• What is a distance learning course?
• Is distance education something new?
• What are the benefits of a Stratford distance learning course?
• What types of students enroll in Stratford's distance learning courses?
About our School
• Do you offer a high school program?
• What are your admissions requirements?
• Do you provide any financial aid?
Enrolling in a Course
• How soon will I get my first set of books?
• Are there any educational requirements to enroll in a Stratford distance learning course?
• Are there any age requirements to enroll in a Stratford distance learning course?
• Is there a deadline for enrollment?
• Can I enroll in more than one course at a time?
Completing Your Studies
• How does taking a course with Stratford work?
• Can I change my program of study?
• How long do I have to complete my course?
• Will I be forced to study on a fixed schedule?
• How does the student log-in work?
• If I need help with my studies, how can I get it?
• Do I need a computer to complete my course?
• Can Stratford's courses really prepare me for a new career as a professional in my field of study?
• Would I be able to obtain credits for my course at a local college/university?
Tuition & Payment
• What does my tuition fee include?
• What methods of payment do you accept?
• Can I pay more than the minimum down payment?
• Do I get a discount if I pay all at once?
• Do Stratford students receive an incentive for referring individuals who then enroll?
About Distance Learning
What is a distance learning course?
Distance learning courses are also known as home study or correspondence courses. Rather than having to attend classes, you study independently at home, at a time and pace that is convenient to you. All of the educational materials needed to complete your course are provided. Qualified instructors are only an e-mail or toll-free call away if you need assistance, and you can also use online tools to take exams, get your grades and more. Since you are studying at your own pace, you can complete a course in as little as six months, or if you prefer, take up to two years to complete your program.
Is distance education something new?
Continuing education through distance learning programs has existed for more than 100 years. Many educational institutions are realizing the benefits of correspondence courses and offering home study programs as a viable alternative to the conventional classroom setting.
What are the benefits of a Stratford distance learning course?
An increasing number of people are looking to home study courses as a practical way to:
• Upgrade existing skills
• Learn more about a new career field
• Increase self-esteem and confidence
What types of students enroll in Stratford's distance learning courses?
Many of our students are serious, career-minded individuals who have come to realize the true value of marketable skills in today's increasingly demanding work force. Many of our students have families and demanding schedules, both of which conflict with the rigid scheduling of classes in conventional school settings. For these students, a distance learning course offers a logical way in which to further their education. In fact, many of our students enroll in our home study courses based on the recommendation of other students and graduates.
About Our School
Do you offer a high school program?
Yes. You can learn more by clicking here.
What are your admission requirements?
Stratford has an open entrance policy. We believe that any adult who feels that he or she has the potential and capability to benefit from their selected program should be given the opportunity to continue their education. However, as a general rule, students should have a minimum of eight years of formal schooling.
Do you provide any financial aid?
Although we do not generally participate in government-sponsored student loan programs, Stratford does offer monthly payment plans with 0% interest. In general, individuals can enroll and get their first module with a down payment of $20 or less.
How do I enroll?
There are three ways to enroll:
1. Online - Using our secure website
2. Phone - Speak with a Stratford representative 1-800-254-4070
3. Mail - Complete your enrollment form and mail it in with your down payment
How soon will I get my first set of books?
Stratford can ship your first set of course materials within 24-48 hours of processing your enrollment. It can take up to 7-10 days for your materials to arrive.
Are there any educational requirements to enroll in a Stratford distance learning course?
Stratford's courses are designed to benefit everybody, regardless of your educational background. All we require is a desire to learn and a willingness to succeed.
Are there any age requirements to enroll in a Stratford distance learning course?
Persons under the age of 18 must obtain the written signature of a parent or legal guardian in order to enroll in a Stratford course. If you would like more information, please contact our Admissions Department at 1-800-363-0058.
Is there a deadline for enrollment?
You can enroll in a Stratford distance learning course at any time.
Can I enroll in more than one course at a time?
Stratford strongly recommends you only complete one course at a time, but you can do a maximum of two programs at once. If you wish to learn more about enrolling in more than one program, you will need to speak with one of Stratford's admissions specialists by calling 1-800-254-4070.
How does taking a course with Stratford work?
1. Enroll and make the minimum down payment
2. Your first module is shipped and/or available digitally in eService.
3. Study & complete your exams
4. Once you pass your exams in a particular module, your next set of course materials becomes available.
5. Once you successfully pass all of your exams and complete all of your tuition payments, you will receive your personalized career diploma.
Can I change my program of study?
It is usually possible to transfer from one program to another within the first 60 days of your enrollment by contacting Student Services, provided certain criteria are met. However, students remain responsible for the cost of materials already used, and other conditions may apply.
How long do I have to complete my course?
Most of our courses are designed to be completed within one year. Some students are able to finish their studies in as little as six months, while others take longer. Stratford expects that you will finish your course within two years.
Will I be forced to study on a fixed schedule?
No. Stratford realizes that all students are unique ? each with different responsibilities, interests, and goals. Students are encouraged to work at their own individual pace in order to get the maximum benefit from their course. You may progress through your course as quickly or slowly as your schedule permits.
You can submit your exams using our online student log-in or by sending them in the mail. Online submissions are graded immediately.
What is a passing grade?Grading Scale 90-100 =A
80-89 =B
75-79 =C
70-74 =D
Below 70 =I (Incomplete)
How does the student log-in work?
When you enroll, you will receive your unique student number. You can use this number to register for eService, Stratford's online student center, which allows you to access online content, submit exams, review grades, contact instructors, make tuition payments and more.
If I need help with my studies, how can I get it?
Stratford's instructors are available by toll-free by phone or by e-mail when you have a question.
Do I need a computer to complete my course?
Stratford now offers a lot of online course materials, so a computer and Internet access is required if you choose digital study options. However, you also have the opportunity to have your course materials shipped to you and can submit exams through mail. In this case, no computer is needed.
Can Stratford's courses really prepare me for a new career as a professional in my field of study?
Stratford's programs are designed to provide students with a solid educational foundation about a particular career field that could be applied in the workforce. Stratford does not promise employment as a direct result of completing one of its programs. Programs are intended to help individuals in the furtherance of their vocational training and are not intended as a substitute for state licensing or certification requirements, which may include an apprenticeship or additional training, depending on the governing laws of the state in which you reside or work.
Would I be able to obtain credits for my course at a local college/university?
Every college and university has its own admissions policy regarding the granting of credits. You would have to contact the school that you are interested in applying to for that information.
Each course has a specific tuition rate that will be applied when you enroll.
What does my tuition fee include?
As a student with Stratford, your tuition fee includes everything you will need to successfully graduate including:
• Textbooks
• Study guides
• Learning aids
• Exams
• Instructional services
• Online tools
• Free shipping and handling
• Toll-free phone to contact instructors
What methods of payment do you accept?
Stratford accepts all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, & Discover), check by phone, personal check, and money order. There is $30 fee for returned payments.
Yes. There is a required minimum down payment for each course. The down payment amount varies depending on the course you choose, but is generally $10 or $20.
Can I pay more than the minimum down payment?
Yes. You can make as large a down payment as you like.
Yes! Stratford offers an INTEREST FREE monthly payment plan. A minimum down payment is required to participate in this plan. We can charge your credit card or debit your bank account each month, or you can send your monthly payment in the mail.
Do I get a discount if I pay all at once?
No. The tuition remains the same regardless of if you pay it all at once or choose to make monthly payments.
Do Stratford students receive an incentive for referring individuals who then enroll?
You will receive a $50.00 check or tuition credit for each friend you referred who enrolls and is in good standing for a period of at least 90 days. Your referral amount cannot exceed $100 per year, and you must be a Stratford student or graduate to participate.