Simpedia

Stephen R., California

I always ask at the FIS if the student (family) is interested in starting. If they are, they usually fill out the paperwork then, and I ask for 2 month’s payment up front, which is stated in my policy. I want students to commit to at least 2 months. The last two students paid 2-1/2 months up front because I prorated the first month since we began in the middle. The reason I require this of new students is because I want them to stick around for a while, experience Level 1, and really I’m looking for long-term committed students anyway. It’s a little frustrating if students quit after a month, with all the initial setup we do as teachers. Paying at the first lesson is fine if they weren’t able to do it at the FIS. I would just handle it at the beginning.

Laurie Richards, Nebraska

I definitely recommend collecting up front. I learned the hard way, that if there isn’t a financial commitment you will sometimes have no-shows at the first class. I require a minimum 3-month commitment but only collect one month initially in order to consider a family enrolled. (I require automatic monthly payments, and they agree to my taking that payment for 3 months).

The longer I have taught, the more clear I have become BEFORE enrollment about expectations and requirements of both students and parents. My retention is SO much better as a result.

Gabrielle K., Iowa

I collect an application fee during the sign-up process to simplify the procedure. I do half my monthly rate, and I require first month plus application at sign-up. I also explain when they sign up that if they miss a lesson there are no refunds, just like a gym membership. If you don’t go that’s on you but the contrast is I’m going to hold them accountable to that. I’ve never had a protest yet.

Cheri S., Utah

I tell potential students that first month’s tuition holds a spot in my studio. I don’t put them on my schedule until it’s paid. Scheduling is a lot of work, and I don’t want to add another student to the mix until they’ve fully committed). I also don’t force the issue at the SIS. If they seem really jazzed and we’ve established a natural connection, I’ll invite them to secure their spot right then.

But otherwise, I encourage them to go home and talk it over as a family. That day or the next, I send a follow-up email and/or text to reiterate that tuition would secure their spot. If it’s fall or summer, when I usually revamp the entire schedule, I send another message letting them know that I’ll be finalizing the schedule by a certain time (again with no pressure to join–I only want students who really want what I offer).

With all the electronic payment options these days, it’s no big deal to send the payment later. But definitely before they begin lessons–before they’re even put on the schedule.

Carrie L., Michigan

Definitely get payment after FIS. We started charging a registration fee per family and only waive it if they sign up after the FIS before leaving.