Full-Time Study - Frequently Asked Questions

You may have many questions about coming to College for full-time study - below are some of the most Frequently Asked Questions - if you can't find the answer to your question here simply ask us a question using the form provided and we'll get back to you.

How is College different to School?

Coming to study at North West Regional College will be a very different experience than being a pupil in School. Our students don't wear uniforms* and classes aren't run from just 9am - 3.30pm, Monday to Friday. Every course timetable is different, and will include classes, practical workshops and time off for independent study.
The structure of our courses and the support of our staff encourage our students to be more independent, helping you to manage your time and your studies, in preparation for university or employment.
*Except for specialist courses such as Hairdressing & Beauty Therapy and Hospitality


I'm unsure about which course to choose - who can help?

You can make an appointment with one of the College's Careers staff, who can help you to discover which of our courses best suits you, and will help you prepare for your chosen career. Guidance is available to everyone who is thinking of coming to college, giving you up-to-date information and impartial advice on different courses, allowing you to you make an informed decision before submitting your application.


The application form asks for my exam results, but I haven,t done my exams yet.

On the application form fill in the box titled Examinations to be taken - listing the subjects you will be sitting exams for this year. Any offer you receive from the College will depend on you gaining certain grades in those subjects, and in August you will need to let us know the results you got in each subject.


What happens if I don’t get the grades I need for my chosen course?

Don't panic! If you don't achieve the exam results you need for your first choice course, you will be offered the opportunity to consider an alternative course, to help you improve on your qualifications. Completion of the alternative course should then be able to progress to your original course choice.


What if I change my mind about my original choice of course?

At North West Regional College you can apply for two courses on your initial application form. We will process your first choice to begin with, so we will contact you only about this course. However if at any time you decide you would like to transfer to your second choice, or even a completely new course, please let our Admissions Team know.
You will only be asked to confirm that you wish to accept a place on a course once you have provided your exam results - for most students that means they can finalise their choice in August.


When will I know if I have been accepted onto the course?

When you send in your application form for your chosen course(s) you will be entered onto our system as an applicant and follow our application procedures. Click here for details on each of the steps. You can track your own progress at any time by logging into our application tracking system.
Once we have considered your application, you will receive an offer from the College, which guarantees you a place, dependent on your qualifications or experience.
You will be required to provide evidence that you hold the required qualifications for entry to your course. For most applicants this will mean waiting until they get their exam results in August. You simply confirm your results and accept your place.


Do I apply for the College's Higher Education courses (HNDs and Foundation Degrees) through UCAS?

No, for all the College's full-time courses you apply directly to the College, using the Full-Time Application Form. This means you can apply for our Higher Education courses after the UCAS deadlines - in fact anytime up until term starts. However remember that our HE courses are very popular we have a limited numbers of places, and you have to be interviewed for these courses. You may not gain a place if you leave it too late to apply.
There is only one course at the College where you must apply through UCAS - BSc Honours Degree in Social Work. For this course you must follow the UCAS procedures and deadlines.


What will I be asked at the interview?

You may be invited to attend a short interview or pre-enrolment session, as part of your application to the course. This is an informal meeting with the course staff to help you find out more about the course you have applied for, and to make you aware of what may be expected of you as a student here. It is not designed to be a daunting experience, but an opportunity for you to ask any questions you have, and for us to find out a bit more about you.
For some courses you may be required to provide examples of your work - for example for our Art & Design courses you must bring a portfolio of your artwork to the interview. For our Music and Performing Arts courses you will be required to prepare an audition piece for your interview - more details on this will be sent to you when you are given an interview date.


I missed the Open Day, is it possible to come and see the College?

Of course you can come and have a look around at a time that suits you - and bring your friends and family too! We welcome visits from prospective students and are always happy to show students around the campuses. Simply email visitus@nwrc.ac.uk or phone 028 7127 6022 to make arrangements.


Can I get financial help with my course?

If you are applying for a Further Education course you won't have any fees to pay, and, depending on your age, you may be entitled to receive the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA), which pays up to £30 a week for coming to College. Find out more about EMA
For Higher Education Courses there are fees to be paid, and financial assistance is available through income-related loans, help with tuition fees (in certain circumstances) and grants for certain categories of students.
More information on all the student support and finance issues can be found on our student finance section.


I've never heard of a First Diploma, a National Diploma or a HND - what kind of qualifications are they?

We understand that the names of our qualifications might be new to you, but they are recognised by employers and universities, as courses that will prepare you for progression.
For detailed information on the qualifications we offer visit our Full-Time Choices section.


When does term start? What do I need to bring with me on the first day?

For the 2009-2010 academic year, term will start on Monday 7th September. When you let us know that you are accepting the place we have offered you we will write to you confirming this date, and where you should go on your first day. You will also be told if there's anything special you'll need to bring your to first day. If not, just bring a pen and paper.


Is there public transport to the College?

Yes. For information on transport to and from the College, and help on applying for bus passes, please contact the College's Student Services Team.
Click here to Student Support


What are the facilities like at the College?

The College is a modern, vibrant learning environment, equipped with all the latest technology and resources our students need to gain the skills and knowledge needed for the next stage in their education or career.
We have invested millions of pounds in all our campuses over recent years, ensuring we have the contemporary industry-standard resources, to complement the high quality of teaching and learning.
Our Strand Road Campus is currently undergoing a £1.6million redevelopment programme, which will provide brand new facilities at the site across a range of curriculum areas.
For details on the facilities at each of our centres and campuses please visit our Campuses section.


How many hours a week will I be in College?

Every course has a different timetable - some students will have classes every day Monday to Friday, while others will only need to attend College up to three days per week. Remember that many of our courses also include regular work experience, in some cases, each week. In addition your timetable will include time allocated for independent study, where you can make use of the facilities in our learning resource centres and libraries.
You will receive your timetable during your first week.


What other facilities are available for students?

The college has excellent resources within the Learning Resources Centres(LRC), Open Access Computer Suites and Libraries, which include well-equipped self-study areas with computing facilities, access to the internet and the college’s own intranet, and photocopying facilities.
The Strand Road Campus is home to the Student's Union, where you can go to meet up with friends, listen to music and play some games, when you have some free time.


What other support will I receive during my time at College?

As a student at North West Regional College, you can access a range of guidance and support throughout your time with us. The Student Services Team are always on hand if you need advice on finance, careers or welfare issues, and the Learning Support Team can provide you with extra help with your studies, ifyou need it. All the College's policies, and important information for students can also be found on the College intranet, which students are advised to check regularly.
For more information on the support available click here.


Will I receive any guidance about what my options are, after College?

Yes. You can make an appointment with the College's specialist Careers Team at any time during your studies, but in the last year of you course, you will have careers sessions to help you apply and prepare for university, or make an informed choice about the employment options open to you on completion of your course.
Find out more click here.


What help is available for students with learning difficulties and disabilities?

North West Regional College welcomes students with a variety of abilities and we will do all we can to help you with your study needs. Our campuses are equipped with a range of facilities to assist with getting around College, and our specialist staff will ensure you get any learning support you require.
For more information please click here.

If your question isn't answered here, please contact us, and we'll get back you.