Registration and Enrolment Policy


Policy Statement

The School is committed to providing an environment where students can thrive, supported by access to its services, resources, and facilities. 

Timely registration and meeting deadlines is critical for students to access these resources and participate fully in education, integrate into the academic community, and be positioned to succeed.

This policy outlines the requirement for students to register by the specified deadlines, confirming their enrolment and compliance with the terms, conditions, and regulations, paying tuition fees, and committing fully to their academic experience.

Principles

  • Accessibility: Making the registration and enrolment protocols straightforward and accessible to all students.
  • Clarity: Offering clear guidance on registration and enrolment requirements and deadlines.
  • Equity: Ensuring fair and non-discriminatory practices in all registration and enrolment activities.
  • Efficiency: Striving for a swift and smooth process that respects the students' time and needs.
  • Accuracy: Maintaining precise records to reflect correct student details and enrolment statuses.
  • Support: Providing necessary assistance and support to students during the registration process.
  • Transparency: Keeping students well-informed about the implications of their enrolment decisions.
  • Compliance: Upholding all legal and regulatory requirements governing student registration.
  • Responsibility: Clarifying the responsibilities of both students and the School during the enrolment process.
  • Confidentiality: Safeguarding the privacy and security of student information throughout the registration period.
  • Integration: Facilitating the integration of students into the School community from the outset of their registration.
  • Continuous Improvement: Regularly reviewing and enhancing the policy to improve experiences and outcomes of the registration process.

Regulatory Context

This Policy has been developed in line with the applicable laws, regulations, regulatory advice, and sector best practices, including the following:

Authority Name Url
UK Government Consumer Rights Act 2015
A UK law that consolidates consumer rights, covering contracts for goods, services, digital content, and providing remedies for faulty goods and services.
UK Home Office Study in the UK on a Student visa
Sets out the requirements for international students who wish to study in the UK.
Office for Students (OfS) Regulatory framework for higher education in England
This framework outlines OfS' primary aim to ensure positive outcomes for students, including access, success, and progress in higher education. It covers quality academic experience, progress into employment, and value for money.
UK Government Equality Act 2010
Equalities law to prohibit harassment and victimisation, and eliminate discrimination, including in the area of further and higher education, particularly with regards to specified personal characteristics.
Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) Advice - Admissions, Recruitment and Widening Access

Contract Terms and Conditions

Title
Rule
Contractual Obligations for Applicants

Upon accepting an unconditional offer or meeting all conditions for an undergraduate or postgraduate programme, applicants enter a contract with the School. They must:

  • Pay all tuition fees, additional fees, and charges detailed in the pre-contract information before the effective date of registration.
  • Complete the registration process by the effective date of registration. Applicants may need to provide additional information in person or by post, so early completion of registration is advisable.

This ensures that students fulfil their financial and administrative obligations before starting their programme, allowing them to access all necessary resources and services promptly.

Admission of International Students

Title
Rule
Deposit Requirement for International Students

International students must also pay the specified deposit before accepting an offer for a programme at the School.

The deposit is required to confirm the offer and secure the student’s place in the programme. 

Rule
Acceptance of Offer for International Applicants

International applicants who meet the deposit requirement and all other conditions set by the School, such as English language proficiency, may formally accept their offer.

Meeting these conditions allows the applicant to proceed with formal acceptance, ensuring they have fulfilled all prerequisites required by the School.

Rule
Conditions for Issuing Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

A Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) will be issued only if the applicant meets the following conditions:

  • All conditions in the conditional offer letter are fulfilled, and the offer is formally accepted by the deadline.
  • The deposit is paid or official evidence of funding from a government or international sponsor is provided.
  • The applicant has not been misled or given unrealistic expectations.
  • The applicant has a genuine intention to study and complete the programme.
  • The CAS questionnaire and supporting documents are submitted.
  • The applicant can demonstrate all required evidence, including maintenance funds, to the UKVI.
  • The applicant agrees to comply with all conditions of stay.

Further, a CAS will also be issued if the Home Office’s processing times indicate that entry clearance can be granted before the registration date.

These conditions ensure that the applicant is fully prepared and eligible for the programme, while also meeting visa and immigration requirements.

Rule
Payment and Registration Requirements for International Students

International students must pay their tuition fees, additional charges, and complete registration by their effective date of registration. That is why the School will generally issue a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) only if the Home Office’s processing times suggest entry clearance can be granted before this date. If a visa is not issued, the Refunds and Compensation Policy will apply. Students should complete registration promptly, as further information may be required in person or by post before the effective date. Deposits contribute towards tuition fees.

Meeting these requirements ensures that students are properly registered and financial arrangements are in place, facilitating a smooth start to their studies. The timing for issuing a CAS aligns with the need to secure a visa before registration begins, and early registration helps manage any additional requirements efficiently.

Registration Information Upon Offer Acceptance

Title
Rule
Notification of Registration and Payment Details

Upon accepting an offer to study at the School, all new Home and International students will receive an email detailing:

  1. The effective date of registration by which they must pay their fees and complete registration.
  2. Instructions on how to pay tuition fees, additional charges, and other fees.
  3. Their username, password, and a link for registration.

This email ensures that students are informed of their registration deadlines, payment procedures, and access credentials, facilitating a smooth and timely enrolment process.

Financial Obligations: Tuition and Additional Costs

Title
Rule
Fee Schedule

Home Students:

Students must settle all tuition fees and additional charges before registration, following the Registration and Enrolment Policy. Payment can be made in one of the following ways:

  • Option A. Full Payment: Pay 100% of all tuition fees and additional charges before the registration date.
  • Option B. Instalment Plan: Pay 50% of all tuition fees and additional charges before the registration date, with the remaining 50% due six calendar months later. An agreement must be signed, and account details provided.

This rule applies even if payments are made by a third party, such as a sponsor. Failure to pay as required may impact registration and could lead to contract termination.

International Students:

International students must pay 50% of tuition fees and any additional charges as a deposit before the School issues a CAS. The remaining 50% is due before registration.

Payments are considered complete when cleared in the School’s bank account. A £15 administration fee and any applicable bank charges will apply to funds that do not clear. Failure to meet payment requirements may affect registration and could result in contract termination.

These rules ensure that all financial obligations are met before registration, which is crucial for maintaining operational and administrative processes. They also provide clear options for managing payments and outline the consequences of non-compliance, ensuring students are fully informed of their financial responsibilities.

Advice
Accepted Payment Methods for Fees

Payments for tuition fees, additional fees and charges, and deposits can be made either by credit or debit card through the School’s online payment platform or via bank transfer to the School's bank account as specified on the invoice.

Please see the Tuition Fees, Additional Charges, and Deposits Policy and Schedule, or contact the School, for additional information.

This rule provides clear options for payment, ensuring students have convenient methods for settling their financial obligations while facilitating efficient processing and record-keeping.

Registration Procedures and Timelines

Title
Rule
Activation of Registration Link

After payment is completed, the registration link will be activated. Applicants must use the provided username and password to access the Automated Governance System (AGS) and change their login details upon entering the registration platform.

This process ensures that applicants can securely access the registration system and update their credentials for future use.

Rule
Section 1: Review and Update Registration Information

The link will direct applicants to their individual registration page on the platform, where they will see:

  • Their title
  • Their full name
  • Their date of birth
  • Their home and term address, landline and mobile numbers, and email address
  • Their mode of study
  • The undergraduate or postgraduate programme and final award
  • The potential modules for that programme
  • Their effective dates of registration and maximum period of registration
  • Emergency contact details
  • Data and statistical questions

Applicants must review this information, make any necessary corrections, and then proceed to the next screen.

This ensures that applicants' personal and programme details are accurate and up-to-date before finalising their registration.

Rule
Section 2: Photograph Upload Requirement

The next screen will prompt applicants to upload a photograph in the specified format. All applicants are required to upload a photo.

Uploading a photograph is essential for completing the registration process and ensuring the identification of each student.

Rule
Section 3: Submission of Additional Information

The next screen will prompt applicants to upload any additional information required by the School, such as an ID document, sponsorship letter, or marriage certificate. In some cases, a Disclosure Barring Service (DBS) check may be necessary; instructions for this will be provided on the screen.

International students must provide:

  • Address, landline and mobile numbers, email address, and any other relevant contact details:
    • Overseas (before and immediately after their studies with the School)
    • During term time in the UK
    • During holidays in the UK
  • Prior qualifications used to gain entry to a School programme
  • Passports and any other related documentation
  • UK Visa / Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) eVisa
  • Any additional evidence requested by the School or CAS Panel, such as references

All documents must be provided in original or notarised copy by the registration date. Translations must be notarised, and copies must be notarised as well. The School is required to keep copies of documents related to a student’s immigration status and provide them to UKVI if requested.

If no additional information is required, this will be confirmed on the screen, allowing the applicant to complete the registration process.

Providing all required documents and information ensures compliance with School policies and immigration regulations, facilitating a smooth registration process.

Rule
Section 4: Confirmation of Learning Support Needs

On the next screen, the applicant must confirm any reasonable adjustments already agreed with the School or indicate if they require learning support and wish to be contacted about it. The School will receive a notification and follow up with the student. If no support is needed, the applicant should state this.

This process ensures that the School is aware of any existing support agreements and can promptly address new requests for learning support. It helps the School provide tailored assistance and maintain clear communication with the student about their needs.

Rule
Final Section (5): Terms and Conditions and Student Charter

Once all previous screens are completed and the School has received all requested information, applicants can proceed to the final page. They must read the School’s terms and conditions, regulations, policies, and Student Charter. Applicants must check the box to confirm that they have read and agree to these documents before completing the registration process.

This rule ensures that applicants acknowledge and agree to the School’s terms and policies, which is necessary for finalising their registration and maintaining clear and informed agreements.

Rule
Extension of Deadlines

The School may extend registration deadlines in exceptional circumstances. To request an extension or ask questions, contact the Admissions Team.

This rule accommodates situations where meeting deadlines is challenging, ensuring flexibility and support for students facing exceptional circumstances.

Rule
Termination of Registration and Enrolment

The School may terminate a student's registration, enrolment, and contract if they fail to complete the full registration process, including submitting original or required documents, or if they provide knowingly false information.

This rule ensures that all students meet the necessary requirements and uphold integrity, maintaining the standards and credibility of the School's enrolment process.

Welcome and Induction

Title
Rule
Welcome Message and Post-Registration Information for Students

Students will receive the following upon completion of their registration:

  1. A confirmation message of their registration and a welcome note from the President.
  2. Information about the School’s vision and values.
  3. A directory with key contact details.
  4. An information pack including a virtual ID card, login details for the Automated Governance System (AGS) and virtual learning environment (VLE), programme and module details, and contact information for programme and module leaders, as well as their Personal Academic Tutor (PAT).
  5. Guidance on accessing and using the School’s resources, including the AGS and VLE, and building
  6. Details on how to access support services such as the Student Success Team and IT support
  7. A calendar of social, career, and other events.
  8. Information on student engagement opportunities.
  9. School regulations and policies.
  10. An induction timetable for the first week, featuring welcome lectures, staff introductions, and opportunities to meet fellow students.

Students will also have the opportunity to provide feedback on the admissions and registration process.

This comprehensive information ensures that students are well-informed and supported as they begin their studies, facilitating a smooth transition into their new academic environment and maximising their engagement with School resources and community.

Programme and Module Enrolment

Title
Rule
Accessing Programme Information and Module Selection

Once the Admissions Team confirms that registration is complete on the AGS, students can use their login details to access the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). They will automatically be enrolled in their programme and core modules upon registration, and can view these details via the VLE.

The programme specification will include:

  • Primary award and a concise title reflecting the programme's subject.
  • Programme description.
  • HECoS (Higher Education Classification of Subjects) code.
  • Required level and credits for the primary award and any exit awards.
  • Overall notional hours for the primary award.
  • Programme aims and outcomes.
  • Module details, including whether they are core or optional, learning outcomes, credit values, teaching methods, and semester of delivery.
  • Graduate attributes.
  • Teaching and assessment strategies.
  • Contact details for the programme leader.

If optional modules are available, their specifications and module leader contact details will be listed to aid in making informed choices. Students must select and enrol for optional modules on the VLE by the specified deadline. The VLE will also provide access to timetables and resources, including flipped learning.

During the first week of each module, an induction will be held where students will meet staff, learn about office hours, and receive key information on learning objectives, content, and assessments. This week is an important opportunity for students and teachers to connect.

This process ensures that students are promptly informed of their programme details and module options, allowing them to efficiently manage their studies and make informed decisions. It also provides necessary resources and support during the initial weeks, helping students to integrate smoothly into their academic environment.

Support Services and Reasonable Adjustments for Learning Needs

Title
Rule
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Commitment

The School is dedicated to equality, diversity, and inclusion, as outlined in its regulations, policies, and procedures, including the Learning Support Plans and Reasonable Adjustments Policy. It adheres to the Equality Act 2010, guided by the Equality and Human Rights Commission. For applicants with disclosed disabilities, long-term health conditions, or other needs, the School assesses whether reasonable adjustments are necessary to ensure fair access and success.

No academically qualified applicant will be denied admission based on disability if reasonable support and adjustments, as required by law, have been considered. Applicants should disclose any disabilities, long-term health conditions, or other needs early in the application process to allow the Admissions and Student Success Team to provide appropriate support and adjustments in line with legislation.

This approach ensures that all applicants receive fair treatment and necessary support, fostering an inclusive environment where students with disabilities or long-term health conditions have equal opportunities to succeed. Early disclosure allows the School to make appropriate adjustments and comply with legal obligations, promoting a supportive and accessible learning experience for everyone.

Rule
Registration

Applicants must confirm any agreed reasonable adjustments in Section 4 of the registration process. If they have not already done so, they may also notify the School of any additional needs for reasonable adjustments in this section. The Student Success Team will arrange to speak with all applicants requiring adjustments after registration. All information will be handled according to the School's privacy policy.

This ensures that all agreed and new reasonable adjustments are documented and addressed promptly. It facilitates proper support planning by the Student Success Team and maintains confidentiality in line with the School's privacy standards.

Re-enrolment Procedures for Returning Students

Title
Rule
Annual Registration for Returning Students

Returning students on multi-level and multi-year programmes must pay and complete the registration process each academic year by the date specified by the School. Registration will only be permitted if all previous tuition fees have been paid. Students must use the payment and registration links provided in the email sent by the School for re-registration.

This ensures that all tuition fees are settled before proceeding with annual registration, maintaining the School's financial and administrative processes.

Duration of Registration and Enrolment Limits

Title
Definition
Maximum Registration Period (MRP) for Programmes

All undergraduate and postgraduate programmes at the School have defined minimum and maximum periods of registration, detailed in the Modes of Study Regulations. The Maximum Registration Period (MRP) specifies the longest time a student may take to complete their programme.

This rule ensures that students complete their studies within a reasonable timeframe, while also providing a clear boundary for programme duration.

Rule
Calculation of Maximum Registration Period (MRP)

The Maximum Registration Period (MRP) is calculated from the effective date of registration on the programme to the date of the student's award. This period includes any time spent on repeat study, intermissions, and intercalations.

Including these periods ensures that the MRP accounts for all time spent on the programme, providing a complete view of the total allowable duration for completion.

Rule
Maximum Registration Periods for Programmes

The Maximum Registration Period (MRP) for completing awards, depending on the programme and mode of study, is as follows:

Award

Full-Time Blended Learning (Years)

Part-Time Blended Learning (Years)

 

Accelerated Blended Learning (years)

 

Flexible Online Learning (Years)

 

Min

Max

Min

Max

Min

Max

Min

Max

Taught masters’ degrees e.g. MSc

1

5

2

10

X

X

1

5

Postgraduate diplomas

1

3

2

6

X

X

1

3

Postgraduate certificates

1

3

2

6

X

X

1

3

Bachelors’ degrees with honours e.g. BSc Hons

3

6

6

12

2

4

3

6

Bachelors’ degrees

3

6

6

12

2

4

3

6

Graduate diplomas

1

3

2

6

X

X

1

3

Graduate certificates

1

3

2

6

X

X

1

3

Diplomas of Higher Education (DipHE)

2

4

4

8

X

X

2

4

Certificates of Higher Education (CertHE)

1

3

2

6

X

X

1

3

Students must complete their awards within the MRP for their mode of study and re-enrol each calendar year. This is subject to requirements from Professional, Statutory, and Regulatory Bodies (PSRB) and other external regulations.

The MRP ensures that students complete their studies within an appropriate timeframe while accommodating various learning modes and programme types. Re-enrolment each year helps maintain student engagement and progress.

Rule
Completion of Programme Within Maximum Registration Period

Students must complete their programme within the Maximum Registration Period (MRP). Failure to do so will result in exclusion from the programme, unless an extension is granted.

Please see the Exclusion Regulations for more information.

This rule ensures that students complete their studies within a set timeframe, maintaining academic standards and programme integrity. Extensions may be granted in exceptional circumstances as detailed in the Academic Regulations.

Metrics and KPIs

The following metrics will be measured and regularly reviewed as key performance indicators for the School to ensure the effectiveness of this policy and associated operations.

Title
Dropout Rate Post-Registration
Monitor the percentage of students who withdraw from their programme within the first term after registration.
A high dropout rate may indicate issues with the registration process or student satisfaction, providing insights for improvements.
Module Enrolment Timeliness
Track the percentage of students who enrol in their modules by the specified deadlines.
Ensures that students are properly enrolled in their chosen modules on time, which is essential for their academic progress and scheduling.
On-Time Payment Rate
Measure the percentage of students who pay their fees by the specified deadline each academic year.
Ensuring timely payment is crucial for confirming a student’s place and funding the School’s resources. High compliance rates reflect effective communication and financial management.
Registration Completion Rate
Track the percentage of students who complete the full registration process by the given deadline.
This KPI ensures that students are fully registered and can access all necessary services and resources. It reflects the efficiency of the registration process.
Student Registration Error Rate
Track the percentage of registration forms with errors or incomplete information that require follow-up or corrections.
Reduces administrative workload and improves the efficiency of the registration process by ensuring that forms are submitted correctly the first time.
Policy: Registration and Enrolment Policy