Helping your child prepare to study abroad can seem like a big task. After all, there’s so much to consider.
We’ve put together a list of seven study skills tips for parents to help you prepare your child for their exciting future.
When it comes to choosing a course or university, the possibilities are endless. So, picking a degree can seem impossible!
However, you can work with your son or daughter to figure out which courses will offer a combination of enjoyable study and rewarding future career options. Here are a few ideas you and your child can explore:
You can search for a course here. Each course is easy to find, and you’ll be able to see what each course includes.
This is a really fun part. This is the opportunity for you and your child to tell the university who they are and why they want to study there.
While completing the application, here are some things you and your son or daughter should consider:
Here is more information on the application process.
A huge part of the university experience for your son or daughter is living on their own. This includes exciting things like exploring a new city, experiencing arts and culture and making friends. It also means everyday activities such as cooking, cleaning and looking after themselves.
Ensure your child knows how to organise themselves each day. For example, make sure your son or daughter knows the basics of cooking, kitchen safety, fire safety and food hygiene. Why not go through some cheap and easy recipes with them before they leave.
You and your child should also consider accommodation, what clothes and equipment they will need to bring and what life is like in the city. Help your son or daughter to figure out where the train station is, which buses to get, and most importantly, where the library is!
It’s a good idea to look into finances together to find out how much items such as food and other bills will cost where they’ll live. Newcastle University has some really good advice on how your child can manage their money.
Help make your child aware that the best tips for living on a budget are to be realistic and plan ahead. Advise your son or daughter that some shops may be cheaper than others, so it’s good to try different places to see where they can get the best deals.
Your son or daughter will also have access to student discounts. Many shops offer this and it means students can buy items for a reduced price. It also helps with travelling costs so they can get around the city and the country for much cheaper.
Safety is a top priority for any parent.
These are things you can tell your child to help them stay safe while at university:
University can be stressful at times. It’s important that your child knows there will always be people to talk to if they have any personal issues.
It can sometimes be difficult to know if your child is having a hard time or what they might be going through. Let them know that you’re always there if they need emotional support.
Newcastle University runs a helpful Student Health and Wellbeing Service. The expert team offer advice and support for any student who is having a difficult time with either their mental health or stress. If your son or daughter decides to study here, they’ll be well looked after, thanks to the amazing health and wellbeing staff.
For your son or daughter, finding a balance between having fun and studying can be hard. As they are now more independent, it’s up to them to find that balance.
Emphasise how a good work ethic will help them become well-respected and reliable students. Make sure they know how to prioritise both their work and social as this can be beneficial when entering a future career.
It’s at this point that as a parent, you’ll have to step back a little. Let your son or daughter find their own pace and preferred way to do things, but make sure they know that you’re always around to give them advice if they need it.
Preparing for university can seem like a bit of a mystery. But don’t worry! To help you during this time, we’ve created a free guide that will ease your concerns.
You can learn more about applications, visas for students, how to pack for university and how studying abroad will help your child to have a successful career.
To see how you can help your child prepare for university, download a free copy of our guide below.