Welcome! We know that as a parent/guardian, you play a key role in your student’s experience as they prepare to participate in our study abroad and study away programs. It’s a time of great academic and personal growth but it can also bring new uncertainties.
Expectations
BU Study Abroad communicates directly with students regarding all aspects of their program. To support students’ independence and privacy, we contact parents and guardians only in case of emergency (and only communicate with those who have been named as contacts by the student). We encourage students to keep their support networks informed and to share program updates and communications.
While we try to streamline the experience as much as possible, there are some important things students need to think about early on in the process, including deciding on the type of program they want to do, visa processing timelines, and preparing for how they might adapt in a new culture.
Getting Ready
Your student will require a passport to travel abroad. It’s never too early to obtain or renew your passport, which should be valid for at least six months after the program end date. Students generally need to apply for a visa to enter and study in their host country; our staff will advise students on each student’s specific visa requirements. In most cases, students will have to submit their physical passport document to the host country’s consulate or embassy as part of the visa application. We advise students not to plan any personal travel during this time as they may not have their physical passport until their visa application has been fully processed.
Health and Safety
Our primary concern is always the health and safety of your student. Our staff in Boston and around the world have deep experience in dealing with the many challenges that can arise, and we are continually preparing to meet the needs of our students.
Most Boston University Study Abroad participants study at one of our overseas centers, with BU staff and faculty on the ground providing a comprehensive academic, social, and pastoral experience. Other students travel with our partner programs, where we remain in constant contact with our counterparts to provide support.
We encourage students to reach out to us to discuss any health concerns they may have in relation to their experience abroad; a little advance planning can contribute to a very successful experience.
Insurance
All students traveling abroad on a BU Study Abroad program are automatically covered by our international insurance policy, provided by Chubb and administered by International SOS. This includes evacuation insurance where necessary. Note that this additional layer does not apply for our programs in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. All students must also maintain their U.S. based health insurance for the duration of their program abroad.
Academics
All BU Study Abroad programs provide a rigorous academic experience, which may include an internship. Courses transfer back seamlessly to the main campus, and students are encouraged to meet with their Academic Advisor(s) as they explore program options. Many programs also offer courses that satisfy BU Hub requirements. Teaching and grading expectations may vary by location, and these variations are communicated to students in pre-departure preparations as well as on the ground.
All academic internship programs include both a work assignment and an internship seminar. Students work with staff from BU or from our internship placement partners to understand their individual needs and to guide their internship placement process appropriately; in some locations, students will take a very active role in securing their internship.
Students continue to be bound by the Boston University Academic Conduct Code as well as other academic policies, and must also adhere to the University’s overall standards of conduct.
Program Types and Costs
Every BU Study Abroad program offers a unique experience. Depending on the program, students may take classes at a BU academic center, a partner institution, or a combination of both. Some programs may be a better fit for certain majors or academic goals. Housing options also vary and may include homestays or BU-managed residences. In addition, program costs, duration, and visa requirements can differ significantly, with some destinations requiring extensive advance planning. We encourage students to discuss their options carefully with their parents or guardians as they explore the program that best fits their needs.
Contact
Email us at abroad@bu.edu or call us at 617-353-9888. If your student has an overseas emergency, contact the International SOS Assistance Center (24/7/365 coverage) at 1-215-942-8478, and notify program staff in-country if possible. Note that International SOS assistance does not apply to students on our domestic study away programs in Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., who should contact their regular health insurer and/or program staff.
Want to learn more?
Explore our website, and check out our Terrier Travels Podcast!