confirmation of acceptance.
- Prospective Students: Those considering or applying for a course but not yet enrolled.
- Students: Individuals who have completed enrolment and are actively participating in a course.
- Visa Sponsorship Letter: Official documentation supporting a student’s visa application for study in the UK.
For questions or concerns about this policy, contact admission@ukse.ac.uk.