Study abroad is a life changing educational experience. Students that come back from studying abroad say that the experience has increased their self-confidence, intellectual maturity, appreciation for their own culture and desire to pursue new and challenging educational experiences. Learn more aboutWhy Your Child Should Go Abroad and the Benefits of Study Abroad.
Will my child still graduate on-time if they study abroad?
Yes! Whether your child studies nursing, engineering, business or chemistry, they can take classes toward graduation when they study abroad. If you plan early your child should be able to take either general ed classes or major classes when they study abroad. Study abroad is a great opportunity for your child to pursue and still graduate on time.
Is my child likely to face racism or discrimination abroad?
There is no where in the world that is 100 percent free of racism and discrimination. Your child can face racism or discrimination abroad just like they can face racism or discrimination at their home campus. However, many times students that go study abroad find out that in some places people are more accepting of different races and cultures than in their communities at home. Don’t let the possibility of racism or discrimination abroad stop your child from reaping the Benefits of study abroad. Learn more about Discrimination abroad.
Your child can be safe when they study abroad. There are some risks involved with study abroad (just like there are risk associated with your child going to college in the US); however every year thousands of students study abroad and return home without any difficulties. Some of the factors that will affect your child’s health and safety include: where your child studies abroad, your child’s behavior abroad and pre-departure health and safety planning. Learn more about Safety Abroad.
How much will it cost for my child to study abroad?
The cost to study abroad depends on factors such as: where your child studies abroad, how long your child studies abroad and which organization sponsors the study abroad program. Depending on these factors and others, it may cost more or less for your child to study abroad than it would for them to study at their home campus. Study abroad will also require fees for travel,passports, student visa, etc. The good news is that there are various funding sources for study abroad. Learn more about funding study abroad.
YES! With proper planning your child will be able to use much, if not all of their financial aid when they study abroad. Depending on the type of financial aid, funds can be used to cover everything from airfare to overall program cost. Your child’s school or the organization that sponsors their study abroad program most likely offers Scholarships/Grants. If scholarships and grants don’t cover the total cost of study abroad, then Student Loansare a good option for covering the cost. Remember, study abroad, just like your child’s overall education, is an investment in their future.
The amount of time your child spends abroad depends on the length of their study abroad program; programs last anywhere from two weeks to a year or more. Your child may also decide to travel before or after the formal study abroad program begins or ends. Learn more about How Long your child should study abroad.
When your child goes abroad most likely they will have the choice three different types of living arrangements: Home Stay, Student dorms or Apartments. Find out Housing Options abroad.
