High School Abroad for Parents

Why a year abroad can be a good idea

Your child grows from the challenges abroad: they learn independence, strengthen their language skills and build intercultural skills. Many parents report that their child returns more mature and confident. A year abroad can also improve future training and study opportunities.

Security & support

Security should be discussed specifically during planning. Our partner organizations carefully select host families and are available if there are any problems via clear contact channels. In boarding schools and boarding schools, supervisors ensure clear structures. Parents receive regular updates and can clarify which contact channels are planned.

Health & Insurance

Depending on the program, you should check carefully which insurance is included. If you have pre-existing conditions, we provide individual advice and check whether the program is suitable.

Emergency management

There are clear procedures for emergencies (accident, illness, homesickness). In serious cases, the program can be canceled or the host family can be changed.

Costs & Financing

As a parent, you want to know what costs you will incur. Prices vary depending on country, type of school and duration. Further information can be found on our costs page. We support you with scholarship applications and financing strategies.

School recognition & return

Whether your child returns directly to the next grade after the year abroad depends on the federal state, school, grade level and prior agreement. The prerequisite is sufficient performance in the host country and coordination with the German school. It is important to speak to the school in advance and clarify the requirements in writing.

On-site support

Regional coordinators look after your child on site. They visit the host family, assist in conflicts and organize meetings with other exchange students. Boarding schools have house parents and High School Abroads.

Frequently asked questions from parents

Book parental advice

Do you have further questions or would you like to plan the next steps together with your child? Our parent advisory service offers individual support on program selection, costs, security and recognition. Book an appointment now.

Why parents should support a year abroad

A school year abroad will not only give your child better language skills, but also important ones Soft skills: Young people become more self-confident, more independent and learn to find their way in new situations. Former participants report that they return with more tolerance and open-mindedness and make new friends around the world. These experiences have a positive effect on subsequent applications.

Many parents are worried that their child will lose out at school. However, studies show that experiences abroad increase motivation and promote personal development in the long term. The challenge of finding your way in a foreign environment strengthens self-confidence and problem-solving skills.

What parents should pay attention to

A year abroad is an investment – ​​in time, money and emotions. The most important points include:

• Cost: Program fees, flights, insurance and pocket money can add up to noticeable costs. Check scholarships and funding programs.
• Recognition: Clarify with the school whether the year abroad will be recognized as a school year.
• Security: Reputable organizations carefully select host families and provide a local representative who can be reached in important situations.
• Homesickness & conflicts: Homesickness is normal, but can be managed with communication and support. Aborting the program is rare and is usually the last option.

Discuss these aspects with your child early on and plan together.

Checklist: Preparation for parents

• Start planning several months before your departure: pay attention to information interviews, advice and application deadlines.
• Clarify with the school whether the year abroad will be recognized and possible choice of subjects in the host country.
• Compare organizations and programs; pay attention to benefits, support, host family selection and emergency management.
• Determine the costs and check scholarships, BAföG abroad and other funding.
• Discuss expectations, rules and communication options (contact at home, dealing with homesickness) with your child.

Is my child ready?

Ask yourself whether your child is open to new experiences, tolerant and socially competent. Can it take responsibility, organize itself and follow rules? If so, there is little standing in the way of adventure. If your child is very insecure or has major adjustment problems, a shorter program or later participation might make sense. Detailed advice will help you make a decision.