If your son or daughter is considering study abroad, you’re about to witness something very exciting. The decision to study abroad can be life changing, rewarding, and fulfilling. Study abroad students come back with a greater sense of maturity, and are much more knowledgeable about the world and their place in it. But if you’re concerned about your student’s safety and well-being while traveling, you’re not alone. That’s why we've compiled the following ‘Study Abroad 101’ for parents of students abroad.
International Calling
Keeping in touch with your student abroad is easy and can be cheaper than you’d think if you prepare in advance. Your international calling options include international cell phones and VOIP, as well as international calling cards. Convenience and cost varies by option, but there is certainly one that’s right for your family. Click here to access an outline of the major international calling options.
Student Travel Insurance
One of the best investments parents of study abroad students can make in their futures is student travel insurance. Unfortunately, most times the health coverage your student has in the States won’t be adequate for studying abroad. Additionally, coverage for unlikely accidents and other mishaps can save you and your student from years of legal and financial hassles. Learn about the different types of student travel insurance; click here.
Health & Safety Abroad
Study abroad students need to take their health and safety seriously while living and traveling abroad. Common sense coupled with information can help to protect your student abroad from trouble. Get fully informed on the areas your student is intending to visit. Two great places to start are with the U.S. State Department for travel advisories and the U.S. Center for Disease Control (CDC) for public health concerns. Click here for more tips to keep your student abroad safe.
Financing for Parents
There are many options for parents wishing to finance study abroad experiences for their students. Although there are additional costs that should factor into your student’s budget like airfare, additional travel costs, and student travel insurance, the overall cost of attendance isn’t much higher than what you’d spend for a domestic education. A number of financial products can help, including private student loans, study abroad loans, and scholarships, grants, and fellowships. Click here for more information about financing a study abroad experience for your student.
Study Abroad Loans
When a student wishes to study abroad, loan options are nearly identical to those available for study in the U.S. Study abroad students can typically use their federal loans to pay for their education as long as they receive approval from their home institution and stay enrolled at least half-time while abroad. Private student loans and study abroad loans can help students abroad finance more than just tuition and room & board. Most times these types of loans can help finance the entire experience, including travel and cultural experiences. Get the low-down on study abroad loans.