Bermuda College saw a 20 percent increase in enrolment last spring after Government announced its free tuition initiative.

It followed a similar rise the semester before the college saw a 25 percent increase for the 2008 fall term. Figures from the college's 2009 annual report were detailed by Education Minister El James in the House of Assembly last Friday.

He said in addition to increased enrolment, the college was made a candidate for accreditation status by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

The college anticipates receiving full accreditation in the spring.

Mr James said: "The college's focus of putting students on the road to success was certainly met during the 2008/2009 year. The Government initiative of offering free tuition for suitably qualified applicants to the college proved to be successful with a 25 percent increase in enrolment for the fall 2008 term of the corresponding period for the previous year, and an increase of 20 percent for the spring 2009 term."

The Minister added there was also an increase in the number of students taking online courses. Eighty-six additional students enrolled and five more courses were added.

"In addition, a total of $23,540 was granted in financial assistance to 33 students in the fall semester and to 23 students in the spring semester to assist with incidental fees and the purchase of textbooks.

"Students took advantage of the college's 24/7 online tutorial support and clocked in 1,565 sessions and more than 823 hours of tutorials in various subject areas."