Parents

Dear parents and family,

Congratulations! Your student wants to study abroad. He or she is about to embark on an adventure that will have a strong impact on their college career.

The prospect of your student studying abroad, however, can be daunting, confusing and sometimes scary. There may be questions which remain unclear if your student’s vague explanations fail to provide satisfying answers. With this information from the Education Abroad Office we hope to ease some of your uncertainty and frustration, and equip you and your student with what you need to know about studying abroad.

The Education Abroad Office is here to assist, prepare and guide your student while allowing them to take control of the experience they are about to have. Think of our office as the skeleton of your student’s study abroad experience. We are here to provide the support and structure, but your student is the one who fills in the body and makes things happen.

The first thing to keep in mind is that students should always contact the Education Abroad Office for answers to questions, and we invite you to encourage them to do so. We are a central resource for students when they plan to study abroad, and many issues, such as the registration process, transfer credits, financial aid and general information can be taken care of here. Additionally, read the information below before contacting our office, as it may answer many of your questions. If things are still unclear please feel free to contact us directly.

Why is this experience important for your student?
It has never been more important to have a global perspective and equipping students with an international experience during their undergraduate career. It will prove invaluable to them after graduation personally as well as professionally. 

What should your student do first when they decide to study abroad?

Your student should attend a general information session. There we will go over the “Student’s Guide for Studying Abroad at VCU.”

How does my student choose a study abroad program?
There are many opportunities to choose, so at first, the process may seem overwhelming. During the general information session, we will discuss all the options available, which will help narrow their search when deciding upon a program. Our only requirement for choosing a program is that the student receives a transcript from an accredited university.

Who can I contact with questions about study abroad?
Your student is the best person to ask about the study abroad program she has chosen. Part of the experience of studying abroad is to discover independence, while exercising increased responsibility. To help your student succeed both academically, as well as emotionally, encourage them to take their preparations seriously. It’s all part of the experience. The more your student takes charge of the details before leaving, the better prepared they will be in a foreign country.

How will my student receive academic credit for studying abroad?
Your student will receive an independent program registration packet, which includes a course approval sheet. Your student will need to meet with his/her academic adviser to approve the proposed courses. Academic credit can not be guaranteed if approval is not secured prior to departure. Once at the host university, the student must request that an official transcript be sent to the Education Abroad Office. When we receive the transcript we will transfer the courses to your student’s VCU transcript.

Can my student use financial aid for a study abroad program?
Your student may apply for financial aid toward their study abroad program. Both federal and alternative loans may be used. Be sure to check for specific information if you are going through an independent program.

Is it safe for my student to study abroad?
At VCU the safety of our students is our number one priority. Therefore, all students studying abroad must attend a pre-departure orientation where we give them important information about health and safety overseas. While threats of varying degrees, from water to terrorism, may face international travelers, we encourage our students to exercise the same common sense and responsibility that they would use in Richmond.

The State Department has advised Americans traveling anywhere to remain inconspicuous and attentive to their surroundings. It is strongly advised that your student keep a “low profile” while abroad. Any U.S. State Department Travel advisories issued will be immediately forwarded to students. It is encouraged to stay up to date with local political and security issues. An important Web site to check frequently is the State Department’s. Make sure that you and your student familiarize yourself with this Web site.

What are the rights as a parent?
Because your student is a legal adult we cannot release information about them without their permission. Therefore, it is vital that the lines of communication between you and your student be open. You should feel free to ask your student all about their program. Again, the more of an authority your student is about the study abroad program, the better prepared they will be for the experience.

What information do I need to know about visas, passports, etc…?
The specific information regarding travel documents depends upon the country your student has chosen and the length of time they will be there. Some countries are stricter than others about entry and rules are constantly changing, so make sure to check the specific regulations for that country. You should keep a copy of your student’s documents if anything should happen while they are away. Also, in case of emergency, we suggest that at least one member of your family keep their passport available while your student is overseas. Finally, your student should apply for the documents well in advance of the departure date as there are generally delays. Please visit http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html for more information.

How can I stay in touch with my student while they are abroad?
Your student will more than likely have access to both a phone and a computer, making it easy to stay in touch. Make sure that you have the correct contact information for the program or university before your child leaves. Do encourage your student to keep you updated, but be careful not to spend too much time on the phone or e-mail. Too much communication can actually make a student feel more homesick than they really are. Support them through showing that you trust their independence and feel confident about what they are doing.

What type of insurance should I get for my student while they are overseas?
VCU requires that student’s purchase an International Student Identification Card (ISIC) before studying abroad. This has minimal insurance and carries some student discounts.  If you wish to explore further coverage, the Education Abroad Office will be happy to recommend a few other options. One policy is with HTH Worldwide, which includes broader coverage than the ISIC.

How can I support my student when they return home?
You will perhaps notice that the most difficult transition will be when your student returns to the United States and goes through reverse culture shock. The best thing you can do for your student is to be patient. She is busy processing the incredible experience and sometimes the settling process can be a bit rocky. Often when students return they are critical of their home country or immediate surroundings. They may feel as though no one cares what they just did or that they can’t relate to anyone. Encourage them to journal or talk about their study abroad and to get involved with the International Office or Education Abroad Office, where they will meet and speak with international students and other students who have just returned from studying abroad.

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