Questions that Parents of International Students Must Ask

As a parent, it's natural to feel concerned when your child is interested in studying abroad. The prospect of navigating through important decisions, such as selecting the right course, country, and university and managing applications and study visas, can be overwhelming. Safety is undoubtedly a top priority, and it's common for parents to feel uncertain about where to begin and what questions to ask to ensure the best possible outcome for their child. 

However, parents can address their worries effectively by approaching the situation with careful planning and research, seeking advice from reliable sources, and engaging with educational consultants or professionals. Taking proactive steps will help parents make informed choices and provide their children with a rewarding educational journey. To assist you in making a well-informed decision, we have compiled a list of the top 15 questions you should ask.

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15 Questions for Parents of International Students

1. What are the best countries to study abroad?

Numerous countries offer fantastic opportunities for studying abroad, each with unique advantages. When selecting a study abroad destination, students should consider factors such as language proficiency, cost of living, available scholarships, and specific academic courses that align with their interests and career aspirations. Exploring these countries can open doors to exciting educational experiences and personal growth.

2. How can an international degree benefit my child's future career prospects?

An international degree can greatly benefit your child's future career prospects. By studying abroad, he/she will gain a global perspective, cross-cultural communication skills, and a diverse network. This will enhance their employability in an increasingly interconnected world, open doors to international job opportunities, and demonstrate their adaptability and willingness to embrace new challenges. Employers highly value the skills and experiences gained through studying abroad, making graduates with international degrees stand out in the job market.

3. What are the advantages of starting the application process early for my child?

Starting the application process early provides several advantages for your child. It allows them to thoroughly research and compare various universities, understand admission requirements, and plan for standardised tests and language proficiency exams.

By beginning early, your child increases their chances of securing admission to their preferred institutions and gives themselves ample time to complete scholarship applications. It also helps reduce the stress of last-minute preparations, ensuring a more organised and successful application process.

4. How can I support and assist my child during the study abroad journey?

As a parent, you play a crucial role in supporting your child during their educational journey abroad. You can start by helping them with the application process, offering emotional encouragement, and assisting with financial planning.

Stay connected with them through regular communication, provide guidance on accommodation and travel arrangements, and encourage them to join student organisations or seek campus support services. Your support will help ease their transition, enhance their overall experience, and ensure they have a strong support system while studying abroad.

5. What essential documents are required for my child's study abroad application?

Essential documents for a study abroad application typically include a completed application form, academic transcripts, standardised test scores (such as TOEFL or IELTS), letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a resume or CV, and a valid passport. However, it's important to note that each institution may have additional requirements, so it's crucial to thoroughly review the application guidelines of each university your child is applying to. Ensuring all the necessary documents are prepared and submitted on time is essential for a successful application.

6. How does obtaining an international degree contribute to my child's long-term career growth?

Obtaining an international degree significantly contributes to your child's long-term career growth. It expands their knowledge base, fosters a global network, and enhances their cultural competence. Employers highly value graduates with international degrees, as they showcase the ability to navigate different environments and work effectively with diverse teams. This makes them valuable assets to companies with international operations.

Additionally, studying abroad provides your child unique experiences and perspectives that can shape their career path and contribute to their personal and professional growth.

7. What measures are in place to ensure the safety and security of students in the chosen country?

Popular study-abroad destinations like the UK, the USA, Europe, Australia, etc., prioritise the safety and security of international students studying within their borders. They have comprehensive support services, such as dedicated international student offices, emergency response systems, and campus police or security personnel. Universities and colleges also conduct orientations that address safety guidelines and resources available to students.

Countries often have legal frameworks in place to protect the rights of international students and regulations to ensure the quality of education and student welfare. Rest assured that steps are taken to create a safe and secure environment for students studying abroad.

8. What are the potential benefits of sending my child to a country where they have no prior acquaintances?

Sending your child to a country without prior acquaintances offers numerous potential benefits. It presents an opportunity for personal growth, independence, and self-discovery. By stepping out of their comfort zone, your child can develop resilience and build new relationships. Immersing themselves in a different culture broadens their horizons and provides a global perspective, which can be valuable for personal development, future career prospects, and intercultural understanding. It also allows them to make new connections and create lifelong friendships with people worldwide.

9. Is studying abroad financially feasible for my child, and what are the available funding options?

Studying abroad can be financially feasible for your child through various funding options. Universities, governments, and external organisations offer scholarships, grants, and financial aid that can help offset tuition fees and living expenses. Additionally, your child can explore part-time job opportunities or internships to support their finances while studying abroad.

It's important to plan and budget accordingly, considering factors such as living costs in the chosen country and any additional expenses. Early planning and research will help identify the most suitable funding options for your child's study abroad journey.

10. What accommodation options are available for my child while studying abroad?

Accommodation options typically include university dormitories, student apartments or flats, homestays, or private rentals. University accommodation is often convenient, provides a sense of community, and offers support services tailored to the needs of students. Private rentals or shared apartments offer more independence but require additional responsibilities. When choosing the most suitable accommodation option for your child, consider location, safety, cost, proximity to amenities, and the level of support they may need in their new environment.

11. How will my child's dietary needs be accommodated in the host country?

Host countries generally have provisions in place to accommodate dietary needs. Universities often provide a range of dining options, including vegetarian, vegan, or halal food, to cater to students with different dietary preferences. Additionally, most cities have diverse culinary scenes with restaurants that offer various food choices.

Your child should communicate their dietary requirements in advance to universities or seek guidance from student support services. By doing so, they can ensure their dietary needs are met and have a pleasant dining experience while studying abroad.

12. What support systems are in place to assist students who may experience culture shock?

Universities typically have support systems to assist students who may experience culture shock. These include orientation programmes, cultural integration workshops, counselling services, and student organisations that foster a sense of belonging. Encourage your child to engage in these activities, connect with fellow international and local students, and seek guidance from university staff whenever needed.

It's important to remind your child that adapting to a new culture takes time and experiencing culture shock is normal. With the available support systems, they can navigate through these challenges and have a successful study abroad experience.

13. What are the best universities in the UK to study?

The UK is home to many excellent universities; the best one for your child will depend on their field of study and personal preferences. Renowned institutions in the UK include the University of Oxford, University of Cambridge, Imperial College London, University College London, and London School of Economics and Political Science.

However, it's important to note that rankings and reputations can vary depending on the specific course or subject area. Your child should thoroughly research universities and consider degree offerings, faculty expertise, research opportunities, reputation, and location to determine the best fit for their academic and career goals.

14. What support systems are in place to assist students who may experience culture shock?

Universities typically have support systems to assist students who may experience culture shock. These include orientation programmes, cultural integration workshops, counselling services, and student organisations that foster a sense of belonging. Encourage your child to engage in these activities, connect with fellow international and local students, and seek guidance from university staff whenever needed. It's important to remind your child that adapting to a new culture takes time and experiencing culture shock is normal. With the available support systems, they can navigate through these challenges and have a successful study abroad experience.

15. What options are available for my child to receive fee compensation or scholarships that can help cover the expenses of studying abroad?

Students should consider researching study abroad scholarships from universities, government programmes, private organisations, and international foundations. Additionally, they can look into financial aid and grants specifically tailored for studying abroad. It would benefit your child to conduct thorough research and contact educational institutions, scholarship databases, and study-abroad offices to gather comprehensive information on available opportunities and eligibility requirements.

Encouraging your child to prepare a compelling application emphasising their achievements, academic record, and extracurricular activities can significantly enhance their chances of securing financial assistance.