non refundable deposit

[melanie79]

I entered into a contract with the London School of Business & finance on the 3rd august 2011. I was told to secure my place as it was clearing week, to place a 50% deposit, and then I could change my mind.
They took payment, and I returned the signed form which had the T&C on it.
I spoke to one of their advisers who 'advised' me of this.

The next day I asked for the payment to not be processed, in which it was too late, and was advised to request a refund. The refund was denied as this is a non refundable deposit as stated in the T&C's.

Admittedly i did not read the T&C's, as I was basing my information on the advise given to me by the adviser. On email, he has written that he did not tell me there was potential risk of money loss as i did not ask.

I have requested many times for a refund, which they are refusing. I have also provided a doctor note to state that i am not able to study at present or in the near future due to my mental/emotional state. I have also told the request commitee that at the time of placing my order, i was suffering from severe anxiety and depression, and my rational was not clear. They dont care.

Is there any type of cancellation notice or cooling off period that should be available for this type of purchase??

Its £3,000. any help is appreciated.

[bednobs]

no, you have a signed contract with them stating that the fees are non-returnable. You had chance to read the terms before you parted with money, yet you didn't.

[bednobs]

ps how did your mental and emotional state change so much overnight?

[factor-fiction]

I assume this was outside the Student Finance arrangements and the fees were not processed through the student loan system.
Can I ask what the course was?

[cathfromsaron]

did you ask about a 'cooling off period' under distance selling regs, or is education exempt?

[bednobs]

ok, just done a search (perhaps i should have before answering!)
anyway apparently you do have a 7 day cooling off period, but you must request cancellation in writing within the 7 days. If the course starts within 7 days there is no period

[ladybirder]

Is that 7 working days bednobs?

[bednobs]

ys