About Distance Learning
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 the Program
What is covered in the program?
How is this program different from a traditional high school program?
What do get when I graduate?
Can I use this program to apply for jobs?
Can I use this program to apply to college?
How is this different from a GED?
Enrolling in a Course
How soon will I get course materials?
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?
Completing Your Studies
How does taking a course with Stratford work?
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?
Tuition & Payment
What does my tuition fee include?
What methods of payment do you accept?
Do Stratford students receive an incentive for referring individuals who then enroll?
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 program 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.
Is distance education something new?
Continuing education through distance learning programs has existed for more than 100 years. More 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 or learn new skills
Start toward a new career
Meet educational and personal goals
What types of students enroll in Stratford's distance learning courses?
Distance learning is for nearly anyone with a desire to enhance their knowledge! Many of our students have families and/or demanding schedules both of which conflict with the rigid scheduling of classes in conventional school settings. For these students, a distance learning course offers the most logical way in which to gain an education. In fact, many of our students' enroll in our home study courses based on the recommendation of other students and graduates.
About the Program
No, Stratford does not currently claim any academic accreditation, nor have we ever done so. This program is not intended to be a substitute for state-sponsored diploma or equivalency programs. Particular schools and employers may not recognize completion of the program as high school equivalency.
What is covered in the program?
Stratfords High School Program generally covers the primary subjects that are part of traditional school-based programs. Principal areas of study include: Social Studies, History, Government, Science, Math and English. Students also may take four electives upon completion of the primary curriculum, which can often result in a more personalized and career focused curriculum.
How is this program different from a traditional high school program?
The curriculum can help students gain the knowledge required to enter or advance in the job market and to perform effectively and with confidence in the workforce. Our goal is to accommodate adult individuals by offering a flexible, convenient, and affordable educational program. Students may complete the program in the comfort of the student's own home. The program does not involve attending a classroom, nor does it involve any completion deadlines. Stratford delivers all of the study material to the student. The course is entirely self-paced, featuring open-book exams. Significantly, the program is not intended to be a substitute for state-sponsored High School and GED programs. Particular schools and employers may not recognize completion of the program as high school equivalency. For a detailed overview of course content, click here.
Upon graduation from our program, students receive a Stratford Career Institute diploma and an official transcript of grades to verify successful completion of the program. We are also pleased to provide reference letters upon request.
Can I use this program to apply for jobs?
The program may enhance an individual's employment prospects and readiness to function effectively in the workforce. The school cannot, however, guarantee employment as a result of successful completion. Particular employers may not recognize our program as high school equivalency.
Can I use this program to apply to college?
Each college has its own admission criteria established by the individual school. Students should not assume that successful completion of our program will allow for admission to a particular school, college, or university. The Stratford diploma may not be recognized by particular colleges, and students should always check with any institution in which they are interested before enrolling in the program. In some cases, students may have access to alternative admissions paths whereby some traditional criteria are waived, and in other instances, students may be required to pass a state GED exam to show their college readiness.
How is this different from a GED?
This program is not the same as a state-certified GED program. We offer a program that covers core subjects, but do not follow the curriculum of any specific state, nor are students required to take a GED exam upon completion. Students do not receive a state-issued high school equivalency diploma with this program. Upon graduation from our program, students receive a Stratford diploma to verify successful completion of the program. Particular schools and employers may not recognize completion of the program as high school equivalency.
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 an enrollment form and mail it in with your tuition payment.
How soon will I get my course materials?
After your enrollment is processed, your first module should be digitally available in eService and/or arrive in the mail within 2-3 business days. The availability of online digital content varies by module.
Are there any educational requirements to enroll in a Stratford distance learning course?
We do recommend that students have had at least eight years of formal schooling prior to enrolling. After that, 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?
You must be age 18 or older to enroll in Stratford's High School Program. If you would like more information, please contact our Admissions Department at 1-800-254-4070.
Is there a deadline for enrollment?
You can enroll in Stratford's High School Program at any time.
How does taking a course with Stratford work?
1. Enroll and make a down payment.
2. Stratford ships your course materials.
3. Study & complete your exams.
4. Successfully pass all of your exams.
How long do I have to complete my course?
Some students are able to finish their studies in as little as six months, while other students take up to two years to complete the program.
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 the program. You may progress through the program as quickly or slowly as your schedule permits.
You can submit your exams using our eService, our online student center, or by sending them in the mail. Online submissions are graded immediately.
A passing grade is 70 or higher.
How does the student login eService work?
When you enroll, you will receive your unique student number with your first set of course materials. You can then use this number to register for Stratford's eService student login, which allows you to submit exams, review grades, contact instructors, make tuition payments and more.
If I need help with my studies, how can I get it?
Stratfords qualified instructors are available by toll-free by phone or e-mail whenever you have a question.
For the most recent tuition information visit tuition details.
What does my tuition fee include?
As a student with Stratford, your tuition fee includes everything you will need to complete your program:
Textbooks
Study guides
Learning aids
Exams
Instructional services
Online student center
What methods of payment do you accept?
Stratford accepts all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, & Discover), check by phone, personal check (U.S. checking accounts only), and money order. There is a returned check fee of $20.
Yes, Stratford offers a low down payment and 0% interest monthly payment plans. If you enroll online, you can take advantage of our monthly payment calculator in Step 2.
Do Stratford students receive an incentive for referring individuals who then enroll?
You could 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.