Applicant FAQs

Here are some answers to the questions that applicants often ask us. If you can’t find the answer to your question here, or if you want more information, please email us at admissions@slc.ac.uk or call 01355 270750. We’ll be delighted to hear from you.

How do I apply for a course?

You apply on the website at: Courses

Who do I contact if I need help applying for a course?

If you need any help applying, we can talk you through the process and help with the application form. Email admissions@slc.ac.uk, call 01355 270750 or drop into the Advice Centre. One of our staff will be happy to help you.

Can I start an application and come back to it later?

Yes. When you apply you will be prompted to set up an account. Your details will be saved for when you decide to submit your application. You can also reset your password if you need to.

Do I need a copy of my qualifications to apply?

Depending on the course you apply for, you may need to submit evidence of your qualifications. 

Can I apply for a course using my mobile phone?

Yes, you can apply using your mobile or tablet. We’d prefer you to use a laptop or PC, if possible, as you need to write a personal statement. It’s easier to do that with a keyboard. You’re welcome to come into the college and apply using one of the computers in the Advice Centre. These are available Monday to Friday from 8.45am until 4pm

When do courses usually start?

Our full-time, part-time and evening courses have two main start dates every year: in August and in January. School and Foundation Apprenticeship courses start in August. SVQ and work-based courses start on a flexible basis.

Are there inductions for courses?

Yes, all full-time courses have an induction before the start date. You get an overview of the course, meet the lecturer and your classmates, and find out about college systems/processes. For part-time and Schools courses the induction usually takes place on your first day.

How many courses can I apply for?

You can apply for as many courses as you like, although we encourage you to pick a main subject area.

What if I want to find out more about the college and course before applying?

We have lots of information on our website and social media channels. Have a good look at these before you apply.

If you’d like to speak to a member of staff, phone us on 01355 270750, drop into the Advice Centre or email us at admissions@slc.ac.uk

We’re always happy to help.

You can come along to one of our open days. Find out when the next open day is.

I’m a carer. Where can I go for support and advice?

If you have caring responsibilities, let us know by ticking the box on your course application, funding application, and/or enrolment form. You can also ask your tutor to complete a ‘carer support plan’ with you. You can update your details on the student portal at any time to tell us about your caring responsibilities. Please do let us know so we can give you flexibility and support while you are at college. For more information, visit xxxxxxx or email student.support@slc.ac.uk

Can I get extra help if I am care experienced?

If you are care experienced, please let us know. You can do this by ticking the box on your course application, funding application, and/or enrolment form. You can also update your details on the student portal at any time. If you tick the box to say you are care experienced, your named staff contact – our Guidance and Support Adviser – will get in touch to let you know what support is available. For example:

  • visit to see our facilities
  • guidance/advice on funding, childcare, discretionary payments, accommodation and travel
  • fast-track funding applications
  • introduction to the learning development team
  • additional support services, such as counselling, community pastoral support, mindfulness and yoga classes or local mental health services
  • regular meetings and ongoing support

Am I eligible for funding?

You can find out more about funding for courses at funding, fees and finance

I’m not sure if my course fees will be covered. How do I check?

You can find out more about funding for course fees and eligibility at fees, finance and funding 

What are the interview arrangements for courses?

These vary for each course. The details are on the page for each course on the website.

I have applied for a course. When will I hear back?

We try to get back to you as soon as possible after you’ve applied. When you submit your application you get an acknowledgement email. We then go through your application. We let you know our decision shortly after, usually within four weeks. It may take slightly longer during busy times (particularly when applications open).

If you’d like to speak to a member of staff, please call 01355 270750 or email admissions@slc.ac.uk

Can I withdraw my application?

Yes. If you want to withdraw your application please email admissions@slc.ac.uk

Will my course be taught on campus?

Most of our courses are taught on our campus. This ensures you have a full college experience. Some classes may be online, although this is limited.

How do I get to the campus?

There are many ways to get to our campus. Find out more Travel information.

How many days a week are people on campus for a full-time course?

For a full-time course, students are usually on campus three days a week, with self-study outside these hours. This varies across courses. We’ll give you a timetable and further details before you start your course.

What are the facilities for eating at the college?

We have many eateries and catering options on campus including a canteen, bistro, training restaurant and coffee pod. Find out more about campus facilities.

Are there any clubs or societies?

Yes, our Student Association organises clubs and societies. Find out more about clubs and societies and our Student Association.

How do I know which course to apply for?

First of all, have a look at courses on our website. Find the ones that you think could get you started on your career by using the ‘browse by career’ section.

We can then help by giving you careers advice. We can tell you you more about the course(s) you are interested in and what they can lead to.

We are here to help, alongside our Careers Advisers at Skills Development Scotland.

For course guidance, advice and progression routes, our admissions team is available to speak to in the Advice Centre. Phone 01355 270750 or email admissions@slc.ac.uk

To speak to a careers adviser, email mywow.support@sds.co.uk or visit myworldofwork.co.uk for careers advice.

I’m disabled. Can I still apply?

Yes, we are a fully accessible college that pride ourselves on having a diverse and inclusive student and staff population.  Whatever your disability, there’s support at the college if you need help to study here. Find out more about college support services.

Email Student.Support@slc.ac.uk if you would like to speak to one of our student support team before you apply.

I’m not sure what I want to study. Can you help?

Yes, we are here to help, alongside our careers advisers at Skills Development Scotland.

For course guidance, advice and progression routes, our admissions team is available to speak to in the Advice Centre. Phone 01355 270750 or email admissions@slc.ac.uk

To speak to a careers adviser, email mywow.support@sds.co.uk  or visit myworldofwork.co.uk for careers advice.

How do I get to the campus by public transport?

Do I need to buy a laptop to do my course?

No, you don’t need a laptop for studying with us. We have PCs in all classrooms for students to use plus a bank of laptops which we lend to students. We’ll tell you more about this at your induction.

How many people will be in my class?

Class sizes vary depending on the subject. There are usually between 16 and 20 students. This means you have a great college experience and the support and guidance you need to get your qualification.

How will I be assessed?

This varies for each course. There’s more information about this on the web page for each course.

I’m having issues applying. Who can I speak to?

We’re here to help. Please come into the Advice Centre, call 01355 270750 or email admissions@slc.ac.uk.

Will my course include work experience?

This varies by course. There’s information about work experience in the details for each course. Most of our full-time courses include work experience. We’ll tell you more about this when you start your course.

Do I need an email address to apply?

Yes, you need an email address as this is where we send any updates about your application.