Hi,
I am currently abroad in Asia with my Bristol Ground School folders and DVD for 3 months. As I work through the course and do the quizzes and progress tests on the laptop, I connect to the internet every now and then to sync my details to update my progress with Bristol's servers. I have booked my Ground School in Cheddar and as far as I know, no complications have arisen so far. Due to being connected with the company, they are able to sign me off for the ATPL Theory Exams as they have proof of my studies due to the tests that I have to complete before attending the ground school.
Hope that helps and good luck