Finding the right payment processor is critical for educational camp and course management. Not only must the software mesh with your current technologies, but it must also be secure. Attendees and parents will be much less inclined to book with you if you don’t have a track record of keeping their sensitive information private.
So, what is the best way to accept online payments for an educational camp or course? Start your research with these highly regarded options.
1. Regpack
Regpack has been a significant name in the payment processing industry since 2009, and its features make it easy to see why. It enables service fees by card type in checkouts, group and anonymous registration, and several autobilling plans, all with no cap on projects, modules, users and guests. You can even embed it on your website with just a single line of code.
Managers love the dynamic data reporting and ability to view one-time, date-based, merchandise, and more products. Meanwhile, those signing up for the courses enjoy Regpack’s free, optional purchase protection and easy payment cancellation. Considering entities like NASA, Harvard Medical School and Camp Angelwood trust it to secure their payments, you can rest assured that this is one of the best ways to accept online payments for camps and courses.
Key Features
- Customizable onboarding
- A training team and a database of videos and articles about its platform
- All-in-one solution for email marketing, registration, payments and report creation
- Project managers who personalize your system for your workflow
2. ACTIVE Network
ACTIVE Network is another excellent platform. Users can access multiple reporting features to improve their efficiency, revenue and decision-making, while the Point of Sale app enables quick upselling. Its attendance tracking lets camps and schools measure the success of their programs for continuous improvement. Additionally, easy-to-use registration software and social referrals after checkout mean more likely conversions and word-of-mouth advertising.
The business holds Payment Card Industry (PCI) Level 1 Payment Processor Certifications and uses independent assessors to align it with multiple security standards. With student portals and the capability to register multiple attendees simultaneously, ACTIVE Network stands out as a handy asset.
Key Features
- Automated reporting, with options for participant segmenting, in-depth financial analysis and remaining balances
- Options for payment plans, automatic billing and credit card payments, with reminders
- Compliance with General Data Protection Regulation requirements
- Waitlist feature
3. Jumbula
Since 2013, Jumbula has grown from a startup to a brand with over 10,000 clients and a 97% loyalty rate. It has software solutions for after-school, sports, and performing arts class and camp registrations, as well as child care. The mission-critical dashboard it offers promises to get a foundation up and running within two days. Plus, managers can view the wait list, capacities and waivers, as well as provide coupons, discounts or payment plans for easier attendee access.
The platform also uses various payment processors, including Stripe, PayPal and its own integrated software. Its automation lets enterprises set up fees and the dates when they’ll be charged for less hassle with invoices and manual billing. Jumbula’s PCI Level 1 compliance is another assurance of its commitment to client satisfaction and security.
Key Features
- Complete integrated solution
- Configuration for surcharges and application and convenience fees
- Detailed invoice generation for transparency and balance management
- Accepts cash, checks, scholarships, PayPal, credit cards and more
Methodology
Several criteria were used to select these payment processors. First, they had to have a focus on educational camps and courses to understand educators’ and administration’s requirements. Then, they needed to prove the robustness of their payment and registration platforms to ensure both clients’ and their attendees’ sensitive data is safe from cybercriminals.
Next viewed were registration and enrollment management solutions that streamline back-office workflows and ensure you’re filling your camps and classes with students. Additional features like wait lists, information reporting and automation were considered for clients’ ease of use. Years in operation and client lists offered a glimpse into the trustworthiness of these selections.
The Importance of Easy and Secure Payment Processing
Making payment easy is key to encouraging enrollment. People may find your classes or camp activities intriguing, but if they struggle to buy a spot for one, they’ll likely give up on making the conversion altogether. It could even dissuade them from exploring your other options, or they might bring up their struggles to friends and family who mention your entity. By ensuring that signing up and paying for attendance are easy, customers may complete the registration more often and even become regulars.
Additionally, secure payment processing is critical for your reputation and bottom line. If you experience frequent cyberattacks that expose your customers’ payment details or identities, your customers will naturally start to trust you less. Many might even avoid purchasing from you again for fear of another breach. Strengthening your defenses around your payment processing can keep those bad actors out and show your patrons you’re doing everything you can to keep their information safe.
That compliance may also be a legal necessity. Some laws demand a certain level of protection, and if you don’t provide it, you could be in even bigger trouble when a cyberattack hits. The best way to accept online payments for camps and courses is to use software that keeps up with national and international regulations and threats for a proactive cybersecurity stance.
What to Look for in a Payment Technology for Educational Courses
The first thing you should look for in a payment processor is its cybersecurity certifications. Which regulations does it comply with, and what certificates has it earned? Various up-to-date achievements showcase its dedication to providing you and your customers with safe payment processing.
Next, check if it will integrate with your current technology. You’ll save yourself money by avoiding programs that would require an extensive tech upgrade or create time-wasting bottlenecks. It’s also important to take note of any personalization features so you can adjust the software to your needs.
Then see what its users have to say. Who are its most prominent clients? How do current and past ones review the company, and how long have the former used it? How long has this provider been offering its products and services? Answering all these questions can help you weed out highly reputable businesses.
What Is the Best Way to Accept Online Payments for Camps and Courses?
Research multiple processor options and compare their features to see which meets the needs of your course or camp registration page the most. These three are great starting points, as they’re incredibly comprehensive, easy to use and secure. By using such programs, you give your customers the confidence they need to trust you with their payment details and education.
