Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience. It can be enjoyable, exciting, rewarding, and incredibly challenging, all at the same time. By enrolling in a study program, you can acquire new languages, develop enduring friendships, and gain knowledge of the world outside of your home country. However, despite these benefits, your parents might not be convinced at first. It is a big decision, after all, and should be given a lot of thought. It’s important to involve your parents in your study abroad journey; you’ll likely want to have multiple conversations about it with them.
Parents and loved ones often need more information to help them understand why studying in another country can be a great opportunity for you. So, we put together a list of tips to help students and parents approach the research and preparation stages of studying abroad—together.
Need a little push in your decision to study abroad? Take our interactive quiz to find out how ready you are, and whether it’s the right choice for you!
Do Plenty of Research
Make a pros and cons list of studying abroad with your parents, and be sure to consider all scenarios. It’s important to talk through all factors and to conduct extensive research about them. Plan ahead, and learn everything you can about your program (or course), institution, and country you want to study in.
This research can include the following:
- Contacting the institution you wish to attend to learn more about their criteria, admissions procedures, and tuition for specific programs
- Understanding the job market in the country you wish to study in
- Exploring the country’s history and culture
- Learning a new language (if required)
Tip: Make a list of questions you think your parents might ask, then try to address them. By showing your dedication to preparing and demonstrating how hard you’ll work to be successful, your parents are more likely to see and understand how important this journey is to you.
Explain the Academic Benefits
For many students, there are many academic benefits that come with studying abroad. Make sure your parents understand that your study abroad experience is more than just a trip—you’re going abroad to learn, study, experience, and explore. Tell them what you have planned for the future, and what your aspirations are.
Talk about:
- Why you chose the country you want to study in
- Your program of study
- Your expected job prospects
- How the education system in that country differs from that in your own, and how it will benefit you
Even a short period of time spent studying abroad can provide you with a fresh perspective on your field of study, and can inspire you to come up with unique ideas that could launch you on a career path.
From self-improvement to self-confidence, studying abroad comes with many benefits. Check out our blog for our five best reasons to study abroad.
Plan Out Your Finances
The cost of studying abroad can be one of the biggest deciding factors. Studying abroad can be expensive, and the cost of your study abroad program will undoubtedly be a cause for concern for your parents. Therefore, prepare ahead of time by being aware of your financial situation, and deciding how you’ll cover your tuition and other expenses while studying abroad.
To involve your parents in your study abroad planning, start by creating a budget plan with your parents to weigh out the pros and cons of different study destinations. Cost of living information is readily available online, so if you research ahead of time, you can avoid any major surprises.
Tip: You can find available scholarships, low-interest education loans, and other financial aid available for approved and accredited programs. Most institutions will list available scholarships and bursaries on their website, and there are often financial aid options specifically meant for international students.
Listen to Your Parents’ Concerns
If you’ve never experienced living away from your home country, your decision can be a difficult one for both you and your parents. When talking to your parents about the advantages that come with it, be sure to take into account their perceptions and feelings. Respect their emotions, and give them some time to think about the opportunity. Your parents will appreciate it, and this will give you the time to understand any reservations they have. That way, you’ll be able to present a well-thought-out answer to ease their fears.
It can also help to speak with someone who has undergone a comparable study abroad experience. If you can, find someone who attended the same university or college that you plan to attend. You can talk to them in person and ask them any questions you may have regarding their experiences. It may also be wise to ask your parents to speak to them. Doing so can help put them at ease, and aid in convincing them that this is a great opportunity for you.
Curious about other international students’ experiences? Read about Dorna’s journey from Iran, or Arabelle’s experience moving to Canada from the Philippines, in our Student Success series!
Your parents are going to miss you when you are away, so assure them that you will keep in touch with them and call them regularly. Create a big-picture plan on what your travels will look like and how long they will span so that you can set expectations with your parents.
It’s wise to involve your parents in your study abroad journey and seek their support in every decision you make. Best of luck as you plan this exciting next stage of your life!
