The Questions Parents Should Ask Before Choosing an International Program

Choosing an international program is a significant decision. The right questions help you evaluate whether a program is a good fit for your student — and whether the provider is prepared to support them.

This is a neutral decision-making resource. It does not assume any particular program or provider. Use it to evaluate any international experience your student is considering.

Preparation

• What pre-departure information and support is provided?
• Is there orientation on arrival?
• Does the program help with visa guidance?
• Are there recommended or required vaccinations?
• What insurance is required, and what does it cover?

Accommodation

• Where will the student live?
• Is accommodation arranged by the program, or does the student find their own?
• Is the accommodation safe and secure?
• Is it close to the study or internship site?
• What are the living arrangements — shared, private, homestay?

Student Wellbeing

• Who is the local point of contact for the student?
• What support is available for mental health concerns?
• Is there a 24-hour emergency contact?
• How does the program handle homesickness or culture shock?
• Are there other students in the program, or is the student alone?

Emergency Communication

• What happens if there is an emergency?
• How quickly can the program provider be reached?
• What is the process for communicating with parents in an emergency?
• What happens if the student cannot reach the program provider?

Academic Structure

• What will the student actually be doing — studying, interning, or both?
• Is there academic credit, and is it transferable?
• What are the academic expectations?
• Who teaches or supervises the student?

Supervision

• Is there a program coordinator on the ground?
• How often does the program check in with students?
• What is the ratio of staff to students?
• Is there a curfew or code of conduct?

Internship Expectations

• If the program includes an internship, what kind of placement is it?
• Is the internship aligned with the student's field of study?
• Will there be a supervisor at the host organisation?
• What are the expected deliverables or outcomes?

Local Support

• Does the program provider have staff based locally?
• Do they have relationships with local organisations, hospitals and authorities?
• Can they help with practical issues — banking, transport, medical care?
• What happens if the student needs to see a doctor?

Institutional Responsibilities

• Who is responsible for what — the program provider, the university, the student?
• What is the financial commitment, and what happens if the program is cancelled?
• What is the refund policy?

Key Takeaway

The right program for your student is one where the provider can answer these questions clearly and confidently. If they cannot, that is information.

Explore More

• Your Student Is Going Abroad: What Should You Actually Be Worried About?
• When Should Parents Step In — and When Should They Let Their Student Figure It Out?