Study Abroad Guide for Parents
All You Need to Know to Support Your Child’s Global Education
Sending your child to study abroad is a bold, life-changing decision—for them and for you. Here’s a guide to help you every step of the way, from preparation to staying connected while they’re away.
1. Be Part of Their Journey
● Discuss Goals:
Understand why your child wants to study abroad—career growth, personal goals, or new experiences. Talk openly and support their ambitions.
● Research Together:
Help investigate courses, universities, locations, and campus life. Alumni networks and other parents are great resources.
● Anticipate Challenges:
Reach out to families who’ve done this. Learn from their experiences to prepare for challenges and cultural differences.
2. Plan Practically
● Get Counseled:
Attend free Abacus counseling sessions with your child to understand the full process and financial planning.
● Budget Wisely:
Account for tuition, accommodation, food, travel, health insurance, and daily expenses—not just tuition fees.
See our guide on the full cost of studying abroad.
● Create a Checklist:
Plan for all steps: course and university selection, finances, visa application, travel, accommodation, health, and safety.
3. Prepare for Departure
● Health & Safety:
○ Arrange medical, dental, and eye checkups.
○ Ensure all vaccinations are up to date.
○ Pack essential medicines with prescriptions (in original containers).
○ Provide extra glasses/contact lenses and copies of prescriptions.
● Travel Safety:
○ Ensure your child has travel insurance and emergency contacts saved.
○ Register for safety programs (e.g., US STEP) for travel alerts and embassy notifications.
○ Learn local laws, rights, and common “do’s and don’ts.”
○ Consider enrolling them in self-defense classes.
● Packing Help:
○ Stock up on emergency food or supplies.
○ Review what to pack, what to leave, and keep all key documents handy.
4. Staying Connected
● Choose Communication Tools:
Set up convenient ways to keep in touch (WhatsApp, Skype, email, etc.), but give your child space to grow.
● Schedule Calls:
Decide on regular times to connect, considering time zones and your child’s schedule.
● Emergency Contacts:
Keep handy the numbers of university reps, friends, and local contacts for quick reach in emergencies.
● Stay Informed:
Follow university newsletters, parent forums, and social media updates to stay in the loop.
5. Offer Support (Not Pressure)
● Practical Skills:
Teach money management, cooking, laundry, and time management for independent living abroad.
● Emotional Support:
Listen first, react gently, and encourage your child through challenges and homesickness. Emotional support is just as important as financial help.
● Quality Time:
Spend meaningful time together before departure—build memories and boost their confidence.
6. Pre-Departure Sessions
Abacus offers dedicated pre-departure talks and checklists. We brief students and parents on life abroad, what to expect, and how to adjust to new cultures.
7. Sending Money Abroad
● Bank Transfer:
Directly deposit funds to your child’s international bank account (linked ATM card).
● Wire Transfer:
Use your local bank for a SWIFT transfer—usually takes 2-3 days.
● Money Transfer Services:
Western Union, MoneyGram, or international money orders for quick transfers.
● Check Local Charges:
Be aware of service charges, processing times, and exchange rates.
Final Words
Supporting your child’s dream of studying abroad means staying informed, organized, and emotionally present. The Abacus team is here to help you and your family every step of the way.
Have questions?
Contact us for personalized guidance, counseling, and practical checklists for parents.