Parents
See Your Teen Explore the World
CIEE First Year Abroad (FYA) programs offer your teen a life-changing college experience in a global destination. From the smallest travel planning detail to the coordination of the full experience in-country, CIEE provides support to keep them safe, reaching their academic goals, and living the freshman year of a lifetime!
What Parents and Guardians Want to Know
First Year Abroad Blogs
Everything Parents Need to Know About First Year Abroad
If you’re a recent high school grad asking, “How to convince my parents to let me study abroad,” or if you’re a parent of a recent high school grad who’s... keep reading
How Can I Help My Teen Stay Safe While Studying Abroad?
Saying goodbye as your teen embarks on their study abroad program is bittersweet! You know they're off on a grand adventure, but as parents, you're likely worried about their safety... keep reading
6 Things Parents Should Know About Their Teen's First Year of College Abroad
As a parent or legal guardian of a teen who is considering spending their first year of college studying abroad, you'll want to know what to expect for them. How... keep reading
An Experience That Will Help Set Your Teen Up For Success
First Year Abroad provides a high-quality study abroad experience that colleges and universities recognize as improving retention, GPA, degree completion, transfer rates, and career outcomes (according to NAFSA’s research on the impact of study abroad).
For students exploring their college options, First Year Abroad combines experiential, international learning with a rigorous curriculum in:
- Arts & Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Business
- STEM
Is My Teenager Ready to Study Abroad?
In today’s rapidly changing world, global skills and cultural understanding are more important than ever. Studying abroad can be a transformative experience, giving teens the tools they need to thrive in today’s interconnected world. The teenage years are a time of peak adaptability and open-mindedness, making it an ideal moment for cultural immersion.
Ultimately, the decision to study abroad should be your teen’s own. Some students feel ready as early as freshman year, while others may choose to wait until later in college.
Excursions that Ignite Learning
Beyond the classroom, CIEE First Year Abroad programs offer an exciting array of excursions tailored to each location, enhancing your teen’s academic journey with real-world experiences. From boating along the River Cam in England to visiting an eco-friendly coffee plantation in Costa Rica or exploring the shores of the Mediterranean, these are just a few of the unforgettable experiences that await your student.
Here’s a glimpse of what your student can expect:
- Culturally enriching activities: From visiting historical landmarks to sampling local cuisine, your teen will gain a deeper understanding of the host country’s culture and traditions.
- Exhilarating adventures: Whether hiking through breathtaking landscapes, boating along scenic rivers, or trying a new hobby, your student will have opportunities to challenge themselves and create lasting memories.
- Opportunities for personal growth: By interacting with local people, navigating new situations, and developing new skills, your teen will build confidence and independence.
Visit the Sample Activities section on each program page to explore the incredible experiences that await your student during their First Year Abroad.
contact
Have Questions?
Check out our FAQ page for more information on the application, pre-departure process, costs, and more.
Need Further Assistance?
For more help, call our team at (866) 583-0332 or send us an email at FYA-GYA@ciee.org.
Want to Schedule a Call?
If you want to schedule a call, find a time with a CIEE Enrollment Coordinator in your area on our bookings page.