ComplaintsforStratford Career Institute

• Initial Complaint

  07/03/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Billing Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I applied to go to Stratford Career Institute for Private Investigations. I paid a down payment of $20 dollars to the school to get my first set of curriculum that I never received. I have spoken with the school a few times asking for my product that they claim to have sent to me online but never did. The next thing I know I keep getting these calls saying I owe this money and on every phone call I let them know that I never received my module and I wanted my 20 dollars back. Now I look on my credit report and this account is on my credit report. They owe me money and I want it removed from my credit report it’s only fair. I was never rendered services so why should I pay for them. This school is a scam they fake like they send you information but they don’t

  Business response

  07/10/2024

  Dear ****,I am in receipt of your e-mail dated July 3, 2024, regarding a complaint filed by ****** *****. Having reviewed Ms. *****’ files, I am pleased to provide the following information.Ms. ***** enrolled in our Private Investigator program on November 28, 2022 through our website, *******************, at the discounted tuition price of $475.00 or 13 payments of $35.00 with an initial down payment of $20.00. The first set of study material was issued to Ms. ***** on November 28, 2022 in a digital format as per her selection on her enrollment application. The application is attached for review.During the online enrollment process, Ms. ***** was presented with the Tuition Contract & Service Guarantee which contains our cancellation policy. As outlined in the cancellation policy, a student may cancel within the first 5 days of enrollment with no cancellation fees. The cancellation request may be submitted in writing via e-mail, fax or mail. Alternatively a student may contact our Student Services department to cancel by telephone. Ms. ***** contacted our Student Services department by telephone on January 12, 2023 to inform SCI that she had not received her material, at which time she was advised the module was available online as per her selection on her enrollment application. She indicated she would remit a monthly payment and would request her material to be shipped at that time. Unfortunately no payment was received although multiple invoices were issued to the mailing address on file. The account was eventually forwarded to an outside collection agency for the outstanding balance of $485.00.Although material was made available to Ms. ***** and no cancellation request was received, I have authorized our Accounts Department to close Ms. *****’ file and waive the remaining account balance.  Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me toll-free at ###-###-####. Our hours are from 8:00am to 4:30pm (EST) Monday through Thursday, and until 3:30pm on Fridays.  Sincerely,Brandi H***Supervisor Student Services

• Initial Complaint

  05/16/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Billing Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  I signed up for the school 2 years ago for the interior design course and paid the down payment to begin the course. I later found out that the school is not accredited. The cost of this course is affecting my credit score and I wish to have my debt cleared.

  Business response

  05/16/2024

  I am in receipt of your e-mail dated May 16, 2024, regarding a complaint filed by ***** ******. Having reviewed Ms. ******’ files, I am pleased to provide the following information.Ms. ****** enrolled in our Interior Decorating program on October 21, 2022 through our website, ******************* at the discounted tuition price of $689.00 or 18 monthly payments of $37.16 with a down payment of $20.00. The first set of study material was issued to Ms. ****** on October 26, 2022, to the address provided on her enrollment application. The United States Postal Service confirms the module was successfully delivered on October 29, 2022.According to our records no correspondence or telephone calls were received from Ms. ****** for the duration of her enrollment however it is noted she successfully registered for eService on our website on October 25, 2022 and provided the same e-mail address indicated in her BBB complaint. Registering for eService allows a student access to our online services, including the option to contact an Instructor, directly through the website, with any questions or concerns. While students may take up to 5 years to complete a program with SCI, tuition payments are due every 30 days from the date of enrollment until the account is paid in full. No tuition payments were successfully received after the initial $20.00 down payment. In an effort to bring the account up to date, numerous payment reminders were issued to Ms. ****** with no reply. The account was eventually forwarded to an outside collection agency on April 17, 2023 for the outstanding balance of $699.00.Students may discontinue their studies at any time over the course of their enrollment with SCI. Cancellation policies are included in the Service Guarantee that is issued to every Stratford Student and cancellation requests may be sent by any method including by mail, e-mail or telephone. Upon review of Ms. ******’ file, no cancellation request was received by any method until she contacted our Student Services department by e-mail on May 3, 2023 to request the cancellation of her program, at which time she was advised that it was too late to cancel since her account had been forwarded to an outside collection agency and was subsequently provided with their contact information to make payment arrangements.Although no cancellation request was received prior to the account being forwarded to an outside collection agency, I have authorized our Accounts Department to close Ms. ******’ file and waive the remaining account balance. The collection agency has been notified accordingly. Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me toll-free at ###-###-####. Our hours are from 8:00am to 4:30pm (EST) Monday through Thursday, and until 3:30pm on Fridays.  Sincerely,Brandi H**Supervisor Student Services

  Customer response

  05/17/2024

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me. 
  
  Regards,
  
  ***** ******
  
  
  
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  05/04/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Customer Service Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  I've enrolled in five online classes with Stratford Career Institute, but I canceled two and kept three which I've paid $499 each. I didn't pay for the two courses I've canceled. The school continued to collect from me for the canceled course. i told them I canceled the two because, after all, I didn't need them. Thereafter, I have tried to open my online classes or have tried to open my account to continue my study but, the school has blocked me. it only reads the following when I try to open the web page: FORBIDDEN YOU DON'T HAVE PERMISSION TO ACCESS THIS RESOURCE I've given them the benefit of a doubt that they will help me get to my online classes open, but, I couldn't. I went to the local library and I managed to open their website but they didn't allow me to log into my account. I have my log in information, and I couldn't log in. I did called the school and have talked with them but they couldn't help me but continue to tell I have to pay for the two canceled courses. I told them about the school blocking me from having access to my other three classes, they continue ask for payment on the other two I've canceled. they also told me that it doesn't show anything about cancelations of the two courses. I have also requested for them to mail me all the three courses that I have paid for but, they refused by telling me that I have to complete each lessons before mailing out another lessons, and they can't mail out them all at once. Right now I don't have access to my account or the online classes which I've paid for and hoping that things will change is why i delayed to file a complaint. At first i didn't know who to complain to but I found your web page and now I am filing this complaint and I hope you all help me resolved this issues... All I want is either they send me all the courses I have paid for and I am waiving and certificates they will be issued after completion of each courses or my Money Back. I have already posed my request to them but Refuse

  Business response

  05/15/2024

  Dear ****,I am in receipt of your e-mail dated May 6, 2024, regarding a complaint filed by ***** ****** Sr. Having reviewed Mr. ******’s files, I am pleased to provide the following information.Mr. ****** enrolled in our Cooking & Catering program on December 5, 2011 at the discounted tuition price of $649.00 or 18 monthly payments of $35.50 with an initial $10 down payment. The first set of study material was issued to Mr. ****** on December 6, 2011. I have attached a copy of the signed Enrollment Agreement which contains Mr. ******’s signature indicating he agreed to remit a tuition payment every 30 days until the account was paid in full and that he had read and agreed to the terms and conditions of the Tuition Contract and Service Guarantee which outlines Stratford Career Institute’s cancellation policy. According to our records Mr. ****** defaulted on his tuition payments and his account was eventually forwarded to an outside collection agency on September 4, 2012 for the outstanding balance of $603.50. As per the attached e-mail correspondence Mr. ****** was advised of this and acknowledged the status of his account. No further payment or request to resume the program has been received.Mr. ****** subsequently requested enrollment in our PC Repair and Auto Mechanics programs and we acknowledge that the accounts are paid in full. Our shipping policy dictates that modules are to be completed in a sequential order and the modules are issued one at a time, according to progress, provided the account remains in good standing. Although no exams have been received from the current module in each program, we have made an exception to our shipping policy and the remaining material for both programs will be issued to the address Mr. ****** has provided in his complaint. Standard delivery time is approximately 10 business days.Mr. ****** enrolled in an additional two programs, Gardening & Landscaping on September 4, 2019 and Electrician on November 1, 2021.  He received the Gardening & Landscaping program at the discounted tuition price of $499.00 or 13 monthly payments of $35.00 with a final payment of $24.00 and an initial down payment of $20.00. Mr. ****** defaulted on his tuition payments and file was forwarded to an outside agency on May 15, 2020 for the outstanding balance of $499.00. According to our records Mr. ****** contacted our Student Services department by e-mail on June 5, 2020 with a request to resume the program and was advised the file was with an outside collection agency. He was provided with instructions and the amount required to resume the program. A subsequent e-mail was received on October 22, 2020 in which Mr. ****** requested to cancel the program. Students may discontinue their studies at any time over the course of their enrollment with SCI. Cancellation policies are included in the Service Guarantee that is issued to every Stratford Student and cancellation requests may be sent by any method including by mail, e-mail or telephone. Unfortunately as per our policy and the Tuition Contract and Service agreement on which Mr. ******’s electronic signature is recorded, a student can no longer cancel once a file has been forwarded to an outside agency. The current outstanding balance of $449.00 remains due and payable.Mr. ****** received the Electrician program at the discounted tuition price of $549.00 or 26 monthly payments of $20.00 with a final payment of $9.00 and an initial down payment of $20.00. Mr. ****** defaulted on his tuition payments and file was forwarded to an outside agency on November 15, 2022 for the outstanding balance of $479.00. According to our records Mr. ****** contacted our Student Services department by telephone on February 10, 2023 with a request to resume the program and was advised the file was with an outside collection agency. He was provided with instructions and the amount required to resume the program. No further correspondence was received from Mr. ****** and no cancellation request was received. As with his previous programs, a copy of the Tuition Contract and Service Guarantee is attached and Mr. ******’s electronic signature has been recorded confirming he agreed to the terms and conditions of the contract.While it is unfortunate that three of Mr. ******’s files were eventually forwarded to USCB Corporation, Stratford Career Institute did provide services for which each outstanding balance is justified. Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me toll-free at ###-###-####. Our hours are from 8:00am to 4:30pm (EST) Monday through Thursday, and until 3:30pm on Fridays.  Sincerely,Brandi H***Supervisor Student Services

  Customer response

  05/17/2024

  Better Business Bureau: I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and have determined that this does not resolve my complaint.  For your reference, details of the offer I reviewed appear below Regards, ***** ****** Sr. The mmain concern i have with the school is they blocked me and I don't have access to their school class website. When I try to log into their web page, the page  is empty except at the left upper corner it reads,"FORBIDDEn  you don't have permission to access this resource'. so I brought this to the instructors attention through email and she provided me all of my passwords and try to log in again, but it never worked. The same information pops up.  The instructor asked me to provide her what is appearing on the web page which I did but she never respond. I thought the problem might be with my computer so I went to our local library and tried to log in but, the same information popped up. They blocked me after i've paid in full for three courses and I was planning on paying for the other two but they blocked me. They took my money and ran,( so to speak) I did asked the instructor if I could continue after I have accessed the instructions she told me that i could continue to complete my studies, but the school blocked me.So, how in the world would I pay for the tuition when they blocked me, why they done that? I don't know and even the instructor tried to help to no avail. I want to close this by saying, I want what I've paid for, the three courses, which I've paid $499 each in. Either they refund my money or send me all three courses which are all paid in full and I will waive the diploma which eventually was to be issued upon completion. Besides, I was told from a reliable resource that their school is not accredited institution. Therefore, their diploma aren't recognized. THEY BLOCKED ME, THEREFORE, I DON'T HAVE ACCESS TO THE WEBSITE TO MAKE A PAYMENT OR TO STUDY. I TRUSTED THEM BUT THEY FAILED TO FULFIL THAT TRUST. 

  Business response

  05/27/2024

  Dear ****,I am in receipt of your e-mail dated May 17, 2024, regarding a complaint filed by ***** ****** Sr. Having reviewed Mr. ******’s files, I am pleased to provide the following information.The remaining modules in Mr. ******’s PC Repair and Auto Mechanics program were shipped to the mailing address provided on May 17, 2024. Standard delivery time is approximately 10 business days.Unfortunately no services are provided for accounts that are currently with an outside collection agency. This includes the ability to access online services via a student’s eService account. Access to eService will be restored once the outstanding balances in the Cooking & Catering, Electrician and Gardening & Landscaping programs have been paid in full. Mr. ****** is welcome to contact our Student Services department to request the re-set of his eService password for the PC Repair and Auto Mechanics program at any time. Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me toll-free at ###-###-####. Our hours are from 8:00am to 4:30pm (EST) Monday through Thursday, and until 3:30pm on Fridays.  Sincerely,Brandi H***Supervisor Student Services

  Customer response

  05/29/2024

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me. 
  
  Regards,
  
  ***** ****** Sr.
  
  
  
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  04/03/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Customer Service Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  I signed up for the online electrican course I was sent some materials on it so I could start taking it online. Once the tests for those sections were finished, you next section is supposed to be mailed out too you it's been over 2 weeks since I've finished the 2nd section in the course. I've sent multiple emails about getting the next set of materials and have gotten zero response, I've asked for a refund since I can't get a response back and the career institute isn't sending me the course materials as it was stated on the form I filled out. At this point I just want to be refunded since they aren't replying to my concerns and questions.

  Business response

  04/09/2024

  I am in receipt of your e-mail dated April 4, 2024, regarding a complaint filed by ****** *********. Having reviewed Mr. *********’s file, I am pleased to provide the following information.Mr. ********* enrolled in our Electrician program on March 8, 2024 through our website, ******************* at the discounted tuition price of $499.00, with full payment provided upon enrollment.  The program consists of 7 modules. Mr. ********* has successfully completed the first two modules in the program. The third module was shipped to the mailing address on file on March 25, 2024. Standard delivery via USPS is approximately 10 business days however additional delays may be incurred in transit due to federal holidays.Mr. ********* contacted our Student Services department by e-mail on April 3, 2024 to advise that he had not received his material and would request to cancel and contact the BBB if it was not received soon. Although the module was still in transit, a replacement was issued Priority Post and a reply was sent to Mr. ********* on April 4, 2024 by e-mail confirming a new shipment would be issued. Generally, modules are shipped within 24 to 48 business hours from the date of order. Mr. *********’s third module was re-shipped on April 9, 2024 with an expected delivery time frame of 3 to 5 business days. Upon review of Mr. *********’s file, he previously contacted our Student Services department by e-mail on March 12, 2024 to request the shipment of his second module and if not shipped, he would request a refund. An e-mail reply was sent the same day by an instructor advising the module was shipped on March 13, 2024. An additional e-mail was received from Mr. ********* on April 8, 2024 indicating he has attempted to contact SCI on three occasions and has not received a reply and that he would file a lawsuit if he does not receive a reply or refund. An e-mail reply was sent to him on April 9, 2024 advising the third module was re-shipped and is in transit. It is clear that our Student Services department has replied to all e-mail correspondence received and has made every effort to accommodate Mr. *********’s request for material.Should Mr. ********* wish to proceed with his cancellation request he may do so by contacting our Student Services department at ###-###-#### or by e-mail at [email protected] and an instructor will be happy to assist him. Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me toll-free at ###-###-####. Our hours are from 8:00am to 4:30pm (EST) Monday through Thursday, and until 3:30pm on Fridays.  Sincerely,Brandi H***Supervisor Student Services

  Customer response

  04/09/2024

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and have determined that this does not resolve my complaint.  For your reference, details of the offer I reviewed appear below.
  
  Student Services did not reply to my 3 previous attempts it was only once I contacted the BBB that I finally received and response from them. I'm supposed to conformation emails when the next segment was sent I never got one for module 3 I had to contact them twice to get module 2 sent to me. The only response I got for that was a email from the automated message system saying the course was sent. I didn't threaten a lawsuit, I simply stated I'd like a refund for the lack of communication and didnt want to have to go to claims court to get a response and refund since I contacted them multiple times and did not get response. Only after I contacted the BBB I got a actually reply from a person from stratford. That stated if I wanted a refund to reply directly to the email which I did within 5 minutes of receiving it. And haven't not received a reply since this morning. The only holiday which would have been Easter was 15 days ago and as stratford stated it was sent on the 25th 5 days prior to that. I've asked to be refunded there program is a joke someone shouldn't have to contact them multiple times without a response and have to contact the BBB to finally get something resolved after spending $500 on the program courses. Again I contacted this morning directly like I was told and didn't receive anything back. There were zero attempts made by stratford to contact since asking for my 3rd module that was supposedly sent on the 25th which is well past the 10day time they stated 
  Regards,
  
  ****** *********
  
  
  
  
  

  Business response

  04/10/2024

  I am in receipt of your e-mail dated April 10, 2024, regarding a complaint filed by ****** *********. Having reviewed Mr. *********’s file, I am pleased to provide the following information.Please find attached confirmation of the e-mail replies that were issued to Mr. ********* by our Student Services department.According to our records, Mr. *********’s Electrician program was cancelled upon receipt of is confirmation that he wished to cancel on April 10, 2024. As Mr. ********* has been issued 3 of the corresponding modules, and having completed 2 of these modules, a refund in the amount of $299.40 will be issued. This refund is in accordance with the terms and conditions of Stratford Career Institute’s Tuition Protection and Service Agreement, issued to Mr. ********* at the time of his enrollment. A copy of the agreement has also been attached for review. Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me toll-free at ###-###-####. Our hours are from 8:00am to 4:30pm (EST) Monday through Thursday, and until 3:30pm on Fridays.  Sincerely,Brandi H***Supervisor Student Services

  Customer response

  04/10/2024

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me. 
  
  Regards,
  
  ****** *********
  
  
  
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  03/22/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Billing Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  Let me start off by saying customer service is not the best. The women I spoke with sounded like she was on something or not with it. I could barely understand or hear her. Moving forward, I had intentions of starting the Veterinarian Assistant course in March of 2023, due to foreseen circumstances beyond my control I never pursued it. (loss of job, medical issues were some) I signed up for the payment plan and received my first set of books shortly there after, but I never ended up even doing one assignment, even up to the day I called to cancel and ask for reimbursement of some of the money paid for this course. The initial cost was $689, of which I paid up till this point $260. I asked if I was able to get my money refunded, cause I did not complete any work at all on this course. They offered me about $120.00. Which is what is to be refunded, but the following day another $20 came out of my account. I called and asked to have that reimbursed also, but was told no due to the fact that it came out before I canceled. (not according to my bank account statement though) I do understand that, but I still feel in this situation, I should be able to get more reimbursed than $120. I don’t think the first set of books they sent me cost $160. I feel I should be reimbursed at least another $90.00 give or take a little. I hope writing this gets me some satisfaction and more respect for this company.

  Business response

  03/27/2024

  
  
  I am in receipt of your e-mail dated March 25, 2024, regarding a complaint filed by *** *********. Having reviewed Ms. *********’ file, I am pleased to provide the following information.
  
  Ms. ********* enrolled in our Veterinary Assistant program on March 15, 2023 through our website* ******************* at the discounted tuition price of $689.00 or 33 monthly payments of $20.00 and a final payment of $9.00 with a $20.00 down payment. The first set of study material was issued to Ms. ********* on March 17, 2023, to the address provided on her enrollment application. The United States Postal Service confirms the module was successfully delivered on March 20, 2023.
  
  According to our records no correspondence or telephone calls were received from Ms. ********* for the duration of her enrollment until March 18, 2024 when she contacted our Student Services department by telephone to inquire on the amount of a potential refund if she chose to cancel. The instructor that spoke to Ms. ********* advised her that a refund of $122.20 would be applicable, at which time Ms. ********* confirmed she wish to proceed with the cancellation of her program.
  
  A total tuition amount of $260.00 was received during the period of Ms. *********’s enrollment, of which $122.20 will be refund. The difference of $137.80 was retained as per the terms and conditions of the Tuition Protection Agreement that was presented to Ms. ********* during the online enrollment process and on which her electronic signature is recorded. No further payments were processed from the bank information provided by Ms. ********* after the most recent payment of $20.00, received on March 15, 2024. It is generally expected that a payment processed by Stratford Career Institute may take up to 72 business hours to appear on a student’s bank statement, provided by their financial institution.
  
  Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me toll-free at ###-###-####. Our hours are from 8:00am to 4:30pm (EST) Monday through Thursday, and until 3:30pm on Fridays.  
  
  
  Sincerely,
  
  Brandi H***
  Supervisor 
  Student Services
  
  

  Customer response

  03/28/2024

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.I apologize for thinking I had paid more. 

  
  Regards,
  
  *** *********
  
  
  
  

  
  

• Initial Complaint

  03/19/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Billing Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I enrolled in January of 2023 took one exam and tried ro call to unenroll but I got a recording and at the end of my numeric options was hung up on. Never got a single letter from them after until I received a letter stating it was in collections .

  Business response

  03/25/2024

  I am in receipt of your e-mail dated March 19, 2024, regarding a complaint filed by ******* ******. Having reviewed Ms. ******’s files, I am pleased to provide the following information.Ms. ****** enrolled in our Private Investigator program on December 19, 2022 through our website, www.***********.com. The first set of study material was issued to Ms. ****** on December 21, 2022 by USPS which she has confirmed receipt. The initial cost of the program was $949.00 with a $10.00 down payment or 24 monthly payments of $39.12.According to our records no correspondence or telephone calls were received from Ms. ****** for the duration of her enrollment however she did register for eService on December 20, 2022. Students may access their eService account with their student number and password, which is created by the student. Students may utilize eService to submit multiple choice exams online, remit a tuition payment, view their grades and contact an Instructor directly. Ms. ****** completed one exam in her first module and the exam was submitted utilizing her eService account. A copy of the results were issued to the e-mail address on file.While students may take up to 5 years to complete a program with SCI, tuition payments are due every 30 days from the date of enrollment until the account is paid in full. No tuition payments were successfully received after the first tuition payment of $39.12, received on January 24, 2023. This tuition payment was made online through Ms. ******’s eService account.  In an effort to bring the account up to date, numerous payment reminders were issued to Ms. ****** at the mailing address on file with no reply. The account was eventually forwarded to an outside collection agency on August 2, 2023 for the outstanding balance of $899.88.Students may discontinue their studies at any time over the course of their enrollment with SCI. Cancellation policies are included in the Service Guarantee that is issued to every Stratford Student and cancellation requests may be sent by any method including by mail, e-mail or telephone. Upon review of Ms. ******’s file, no cancellation request was received by any method prior to the account having been forwarded to the collection agency, however Ms. ****** was provided with the Service Guarantee during her online enrollment and her electronic signature was captured indicating that she agreed to and accepted the terms of the contract.While it is unfortunate that Ms. ******’s file was eventually forwarded to USCB Corporation, Stratford Career Institute did provide services for which an outstanding balance is justified. Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me toll-free at ###-###-####. Our hours are from 8:00am to 4:30pm (EST) Monday through Thursday, and until 3:30pm on Fridays.  Sincerely,Brandi H***Supervisor Student Services

  Customer response

  04/02/2024

  Better Business Bureau: I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and have determined that this does not resolve my complaint.  For your reference, details of the offer I reviewed appear below. I never received any mail pertaining to the program. However I received a collection statement in the mail.The amount of the program was supposed to be 600 dollars when I registered not 900. I would like a copy of each letter, document, and/or  invoice pertaining to this matter.  Regards, ******* ******

  Business response

  04/10/2024

  ,I am in receipt of your e-mail dated April 2, 2024, regarding a complaint filed by ******* ******. Having reviewed Ms. ******’s files, I am pleased to provide the following information.While we acknowledge Ms. ******’s claims that no correspondence was received, upon review of her file there was no correspondence returned to our school as undeliverable by United States Postal Service. As per the attached enrollment agreement, Ms. ****** agreed to remit 24 monthly payments of $39.12 until the balance of $949.00 was paid in full. Additionally, there was no promotional discount applied as per the agreement.  This information was presented to Ms. ****** upon enrollment. The Electronic Signature on the enrollment is in reference to the tuition contract presented to Ms. ****** and it is clear she agreed to the terms and conditions of said document.The attached financial statement shows the last tuition payment successfully received was on January 24, 2023. As per the previous reply, Stratford Career Institute extends an offer to close the file for reduced amount of $180.78.Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me toll-free at ###-###-####. Our hours are from 8:00am to 4:30pm (EST) Monday through Thursday, and until 3:30pm on Fridays.  Sincerely,Brandi H***Supervisor Student Services

• Initial Complaint

  03/18/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I enrolled with Stratford Career Institute on Feb. 29th 2024 and paid a down payment of $20.00. But, when I didn't receive any course material in my email like I requested for my 1st course not even in my junk or spam folder within the 5 days of enrolling. I decided to cancel my enrollment on March 6th through email. Today I received a letter stating I owe them $79.80 because of their cancellation policy about cancelling after 5 day and I was just one day past the 5 day mark I emailed them to cancel my enrollment but, I did not see anything on their website that states cancellation policy nor did they make that known to me in their email responses to me about cancelling my enrollment . If I had actually received my information I would have known their policies and I would have never joined or even cancelled for that matter.

  Business response

  03/21/2024

  
  
  I am in receipt of your e-mail dated March 19, 2024, regarding a complaint filed by ***** ******. Having reviewed Ms. ******’s files, I am pleased to provide the following information.
  
  Ms. ****** enrolled in our Astrology/Parapsychology program on February 29, 2024 through our website, *******************, at the discounted tuition price of $499.00 or 13 payments of $35.00 and one final payment of $24.00 with an initial down payment of $20.00. The first set of study material was issued to Ms. ****** on February 29, 2024 in a digital format as per her selection on her enrollment application.
  
  During the online enrollment process, Ms. ****** was presented with the Tuition Contract & Service Guarantee which contains our cancellation policy. As outline in the cancellation policy, a student may cancel within the first 5 days of enrollment with no cancellation fees. The cancellation request may be submitted in writing via e-mail, fax or mail. Alternatively a student may contact our Student Services department to cancel by telephone.
  
   Ms. ****** contacted our Student Services department by e-mail on March 7, 2024, the 6th day of enrollment, to request the cancellation of her program. Her program was subsequently cancelled and a cancellation fee was applicable as per the terms of the Tuition Contract & Service Guarantee.
  
  Although Ms. ****** requested the cancellation of her program beyond the first 5 days of enrollment, I have authorized our Accounts Department to close Ms. ******’s file and waive the remaining account balance. A refund of the $20.00 down payment will be processed to the original method of payment within 10 business days.  Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me toll-free at ###-###-####. Our hours are from 8:00am to 4:30pm (EST) Monday through Thursday, and until 3:30pm on Fridays.  
  
  
  Sincerely,
  
  Brandi H***
  Supervisor 
  Student Services

• Initial Complaint

  02/01/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Billing Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  Student #: ******* I signed up for the Electrician apprenticeship program with Stratford around June/July 2023. The program was a promotional mark down to about $460. I made $50/month payments over time during my studies. The model was upon completion of a set of section tests, the student then would receive the next course material in the mail. I completed about 3 sections and paid approximately $100/$150. Unfortunately, my circumstances changed and it was no longer feasible to continue my studies. I attempted to contact Stratford and cancel my course. That was one of the most difficult tasks because the only phone numbers were for making payments or contacting a professor via chat. The one phone number that seemed promising had me on hold for about an hour and eventually hung up on me. Despite this, Stratford was still sending me "bills". I never received any extra course material. But Stratford felt I still owed them. No one reached out asking about the lack of activity with my account, they only wanted to "bill" me. My payments were set up automatically via a bank account. Since I couldn't contact anyone, I had to close the bank account to stop the payments. It doesn't make any sense to pay for nothing. The only letters were asking for payment. No attempt to close or end the student account. December 21, 2023, Diana Martin, the senior collection officer threatened to send my account to collections (instead of closing the account) if I didn't pay within 10 days. January 23, 2024, Jordan S**** claims I have "seriously delinquent debt" and must "remit" $459 within 10 days or they will initiate collections. I have no course material nor do I have a certificate. I feel they are intimidating me and claiming a false debt. It appears they are willing to tarnish my credit score. Having all the course material and then stopping payment is one thing. But to not have anything and still require payment is a scam. They could've just closed the account. This is bad business!

  Business response

  02/06/2024

  
  
  I am in receipt of your e-mail dated February 2, 2024, regarding a complaint filed by ******** *****. Having reviewed Mr. *****’files, I am pleased to provide the following information.
  
  Mr. ***** enrolled in our Electrician program on July 14, 2023 through our website, *******************, at the discounted tuition price of $499.00 or 9 payments of $50.00 and a final payment of $29.00 with an initial down payment of $20.00. The first set of study material was issued to Mr. ***** on July 19, 2023. All corresponding exams from the first module were received and graded on July 18, 2023. A subsequent module was shipped to Mr. *****’ address on July 20, 2023 and USPS confirms successful delivery on July 25, 2023. No corresponding exams were received from this module.
  
  According to our records no correspondence or telephone calls were received from Mr. ***** throughout the duration of his enrolment although several letters were issued to the address on file inquiring on his progress. None of the letters were returned to our offices by USPS for any reason.
  
   While students may take up to 5 years to complete a program with SCI, tuition payments are due every 30 days from the date of enrollment until the account is paid in full. No tuition payments were successfully received after the first $50.00 tuition payment, received on August 14, 2023, although Mr. ***** did authorize Stratford Career Institute to automatically debit 8 monthly payments of $50.00 and one final payment of $29.00. His electronic signature was recorded as per the attached enrollment application.
  
  In an effort to bring the account up to date, numerous payment reminders were issued to Mr. ***** with no reply. Postage paid envelopes are included with the payment reminders and a student may utilize these to contact Stratford Career Institute.  No further material was issued as no corresponding exams were received from the subsequent module shipment and no further tuition payments were received after August 14, 2023. In order for students to continue to receive subsequent modules, exams must be received from the current module and the account must be in good standing.
  
  Students may discontinue their studies at any time over the course of their enrollment with SCI. Cancellation policies are included in the Service Guarantee that is issued to every Stratford Student and cancellation requests may be sent by any method including by mail, e-mail or telephone. Upon review of Mr. *****’ file, no cancellation request was received by any method. However please let it be noted that Mr. ***** did register for eService, our online platform that provides many services to students, including the ability to send an e-mail through the ‘Ask an Instructor’ option with any questions or concerns regarding their program. Stratford Career Institute’s shipping policy, as well as detailed instructions on the numerous methods of contacting Student Services are clearly outlined in the Student Handbook issued with the first module, of which Mr. ***** confirms receipt.
  
  Mr. *****’ program is currently active as no cancellation request has been received. We would respectfully request that Mr. ***** contact our Student Services department to make payment arrangements should he wish to continue the Electrician program he enrolled in by e-mail at [email protected], by fax at ###-###-#### or by telephone at ###-###-####. In the event Mr. ***** does not wish to continue the program, he may reply to this response in the affirmative and his account will be cancelled accordingly. As per the terms and conditions of the attached Tuition Protection and Service Agreement, a copy of which was provided to Mr. ***** during his online enrollment application and on which his electronic signature is recorded indicating he read and agreed to the terms,  the remaining balance of $459.00 will become due and payable upon cancellation as Mr. *****’ account is currently in arrears.
  
  Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me toll-free at ###-###-####. Our hours are from 8:00am to 4:30pm (EST) Monday through Thursday, and until 3:30pm on Fridays. 
  
  
  Sincerely,
  
  Brandi H***
  Supervisor
  Student Services

• Initial Complaint

  01/26/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Customer Service Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  Identity Theft Fraud for course registration The organization failed to prevent a fraud that some one fraudulently registered a course under my name. I recently received an intuition bill informing me that I had registered a course and have balance due under my name. However, I didn't make the registration and it must be an identity theft fraud. I have reported the fraud to policy and have the policy report publicly available. Please correct the bill, the collection information and withdraw the fraudulent registration.

  Business response

  01/26/2024

  I am in receipt of your e-mail dated January 26, 2024, regarding a complaint filed by ******** *****. Having reviewed Mr. *****'s files, I am pleased to provide the following information.I have authorized our Accounts Department to close Mr. *****’s file and waive the remaining account balance. Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me toll-free at ###-###-####. Our hours are from 8:00am to 4:30pm (EST) Monday through Thursday, and until 3:30pm on Fridays.  Sincerely,Brandi H***Supervisor Student Services

• Initial Complaint

  01/17/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Billing Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  Hi BBB, I would like your assistance with this company. I do not have a contract with this company for this alleged debt. I would like the following provided to me: 1) An explanation of what this alleged account balance is for. 2) A complete Audit Trail calculation of this balance, including the complete payment history on this account, so I have proof that the amount is correct. 3) Documentation that shows I agreed to pay this debt with my signature and documentation shows I gave you permission to have my information and paperwork showing I gave you authorization to report this to my credit report. No consent to you having my information and unauthorized use of my social security number is identity theft and you will be reported for such. 4) The Agreement that grants you authority to collect on this alleged debt. 5) A copy of your state license, including license number that give you rights to collect in my state. 6. The purchase agreement 7. Swear under penalty of perjury you were present during the alleged debt) If your company cannot provide me with all of the following, I request that this debt n***ified and removed from my credit profile. Pursuant to the Federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (15 USC 1692c), you are hereby notified to immediately cease communications concerning the collection of the debt associated with the above-referenced account. This notice shall include, but is not limited to written correspondence, telephonic communication and reporting this account to any consumer reporting agencies. I demand that you delete this tradeline from all consumer reporting agencies immediately.

  Business response

  01/22/2024

  I am in receipt of your e-mail dated January 18, 2024, regarding a complaint filed by ******** ******. Having reviewed Ms. ******’ files, I am pleased to provide the following information.Ms. ****** enrolled in our Florist/Floral Design program on January 24, 2022 through our website, ******************* at the discounted tuition price of $589.00 or 15 monthly payments of $38.60. The first set of study material was issued to Ms. ****** on January 27, 2022, to the address provided on her enrollment application. The United States Postal Service confirms the module was successf***y delivered on January 31, 2022.According to our records no correspondence or telephone calls were received from Ms. ****** for the duration of his enrollment however it is noted she successf***y registered for eService on our website on January 24, 2022 and provided the same e-mail address indicated in her BBB complaint. Registering for eService allows a student access to our online services, including the option to contact an Instructor, directly through the website, with any questions or concerns. While students may take up to 5 years to complete a program with SCI, tuition payments are due every 30 days from the date of enrollment until the account is paid in f***. No tuition payments were successf***y received after the initial $10.00 down payment. In an effort to bring the account up to date, numerous payment reminders were issued to Ms. ******’ mailing address with no reply. The account was eventually forwarded to an outside collection agency on August 1, 2022 for the outstanding balance of $579.00.Students may discontinue their studies at any time over the course of their enrollment with SCI. Cancellation policies are included in the Service Guarantee that is issued to every Stratford Student and cancellation requests may be sent by any method including by mail, e-mail or telephone. Upon review of Ms. ******’ file, no cancellation request was received by any method.Although no cancellation request was received, I have authorized our Accounts Department to close Ms. ******’ file and waive the remaining account balance. The collection agency has been notified accordingly. Should you require additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me toll-free at ###-###-####. Our hours are from 8:00am to 4:30pm (EST) Monday through Thursday, and until 3:30pm on Fridays.  Sincerely,Brandi H***Supervisor Student Services

  Customer response

  01/22/2024

  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me. 
  
  Regards,
  
  ******** ******
  
  
  
  
  

*Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business. ↩