Four Prerequisites for Admission to an Academy of Magic (CWH)

__TOC__
While some wizards are self-taught and some acquire their skills from a private tutor, many wizards learn the art of magic at a training academy. Most large cities have such academies; some specializing in a particular school of magic, while others offer training in all of the schools. Usually, there are a minimum of three requirements for admission to an academy.
==1. Sponsorship==
All applicants to an academy must be recommended by a sponsor known by one or more of the faculty members. Exceptions are made if an applicant is an orphan or demonstrates extraordinary aptitude, but in these cases, a faculty member must agree to sponsor the applicant; the faculty sponsor is then personally held responsible for the applicant's failure or success.
==2. Personal Interview==
Because training a wizard requires a major investment of time and effort, academies screen their applicants carefully to make certain that a prospective student is sufficiently dedicated to persevere through years of rigorous education. Typically, a panel of faculty members interviews each applicant individually, quizzing him at length about his background, his interests, and his reasons for wanting to become a wizard. The panel then votes in secret; a single negative vote results in the rejection of the applicant.
==3. Entrance Examination==
Following a prospective student's successful interview, he is given a battery of examinations to measure his aptitude in a variety of academic areas. The student must demonstrate a basic competence in philosophy, literature, and history, and exceptional skills in writing, science, and mathematics. He must also pass a physical examination to make sure he is in good health.
==4. Tuition Fees==
If a prospective student passes his entrance examinations, he must then make arrangements with the academy administration to pay tuition fees. The tuition fee ranges from 5-20 gp per day, depending on the academy's reputation. The tuition can be paid daily, weekly, or monthly, but it must be paid in advance. Failure to pay tuition results in immediate suspension, unless the student has made previous arrangements with the administration.
The tuition covers the cost of books, laboratory fees, faculty salaries, and room and board, but it does not include expenses for spell components, research materials, or damage caused by the student in his research. Occasionally, scholarships are available for unusually promising students.
After a student is admitted to an academy, he must undergo a probationary period lasting a minimum of six months. During this time, the student's classroom performance is evaluated on a weekly basis and his behavior both on and off campus is closely monitored. If the student is not performing adequately in the opinion of any faculty member or administrator, he may be dismissed from the academy. Except in the most extreme circumstances, he is not eligible to apply for readmission. No amount of the tuition paid prior to his dismissal is refundable.