When sending your child abroad for higher studies, the first thing that comes to mind is safety, followed by the cost of the trip.
Yes, sending your child abroad doesn’t come cheap, and it may take a toll on your pocket. But if you plan on sending them for higher studies in any of the countries from Europe or North America, the experience will be worth every penny.
That being said, you must know the right approach before you bid your kid goodbye. Knowing what to do will ensure your kid’s safety and help them adjust to the new environment. Here are some tips to keep in mind before sending your child abroad for higher studies. Take a look.
Research
Ask people who have sent their children to these countries and find out what it was like for them. Talk to those who’ve just returned from such trips as well. Or research online where to exchange currencies like AUD to USD. This will give you a better idea of the challenges ahead and help you prepare accordingly.
A few places online where you can ask questions and get suggestions include:
- Quora: It’s a forum where people share their experiences and answer questions about different topics. You can search for answers to your questions or ask new ones yourself. The site has many subcategories to find what you’re looking for.
- Reddit: This is another popular forum where people share information, news and opinions on various topics.
- Facebook groups: You can find groups specific to your interests and join them. You can share information with other people or ask questions.
Ensure Your Child’s Documents Are In Place
The last thing you want is for your child to be stuck in another country without the necessary documents. Before sending your child abroad, make sure they have all the necessary documents, such as:
- Passport: Your child will need a valid passport and visa to enter the country. Make sure they apply for both in advance.
- Visa: A student visa or residence permit may be needed depending on the country they are going to.
- Academic Records: Your kid will need proof of their academic qualifications. Ask them to get certified copies of all the documents they will need.
Consider updating your passport if you also wish to travel with your kid and need to make changes to your passport.
Set Up Bank Accounts & Credit Cards
It’s always better to have access to funds when you are away from home. Before your child leaves, open up bank accounts and set up credit cards so they can easily access funds if needed.
These fund creation and management tips can help:
- Research that country’s banking laws to ensure they are competent enough to handle your child’s finances.
- Choose an account that allows access to funds whenever you need them, as well as online banking.
- Ensure your child is aware of the currency exchange rates before travelling.
- Consider getting a prepaid or debit card that can be used in local stores so your child doesn’t have to carry cash in their pocket.
Find Accommodation
It’s important to find a place for your child to stay before they leave. Research the area and see if any student hostels or dorms are available for rent. Alternatively, you can look into other housing options, such as renting an apartment or house near the college or university campus.
Final Word
Sending your child abroad can be stressful. But if you take the right steps, it can also be an exciting and rewarding one. Make sure you research and plan so that you and your child know what to expect from the trip. Good luck!