Historically, once students received an Offer Letter they were required to arrange payment of tuition fees and, where applicable, an accommodation deposit. For overseas students, advance payment helped demonstrate commitment when applying for a visa.
A signed enrolment form was required to accompany the payment. A Confirmation of Acceptance for Study (CAS) could not be issued until both payment and documentation had been received.
Students could pay fees through four main methods: bank transfer, bank draft or cheque, credit card or cash.
Bank transfer:
This was often the preferred method for overseas applicants. It was secure and relatively quick. Students were provided with the College’s banking details and instructed to include their application reference number.
Bank draft or cheque:
Drafts were made payable to West London College and sent by secure courier, together with a signed copy of the enrolment form.
Credit card:
Payments could be made using major debit and credit cards. UK cardholders were encouraged to pay in person or by telephone through the College office.
Cash:
Cash payments were accepted in person at the College.
Paying fees in instalments:
Instalment plans were available for some students, depending on visa status and eligibility. Additional charges applied, and minimum deposits were specified in Offer Letters.
Visa application (Historical Archive)
Students from outside the European Union or European Economic Area were required to hold a valid study visa before entering the UK. Applications were made through British embassies and consulates and had to demonstrate acceptance at a recognised academic institution and sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
Information issued in the CAS documents was used as part of the visa application. Applicants also needed to provide proof of funds to cover living expenses and any remaining tuition fees.
Evidence was normally shown in the form of bank statements, loans or scholarship documents. UK immigration rules changed periodically, and students followed guidance provided with their CAS and from College representatives.
In cases where a visa application was refused and the student chose not to re-apply, fees paid were refunded, minus the registration fee.
Booking accommodation (Historical Archive)
The College offered hostel accommodation across West London, providing shared rooms, meals and utilities for new students. Accommodation deposits were paid in advance, and places were allocated after visas and travel arrangements were confirmed. Students submitted booking forms prior to arrival, and cancellation charges sometimes applied.
Working in London (Historical Archive)
Many students combined study with part-time work and full-time work during holidays. Employers valued work experience, and the College’s central location provided access to numerous opportunities.
Visa restrictions applied, meaning that work permissions depended on the course type. Students on university degree programmes could normally work limited hours during term time and full time during vacations.
A service known as the Job Shop supported students with CVs, applications and interview preparation, and shared vacancies from local employers.
Passports and visas (Historical Archive)
The College assisted students with passport and visa formalities where possible, including extensions when required.
Health (Historical Archive)
International students staying in the UK for six months or more were generally entitled to treatment under the National Health Service. Students were advised to register with a doctor shortly after arrival.
Living expenses and banking (Historical Archive)
Some parents or sponsors chose to allow the College to manage student living funds. Money was held by the Bursar and released weekly according to instructions, helping students budget effectively. There was no charge for this optional service.
Progress reports (Historical Archive)
On request, the College sent academic progress reports to parents, guardians or sponsors named by the student.
Terms and conditions (Historical Archive)
Students were expected to attend classes regularly in accordance with immigration requirements. Attendance certificates and references were withheld where attendance fell below required levels.
Tuition fees were generally non-refundable except in specific visa-related circumstances. Fee adjustments were handled in line with course changes or exemptions.
Courses could be postponed or cancelled where enrolment numbers were insufficient. Public holidays were observed, and no refund was given for missed teaching on those dates.
The information printed in the original prospectus was accurate at the time of publication but subject to change.
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