Update on late registration fees
Tuesday 10th June 2025Late registration fees are nothing new – we’ve always had them in place but used them sparingly. From August 1st though we’ll be implementing these on a more consistent basis, so please do remember that charges are payable when learner registrations are received outside these expected timeframes:
For Regulated or Bespoke Qualifications:
- Short courses (15 weeks or less) - within 25 working days of the start of the course
- Long courses (16 weeks or more) - within 60 working days of the start of the course
For Access to HE Diplomas:
- On a Diploma course – no later than 42 days after the start of their course
- On units totalling exactly 60 credits – no later than 84 days after the start of their course
We’re tightening up our practice with late registrations for several reasons, and although there are costs to be covered, these are not about raising income. These charges are completely avoidable if registrations are received within the above timeframes, and we’d be delighted if we didn’t have to apply them at all.
When registrations are received on time, we’re able to plan effectively – we can provide the right assessment materials where these are available, support for teachers and thereby for learners, and timely external quality assurance to enable the prompt award of qualifications.
We’re also able to maintain compliance with regulatory requirements by ensuring that qualifications are delivered fairly and reliably. For Access to HE Diplomas we’ll need to advise the QAA of late registrations as these timeframes are being included in their new conditions of licensing.
Finally, we’re helping centres to be able to demonstrate strong management practices and controls when this is required, including to meet funding requirements and as part of Ofsted inspections.
We know things can get busy, and we’re here to support you in meeting registration deadlines. Thank you for working with us to make sure every learner gets the best possible experience.
