Is the Deposit Refundable?

Is the Deposit Refundable?

Yes, the deposit is refundable—but only after deducting any costs related to utilities, learning materials, or damage to property during your stay.

What Is the Deposit For?

When you arrive at 3D ACADEMY, you’ll be asked to pay a ₱4,500 deposit in cash (Philippine peso). This deposit serves as a temporary holding fund to cover:

• Electricity and water bills

• Textbooks and printed materials

• Lost keys or damaged items in your dormitory room

• Any unpaid fees before departure

This policy is in place to ensure a smooth checkout process and to keep the facilities in good condition for future students.

Electricity in the Philippines: What to Expect

Electricity in the Philippines is considerably more expensive than in many other countries. It is one of the most common reasons students do not receive a full refund of their deposit.

Let’s look at an example:

If you run the air-conditioning 24/7 in a single room, it’s possible to use over ₱10,000 worth of electricity in just one month. In such cases, your deposit won’t be enough, and you will need to pay the excess before you leave.

Tip: To save on costs, turn off your aircon when leaving the room and use electric fans when possible.

Textbooks and Materials

Textbooks and handouts are provided according to your level and course type. Prices vary depending on the program (ESL, TOEIC, IELTS, etc.), but average costs are:

• ₱200–₱400 per book

• Total of ₱400–₱1,000 per 4-week stay

You’ll only be charged for books you actually use, and the amount will be deducted from your deposit.

Why We Require a Deposit

The security deposit system exists to ensure fair and smooth management of shared facilities. It covers potential unpaid charges such as electricity, printed materials, or accidental damage to your room. By collecting this deposit at the beginning, we ensure transparency for both students and staff and minimize administrative issues later. This practice is also a standard policy across most language schools in the Philippines.

More importantly, the deposit encourages a sense of shared responsibility. Students are reminded to use electricity responsibly, take care of the facilities, and report any issues promptly. It’s a small step toward building a respectful and well-maintained learning environment for everyone.

Realistic Electricity Costs: What to Expect

Electricity in the Philippines is notably expensive. Students staying in single rooms who frequently use air conditioning may end up spending more than the deposit amount. For example, ₱10,000–₱12,000/month is not uncommon if the air conditioner is used heavily.

To give you an idea:

• Shared room average: ₱500–₱1,500/month

• Single room average: ₱2,000–₱10,000/month

• Air conditioning: ₱10–₱15 per hour

We highly recommend that students turn off unused appliances, use natural ventilation when possible, and unplug chargers to save energy. Being mindful of your electricity usage not only helps you save money but also reduces your environmental footprint.

What Materials Might Be Deducted

In some courses, printed handouts or textbooks may carry a small cost, which will be deducted from your deposit. For example:

• Printed grammar or vocabulary booklets

• Mock test fees (TOEIC, IELTS)

• Notebooks or writing practice folders

These costs are usually very minimal (₱100–₱500 total) and will always be communicated to you in advance. If you do not require any additional materials, there will be no deduction for this item.

️ Dorm Room Care and Damage Policy

To ensure that facilities remain clean and comfortable for future students, any damages to the dormitory room may be deducted from your deposit. Examples include:

• Lost or unreturned room keys (₱500)

• Broken furniture or appliances

• Stained bedding or walls

• Writing or damage to the mattress

Intentional damage or serious misconduct may be charged separately. To protect yourself, we recommend reporting any existing damages to the staff on Day 1, so you’re not held responsible later.

How and When Refunds Are Processed

Refunds are typically processed on your final day after a room inspection is completed. The balance is refunded in cash (PHP only). Please note:

• Refunds are not made via bank transfer or credit card

• You’ll receive a breakdown of deductions (if any)

• If your remaining balance is very small, you may choose to donate it to a student fund or local charity

In most cases, students receive a full or nearly full refund by simply being mindful and respectful of shared resources. If you have questions about specific charges, our staff will be happy to explain in detail.

Final Settlement and Refund Process

Here’s how it works:

1. On your last week, staff will calculate your utility and textbook charges.

2. Any overuse or damage will be noted.

3. The remaining balance of your deposit will be refunded in cash (PHP) on your final day.

4. If your usage exceeds the deposit, you’ll be informed and asked to pay the difference.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if I barely use electricity?
A: You may receive your deposit back in full. Many students in shared rooms with minimal aircon usage receive refunds of ₱2,000–₱4,000.

Q: Can I pay the deposit in USD or online?
A: No. The deposit is only accepted in cash (Philippine peso) upon arrival.

Q: Can I ask for a breakdown of the charges?
A: Absolutely. Our staff provides a detailed breakdown of electricity, materials, and any other deductions at checkout.

✅ Summary

At 3D ACADEMY, all students are required to pay a ₱4,500 deposit in Philippine pesos upon arrival. This deposit is refundable at the end of your stay, but only after deducting specific costs such as electricity usage, textbook fees, or any damages or losses incurred during your time at the dormitory.

One important point to keep in mind is that electricity in the Philippines is relatively expensive. If you stay in a single room and use the air-conditioning heavily, your electricity bill could easily exceed the ₱4,500 deposit. In such cases, you’ll be required to pay the difference in cash before your departure. On the other hand, if you share a room and use electricity sparingly, you might get most or even all of your deposit refunded.

The cost of textbooks and printed learning materials also varies depending on your course and level, but is usually modest—typically under ₱1,000 for a 4-week program.

On your final day, our staff will provide a detailed breakdown of your charges and return any remaining balance in cash (PHP). By using resources responsibly, you can maximize your refund and minimize extra charges, making your stay more affordable and stress-free.