Parents & Families

Studying abroad offers various professional, academic, and personal advantages. It's a personal choice supported by family, not an obligation or entitlement. Some majors and scholarships require international experience, so students should consider their goals and intentions. 

Seattle University offers programs that accommodate various academic schedules, budgets, and personal/career goals. Education Abroad Advisors assist in finding suitable programs. Explore program offerings here. 

All students on an education abroad program need Global Medical and Travel Insurance. We automatically enroll students in our plan for certain programs, while others are enrolled through their Program Provider. Learn more about insurance coverage here. 

Our global health insurance program connects students to English-speaking medical professionals worldwide. Students pay medical costs upfront and then request reimbursement. In emergencies, the insurance helps relocate students and provides support for their loved ones. On-site staff and the Education Abroad Office can assist in finding appropriate medical care facilities and navigating the insurance claim process. 

SU-Sponsored, SU-Exchange, and Faculty-Led programs are vetted by Seattle University for health and safety considerations and students are trained in best practices for maintaining their holistic well-being prior to going abroad as part of Pre-Departure Orientation. As with all aspects of life, situations related to health and safety can still arise despite good planning; therefore, the Education Abroad Office and our partners abroad have 24/7 emergency protocols in place. We stay updated on conditions in students’ host countries and communicate with parents when necessary.  

Financial aid portability varies by program type. Visit our Financial Planning page for more information, including estimated cost comparisons for SU Sponsored and Exchange Programs.

Yes, there are various scholarship options. Find details on provider, national, and private study abroad scholarships and eligibility requirements here.

Education Abroad Advisors work with students in the early stages of the process to estimate costs and explore funding options. Should students need additional support, they may also collaborate with Student Financial Services to determine how their particular grants, scholarships, and loans apply to program costs. 

Yes, program costs and additional fees vary. We provide Estimate Budget Worksheets to identify program-specific expenses. 

Visa requirements depend on the location and duration. Students should consult their Program Provider and U.S. Department of State's website to determine specific requirements. 

The Education Abroad Office does not provide medical advice. Students are instead advised to consult their Primary Care Physician as well as the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention for country-specific vaccine information. 

Many students travel independently, influenced by location, program limitations, schedule, finances, and personal preference. Some program providers offer structured travel options. We encourage students to research and make informed travel plans. During the official program dates, students are not permitted to travel to countries restricted by SU’s Travel Advisory Policy without prior petition and approval. 

We recommend discussing education abroad matters with your student first; this will help prepare them for the independence, initiative, and resourcefulness required to successfully study abroad. Our office is also available at 206-296-2226 or via email at EducationAbroad@dos5.net for any questions or concerns.