EDU visas are not being stamped for a full year, can somone explain the new policies? Thanks 

You will get 90 days at most and in some instances students are being told to come back in 30 days and spend another 1900 baht. It depends on the school and how good their 'records' of attendance are

Non-ed visas are normally only valid for one 90 day entry unless you can find a friendly embassy or consulate that will issue a multiple entry visa valid for one year.

Since August of 2014 when the new police order went into effect you will only get an extension of stay valid for 90 days if you are attending a informal school and you can only get extensions for a total stay of one year. After one year you must go out to get an new non-ed visa and start another year.

If attending a formal school such as a university one year extensions are possible and can be done again after the first year.

Language schools fall under non-formal education.

 

Informal schools are a different category.