Frequently Asked Questions
School
How do I apply to the School?
You can book online or download our application form, them email or fax it back to us. If you prefer you can email us and we can send you the application form. Please remember you can ask us lots of questions, before or whilst you are applying - as we are here to help you and want to make sure you choose the best course for you!
What happens on my first day?
General English Centre: Host families will give students directions on how to get to the school. They will be welcomed by the Director of Studies and given an introduction to the school follwed by a short written and oral test. They will be shown around the school and the town to ensure they know where they are.
Business English Centre: Host families will give clients directions of how to get to school. Clients will be welcomed by the Marketing Officer and Principal. They will then meet their Teachers and sit a short written test and have Needs Analysis to determine the exact level and requirements. In the evening, clients are invited to join the Principal for a drink at a local pub: this is an ideal opportunity to discuss first impressions and ask any questions
What happens on National Holidays?
General English Centre: The school is open for all new students to enrol. There are no lessons but students are welcome to use the school’s Self Access Centre. There is no refund of fees for lessons missed on National holidays.
Business English Centre: The Centre is open and business continues as usual. The only time the Business Centre closes is over Christmas and the New Year.
Do I still have lessons if there are not enough students at my level?
General English Centre:Yes. But if there are fewer than 3 students on a Language Skills Programme 20 or 30 course, the number of lessons per day may be reduced according to the following scale; (The benefit of this is the intensive tutoring received by the student.)
LSP30 2 students – 3 mini-group lessons/ 1 student – 2 one to one lessons
LSP20 2 students – 2 mini-group lessons/ 1 student – 1 one to one lesson
Business English Centre: Yes. But if there are no other students of a similar level, Business Centre Mini Group sessions are upgraded to One to One lessons, but with 50% fewer lessons. For example, 40 lessons a week are reduced to 20 one to one classes, 30 lessons a week is reduced to 15 one to one classes.
What if I decide to finish my course early?
No refund will be given to students who wish to curtail their course. Adequate insurance should be taken out by individuals to cover costs of emergencies forcing them to return early. Under new visa regulations language schools are now termed as “sponsors” of students and therefore responsible for the total duration of the students stay if they have entered the school on our visa papers. Please note we are now obliged to report students to the immigration authorities if they shorten their stay or do not turn up for lessons on a regular basis.
How often do teachers change classes?
On average, teachers change classes every month or so – this is a deliberate policy to ensure exposure to a variety of accents and teaching styles.
What about course books for my studies?
The school will provide a main course book for each full 15 week period of study at the school. The student will then purchase any other required main course books and also any books required for afternoon classes, e.g. option classes and exam preparation.
What’s the nationality ratio?
At inlingua Cheltenham we are proud of our diverse nationality mix.
Can I use my own laptop/ internet at the school?
Yes, if you want to bring your own laptop with you, we have free wireless internet which you can use anywhere throughout the school.
Are exam fees included in the price of my course?
No, exam fees are extra as you will need to register for the exams once you are here. If you are taking IELTS, FCE, CAE or CPE the cost is between £100 - £120 depending on the exam.
Accommodation
Where is the accommodation?
All our homestay accommodation is located in Cheltenham. A good number of our host families are located within walking distance of the school, and the furthest distance is about 10-20 minutes by bus.
I am a long term student, is it possible to move into a self catered flat?
We recommend that students book host family accommodation for their first 6-8 weeks at inlingua Cheltenham and then arrange accommodation whilst they are here.
Can I stay with my host family over Christmas when the school is closed?
Yes this is possible if the family agree. There is an extra cost for homestays at this time (Executive rate).
Can I take a holiday during my course and stay with the host family?
Yes, if the planned holiday was incorporated at the time of booking and the relevant accommodation fee has been paid. Please enquire when enrolling.
Can my partner come to stay with my host family during my course?
We can only provide accommodation for students at inlingua Cheltenham. With the agreement of the host family it maybe possible to stay with your partner. If not you may have to arrange your own accommodation. We can help you find a suitable hotel or B&B.
General information
Will I be able to open a bank account in the UK?
Students can only open a bank account if they are studying with us for 6months or more. Banks are strict about opening accounts. You will need proof of how long you are staying in the UK and proof of your address in the UK. inlingua Cheltenham will be able to provide you with letters to show you are a student here and to show your address here in Cheltenham.
Do I need insurance?
All students should obtain medical and travel insurance in their own country before their departure, in case of accidents or loss of baggage. Students are not insured by the school or by the family against accidents, illness, theft or loss of personal belongings. Therefore personal insurance cover is recommended. Students travelling from EU countries should bring their Social security form E111 with them. This only entitles students to free emergency hospital care.
