University fines

wizz_darlo · 6th June 2007, 14:16

Hello all,

Last term I incurred a fine from Loughborough University because I got muddled up with the dates of the direct debit for my tuition fees and accommodation. The direct debit was returned as unpaid by my bank and therefore I had to pay the University directly a couple of days later. For this "inconvenience" to them they have issued a fine of £50 as an 'administration fee'.
I've been thinking about the matter and it seems similar to the case of bank charges that people are claiming back all the time as the fines are disproportionate to the amount of inconvenience cause. I'm pretty sure that I haven't put the University out by £50 just by accidentaly bouncing a DD. In fact i'd be surprised if it cost the University anything at all.
The University will not allow me to graduate if this fine is unpaid. So i'm in abit of a dilemma as I can't really afford to pay the fine.

If anyone could advise me on this matter i'd be extremely grateful. Thank you

gyzmo · 7th June 2007, 09:31

Similar to another thread to do with library charges.

You could pay by cheque and write "paid under protest" on the back of it. when you get your degree, then take action. It was pointed out that it is unlikely that a university would revoke an award because of action you are taking.

wizz_darlo · 7th June 2007, 14:07

So would you agree that the University is most likely out of line charging me £50 as an admin fine and that I'd have a leg to stand on should I attempt to claim it back?

gyzmo · 7th June 2007, 17:45

without seeing the full details, I personally would say yes. But I would put my degree first rather than getting £50 back.

Tread with caution.

CourseRep · 7th June 2007, 23:07

I agree with gyzmo; get your degree and then start action. Get your student union involved- you are not the only one affected.
Send a Freedom of Information request, asking for detailed description of procedures involved in issuing the fine; is it automated (I bet it is), what are the losses to the university following your delay in payment, etc.
Go for it, your uni is not the only one doing it. disgusting money-grabbers.

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