I do not deny that Redsnail is right. The JAA exams are no picnic. English first language and I still found them hard work to decode the question in some cases.
Things have improved since I sat my exams and there are better checking procedures in place with the CAA. the papers "should" be scrutinised prior to being issued so that all the questions "should" be fair. Some still get through but the CAA have now got a system by which CGIs can ensure that if a student feels a question in his exam was unfair then he can report it and the CAA addresses the matter.
Distance Learning is a very hard route to take, but for some it is the only option. I would always recommend a full-time course if at all possible.
Either way rules is rules. I see a large number of conversions come through and an even larger number of enquiries from a variety of backgrounds. Just be thankful that the new ruling means you do not have to complete the full 50/55 hour IR course , only the 15 hour!
Whatever you decide I wish you the best of luck
