Q: Will my college allow me to defer my admission to take a gap year?
A: Most colleges are amenable to deferring admission for students taking a gap year abroad. A number of highly selective colleges actually recommend that students consider a year off before starting classes as a means to mature emotionally and intellectually. Please check with your college of choice for their policies regarding deferment of admission.
Q: How will I ensure that my child is safe overseas? What if I have a specific concern?
A: Our site is dedicated to providing all participants and parents with comprehensive support throughout the duration of the program. Our site’s Support Team maintains close communication with the overseas receiving organization and regularly receives updates on student adjustment throughout the year. While the on-site program staff is the first source of assistance locally, our site Support Team is always available as a resource for participants and parents. The Support Team is trained and experienced in managing conflict, assisting with cultural adjustment issues, and providing support for emergency situations. Our staff is knowledgeable, experienced, and more than happy to answer questions, provide assistance, or discuss student concerns. Our site Support Team is available 24/7 via phone and is also available by email or Skype.
Q: Can I request to live in a specific area in the city I wish to study abroad in?
A: The best practice is to allow our site Study Center to find a family that is looking for a student that matches your profile. While many our site host families have welcomed students in the past, others are hosting for the first time. The family home stay is at the heart of any exchange, so finding the right family is our first priority and should be yours. It is important all participants go into any gap year program with an open mind about what their family may be like, where they live, whether or not they have children, etc.