The cost of a course varies according to how the course is funded. There are different rates charged per hour to reflect the different funding streams and the types of courses offered. Please contact any of the centres if you would like to talk with a member of staff about costs.
Many of the course fees also include the costs of essential materials and examinations, where appropriate. For all courses with the exception of Family learning courses a college registration fee applies which is included in the fee listed.

For non accredited courses this year the college has planned courses with group numbers considered. It is recognised that for some subjects smaller group sizes are desirable and the planning of the courses has taken this into account.

Where course numbers recruited are below the numbers targeted SCOLA managers will discuss with students strategies to maintain the class wherever possible by negotiating additional fees or reduction in weeks as appropriate.

Concessionary Fees
There are some courses where concessions can be made available based on eligibility.
There are some accredited courses where the funding body does not permit concessions unless the student is accessing Job Seekers Allowance or Employment Support Allowance (WRAG).

On other courses the college can offer concessions for those accessing means tested benefits. Please ask the Enrolment Centre staff if you need any guidance. Students wishing to claim a concession must provide current proof of eligibility at the time of enrolment.

Eligibility for Standard Fees
Fees advertised in the prospectus are subject to students meeting eligibility guidelines which specify that students must have been resident in the UK for 3 years before the start date of the course. Students who have not been resident for the period of time will be required to pay a fee of £8.50 per hour on courses in addition to any materials & exam costs as no subsidy can be accessed.

Students under 16
Students under 16 may be accepted on courses subject to interview. The fee payable will be £8.50 per hour.

Students aged 16-18
Students aged 16 on 01/09/11 and under 19 on 31/08/11 are eligible on accredited courses for free tuition and examination fees. On non accredited courses no subsidy is available and a fee of £8.50 per hour for tuition will be charged.

Fee Payments
In all circumstances fees outstanding must be paid by dates confirmed with the student. Future enrolments on to courses may be at risk if there are outstanding fees owed. Fees must be paid even if the student decides to withdraw from a course.
Fees can be paid by credit card for which the college will make a nominal charge of £1.00 per payment.
Students can pay by debit card without incurring a charge.

Cheques must be made payable to SCOLA.

Help with Fees
The College recognises that there are occasions when access to some financial support may help students. There are some funds available to support students, subject to certain criteria being met. More information

Where a course runs for 20 weeks or more the college may permit students to pay the fee in 2 instalments, with an additional £15 admin fee. In all cases the second instalment must be paid even if the student fails to continue attending the course.

Refund Policy
Unless there are exceptional circumstances, course fees will be refunded only if the course is CANCELLED or CLOSED prematurely by the College.
Refunds will not be granted if students choose to withdraw part way through the course.

Download the full Refund Policy (pdf link opening in new window)

Full details of the College's refund policy are available on request from Centre offices.