Study Abroad Tips: A Parent’s Guide

Studying abroad is a unique experience that allows young people to learn a new language through total immersion in another culture. Whether it’s an academic year or a shorter stay, this process can stir a variety of emotions in every family. To make this adventure exciting and worry-free, today we share tips for making the most of your study abroad opportunity.

Before the trip: preparation and knowledge of the destination

Choose a good destination

The first step in preparing for study abroad is to research potential destinations. Some key factors to consider include the language you want to learn, the quality of education, the climate, and available extracurricular activities to ensure your child has an unforgettable experience.

Soak up the culture

Being well-informed about a country’s culture is always a positive step, as understanding the customs, values, traditions, and social norms will facilitate adaptation and integration so your child feels comfortable in their new environment.

Prepare your child emotionally

Studying and living in another country can be an emotional challenge. It’s important to talk with your child about expectations, possible fears, and emotions they may be experiencing, so you can provide them with tools to cope with the changes. Discussing their feelings with your child will boost their confidence and give you insights into how to handle the entire process.

Documentation and formalities

Get informed and prepare your documentation well in advance. Make sure you have all the necessary passports, visas, permits, medical insurance, and any other requirements of the destination country. If you have any questions, Edacex will help you complete all the necessary procedures.

Evaluate the type of accommodation

Evaluate the type of accommodationWhere you live during the study programme will significantly influence their experience. To do this, it is important to find out about the options available, assessing which will best suit your child’s lifestyle and character, as well as assessing which option your child prefers. These options usually include host families, which allow a deep immersion in the culture and family atmosphere, boarding schools, living with more native students or in student residences where responsibility and autonomy will be encouraged.

Promotes autonomy

It’s important to encourage your child to learn how to manage themselves independently before the trip. You can help them develop fundamental life skills, such as problem-solving, personal organization, and money management.

During the journey: communication and support

Maintaining communication

When a child goes abroad to study, it’s difficult to manage communication, as it’s normal to want to stay in touch frequently. To maintain a good balance without interfering with their adjustment and respecting their independence, you can agree on schedules to communicate with them. This will prevent them from feeling pressured or disconnected from their family.

Encourage immersion in culture

To make their experience 100% enriching, encourage them to explore the local culture and participate in activities, make friends, and practice the language without fear. Ultimately, participating in an educational program in another country not only enhances their learning, but also provides an experience of personal and social growth.

On the way back: reflection and new horizons

Facilitating readaptation

Returning home can present another challenge. To make it easier for them to return, it’s important to provide a space for them to share their experiences and personal change. It’s also important to reinforce what they’ve learned, reflect on their achievements, and strengthen the skills they’ve acquired. Another aspect to consider is maintaining contact with their international friends.

Exploring new opportunities

It’s quite possible that when you return from the experience, you’ll still be interested in new experiences in the future, whether it’s a different type of study program, university exchange, internship abroad, or other opportunities where you can continue developing your skills and the language you’ve learned.

Conclusion

Supporting your child during this stage is essential, as you’ve seen in our tips for studying abroad. Providing support, confidence, and motivation will allow them to fully enjoy this unique experience, where they’ll not only learn a new language and integrate into the culture of their destination, but will also experience a process of personal development.

Furthermore, at Edacex we will be by your side every step of the way, ensuring you enjoy every moment of the process. Don’t hesitate and immerse yourself in the adventure of studying abroad. It will be an unforgettable experience!