Student FAQs

I am really unsure what course I want to do, who could help me?

At school you could ask your Connexions Advisor or you could see one of the careers advisors here at Leicester College. Just ring our advice and information line (0116) 224 2240 and ask for a careers appointment – it is okay to bring your parents, guardians or carers with you.

Do I need good GCSEs to get into Leicester College?

Courses are available for people with a variety of grades. Each course listing highlights who the course is aimed at and the entry requirements.

Will I get a free bus pass?

Leicester College provides subsidised bus passes to all 16-18 year olds on a full-time course, who live over three miles from their main campus. For city-based applicants, whose parent/guardian receives Income Support or Income-based Job Seeker’s Allowance the fee will be waived on production of a benefit letter no more than 40 days old.

What if I don’t like the course?

You should talk to your personal tutor or College careers advisor as soon as possible. It may be possible to transfer onto another course.

Do I have to come into the College every day from 9am to 5pm?

It depends upon the course. Some start at 9am and finish at 5pm. Others, especially those working in the College’s restaurant, may be required to stay as late as 10.30pm. Many students are in College three or five days a week while others are there for less.

Will I need to be in College if I don't have a lesson?

No.

Will I get homework?

There is no schedule for homework. At the start of your course you will receive a schedule which highlights deadlines for assignments and other related work. It is your responsibility to make sure that you reach your deadlines.

What free-time activities does the College offer?

The College encourages learners to undertake enrichment activities to run alongside their study. You may wish to undertake work experience, volunteer, take part in the College’s annual charity appeal or join in with the Student Union’s activities. We also offer sport, days out/trips and also outdoor education such as the Duke of Edinburgh Awards for learners to get involved in.

Will I be in the same group as my school friends?

Part of coming to College is maturing and making new friends. If your course has more than one group it is likely you will not be in the same group. The College has the same breaks during the day so you still have the chance to catch up with friends if you wish.

Applications and Interviews

Is it too late to apply for courses starting this year?

Our full-time and most of our part-time courses have now started and it is not possible to join at this late stage. However, there are some part-time courses starting in January and April. You can check the availability by calling the College on 0116 224 2240.

When will courses start again?

Full time and most part-time courses will start in September 2010 but there are some part-time courses beginning in April 2010. Please call 0116 224 2240 for more details on places available.

Can I do an Apprenticeship or NVQ (National Vocational Qualification)?

Apprenticeship and NVQ courses can start at any time of the year as assessments and coursework are carried out at your place of work. Please call 0116 224 2240 for more details.

Do I need an interview?

For some courses the tutor will conduct interviews in order to assess whether you have chosen the right course for you and you are able to cope with the content of the course. After you have submitted an application form you will receive details by post telling you when and where the interviews will take place.

The course requires a portfolio, what is this?

A collection of learner’s work, usually for art or design courses. This could be from school or completed in your own time.

What days and times will I be in College?

Timetables will be issued at enrolment.

When is the Open Day?

Our annual Open Day event takes place in November at all three campuses, Freemen’s Park, Abbey Park and the St Margaret’s campus. Details of our next Open Day will be displayed on our website. Please see the home page for further details.

If you have unanswered questions about any aspect of the College, get in touch on
0116 224 2040 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it