Frequently Asked Questions

If you have any questions, which are not answered within this section please complete the contact us form.

1. Where is the school?
We are located in the city centre of Glasgow, Scotland's largest city. We are a short walk away from Glasgow's main train, subway and bus stations. There are also many shops, cafes, restaurants, cinemas, theatres and entertainment spots nearby.

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2. How long has the school been teaching English?
We started in 1997 and have helped thousands of international students achieve their goals.

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3. Are you a quality school?
We are both British Council accredited and ISO9001 certified. We are sure you will imporve your English and enjoy your stay with us.

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4. How can I pay?
You can pay online with a credit card. If you do not have a credit card, you can pay by bank transfer. You can also pay in cash or by credit card in person at the school.

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5. When should I pay?
You must pay the full fee before you start your course. You can pay a deposit at the time of booking and pay the remaining fee when you arrive at the school.

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6. How many students are in each class?
The maximum class size for group lessons is 16. The average last year was 10 student per class.

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7. What qualifications do the teachers have?
All teachers are qualified to British Council standards. They hold University degrees and specialist TEFL qualifiactions.

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8. Does the school organise any trips?
Yes, we organise a trip every two weeks or more. Trips to local sightseeing spots are usually free but you might have to pay about £2 for bus or train fares. Also, 3 times a year we organise a long distance sightseeing trip for FREE! Last year we visited the Highlands and the Edinburgh Festival.

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9. What is the minimum age?
The mimimum age range for all courses based at Glasgow School of English is from 16. We also run Young Learner courses for groups of students aged from 11 to 17 in July and August.

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10. Do you have courses for children or teenagers?
Yes, please see the info on our Young Learner programmes.

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11. What is the average age of students?
Most students are in their 20s but we have had students of all ages, up to 75.

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12. Do you offer evening or weekend courses?
No, sorry we have no evening or weekend classes at the moment.

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13. What nationalities are the students who attend the school?
Last year the students came from over 50 different countries. The most common nationalities are Spanish, Korean, French, Japanese, Saudi Arabian, Libyan, Brazilian, Turkish and Chinese.

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14. Can I extend my course after I start?
Yes, students can extend their course as long as their are spaces available. You cannot, however, shorten your course after you have paid.

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15. How can I get a Student Visa?
If you need a Student Visa, we will issue an Offer Letter so you can apply. We require a copy of your passport so please send a scan by email or a copy by fax when you apply. Please note, you must pay the full fee for the course stated on your Offer Letter before you start your course. After your visa application is accepted, you cannot change these details.

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16. Do I have to pay a deposit?
Yes, all students must pay a deposit of £150 or the full fee (whichever is lower) to guarantee a place on a course.

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17. If I pay a deposit and I don't get my student visa, do I get a refund?
Yes, if you send us the visa refusal letter, we will return £100 of your £150 deposit.

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18. What happens if I cancel my course?
If you cancel due to a visa refusal, we will return £100 of the £150 deposit. If you cancel for other reasons, you may be able to claim lost fees if you have taken out travel insurance.

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19. Do I need to buy a textbook?
Yes, you will need to buy a set of coursebooks for any full time course. This costs about £26 every four months.

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20. Do I get a certificate when I complete my course?
Yes, all students can receive a certificate upon completing their studies.

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