How Will CIEE Support My Teen During Their Semester of High School Abroad?
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Studying abroad is an exciting, once in a lifetime experience that offers students a chance to immerse themselves in new cultures, develop language skills, and broaden their perspectives. One of the concerns about studying abroad may include the security and safety of your teen while they are away. Rest assured, since 1947, CIEE has been dedicated to providing an enriching, safe, and supportive experience to students during their High School Semester Abroad.
What Are the Benefits of a Semester Abroad in High School?
CIEE High School Semester Abroad programs offer students the chance to spend from 3 months to an academic year fully immersed in a new culture. Living with a host family and attending a local high school helps them develop communication skills, independence, and a global perspective. This experience not only enriches their high school years but also makes them stand out in college applications.
Colleges are looking for students who will bring unique insights and experiences to their campuses, and a CIEE program highlights a student’s initiative and curiosity. The ability to articulate their experiences and what they’ve learned during their time abroad in essays and interviews can give students a distinct advantage in the competitive college admissions process.
Safety Measures
CIEE prioritizes participant safety and support through a multi-layered approach. Safety measures include annual evaluations and staff training, thorough vetting of homestays, and ongoing monitoring of local conditions. Participants receive detailed orientations on risk reduction and handling difficult situations, with staff available 24/7 for assistance.
The support network is extensive, featuring daily help from homestay hosts and CIEE in country staff available to provide support. CIEE maintains a 24/7 emergency line and utilizes a notification system to inform participants of major emergencies, ensuring they are never without access to support and guidance. Let’s take a closer look at the support and safety measures CIEE offers to make your teen's study abroad experience well worth it!
1. Pre-Departure & Orientation
Before they start their journey, students attend pre-departure orientations where CIEE covers essential topics like health, safety, and cultural adaptation. These orientations are held virtually and last about an hour. Parents are more than welcome to attend these orientations!
Once in their host country, students typically receive an on-site orientation that provides practical advice on local transportation, customs, and interacting with their host families. These orientations typically happen for the first few days upon arrival. They will prepare students with the knowledge and support they need to fully embrace their new environment. The orientations are a great time for students to connect and interact with their fellow students and their local staff.
2. Safe & Supportive Living Arrangements
CIEE provides homestay options with carefully screened host families, creating a secure and comfortable environment for students to thrive while immersing themselves in the local culture.
The process begins with a safety check by CIEE staff, or an agent run program. This safety check ensures that the participant’s room, bathroom, and common areas meet safety standards. Additionally, staff assess the status of the homestay family and confirm that they are not reliant on CIEE funds for basic living expenses.
In terms of background checks, CIEE requests criminal background checks where legally allowed. In locations where such checks are not permitted, such as Japan, CIEE requires two references for the family, which are then verified.
Finally, CIEE ensures that homestay families are fluent in the local language and have a strong understanding of the local culture. While it is not necessary for families to be ethnically from the country, they must be able to communicate effectively with the student in the local language and provide an authentic cultural experience.
3. STEP Emergency Text Message System
CIEE encourages all students to enroll in STEP. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service available to U.S. citizens who are traveling or living abroad. This program provides students with real-time updates and alerts about safety and security conditions in their host country. Enrolling in STEP ensures that students are well-informed and supported throughout their study abroad experience.
4. iNext Insurance
All CIEE participants are covered by iNext insurance, which provides emergency medical and travel coverage. High School Abroad Participants are enrolled in the iNext Supplemental Platinum Plan as a part of their program fees. Participant's iNext coverage helps with the reimbursement of costs for unforeseen illnesses or accidents while abroad. CIEE enrolls participants in this plan before their program begins.
The iNext plan, provided through Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, offers additional medical and travel coverage beyond what private insurance may cover, including accidents, routine sicknesses, and travel mishaps.
iNext insurance also offers 24/7 travel and medical assistance to students, ensuring that they have access to the support they need at all times. This insurance gives students and legal guardians peace of mind, knowing that they are protected in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Making Their High School Years Count
Choosing to study abroad is a significant decision, and CIEE is here to support your teen every step of the way. From providing safe and comfortable housing to offering comprehensive academic and health support, CIEE is dedicated to providing each student with a rewarding and transformative experience. Don’t wait—explore our High School Semester Abroad programs and help your teen take a step closer to a life-changing adventure!
To answer your questions about studying abroad and how CIEE supports your teen during their semester abroad, you can also schedule a call with a CIEE Enrollment Coordinator.