Study abroad guide for parents

Studying abroad is a choice that will have long-term effects on your child's life, going far beyond academics and careers. Your child will benefit from this journey to broaden their horizons and discover new people, cultures, and friendships globally.

Even if you are one of the most laid-back parents, consider international education for your child as it’s a life-changing decision that will give your child a long-term successful career.

A parent's handbook for studying abroad should include advice on selecting a programme for your child. You need to pick a place that will inspire and excite your child, as well as enable them to develop and realise their potential. Location, programme length, semester of study, and whether the credits are transferrable are a few of the factors you need to take into account.

Additionally, you can learn more about the whole procedure by getting in touch with our experts at IDP.

Know what motivates your child. As a parent, be an active part of their decision-making procedure to support them and ensure they make the right calls in life. 

Sit down and understand why your child wants to go abroad – whether it is career-driven or personal. It is important to know what exactly your child seeks in life to be able to guide and support them.

Take part in research about the courses they are interested in, universities they have been talking about and the kind of lifestyle they would most thrive in. This research will also include information on course curriculum, campus life and accommodations options available abroad. 

Read more: How to choose a course

Reach out to friends and family whose children have gone abroad. Ask them about the challenges you are likely to face and figure out how to deal with them. The thumb rule for this is “be as specific as you can” and ask all your queries. 

IDP has been helping students pursue their international education dreams for more than the last 50 years. If you have any doubts or concerns, we are more than happy to help you. 

Having an estimate of the costs involved in sending your kids abroad can help you make a better decision. However, it’s not just the tuition fee alone you should be calculating in your budget. Do weigh in other expenses such as accommodation, food, health coverage, communication and travel as well!

Now that you have an overview of what goes into sending your child abroad, plan. Consider all factors including course and university selection, finances, visa, etc.

Once you have decided where your child would study and pursue which course, remember to consider:

Ensure to get your child’s general physical examination, dental check-up, and a gynaecological check-up (if applicable). If required, ensure they have all the relevant shots and boosters. 

Yes, it’s worrisome to send your child thousands of kilometres away, and that’s why it is important to ensure their travel safety. Ensure your child is insured before they leave and sign up for a safety program. 

You can check more information on your child’s travel safety to understand what’s best for them. 

Once your child has settled abroad, discuss with them and plan your visit abroad. This will help you spend some quality time and also give them that emotional support they need while adjusting in another country. 

It is important to stay connected with your child abroad as settling in a new country can be quite overwhelming. They’ll need both – your emotional support, as well as your guidance before they are settled properly. 

Read more: 8 simple ways to keep connected with your child abroad