Information for Families

Determining if your student is ready to study abroad involves considering several factors. Here are some key points to help you assess their readiness: 

1. Financial Preparedness: Study Abroad can involve different cost levels depending on program location, personal spending habits, program type and a student’s financial aid. Make sure you and your student fully understand the entire program cost and the financial responsibilities involved prior to committing to a program (i.e. making a deposit, submitting the financial agreement for a CofC-sponsored program). Students should speak with the Office of Financial Assistance early in the process to understand how their potential aid package may apply. Ensure they have a budget plan in place for their time abroad. 
2. Emotional Maturity: Consider your student’s emotional maturity and their capabilities to learn to handle the challenges of living in a new environment and busy schedule. Consider how they manage stress, homesickness, and being a part of a new community while outside of their comfort zone.  
3. Independence: Studying abroad will require a new level of independence. Your student should be prepared to make decisions on their own, manage their time effectively, navigate ambiguity, and handle day-to-day tasks in a different environment. 
4. Adaptability and Cultural Sensitivity: Being open to new experiences, foods, customs, and social norms is crucial for a successful study abroad experience. Your student should have a willingness to learn and respect different cultures. This includes researching local customs and cultural norms and preparing to integrate into a new environment.  
5. Academic Preparedness: Ensure that your student is academically prepared for the rigors of studying abroad. They should have good study habits and be able to keep up with coursework in a potentially different academic environment. Students should speak with their academic advisor prior to applying to the program to ensure they understand how the courses work for their academic plan.  
6. Communication Skills: Effective and responsive communication is key. Your student should express themselves clearly and interact in a respectful manner amongst peers and faculty, show respect for and be willing to learn about another culture, and navigate unfamiliar experiences. 
7. Health and Safety Awareness: Ensure your student is aware of health and safety practices as well as risks in the host country. They should refer to pre-departure information and orientation materials to know how to access medical care if needed and understand the local laws and safety guidelines. They should understand what is illegal to bring into the country, especially regarding prescription medication and drugs. More information can be found at each country page on the US State Department and the International Narcotics Control Board. Any prescriptions and over-the-counter medications should be in their original packaging. 
8. Support System: While independence is important, having a support system is equally crucial. Ensure your student knows how to reach out for help, whether it’s from Program Directors, local program provider contacts, CIE, or family back home. 

By evaluating these factors, you can better determine if your student is ready to embark on their study abroad journey. Open communication with your students about these aspects prior to applying can also help them prepare and feel more confident about their decision. 

Supporting a student during their study abroad experience is crucial for their success and well-being. Here are some important ways to provide support: 

1. Practice Flexibility: Understand that plans may change due to unforeseen circumstances. Encourage your student to be open to new experiences and to adapt to changes in their schedule or environment. 
2. Create Budget: Help your student plan a budget to prepare for expenses abroad. 
3. Prepare for Academics: Help your student understand the importance of preparing for a condensed and rigorous academic workload while on the program. Discuss strategies to balance personal time and academic preparation. 
4. Respect for Group, Program Directors, and Local Culture: Emphasize the importance of respecting their peers, program directors, and the local culture. This includes following local customs, traditions, and rules, which can enhance their experience and foster positive relationships. 
5. Group Interactions: Encourage your student to actively participate in group activities and discussions. Building strong connections with their peers can provide a support network and make the experience more enjoyable. 
6. Adaptability: Help your student develop adaptability skills. This includes being open to new foods, different teaching styles, and diverse social norms. Adaptability will help them navigate and appreciate the new environment more effectively. 
7. Create Goals: Discuss with your student what personal, academic, and professional goals they have for the program and their time abroad. Write down these goals and have them available to  discuss with your student if they feel homesick or need a reminder of what they hope to gain from the experience while abroad.  
8. Encourage your student to reach out to the CIE: We recognize the process of selecting a program and applying can feel daunting, and that is why we are here to help. Whether a student has never met with our office, or has met with our office multiple times, we are happy to assist. Students will need to take ownership of their experience, and reaching out to our office when they have questions and need assistance is a part of the process! 

It is completely normal for students to feel homesick while studying abroad, and even feel reverse culture shock upon returning home after a longer period abroad. Here are some points to consider: 

1. Culture Shock: Students often experience culture shock when they are exposed to a new culture. This can include feelings of disorientation, frustration, and anxiety. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and understand that they are a natural part of the adjustment process and for most students this phase will pass as they adjust to the new culture. 
2. Homesickness: Missing home, family, and friends is a common experience for students abroad. Encourage your student to stay connected with loved ones through regular communication, but also to immerse themselves in their new environment to build new connections and experiences. Before they depart, ask your student what you might be able to say or do to help them cope if they become homesick while abroad. 
3. Coping Strategies: Suggest coping strategies such as disconnecting from social media, participating in local events, making new friends, and immersing themselves in new culture. These activities can help students feel more at home in their new surroundings. Students can always reach out to the Program Directors or CIE if they are feeling homesick. 
4. Professional Support: Remind your student that it’s okay to seek professional support if they are struggling with homesickness or culture shock. CofC has resources available on study abroad programs to help students navigate these challenges. 

By providing understanding and support, you can help your student make the most of their study abroad experience and overcome any challenges they may face. 

We welcome general inquiries from parents, however, it is ultimately your student's responsibility to see that the required processes are followed.  Due to privacy legislation (FERPA), the CIE cannot release information to any third party (including parents) regarding a student's program of study without their explicit consent.

If your student would like to provide their consent, they may complete the FERPA waiver and return it to our office in-person or from their College of Charleston email account. This waiver is specific to each office in which it is filed; therefore, a waiver on file in another office on campus cannot be accepted. Students retain the right to revoke this consent at any time, but must do so by signing the bottom portion of the form. CIE strongly recommends that all students complete a FERPA form to faciliate communication. 

Response to Student Concerns

With the ease of access to cell phones, students can quickly communicate any issues to their families. Parents might hear about student concerns before the onsite staff, Program Directors, or CIE. Please remind your student to discuss concerns with onsite staff so they can be properly addressed.

Responding to issues involves coordination across different time zones, working with local staff and operating hours, and varying cultural expectations regarding response times.  

All students are enrolled in international health insurance for CofC study abroad programs either through CIE or through the program provider. Students should receive an email directly from the insurance provider once they are enrolled which will contain policy information and their insurance card. Insurance coverage generally involves paying for health costs up front and then filing for a reimbursement claim.

Students and Program Directors receive information on mental health resources available to them while abroad. For most programs, CISI health insurance includes 24/7 access to English-speaking telehealth services, as well as the ability to connect to in-country therapists. Students also receive information about continuation of care services options available through the insurance prior to departure.  

Prior to departure, all students will also have access to TAO self-paced modules that focus on mental health strategies related to studying abroad. 

When choosing a program, it is important to consider a student’s health needs while abroad. Students should self-disclose any health concerns, allergies, food preferences, or medications upon acceptance into a program. For students participating in College-Sponsored and Affiliate programs, a health questionnaire is required.

Allergies

It can be difficult to navigate certain allergies abroad. Students should research destinations to better understand the local environment, culinary expectations, program activities, housing, and local health care systems when deciding if a program is right for their needs. Despite taking necessary precautions, it is always possible that students may encounter allergens abroad.  Some student guidelines include:

• Always carry a valid EpiPen, if needed.
• Self-report the extent of any allergies and possible use of an EpiPen on the health questionnaire (College-Sponsored programs) or to the affiliate provider.
• Carry a card with any allergies or health issues in the local language to help avoid any miscommunications, or to assist in an emergency.
• If a student has a strong food-based allergy, consider a longer-term program, or program with housing that includes cooking facilities, to make their own meals. Programs that include numerous food-based activities may be problematic for students with multiple, or intense, food allergies.

Climate and Heat

Students who participate in programs in warm climates may experience a variety of challenges due to the local environment. Students should:

• Research the local climate and environment and pack appropriate clothing/supplies - bug repellent, walking shoes, sunscreen, coat, etc.
• Pack a reusable water bottle and neck fan or other small portal options to wear while outside in hot climates.
• Research local food safety - it is important to be cautious with street food, local tap water, and ice.

Additional Resources

Students should contact Student Health Services or their primary care provider with any health-related concerns.

Students can also utilize the CDC Traveler’s Health  website for destination specific health information. Additionally, the CDC Traveler Advice page contains frequently asked questions about international travel.

Continuation of Care

Students enrolled in CISI insurance will receive information about continuation of care services available prior to departure. Affiliate or College-Sponsored students with provider insurance should contact their program provider for insurance information and continuation of care options available.  

Medications

Understanding medication regulations is an important part of preparing to study abroad. Laws and availability can vary significantly from country to country, and medications that are common or legal in the United States may be restricted or prohibited elsewhere.

• Students are responsible for checking that their prescription and over-the-counter medications are legal at the destination. Learn more: State Department and the Inter national Narcotics Control Board.
• All medications should be in the original packaging and in a large enough quantity to complete the full program.
• Over-the-counter medications (e.g. Tylenol or Advil) abroad can be stronger or weaker abroad. If a student has a strong preference regarding a certain medication, they should bring it with them.

Students should keep a written list of their medication in case they need to get a replacement through a provider while abroad.

All study abroad students will enroll in the U.S. Department of State STEP program by CIE. STEP is free service for U.S. travelers to enroll their foreign travel destinations to receive security and safety alerts. It also notifies the Department of State to be aware that there are U.S travelers in a location should an emergency occur. Students are encouraged to also register any personal travel locations with STEP. CIE Pre-Departure Orientation: All study abroad students are required to attend a pre-departure orientation through CIE that covers a wide array of topics from packing to cultural awareness, and most importantly, information on student health and safety. 

All study abroad students are required to attend a pre-departure orientation through CIE that covers a wide array of topics from packing to cultural awareness, and most importantly, information on student health and safety. 

All CofC study abroad programs are organized and led by CofC faculty Program Directors. The Program Directors are available to support students with any issues that arise. Program Directors will attend a mandatory health and safety training course prior to departure.

The majority of CofC study abroad programs work with third-party program provider organizations who help plan and support our programs abroad. These organizations provide 24/7 local support for programs and students in case of student illness or any emergency.

Students are expected to research what is illegal to bring into the host country, especially regarding prescription medication and drugs. More information can be found at each country page on the State Department and the International Narcotics Control Board. Any prescriptions and over-the-counter medications should be in their original packaging. It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of health and safety practices in the host country. They should know how to access medical care if needed and understand the local laws and safety guidelines.

Please see the U.S. Department of State website for traveler resources and to learn more about how Embassies/Consulates can assist U.S. citizens abroad. The Department of State has a helpful guide to Emergencies and  What the Department of State Can and Can’t Do in a Crisis.  

The Center for International Education (CIE) aims to make study abroad accessible for every student at the College of Charleston by offering programs in multiple disciplines across the globe during semesters, summers, and even spring break!

It is important to be intentional when selecting a program so that your student can maximize the benefits of studying abroad. The staff and peer advisors in the CIE are here to help your student find a program that will fulfill their needs. 

Students have several opportunities to seek guidance throughout their study abroad process.

Advising Sessions:

Current students can see our advising session schedule on The Hub.

Peer Advisors:

CIE employs several peer advisors who host our advising sessions and offer drop-in advising hours.

Current students can see the drop-in hours on The Hub.

CIE Staff Advisors:

Once students have reviewed the relevant Oaks course(s), they can set up an advising appointment with the appropriate CIE Advisor in Appointment Manager (Achieve) for the following appointment types: 

• General Study Abroad 
• Faculty-Led (CofC- Sponsored) Programs
• Exchange Programs
• Affiliate Program

Study abroad programs are designed to enhance a students academic experience at the College of Charleston. Study Abroad is an academic program, not a vacation, please help your student adjust their expectations accordingly. CofC-sponsored study abroad program course grades for courses taught by CofC faculty will count towards a student’s CofC GPA. For Exchange, Affiliate and CofC-sponsored programs taught by foreign faculty, students will receive transfer creditfor courses where the student receives the grade equivalent of a C or better in the U.S. Transfer credits do not count towards the student cumulative GPA. 

Academic Accommodations 

If your student has approved academic accommodations through SNAP, please have your student work with the CofC Center for Disability Services for coordination of academic plan while on the study abroad program. 

Students apply for all programs through our application portal: cofc.via-trm.com.

If participating in an exchange program, students will be nominated to the host university by the CIE and will then need to complete a supplemental application. Students must be accepted by the host university in order to participate.

If participating in an Affiliate program, students must also complete an application directly on their chosen Affiliate Partner's website after submitting their CofC application in ViaTRM. 

Housing will vary depending on the program and destination. Students should review Via Global for details.

Some expectations to consider regarding housing abroad:

• Housing may be smaller than students are used to.
• Especially in historic cities, housing will likely be older and may not have all the comforts that students are used to at home. There may be graffiti, construction, and narrow streets around housing in historic cities.
• Many buildings abroad do not have elevators - student housing may require stairs.
• Students may need to walk/navigate public transportation to get from their housing to classes/activities.
• Housing maintenance requests may take longer.
• Heat and air conditioning can be more expensive abroad. Student housing may be warmer or colder than it is in the U.S. Students should prepare and pack accordingly.

Homestays

Homestays are a great experience for students to become immersed in the local culture by staying with a local host family. Open communication and cultural understanding are key to a positive homestay experience.

• A homestay may not be right for a student wanting a more independent experience.

Homestay families vary greatly, but students should be aware of the following general guidance:

• Students will stay with families in their own homes. Students are expected to follow the rules of the host family and respect all residents and their property; rules may differ from house to house.
• Students should communicate with their host family when they may be out late or leave town – families may worry if they have not heard from the student.
• Be aware of cultural differences when interacting with host families and prepare to navigate these complexities.

Affiliate Housing

Housing is included within program fee through third-party affiliate provider. Confirm in Via Global. Program housing can take many forms dependent on the specific program and location.

Exchange Housing

Housing inclusion varies by program. Confirm in Via Global.

College-Sponsored Housing

Housing is included in all College-Sponsored programs. Students are required to stay in program housing unless it is a free weekend for independent travel.  

Program housing can take many forms including hotels, hostels, apartments, dormitories, and homestays dependent on the specific program and location.

Roommates

For most College-Sponsored study abroad programs, students will have one or more roommates. Roommates may be randomly assigned and changed, depending on the program.

For some students, having a roommate they do not know can feel intimidating. CIE hopes the experience will be an opportunity for students to get to know other students from different backgrounds and help the group bond overall.

Students are encouraged to practice patience, flexibility, and clear communication with all roommates to discuss personal boundaries, preferences, and resolve any interpersonal issues that might arise.

Upon request, CIE will provide disability-related accommodation where possible for students with disabilities. Students on CofC Sponsored Programs should disclose to CIE prior to submitting, or on, their financial agreement. 

Students should consult with CofC Disability Services about their study abroad plans as soon as possible to ensure arrangements can be made.  

Students can make an appointment to apply for passports at CofC Mail & Passport Services, MUSC Passport Services, or USPS Offices  

It is the student’s responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport in time for the program. Refunds will not be issued for missed program time or program withdrawal due to waiting on passport processing. CIE highly recommends that all students have at least 6 months remaining on their passport from the end date of their desired program. Requirements on expiration dates vary by country and information can be found on the U.S. Department of State website. Passports MUST be signed to be valid. 

Students with passports from countries other than the United States should confirm requirements with the appropriate home embassy or consulate of their country in the destination. 

Students should consider submitting their new passport or renewal applications ASAP. Passport processing times can be long. Students can also consider expediting passports for an additional cost. More information on passports and current processing times can be found on the U.S. Department of State website. 

Time-Sensitive Passport Processing:

• Charleston Passport Center - Students can make an appointment at the Charleston Passport Center if they have urgent international travel within 14 calendar days, or if they need a foreign visa within 28 calendar days.
• Other U.S. Passport Agencies - U.S Passport Agencies can process emergency passports 

Students going to certain countries may need to apply for a student visa. Additional information will be found on the ViaTRM program pages. 

Please note that if the study abroad program requires a visa, students will likely need to have their passport processed earlier to apply for a visa. Students should not plan international travel before the program start date, as they will likely need to turn over their passport to local consulate for visa processing. Processing times will vary by location and consulate. Visa applications may also involve the student travelling to the regional consulate to apply in person. Requirements for any visas will vary with each program and destination. Please visit the specific country’s consulate website for more information. Students studying on affiliate and exchange programs will work directly with their affiliate program provider organization or exchange partner school for visa guidance.  

Students may consider purchasing Cancel For Any Reason Insurance for your program, although it is not a requirement. CFAR policies can add extra insurance for these financial commitments and give you a little more flexibility in your personal decision timeline. Should students wish to purchase CFAR Insurance, they must enroll on their own. Below are some reputable companies that students may look into. 

• • CISI Cancel For Any Reason Insurance
  • Gallagher Cancel For Any Reason Insurance