A check list to use when choosing an institution

The University of London has a long track record of working with independent teaching institutions across the world. We officially recognise institutions that offer study support to students of the University of London International Programmes within our quality assurance framework, as a guide to the standards of the teaching, support and administration that you will receive.

These institutions are known as recognised centres and are awarded either Affiliate or Registered Centre status. Affiliate Centres have to demonstrate a long-term commitment to developing high standards in respect of teaching, support and administration. Registered centres demonstrate standards for their teaching, support and administration that are acceptable to the University of London for supporting students of the University of London International Programmes prepare for their examinations.

This designation applies to specific programmes on named campuses. Although this should guide you in deciding which institution to attend, it is important that you check carefully that the institution suits your particular needs.

The following check list will help you in deciding on the institution that is right for you:

Is the institution a recognised centre of the University of London International Programmes or has it commenced the recognition process. This information can be found on the Directory of Institutions.
Is this college or institute registered with the relevant authorities, such as the Ministry of Education?
How long has it been established? Be careful about institutions with little experience teaching at undergraduate level.
How long has it been teaching students of the University of London International Programmes? Has it got a 'track record' of successful results in University of London examinations or examinations at a similar level of university study?
Does its prospectus/website give details of the specific services and facilities it can offer you?
How do its services and fees compare with other institutions in your area?
Does the timing and frequency of any classes suit you? Are there tutorials as well as lectures and what size are the tutorial groups?
Does the institution offer teaching and learning support for all levels of the degree? Is this support limited to a range of units?
How many lecturers are full time and how many part time?
Ask to see the facilities, especially the library. Can you borrow books from the library or is it for reference only? If you already have your subject guides, check that there are copies of the essential and recommended texts. Is there room to study in the library and is it quiet?
Will there be a written contract between you and the institution when you enrol? If not, make sure you understand the terms and conditions that apply and your liability. Check how you pay fees – in one payment or in installments. What the refund policy is if you cease studying for any reason?
Talk to students who are already enrolled and get their opinions.
We advise you not to enrol at an institution until you have an offer of registration from the University, but you may be eager to start your studies. If so, ask if the institution is able to charge you only for the tuition you have actually received if the University does not accept you.

Additional checks for online or correspondence institutions:

If based in the UK, is the institution accredited by the Open and Distance Learning Quality Council or a member of the Association of British Correspondence Colleges?
If the institution offers study materials as part of its tuition, do they go beyond the External System subject guides in their content and coverage?
If a tutor service is offered, what response time does the institution guarantee?
Can you send in your assignments by fax or email and can you ask to receive feedback the same way?

If you have a further questions please check our FAQs to see if the answers are there.