Haven't completely read the thread but I went to see the PTC 2 years back and was about to apply for the assessment but due to family life I never got the chance.
Relieved that I didn't after hearing this
Pay by flight is my only way now.....These colleges look great on paper but personally I think a rating by rating in your own time is far better.
Im sure there are some great colleges out there but in todays climate handing over that amount of cash is not safe
Hope all Student Pilots involved get sorted