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Parents & Families

Information for parents, families, and other members of students' support networks.

Supporting Your Student Through the Education Abroad Process

Thank you so much for taking the time to learn more about the education abroad process to support your student! College is a time when students transition from childhood to adulthood, and traveling abroad can be an important step in your student gaining independence, developing a global perspective, and learning about themselves and their place in the world. We know very well that families play a vital role in supporting students through the program preparation process, so we want to help you feel equipped to assist your student through this process.

Supporting Your Student Through the Education Abroad Process

Thank you so much for taking the time to learn more about the education abroad process to support your student! College is a time when students transition from childhood to adulthood, and traveling abroad can be an important step in your student gaining independence, developing a global perspective, and learning about themselves and their place in the world. We know very well that families play a vital role in supporting students through the program preparation process, so we want to help you feel equipped to assist your student through this process.

A group of three people stand outside of a white building, all hugging one another. Of the faces we can see, all of them seem to be closing their eyes and smiling. They are wearing backpacks, implying that they have either just arrived to their current location or are about to leave.

Parent & Family Guide to Education Abroad

While we encourage students to take ownership of their education abroad experience, we understand that students' support networks are an important part of ensuring their success. Take a look at our Parent & Family Guide for more information on how you can best support your student through this process.

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    Note About Student Privacy Regulations

    We know that parents, families, and support networks have a lot of questions and want to be involved in their student's education abroad process. The Education Abroad staff are here to assist and support your student, but advisers must adhere to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. Therefore, when possible, questions from parents should be communicated to Education Abroad staff through the student

    An important part of the education abroad process is establishing independence and personal accountability. Ultimately, it is each student's responsibility to adhere to deadlines, attend pre-departure orientations, and to read all communications regarding their program.

    Note About Student Privacy Regulations

    We know that parents, families, and support networks have a lot of questions and want to be involved in their student's education abroad process. The Education Abroad staff are here to assist and support your student, but advisers must adhere to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which is a federal law that protects the privacy of student education records. Therefore, when possible, questions from parents should be communicated to Education Abroad staff through the student

    An important part of the education abroad process is establishing independence and personal accountability. Ultimately, it is each student's responsibility to adhere to deadlines, attend pre-departure orientations, and to read all communications regarding their program.

    Quick Links

    Program Options

    Learn more about the different types of education abroad programs at Penn State.

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