It’s natural for students to aspire to a degree from a prestigious international university.
Yet, many of these institutions are located in America and Europe, posing a challenge for those seeking higher education in these countries.
Importantly, as a student, your decisions are not always yours. The role of your parents in these decisions is significant and cannot be overlooked.
This is where studying abroad becomes a barrier for many students. And that is to convince your parents to let you study abroad. In this case, many students make mistakes and need help convincing their parents.
Let me share with you how I figured it out. I get many emails from students who want to solve this problem. Last year, I got a lot of mail from students from India, Pakistan, and Nigeria who asked me for suggestions.
However, are you a student who dreams of pursuing higher education abroad but is facing resistance from your parents? Then, read this article and learn the tricks of this subject. Let’s begin.
How do you convince your parents to let you study abroad?
So, let’s talk about how to convince your parents. But remember to explain things through logic when you talk to them fully. Since parents dream of you, they will agree to your higher education if you give them some reason. You need help to do it. I can only say what can be done here. You will do the rest using your intelligence. So, let’s begin.
1. Do your research
To convince parents, you need to do some research first. So, how do you do research? First, you must select which course you will take when you go, which university offers it, etc.
Once you have selected the course and university of your choice, you must figure out how much money you will need. You need to account for your course fees, accommodation, food, medical, transport, groceries, etc.
For this, you will find alums of the selected university, from whom you can easily get information. It must help if you do a little homework. Moreover, information is often available from any online social media community.
For your convenience, I’ve given you a brief list here. Collect information accordingly and take notes.
- Choose Country: Select the country that best fits your higher education course.
- Select Program: Here, you must select which Program you are applying to. It’s up to you.
- Choose your university / College.
- Finance: Collect data on financial issues like course fees, medical, accommodation, etc.
- Consider Health and Safety issues.
- Country weather and your health condition (for example, Canada is extremely cold weather)
- Plans and Timelines: Make sure your plan should be clear and written (3/4 years)
2. Show them what’s on offer
Your research is done, and you should have enough information. Now show your proposal to your parents. Remember to take your offer letter. Tell parents about your university’s offer in detail. And try to convince them with a cool head.
Also, tell them the pros and cons of the offer you received. Tell them in detail about your career prospects and future. Convincing them is fine for you if they understand your offer well.
3. Show them your career benefits
It would help if you had a clear idea about the future of the subject you will pursue in higher education. You must have collected information well in the first research phase.
Since parents are concerned about their child’s future, they will only agree to your higher education if there are clear reasons and future benefits. Also, could you do it for yourself? Learn more about your selected subject to convince parents well.
4. Show them a financial plan
You must get your parents’ money if you still need to get a fully funded scholarship. Besides, many people go to study on a half-course fee waiver, and they have to take co-funds. It would help to show your parents a financial plan considering your situation.
And it should also be taken into consideration whether they can afford it. If you are in a middle-class family, you must consider it. If you are from a rich family, then this is fine. It would help if you showed a clear financial plan to the parents to whom you belong.
And explain to them why you made such a plan. I have already discussed what this financial plan might consist of.
5. Connect them to real people with authority
It would help if you introduced them to some students who have benefited from the course. In this case, introduce those who have done the same course at the same university. You can point to an elder brother or sister in your area who has done this as an example. And they are currently established in their careers. It will help convince your parents like a success story.
6. Show them how you will stay in touch
Reassure your parents that you will always be in touch with them. Tell them to stay in touch with you on the phone, social media, chat, video call, and WhatsApp.
Remember that your parents are serious about you and concerned about your safety. So make this communication clear to convince them to fulfill your dream of studying abroad.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, convincing your parents to support your dream of studying abroad requires patience, preparation, and effective communication.
By following the strategies outlined in this article and addressing your parents’ concerns and preferences, you can increase the likelihood of gaining their support for your higher education aspirations.
Remember, studying abroad is not just about obtaining a degree from a prestigious international university; it’s about gaining invaluable experiences, expanding your horizons, and shaping your future. With your parents’ support behind you, the possibilities are endless.
So, take the initiative to do your research, present a compelling case, and engage in open and honest conversations with your parents. By demonstrating your readiness and commitment, you can turn their doubts into confidence and embark on the journey of a lifetime.
Now armed with these strategies, pursue your dreams of studying abroad. Your future awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
You can stay connected with your family through phone calls, emails, video chats, and social media. With today’s technology, it’s easier than ever to maintain regular contact, regardless of the distance. Assure your parents that you’ll stay in touch and involve them in your experiences abroad.
You can convince your parents by highlighting the personal growth opportunities associated with studying abroad, such as gaining independence, building resilience, developing cultural competence, and expanding your horizons.
Share stories and testimonials from other students who have studied abroad, and describe how you envision yourself growing and thriving in a new environment.
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