FAQ's - Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the minimum age required to study at PLC?
A. 16, but as our courses are for adults, we are best for over-18s.
Q. What are they typical ages and nationalities of your students?
A. Most of our students are aged 20-29, but we have successfully taught students from 16-67! At PLC, we have always had an excellent mixture of nationalities and we want to preserve this.
Q. Can I join a course after it has started?
A. Yes. Our teachers are accustomed to continuous enrolment and will make every effort to make you comfortable after you join.
Q. Is Portsmouth Language College accredited by any external organisation?
A. Yes. Our English language courses are British Council accredited (www.britishcouncil.org/accreditation-az-list.htm). We are also members of English UK and licenced by the UK Border Agency to sponsor overseas students. Our Sponsorship Licence Number is DJ5Y1PAW7. For more information, see the UKBA website at www.bia.homeoffice.gov.uk/studyingintheuk
Q. What if I feel that my level is the wrong one for my ability?
A. Talk to your teacher first. They will advise you on the best level for you. If you are still unhappy, you can talk to the Director of Studies or the Principal.
Q. Can I get a Student Visa through your College?
A. Yes. Providing that you meet the conditions of Entry, an electronic Confirmation of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) from Portsmouth Language College should enable you to obtain a student visa for up to a year of study (and one year’s extension later on if you wish). Having a student visa means that you have a clear commitment to the College and your studies. We have produced a helpsheet to provide more information:
Q. Is there a library/I.T. study area in the college?
A. We have a small library in the College for you to borrow books from. We also have an IT area with Free internet access for students at any time the College is open.
Q. Can I have a trial lesson before I book my course?
A. Yes. We think it is important that you feel confident about your course if you have any doubts.
Q. Can I pay in instalments?
A. For courses of 6 months or more, it is possible to pay in 2 instalments. Please contact the College for more information about this.
Q. Are there any discounts on course fees?
A. Unfortunately, no, as this is not fair on other students who have paid the full price.
Q. What holidays can I take during my course?
A. For those on a student visa, there are limits on holidays (See our Terms & Conditions) and these are included in the period of study. For non-Visa students, if you tell us, the dates of weeks you will not be present before you start your course, we will not charge you for these weeks.
Q. If I want to extend my course, can I pay the difference between the price for my course and a longer course?
A. No. If you want to extend your course, you will need to start again in payment. For example, if you want an extra 3 weeks, you will need to pay the price for 3 weeks and not 19 minus 16 weeks.
Q. How many coursebooks do I have to buy?
A. On payment of the enrolment fee, the first coursebook is provided free of charge. On average, you will need a new coursebook every 3-4 months. This does not amount to much money. We sell coursebooks at Reception and we charge a reasonable price for these.
Q. Will I get a certificate at the end of my course?
A. Yes, if your attendance has been satisfactory. We will also provide you with an Academic Report, which details your abilities in various aspects of your study.
Q. Can you arrange accommodation if I do not take one of your courses?
A. Unfortunately, due to high demand and time spent on administration, our accommodation is for PLC students only.
Q. Do I have to pay for accommodation for the same period as my studies.
A. No. We are quite happy for you book accommodation just for a few weeks and then pay the host family directly yourself after this period. However, we recommend that you pay us and then we can arrange this for you.
Q. What is the cost of living in the UK?
A. After your accommodation and course costs, we would recommend you allow at least £60 per week for food and general expenditure.
Q. Why should I study in Portsmouth and not in Brighton, Bournemouth or London?
A. If you want to learn English, Portsmouth is a better place than Brighton, Bournemouth or London as it has a higher percentage of native English speakers. It is much easier to make friends with English people here and there is less temptation for overseas students to mix with their own nationality all the time.
Portsmouth is almost exactly between Bournemouth and Brighton and we have the added benefit of being so close to the Isle of Wight. Surprisingly though, Portsmouth is not as crowded as the other places and, as the city is surrounded by the sea, there are many quiet areas. Portsmouth is becoming increasingly fashionable as people find out how good it is here!
Q. Can I be an agent for your College?
A. Of course. If you wish to act as a representative of Portsmouth Language College, please contact the Principal, David Tompkins, by telephone (0044-2392-73-2113) or by e-mail (principal@portsmouthlanguagecollege.co.uk) and he will be happy to provide you with details and an agent’s agreement.
