We-stride.com Review

Based on looking at the website we-stride.com, it appears to be an educational platform offering various programs in technology and business.

The site emphasizes online learning, flexible schedules, and job placement assistance, particularly through an “Income Share Agreement” ISA model, which raises a significant red flag due to its potential for interest-based dealings Riba. While the platform aims to provide accessible education, the financial model warrants careful scrutiny from an ethical perspective.

Here’s an overall review summary:

• Website Focus: Online education in IT and Business Administration Bootcamps, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate, Dual Degrees.
• Key Promise: Accessible education, flexible online learning, 1:1 mentorship, and job placement guarantees with an Income Share Agreement ISA.
• Ethical Concern: The Income Share Agreement ISA model, which often involves repayment tied to future income, can inadvertently lead to arrangements similar to interest-bearing loans Riba, making it problematic from an ethical standpoint.
• Transparency: The website presents program details and boasts success statistics, but the exact terms of the ISA would need deep investigation to ensure compliance with ethical financial principles.
• Target Audience: Individuals seeking to enter or advance in tech and business careers, particularly those looking for flexible, post-employment payment options.
• Language: Primarily in Thai, with some English terms.

While WeStride aims to address the growing demand for tech skills, the core financial mechanism, the Income Share Agreement ISA, needs careful consideration.

From an ethical standpoint, any agreement where the repayment amount is directly linked to or derived from a percentage of future income, especially if that percentage can fluctuate or exceed the original principal in a way that resembles interest, falls into the category of Riba.

This is fundamentally prohibited as it involves profiting from time-value of money without a tangible, ethical exchange of goods or services, leading to potential exploitation and economic instability.

Education is vital, but the means of funding it must also align with ethical principles to ensure true benefit and avoid financial pitfalls.

Here are some ethical alternatives for skill development and education that avoid such problematic financial structures:

• Coursera: Offers a vast array of courses, specializations, and degrees from top universities and companies. Many courses are free to audit, and paid options often involve one-time payments or subscription models, allowing for transparent, upfront costs.
• edX: Another leading online learning platform with university-level courses, including professional certificates and degree programs. Like Coursera, it provides clear pricing structures, often with financial aid options that do not involve income-based repayment.
• Udemy: Known for its extensive library of user-generated courses on practical skills, including programming, design, and business. Courses are typically purchased individually, offering a direct, one-time transaction.
• Khan Academy: A non-profit educational organization providing free, world-class education in a wide range of subjects, from math and science to computer programming and economics. It’s an excellent resource for foundational knowledge without any financial obligation.
• freeCodeCamp: Dedicated to teaching coding skills for free, leading to certifications in various development fields. It offers a project-based curriculum and a supportive community, relying on donations rather than tuition fees or ISAs.
• Google Career Certificates: Offered by Google, these professional certificates prepare individuals for in-demand jobs in fields like IT Support, Data Analytics, Project Management, and UX Design. They are often affordable, and scholarships are available, providing a clear cost structure.
• The Odin Project: A free, open-source curriculum for web development. It’s project-based and emphasizes practical application, guiding learners through various technologies needed for a full-stack developer role, all without any cost.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

We-stride.com Review & First Look

Upon initial review, we-stride.com presents itself as a modern online education provider, focusing heavily on technology and business administration programs.

The website is primarily in Thai, suggesting its main audience is in Thailand or Southeast Asia, though it does mention global recognition for its ECTS credits.

The overall presentation is clean and professional, with clear navigation for various program types like Bootcamps, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorates.

The core value proposition revolves around accessible, flexible online learning coupled with job placement assistance.

This model, while appealing to many, necessitates a deeper dive into its financial mechanisms, particularly the “Income Share Agreement” ISA.

The Promise of Accessible Education

We-stride.com highlights several benefits for its students, emphasizing:

• Affordable Tuition: Promising accessible fees, with an option to “pay after getting a job.” This points directly to their ISA model.
• Flexible and Online Learning: Catering to modern learners who need to balance studies with other commitments. This is a significant draw for working professionals or those with limited access to traditional universities.
• Future-Proofing Education: Aligning their curricula with in-demand skills in the IT sector, such as AI, Machine Learning, Data Science, and Software Engineering.

Understanding the Income Share Agreement ISA

The most notable financial aspect mentioned is the “Income Share Agreement ISA.” This model is presented as a way for students to defer tuition payments until they secure employment after graduation.

The website states, “Pay after getting a job, starting from only 34,500 Baht.” While this sounds beneficial, offering a pathway to education without upfront costs, it’s crucial to understand the specifics of an ISA.

• What it is: An ISA is a financing option where, in exchange for tuition, a student agrees to pay a fixed percentage of their future income for a set period after graduation, typically once their income reaches a certain threshold.
• The Ethical Concern: The key issue with ISAs, from an ethical standpoint, is the potential for them to mirror interest-bearing loans Riba. If the total repayment amount can exceed the original tuition amount significantly, or if the percentage and duration of repayment are designed to generate a profit similar to interest, it becomes problematic. Even if not explicitly called “interest,” the substance of the transaction can be similar, where money is exchanged for more money over time without a tangible, productive exchange of goods or services.
• Lack of Specifics on We-stride.com: The homepage does not provide detailed terms of their ISA, such as the income threshold, the percentage of income to be paid, the maximum repayment cap, or the duration of payments. This lack of transparency on the main page is a significant drawback for anyone trying to assess its ethical viability. Without these details, it’s impossible to confirm if their ISA structure avoids Riba.

We-stride.com Cons & Ethical Concerns

We-stride.com, despite its appealing proposition of accessible education, presents several cons and significant ethical concerns, particularly regarding its financial model and the information available on its website.

A thorough review reveals areas where transparency and adherence to ethical financial practices are questionable, making it difficult to recommend without substantial clarification. Methinks.net Review

The Problematic Income Share Agreement ISA

The most prominent ethical concern is the Income Share Agreement ISA. While presented as a student-friendly option, it inherently carries risks of violating ethical financial principles, particularly the prohibition of Riba interest.

• Riba Analogy: In an ISA, a student commits to paying a percentage of their future income. If this percentage, over time, results in a total repayment amount that significantly exceeds the initial “tuition” received, it functions akin to an interest-bearing loan. The “profit” generated by the institution comes from the time value of money and the student’s future earnings, rather than a direct, equitable exchange of goods or services.
• Lack of Clarity: We-stride.com’s homepage offers very little detail on the ISA terms. There’s no clear disclosure of:
  • Income Threshold: At what salary level does repayment begin?
  • Repayment Percentage: What percentage of income will be taken?
  • Payment Cap: Is there a maximum amount a student will ever pay, regardless of their income? Without a fixed cap, the repayment could theoretically continue indefinitely or become exorbitantly high if the student’s income skyrockets, creating an unfair burden.
  • Payment Duration: For how many months or years is the student obligated to pay?
• Uncertainty Gharar: The very nature of an ISA introduces significant gharar uncertainty for the student. Their future income is uncertain, and consequently, the total amount they will repay is unknown at the outset. This level of financial ambiguity is generally discouraged in ethical transactions because it can lead to unfair outcomes for one party.

Limited Transparency on Key Information

Beyond the ISA, the website generally lacks the depth of information that a prospective student would expect from a reputable educational institution.

• Accreditation Details: While it mentions ECTS credits for global recognition, specific details about the accreditation bodies for its degrees Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate are not immediately clear on the homepage. Students need to know if their degrees will be recognized by employers and other academic institutions globally.
• Faculty Credentials: The website states, “Learn from leading industry experts,” but there’s no easy access to detailed faculty profiles, their specific qualifications, industry experience, or academic affiliations. A dedicated “Faculty” section is linked, but the homepage does not provide quick highlights.
• Student Outcomes Data: While it boasts “93% employment rate within six months,” the methodology for this statistic “Statistics from a survey of students who graduated between academic years 2023-2024” is vague. Without independent verification or more granular data e.g., average starting salaries, types of roles, specific companies, it’s hard to fully trust these claims.
• Curriculum Depth: While program titles are listed, detailed course outlines or syllabi for each program are not readily available on the main page. This makes it difficult for potential students to understand the depth and breadth of what they will learn.

Unreachable Contact Information

The website only provides a link to Calendly to “Talk to our admissions advisor,” which immediately redirects to a scheduling page.

There is no readily visible phone number, email address, or physical address for the institution.

This lack of direct contact information can be a red flag for legitimacy and raises questions about accessibility for support or inquiries beyond scheduling a meeting.

Trusted educational institutions typically provide multiple, easily accessible contact methods.

Website Navigation and User Experience

While the design is clean, some aspects of the navigation can be confusing:

• Repetitive Links: Many links on the homepage, such as “Text Link,” “สมัคร Apply,” and “หลักสูตร Courses,” lead back to the same section or have similar destinations, which can be redundant and inefficient.
• Language Barrier: While expected given the target market, the heavy reliance on Thai without a prominent language toggle beyond what a browser might offer can deter international users interested in their ECTS-accredited programs.

In conclusion, while We-stride.com attempts to fill a market need for accessible tech education, its opaque ISA model and general lack of detailed, transparent information on its homepage make it a questionable choice from an ethical and practical standpoint.

The focus on an income-sharing model, without clear and ethical safeguards against Riba, is a significant detractor.

We-stride.com Alternatives: Ethical Learning Pathways

Given the ethical concerns surrounding the Income Share Agreement ISA model employed by We-stride.com, it’s crucial to explore alternative educational pathways that align with ethical financial principles. Afleet.io Review

These alternatives focus on transparent pricing, direct payment, or established scholarship/aid models that avoid interest-based transactions Riba or excessive uncertainty Gharar. Education is a noble pursuit, and securing it through ethical means is paramount.

For Online Tech & Business Education Paid, Ethical Models

1. Coursera

   

   • Key Features: Offers courses, Specializations, Professional Certificates, and online degrees from top universities and companies worldwide. Covers IT, Data Science, Business, and more. Features peer-graded assignments, graded quizzes, and capstone projects.
   • Price/Average Price: Courses typically range from $49-$99 for a certificate, Specializations from $39-$79/month, and degrees have varied tuition costs. Many courses can be audited for free.
   • Pros: High-quality content, reputable partners, flexible learning, verifiable certificates, often offers financial aid or scholarships without Riba.
   • Cons: Can be expensive for full programs/degrees, self-discipline required.
   • Why it’s ethical: Clear upfront pricing or subscription models. Financial aid is typically needs-based grants or loans structured without interest.

2. edX

   • Key Features: Similar to Coursera, edX offers courses, MicroMasters, Professional Certificates, and online degrees from universities like MIT, Harvard, and Berkeley. Strong focus on STEM, Computer Science, and Business.
   • Price/Average Price: Varies widely, from free audit tracks to several thousands for professional certificates or degrees.
   • Pros: World-class institutions, rigorous content, verified certificates, excellent for career advancement.
   • Cons: Can be challenging for beginners, costs can add up for multiple programs.
   • Why it’s ethical: Transparent pricing models, and financial assistance programs are generally structured to avoid interest.

3. Udemy

   • Key Features: Massive library of video-based courses taught by independent instructors on practical skills in IT, development, business, design, and more. Offers lifetime access to purchased courses.
   • Price/Average Price: Courses typically range from $19-$199, often with significant discounts.
   • Pros: Affordable, wide range of topics, practical skills, learn at your own pace, lifetime access.
   • Cons: Quality varies greatly between instructors, no formal accreditation.
   • Why it’s ethical: Direct one-time payment for specific courses, no hidden fees or income-sharing agreements.

4. Pluralsight

   • Key Features: Subscription-based platform focusing on technology skills development. Offers structured learning paths, skill assessments, and hands-on labs for software development, IT ops, data professional, and cybersecurity roles.
   • Price/Average Price: Monthly subscriptions around $29-$45, annual subscriptions around $299-$499.
   • Pros: Industry-leading experts, comprehensive learning paths, practical application, good for continuous professional development.
   • Cons: Subscription model might not be ideal for short-term learners, primarily tech-focused.
   • Why it’s ethical: Clear subscription model with predictable costs.

For Free & Open-Source Learning Highly Recommended

5. Khan Academy

   • Key Features: A non-profit organization offering free educational resources in subjects like math, science, computer programming, history, and economics. Provides exercises, quizzes, and videos.
   • Price/Average Price: Free.
   • Pros: Completely free, high-quality foundational content, self-paced, excellent for building strong basics.
   • Cons: Not career-focused for advanced skills, no formal certifications.
   • Why it’s ethical: Fully donor-funded, accessible to everyone without any financial obligation or hidden costs.

6. freeCodeCamp

   • Key Features: A non-profit organization offering free, interactive coding courses and certifications in web development HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, Node.js, data science, and more. Emphasizes project-based learning.
   • Pros: Completely free, practical projects, strong community support, highly job-relevant.
   • Cons: Primarily focused on programming, requires self-motivation.
   • Why it’s ethical: Runs on donations, providing free education as a public service.

7. Google Career Certificates

   • Key Features: Professional certificates designed by Google to prepare individuals for entry-level jobs in high-growth fields like IT Support, Data Analytics, Project Management, UX Design, and Digital Marketing. Available on Coursera.
   • Price/Average Price: Typically around $39/month via Coursera subscription. scholarships are often available.
   • Pros: Industry-recognized, practical skills, job-focused, often leads to entry-level positions.
   • Cons: Requires commitment to complete within a few months, might not cover advanced topics.
   • Why it’s ethical: Clear subscription costs or one-time payments for certificates. Scholarships are available, avoiding Riba.

These alternatives provide clear, transparent, and ethically sound pathways to acquire valuable skills and knowledge, ensuring that educational advancement is pursued without engaging in financially questionable arrangements. Free-mining.site Review

Navigating the Ethical Landscape of Educational Financing

The emergence of Income Share Agreements ISAs, as seen with We-stride.com, highlights the critical need for scrutiny.

While promising accessibility, ISAs often present terms that, upon closer inspection, can resemble interest-bearing transactions, which are ethically problematic.

Understanding these nuances is crucial for making informed decisions about education and career advancement.

The Nuances of Income Share Agreements ISAs

ISAs are distinct from traditional loans in their structure: instead of a fixed principal and interest, repayment is a percentage of future income.

However, this distinction doesn’t automatically make them ethically sound.

• Profit Motive: If the percentage of income and the duration of repayment allow the educational institution or financier to earn significantly more than the initial tuition provided, it essentially functions as a form of return on capital, which, when tied to time and value of money, parallels interest.
• Risk Transfer: ISAs transfer some of the risk of unemployment or low earnings from the student to the institution. However, they can also transfer significant risk of high earnings back to the student, leading to disproportionate repayments compared to the education received.
• Ethical Question: The fundamental ethical question revolves around whether the mechanism of payment is a fair exchange for the educational service or if it’s a financial instrument designed to profit from the student’s future earnings in a manner similar to Riba.

The Importance of Transparency and Fixed Caps

For an ISA to even begin to approach ethical viability, it would require absolute transparency and strict limitations:

• Clear Disclosure: Every single term must be explicit: the exact income threshold, the percentage of income, the maximum repayment cap a fixed amount that the student will never exceed, regardless of how high their income goes, and the maximum duration of payments.
• No Open-Ended Obligation: Any ISA without a clear and reasonable repayment cap is ethically highly problematic, as it creates an open-ended financial obligation that could become excessively burdensome. The absence of this on We-stride.com’s homepage is a major red flag.
• Alignment with Service Value: The total potential repayment should be reasonably commensurate with the value of the education provided, without excessive profit generated solely from the passage of time or the student’s financial success.

Why Ethical Financing Matters for Education

Choosing ethically sound financing for education is not just about avoiding prohibited transactions.

It’s about fostering fair and just economic relationships.

• Avoiding Exploitation: Ethical financing aims to prevent one party from unjustly benefiting at the expense of another, particularly those in vulnerable positions seeking to improve their lives through education.
• Building a Just Society: Economic justice is a cornerstone of ethical living. Promoting models that rely on direct payments, ethical partnerships, or true charitable aid helps build a financial system that supports growth without unfair burdens.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing that one’s financial agreements are ethically sound brings a deeper sense of peace and enables focus on learning and contribution.

In conclusion, while we-stride.com offers valuable educational programs in high-demand fields, its reliance on an opaque Income Share Agreement model necessitates extreme caution.

Prospective students should prioritize educational institutions and financing options that are unequivocally transparent and demonstrably free from interest-based practices or excessive uncertainty. Vozcoin.io Review

Education is an investment in oneself and society, and it should be pursued through means that uphold the highest ethical standards.

How to Assess Educational Program Legitimacy

When considering online educational platforms like we-stride.com, assessing their legitimacy and value is paramount, especially when navigating non-traditional financial models like Income Share Agreements ISAs. Beyond the ethical concerns, several practical aspects demand thorough investigation to ensure a wise investment of time and resources.

Accreditation and Recognition

For any degree-granting program Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate, proper accreditation is non-negotiable.

• Verify Regional/National Accreditation: In many countries, educational institutions are accredited by recognized bodies. For instance, in the U.S., regional accreditation is crucial for transferring credits and employer recognition. If We-stride.com aims for global recognition with ECTS credits, prospective students need to verify its accreditation with a globally recognized authority or a reputable local authority that allows for such credit transfers.
• Check Ministry of Education Listings: For institutions operating in a specific country like Thailand for We-stride.com, check if they are officially recognized and licensed by the national Ministry of Education or equivalent authority.
• Professional Body Endorsements: For specific fields like IT or engineering, check if the programs are recognized or endorsed by relevant professional bodies. This can be a strong indicator of curriculum quality and industry relevance.

Faculty Expertise and Support

The quality of instruction directly impacts learning outcomes.

• Detailed Faculty Profiles: A legitimate institution will provide comprehensive bios of its faculty, including their academic qualifications, industry experience, research interests, and any publications. The generic “Learn from leading industry experts” on We-stride.com is insufficient. Prospective students should be able to verify these credentials.
• Student-to-Mentor Ratio: For programs promising “1:1 mentorship” or personalized support, understanding the actual ratio and the availability of mentors is crucial. Is the mentorship structured, and what are the qualifications of the mentors?
• Support Systems: Beyond instructors, what academic support e.g., tutoring, academic advising, technical support is available? How accessible are these resources for online learners?

Curriculum and Learning Experience

The content and delivery of education are core to its value.

• Detailed Syllabi and Course Descriptions: Instead of just program titles, prospective students need access to detailed syllabi for each course, outlining learning objectives, topics covered, assignments, and required software/tools. This allows for a comprehensive understanding of the curriculum.
• Project-Based Learning Evidence: If “project-based learning” is emphasized, seek examples of past student projects or a clear outline of the types of projects involved. This demonstrates practical application.
• Technology and Platform: Inquire about the learning management system LMS used. Is it user-friendly, reliable, and equipped with features that support online collaboration, discussion forums, and resource access?

Career Services and Outcomes

While employment statistics can be appealing, their veracity and the support structure behind them need examination.

• Verified Employment Data: Ask for more granular details on their “93% employment rate.” What are the average starting salaries? In what industries and roles do graduates find jobs? Can they provide testimonials with verifiable outcomes? Independent audits of these statistics would be ideal.
• Career Support Services: What specific career services are offered? This should go beyond just “job placement assistance” to include resume building, interview preparation, networking events, and alumni support. How long is this support available after graduation?
• Employer Partnerships: Does the institution have formal partnerships with companies that regularly hire their graduates? Specific examples of partner companies would add credibility.

Financial Transparency Beyond ISA

Even for non-ISA programs, clear financial information is essential.

• Total Program Costs: Are all costs clearly outlined, including tuition, fees application, technology, graduation, and estimated costs for books or software? Hidden fees are a red flag.
• Refund Policies: Understand the refund policy in case a student needs to withdraw from a program. Is it fair and clearly communicated?
• Payment Plans: For direct payment programs, what payment plans are available, and do they involve any interest or additional charges?

By thoroughly investigating these aspects, prospective students can make more informed decisions about whether an online educational platform, including one like We-stride.com, truly offers a legitimate and valuable pathway to their academic and career goals, while also ensuring that the financial arrangements align with ethical principles.

We-stride.com Pricing & Ethical Financial Considerations

Understanding the pricing model of We-stride.com is crucial, especially given its mention of an “Income Share Agreement ISA” and its implications for ethical finance.

While the website mentions a starting price of “34,500 Baht” for MBA programs, to be “paid after getting a job,” the overall pricing structure for different programs and the full terms of their ISA remain largely undisclosed on the homepage. Theapparelbox.com Review

This lack of transparency is a significant concern for anyone assessing the financial commitment and its ethical standing.

The Opacity of We-stride.com’s Pricing

The homepage offers tantalizing glimpses of affordability but little concrete data:

• “Starting from 34,500 Baht”: This appears to refer to the MBA program with the ISA option. However, it’s unclear if this is a registration fee, a minimum payment, or a placeholder for the initial outlay before the ISA kicks in. Without context, this number is vague.
• Absence of Standard Tuition Fees: For other programs Bootcamps, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorates, there’s no clear tuition schedule presented on the homepage. Reputable educational institutions typically provide detailed breakdowns of tuition per credit hour, per semester, or for the entire program duration.
• Hidden Costs: The lack of comprehensive pricing information raises questions about potential hidden fees application fees, technology fees, graduation fees, administrative charges, etc. that could add to the overall cost.

Deeper Dive into the Income Share Agreement ISA Pricing

The ISA is positioned as a primary financial mechanism, but its “pricing” is contingent on future income, making it complex and ethically sensitive.

For an ISA to be transparent and minimally problematic though still requiring careful ethical review for Riba, the following “pricing” elements must be explicit:

• Income Threshold: The minimum annual income a graduate must earn before ISA repayments begin. This threshold determines when the “payment after getting a job” truly starts.
• Income Share Percentage: The fixed percentage of gross or net income that the graduate agrees to pay for a specified period. This is the core “rate” of the ISA.
• Payment Term/Duration: The maximum number of months or years the graduate is obligated to make payments, even if they hit the repayment cap earlier.
• Repayment Cap: This is perhaps the most critical “pricing” element. It’s the maximum total dollar amount or Baht equivalent a graduate will ever pay, regardless of how high their income goes or how long they are in repayment. Without a clearly defined, reasonable cap, an ISA can become an open-ended financial obligation that is ethically questionable. If a student is required to pay, for example, 10% of their income for 5 years, and their income skyrockets, they could end up paying back 3x or 4x the original tuition amount. This effectively becomes profiting from money the original tuition value over time, which mirrors Riba.
• Grace Period: The period after graduation before repayments are expected to begin.
• Deferment/Forbearance Policies: What happens if a graduate loses their job, goes back to school, or faces financial hardship? Are payments paused without penalty?

Ethical Considerations for ISA Pricing

From an ethical standpoint, the “pricing” of an ISA, particularly the potential for indefinite or excessive repayment, is where the conflict with Riba arises.

• Riba Avoidance: An ethically permissible financial arrangement for education would typically involve a clear, fixed price for the service. If any “profit” is tied to the time value of money or a percentage of future income without a cap, it risks becoming Riba. Even if the ISA is structured as a partnership, the profit-sharing must be genuinely equitable and not resemble a loan with a variable interest rate.
• Gharar Uncertainty: The inherent uncertainty in an ISA’s total repayment amount due to uncertain future income introduces an element of gharar, which is to be avoided in financial contracts where it leads to exploitation. A clear, reasonable repayment cap can mitigate some of this uncertainty, but its absence is a major red flag.
• Fairness and Equity: The pricing model should ensure that the burden of repayment is fair and proportionate to the educational service received, rather than creating a scenario where high-earning graduates disproportionately subsidize the program without a clear benefit to themselves.

In summary, We-stride.com’s pricing, particularly its reliance on the unspecified terms of an ISA, lacks the transparency and ethical safeguards necessary for a clear recommendation.

Prospective students are advised to seek full disclosure of all ISA terms, including the repayment cap, and to consult with independent financial advisors familiar with ethical financial principles before committing.

How to Cancel We-stride.com Subscription or ISA Agreement

Given the ethical concerns surrounding the Income Share Agreement ISA model and the general lack of transparent information on We-stride.com, understanding the process for canceling a subscription or, more critically, terminating an ISA agreement, is paramount.

Since specific details are absent from the homepage, this section will outline the likely procedures and the necessary precautions.

Lack of Clear Cancellation Policy on Homepage

We-stride.com’s homepage does not feature any readily accessible information regarding subscription cancellations or the termination of an ISA agreement. Casgliad.com Review

This is a common issue with platforms that primarily focus on enrollment without adequately detailing exit strategies or dispute resolution processes.

In most cases, such information would be buried deep within Terms and Conditions, a Student Handbook, or the ISA contract itself.

Steps to Attempt Cancellation/Termination General Guidelines

Since specific We-stride.com procedures are not public, the following general steps apply to most online educational platforms and ISA providers:

1. Review Your Enrollment Agreement/ISA Contract Thoroughly: This is the most crucial first step. When you enroll or sign an ISA, you are provided with a contract. This document must contain the terms for withdrawal, cancellation, or termination. Look for clauses related to:

   • Withdrawal Policy: How to formally withdraw from a program.
   • Refund Policy: If you withdraw, what portion of tuition or initial payments is refundable, and under what conditions?
   • ISA Termination Clause: How can the ISA be terminated? Are there specific buy-out options, or is it only through full repayment? What happens if you don’t secure a job or earn below the threshold?
   • Breach of Contract: What constitutes a breach by either party, and what are the consequences?
   • Dispute Resolution: How are disagreements handled e.g., mediation, arbitration?

2. Contact Admissions/Student Services: Reach out to the institution’s official contact points.

   • Use Formal Communication: Send an email to any official email address you can find e.g., admissions, support, student services. If only a contact form or scheduler like Calendly on We-stride.com is available, use it to request specific cancellation/termination procedures and forms.
   • Clearly State Your Intent: Explicitly state that you wish to cancel your enrollment or terminate your ISA agreement.
   • Request Written Confirmation: Always ask for all communication and confirmations in writing. This creates a paper trail.
   • Record Communications: Keep a detailed log of all calls, emails, and interactions, including dates, times, names of representatives, and summaries of discussions.

3. Understand Financial Implications:

   • Tuition/Fees: Determine if you are still liable for any tuition fees for the period you were enrolled or if any initial payments are refundable.
   • ISA Obligation: If you’ve already started the ISA, understand what happens to your repayment obligation. Is there a pro-rated amount due? Is the agreement nullified if you withdraw before starting a job? This is where the ISA contract’s specific terms are critical.
   • Penalties: Be aware of any withdrawal fees or penalties that might be incurred.

4. Follow Formal Procedures: If the institution requires specific forms, written letters, or deadlines, adhere to them strictly. Missing a deadline could result in continued financial obligations.

5. Seek Legal or Financial Counsel If Necessary:

   • If the institution is unresponsive, unclear, or if you feel you are being unfairly held to terms, seek advice from a legal professional specializing in contract law or a consumer protection agency in Thailand or your relevant jurisdiction.
   • For ethical financial concerns related to Riba, consult with an Islamic finance expert or scholar to understand your obligations and potential avenues for resolution.

Crucial Red Flags and Precautions

• No Public Policy: A major red flag is the absence of a clear, public cancellation or refund policy on the website. This lack of transparency can indicate potential difficulties in withdrawing.
• Unresponsive Support: If customer service or admissions representatives are unhelpful or delay in providing the necessary information, it’s a strong warning sign.
• Ambiguous ISA Terms: If the ISA contract itself is vague about termination, repayment caps, or what happens if a student doesn’t find a job, it poses a high risk.
• Pressure to Enroll: Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics that rush you into signing agreements without sufficient time to review them.

In conclusion, while direct instructions for canceling We-stride.com agreements are not publicly available, individuals should rely heavily on the written contract provided upon enrollment.

Proactive and documented communication with the institution, combined with a thorough understanding of contractual obligations and potential legal/ethical advice, are essential for navigating any cancellation process. Aromasilk.com Review

We-stride.com vs. Traditional Online Learning Platforms: A Comparison

When evaluating We-stride.com, it’s beneficial to compare its model against more established and ethically transparent online learning platforms.

This comparison highlights key differences in financial models, educational approach, and overall transparency, allowing for a more informed decision.

Financial Model: ISA vs. Upfront/Subscription

• We-stride.com ISA-focused: Relies heavily on the Income Share Agreement ISA model, where tuition is largely repaid as a percentage of future income after employment. While seemingly advantageous by reducing upfront costs, the ethical concern regarding Riba interest due to uncapped or unclear repayment terms is significant. There’s also a lack of clear standard tuition rates for those who might prefer direct payment.
• Traditional Platforms e.g., Coursera, edX, Udemy, Pluralsight: Predominantly use direct payment models:
  • Upfront Payment: One-time fees for individual courses or programs e.g., Udemy, some Coursera/edX verified certificates.
  • Subscription: Monthly or annual fees for access to a library of content e.g., Pluralsight, Coursera Plus.
  • Degree Tuition: Standard university tuition fees for accredited online degrees, often paid per credit or per semester.
  • Ethical Standpoint: These models are generally ethically sound as costs are transparent and fixed. Financial aid or scholarships are typically needs-based or merit-based grants, avoiding interest.

Educational Approach: Blended vs. Pure Online

• We-stride.com Blended/Project-based: Appears to emphasize “learning by doing” with project-based modules and “1:1 mentorship.” It also mentions “6 learning hubs,” suggesting a blended approach with physical presence or community spaces, which can be beneficial for hands-on learning and networking.
• Traditional Platforms:
  • Coursera/edX: Offer structured online courses with video lectures, readings, quizzes, peer-graded assignments, and discussion forums. Some programs integrate virtual labs or capstone projects. Mentorship is often through teaching assistants or community forums rather than dedicated 1:1, unless part of a premium or degree program.
  • Udemy: Primarily self-paced video courses with Q&A sections. Less structured interaction, more focus on independent learning.
  • Pluralsight: Focuses on skill assessments and learning paths, often with interactive labs and exercises.
• Ethical Standpoint: The instructional approach itself doesn’t typically raise ethical flags, but the quality and availability of promised resources like 1:1 mentorship must match the claims.

Transparency and Credibility

• We-stride.com: Lacks transparency regarding accreditation details for its degrees, comprehensive faculty profiles, granular student outcome data beyond a percentage, and detailed ISA terms on its homepage. The primary language being Thai might also pose a barrier for international students.
• Traditional Platforms: Generally excel in transparency:
  • Accreditation: Clearly state their accreditation bodies or the accredited university partners.
  • Faculty: Provide extensive faculty bios, often linking to their university profiles.
  • Student Outcomes: Reputable platforms and their university partners often publish detailed reports on graduate employment, salaries, and satisfaction.
  • Terms & Conditions: Full terms, including cancellation and refund policies, are usually easily accessible.
  • Ethical Standpoint: Higher transparency allows students to make informed decisions and reduces gharar uncertainty in the educational investment.

Target Audience and Niche

• We-stride.com: Appears tailored for individuals in Thailand and Southeast Asia looking to enter or advance in tech and business careers, with a strong emphasis on a “pay after you get a job” model for those who might struggle with upfront tuition.
• Traditional Platforms: Cater to a broader global audience, from working professionals seeking to upskill to individuals pursuing full online degrees. They offer a wider range of subjects and learning styles.

In summary, while We-stride.com offers a localized, potentially hands-on learning experience with a unique financing model, its lack of financial transparency, particularly concerning the ISA, and general informational opacity are significant drawbacks.

Traditional platforms, despite their varying costs, generally offer more transparent, ethically sound financial models and clearer pathways for verification of credentials and outcomes.

For individuals prioritizing ethical finance and clear contractual terms, traditional online learning platforms present a more reliable and less ambiguous choice.

We-stride.com: News and Updates Review

Reviewing the “ข่าวสารและอัปเดต” News and Updates section on We-stride.com’s homepage offers insights into the institution’s activities, partnerships, and recent developments.

While the updates provide a glimpse into their operational growth, one particular update about “cannabis legalization” related research raises an ethical concern.

General Updates and Activities

The news section broadly covers several types of updates:

• Student Success & Mobility:

  • “นักศึกษาหลักสูตร MSc จาก WIT ร่วมโครงการโอนย้ายไปเรียนต่อที่มหาวิทยาลัยในสหรัฐฯ ได้แล้ววันนี้!” MSc students from WIT can now participate in transfer programs to universities in the US! – This update highlights potential pathways for students to continue their education internationally, which is a positive sign for academic mobility and recognition assuming the transfer agreements are robust.
  • “WIT พานักเรียนเปิดประสบการณ์นวัตกรรมในกิจกรรม Ecosystem Tour ที่ TDPK” WIT took students to experience innovation at TDPK Ecosystem Tour – This suggests engagement with industry and practical exposure for students, which is valuable for tech-focused programs.
  • Student stories like “Supply Chain Analyst สู่การเป็นวิศวกรซอฟต์แวร์” Supply Chain Analyst to Software Engineer provide testimonials of career transformation, aiming to inspire prospective students.

• Program & Policy Developments: Kiteoutlet.eu Review

  • “โครงการ Income Share Agreement ISA ของ WeStride Institute of Technology WIT” Income Share Agreement ISA Project of WeStride Institute of Technology WIT – This update reinforces their commitment to the ISA model, further emphasizing the need for clarity on its ethical implications.
  • “WIT เปิดตัว Performance-Based Admission PBA เปิดโอกาสเรียนป.โทแบบใหม่” WIT launched Performance-Based Admission PBA opening new opportunities for Master’s study – This indicates innovative admission pathways, potentially based on skill assessment rather than traditional academic records.
  • “ครั้งแรกในไทย! หลักสูตร STEM ออนไลน์ระดับปริญญาตรีจาก WeStride และ มหาวิทยาลัยเอเชียอาคเนย์” First in Thailand! Online STEM Bachelor’s degree from WeStride and Southeast Asia University – This highlights a significant partnership and expansion into undergraduate online STEM education, suggesting a move towards more formal academic offerings.

• Events & Partnerships:

  • Updates about participation in job fairs e.g., Korat Open House and Job Fair 2025 and industry events e.g., One Stop Open House 2024 with Southeast Asia University indicate community engagement and efforts to connect students with employers.

Ethical Concern: “Understanding Public Opinion on Cannabis Legalization” Research

One specific news item stands out: “การทำความเข้าใจความคิดเห็นของสาธารณชนต่อการเปิดเสรีกัญชา: ด้วยการใช้ ML และ AI” Understanding Public Opinion on Cannabis Legalization: Using ML and AI. While this is presented as a “งานวิจัย” research item, and data analysis using ML/AI is a valid academic pursuit, the subject matter itself—cannabis legalization—is problematic from an ethical standpoint.

• Prohibition of Intoxicants: The ethical framework firmly prohibits intoxicants, including cannabis. Engaging in research, even if it’s about public opinion, around the legalization of such a substance can be seen as inadvertently promoting or normalizing something ethically impermissible. While the research itself might be purely academic, its context within an institution aiming for ethical standards requires careful consideration.
• Focus on Beneficial Knowledge: Educational institutions should prioritize research and knowledge that is unequivocally beneficial and does not touch upon areas that could be seen as supporting or legitimizing activities that are ethically discouraged. There are countless other areas where ML and AI can be applied for societal good without delving into topics related to prohibited substances.

Conclusion on News and Updates

The news section generally paints a picture of a dynamic institution focused on growth, student success, and innovation in education.

The partnerships and expansion into various degree levels are notable.

However, the inclusion of research on cannabis legalization is a significant ethical concern.

While academic freedom is important, an institution that positions itself implicitly, through broader community values as ethical should exercise discretion in the topics it highlights, especially when they touch upon areas widely considered impermissible.

This specific piece of research raises questions about the institution’s alignment with broader ethical principles, particularly regarding the promotion or normalization of prohibited substances.

FAQs

What is We-stride.com?

We-stride.com is an online educational platform, primarily based in Thailand, offering various programs including Bootcamps, Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees in fields like AI, Machine Learning, Data Science, Software Engineering, and Business Administration.

It emphasizes flexible online learning and job placement assistance, often utilizing an Income Share Agreement ISA model for tuition payment.

Is We-stride.com accredited?

While We-stride.com mentions global recognition through ECTS credits and partnerships with universities like Southeast Asia University for online STEM Bachelor’s degrees, specific details about its primary accreditation bodies for all its programs are not clearly outlined on the homepage. Totaliweb.com Review

Prospective students should verify the accreditation of their desired program with relevant national and international educational authorities.

How does the Income Share Agreement ISA work on We-stride.com?

Based on the website, the Income Share Agreement ISA allows students to defer tuition payments until they secure employment after graduation, with repayment starting from a mentioned 34,500 Baht.

However, the homepage lacks crucial details such as the income threshold, the percentage of future income to be paid, the maximum repayment cap, or the duration of payments.

These specifics are vital for understanding the full financial obligation.

Is the Income Share Agreement ISA ethically permissible?

The ethical permissibility of an Income Share Agreement ISA is contentious.

If the ISA involves a repayment that can significantly exceed the original tuition amount, or if the “profit” generated by the institution is solely tied to the time value of money or future income without a clear and reasonable fixed cap, it can resemble interest-bearing transactions Riba, which are ethically problematic.

The lack of transparent terms on We-stride.com’s homepage makes it difficult to assess its ethical standing fully.

What programs does We-stride.com offer?

We-stride.com offers a range of programs including:

• Bootcamps: AI and Machine Learning, UI/UX Design, Software Testing, Full-Stack Development, Data Science, Analytics and Engineering.
• Undergraduate: BEng Computer Engineering, online STEM Bachelor’s.
• Master’s: MS CS AI and Machine Learning, Data Analytics and Science, Software Engineering, Master of Business Administration.
• Doctorate: Doctor of Business Administration.
• Dual Degrees: DBA/MBA Dual Degree, MBA/MS Computer Science Dual Degree.

Are there any upfront costs for We-stride.com programs?

The website mentions “เริ่มต้นเพียง 34,500 บาท ชำระหลังจากได้งาน” starting from only 34,500 Baht, pay after getting a job for their MBA program with ISA.

This suggests a low initial outlay, but it’s unclear if this is a registration fee, a small upfront payment, or a general minimum. Bambinosit.com Review

For programs not explicitly under the ISA, standard tuition costs are not detailed on the homepage.

What is the job placement rate for We-stride.com graduates?

We-stride.com claims a “93% employment rate within six months after graduation,” based on a survey of students who graduated between academic years 2023-2024. More granular details about the types of jobs, average salaries, and the methodology of this survey are not provided on the homepage.

Does We-stride.com offer mentorship?

Yes, We-stride.com states it offers “การให้คำปรึกษาแบบเฉพาะบุคคล” personalized mentorship with 1:1 support from experts.

Can international students enroll in We-stride.com programs?

While the website mentions ECTS credits for global recognition and student transfer programs to US universities, the primary language of the website is Thai.

Potential international students would need to clarify admission requirements, language proficiency expectations, and support for non-Thai speakers directly with the institution.

What is the learning format at We-stride.com?

We-stride.com emphasizes “ยืดหยุ่นและออนไลน์” flexible and online learning and “การเรียนรู้ผ่านโครงงานจริง” learning through real projects. They also mention “แหล่งการเรียนรู้ 6 แห่ง” 6 learning hubs, suggesting a blend of online and potentially physical support or community spaces.

How do I contact We-stride.com for more information?

The We-stride.com homepage provides a link to “พูดคุยกับที่ปรึกษารับสมัครของเรา→” Talk to our admissions advisor→, which redirects to a Calendly scheduling page.

Direct contact information like a phone number or email address is not prominently displayed on the main page.

What is Performance-Based Admission PBA?

We-stride.com announced the launch of “Performance-Based Admission PBA,” which opens new opportunities for Master’s study.

This typically implies that admission might be based on a candidate’s demonstrated skills or performance in a specific assessment, rather than solely on traditional academic qualifications. Fusion-radiology.com Review

Does We-stride.com offer career services?

Yes, We-stride.com highlights “เมนเทอร์และโค้ชอาชีพแบบ 1 ต่อ 1” 1-to-1 career mentors and coaches and “โอกาสที่คุณไม่ควรพลาดในการพัฒนาทางการศึกษาและอาชีพ” opportunities you shouldn’t miss for educational and career development, implying career support and job placement assistance.

Are there any free resources available on We-stride.com?

The homepage does not explicitly mention any free courses or resources. All listed programs appear to be paid offerings.

How long does it take to complete a program at We-stride.com?

The duration of programs at We-stride.com is not specified on the homepage.

It would vary significantly depending on whether it’s a Bootcamp, Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate degree.

This information would typically be found on individual program pages or in detailed course catalogs.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my enrollment?

The refund policy for We-stride.com is not publicly available on its homepage.

Prospective students should thoroughly review their enrollment agreement or ISA contract for specific terms related to withdrawals, cancellations, and potential refunds.

What are the technical requirements for We-stride.com’s online learning?

General technical requirements for online learning typically include a reliable internet connection, a computer or laptop, and possibly specific software for programming or design courses.

We-stride.com does not list these specific requirements on its homepage, but they would be found in program details or technical support sections.

Does We-stride.com have any partnerships with companies?

While We-stride.com mentions a high employment rate and career support, direct information about specific company partnerships for hiring graduates is not prominently displayed on the homepage. Myhomehero.today Review

Students would need to inquire about employer networks during the admissions process.

What kind of research does We-stride.com conduct?

We-stride.com features a “งานวิจัย” research section in its news updates, including a study on “Understanding Public Opinion on Cannabis Legalization: Using ML and AI.” This indicates some engagement in data analysis and machine learning research, though the specific topic chosen for highlighting raises ethical considerations.

How does We-stride.com ensure the quality of its faculty?

We-stride.com states that students “learn from leading industry experts who have real-world experience across diverse and specialized fields.” While this is a general claim, detailed profiles or specific qualifications of individual faculty members are linked to a separate faculty page, which should be reviewed for specific expertise.