Information for Parents
Welcome to the parents' information page for study abroad at the College of Charleston. This section of our web site has been designed to help parents understand the process of study abroad at the College. We would also like to illustrate to parents the value of your son or daughter's international experience and encourage you to guide and support them throughout the process.
In an increasingly global society, an international component has become an essential part of higher education. As a College of Charleston student, your son or daughter has access to a myriad of opportunities to gain international experience. The College has sent record numbers of students abroad in recent years, and our faculty and staff have been working to create even more programs offered through the College. The range of opportunities available both through the College and through other universities or program providers makes studying abroad a possibility for any student, regardless of major and language ability.
The CIE is dedicated to providing support to students studying abroad. Some of the services we offer include counseling from study abroad advisors with program expertise, a student handbook, pre-departure orientation that all students must attend, and referral to additional resources such as travel clinics, the financial aid office, and foreign consulates. The CIE keeps in communication with the student while abroad and will try to address issues that impacts their academic progress or safety.
Moreover, the CIE firmly believes that parents should be involved in a student's decision to study abroad. However, the student must make the major decisions and do the work required in preparation for study abroad on their own. Although we welcome general inquiries from parents, it is ultimately the students' 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 students' program of study without his or her explicit consent.
We encourage you to browse the information offered on our website regarding the policies and procedures of study abroad at the College of Charleston and discuss them with your son or daughter throughout the application process and prior to departure. If you or your son or daughter still have questions after reviewing the website, please feel free to contact the CIE at 843.953.7661.
Thank you for your support and best wishes to your son or daughter as they embark on their study abroad experience!
