Parents Guide

All you need to know when sending your child to study abroad

Honestly, this is one of the bravest decisions you’ll ever make, and yes, the most important decision for your child. Studying abroad means your child will come back with an international experience and a broad mindset. As a parent, it is your responsibility to support your child in making this decision and prepare them to participate in the process.

Discuss goals openly:

Sit down and understand why your child wants to go abroad. It’s important to know exactly what your child wants out of life in order to guide and support them.

Stay infto parent, participate in a survey of the courses your child is interested in, the colleges they have spoken to, and the types of lifestyles your child is most successful in. This survey includes information about curriculum, life on campus, available Information on the international accommodatand ion options is also included.

Consider your challenges:

Rarech out to friends and family whose children have moved abroad. Ask them about challenges you are likely to face and find ways to deal with them. The rule of thumb for this is to be “as specific as possible” and clear any doubts before shortlisting an option.

Seek professional counselling:

If you have any questions or cocounselingare more than happy to help. IDP offers free counseling sessions for students interested in studying abroad to advance their careers.

Know how much you will have to spend:

By estimating the costs of sending your child abroad, you can make better decisions. But tuition isn’t the only thing your budget should take into consideration. Consider other expenses such as room, board, medical insurance, communication, and travel expenses.

Our Total Cost of Study guide will help you budget for your chithe ld’s stay abroad.

Make a detailed plan:

Once you have a general idea of sending your child abroad, it’s time to make a plan. Consider all factors including course and university choice, finances, visas, etc.

Safeguard their health before they leave:

Please ensure that your child has undergone a general physical, dental and (if applicable) gynecological examin,ation. Make sure you have all the relevant shots and boosters if you need them.

If your child wears glasses or contacts, get a copy of their prescription typed. Have a spare pair of glasses or contact lenses in case of an emergency.

If they are prescribed a specific drug, ask your doctor about the name, potency and purity of drugs available at your destination. If you help your child pack, keep the medicine in its original packaging along with the doctor’s prescription.

Travel safety is crucial:

Don’t forget your travel insurance! Make sure your child is insured before departure
Sign up for our safety program. For example, the US Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) keeps you and your child up to date with travel alerts and notifications while traveling internationally. In an emergency, we will also notify the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Find out about the do’s and don’ts of new travel destinations
bFind out about local laws and internatifindstudent rights
Encourage your child to be a healthy traveler to avoid potential health risks from new food, water and climate.
Have emergency supplies in case you need time to get used to new foods
Make sure they are vaccinated against common diseases in their new destination
If possible, enroll in a self-defense course before leaving for your new destination
Both parents and children should have an emergency number on hand
Educate your child on basic travel safety tips

Plan your visits:

Once your child has settled abroad, discuss it with your child and make plans for their stay abroad. This will help you pass the time and also provide the emthemonal support they need while they adjust to another country.