For nearly 50 years, ISEP has helped more than 60,000 students prepare for life-changing international opportunities by equipping them with the tools and information they need to feel confident and supported in their decision to study abroad. Our team works closely with students and their families to ensure they know what to expect before, during, and after their program—so they’re ready for an enriching and rewarding cross-cultural experience, both personally and academically.
ISEP Study Abroad recognizes the vital role community plays in a successful study abroad experience—and that families are a key part of that community. At ISEP, we’re parents, siblings, and former study abroad participants ourselves, and we understand the value of the support networks that surround each of our students.
What to Expect from ISEP
At ISEP, we understand that preparing to study abroad is a significant transition—for students and their families. That’s why we offer personalized support and practical resources throughout the entire process. From choosing a program to navigating visa requirements, we help ensure your student is informed, prepared, and supported during every phase of their experience.
How it Works
ISEP offers two types of program models: ISEP Exchange and ISEP Direct. Learn more about the program models available through ISEP via our explore programs page.
Before going abroad all ISEP Students receive:
- One-on-one advising and guidance on How to Apply
- Budgeting tools and access to ISEP Scholarships
- Assistance with course selection
- A comprehensive pre-departure orientation and a what to know Before You Go Abroad checklist
- Visa guidance based on the requirements of their host country, outlined in each Country Handbook
Visit our Placement Process page for an outline of the student’s ISEP timeline from when they submit their ISEP Application to their pre-departure stage.
Health & Safety Abroad
The wellbeing of ISEP students is our number one priority. When your student participates in an ISEP Study Abroad program, they have access to a comprehensive network of health and safety resources including:
- An overview of ISEP’s Health & Safety Program
- Health & Safety Pre-Departure Orientation
- CISI Student Health Insurance Information CISI Student Health Insurance Information
- 24/7 emergency assistance
- On-site support from their host university
- Access to remote mental health services
- Ongoing guidance from their Student Services Officer
For more details, please review our Health & Safety Policy.
Funding Study Abroad
We understand that every student has unique financial circumstances to consider when planning a study abroad experience. ISEP offers resources and support to help families and students navigate the financial process, including:
- Budgeting tools and access to ISEP Scholarships
- Advising on how to apply Financial Aid to an ISEP program
- A clear overview of ISEP Student Payment Policies
Family members who wish to view their student’s billing balance and payment details can do so by asking their student to log in to their ISEP account and select “Invoices and Payments.”
Additional Family FAQs
Can I set up a time to meet with an ISEP staff member?
ISEP appreciates the important role family members play in supporting students, but we’re only able to meet with a family member if the student is also present. While we welcome family involvement, it’s critical for students to be the authors of their own journey and active participants in all communications about their study abroad program.
Where can students learn what information or next steps are needed for their ISEP application or program?
Students access detailed information and instructions on their ISEP Dashboard. Log-in credentials are required for each student. Students will complete their application, submit course information, accept their placement, view and pay their invoices, and more, all through the ISEP Dashboard.
How does my student get their study abroad courses approved?
Students will need to meet with their academic advisor from their home university to determine their academic (and credit) requirements as well as how their credits will transfer back to their home university. We’d strongly recommend that your student reach out to their home university coordinator to confirm this process in advance of their program participation.
How do I find details on my student’s housing/meal plan abroad?
The details of your student’s housing and meals (as well as other critical program information) can be found in their ISEP acceptance package. Students can view their ISEP acceptance package by logging into their ISEP account and clicking “Acceptance Package”. This can also be downloaded and shared as a PDF file.
How do I pay my student’s bill?
You can pay your student’s bill by logging in with them, clicking on “Invoices and payments”, and then “make a payment”. Payments can be made via credit card, wire transfer, or ACH bank transfer.
Read more about ISEP’s payment policies.
What are my student’s program dates?
Students have an outline of their program dates in their Program Contract in their ISEP Acceptance tab in their ISEP Dashboard. Students can also see further information on the dates for orientation, registration and their general academic calendar in the Pre-Departure Information tab in their ISEP Dashboard.
Who are my student’s contacts on program?
Students can find their ISEP Student Services Officer’s and Host ISEP Coordinators’ contact information on their ISEP Dashboard homepage. More information is available on our Whom to Contact About your Program page.
Can ISEP help provide me with a visa to visit my student abroad?
ISEP is only able to provide guidance for the student visa process. Please check your student’s host country’s consulate webpage for further information on entry and exit requirements.
Can I help check in my student to their program?
While students may travel with their family to their host country and family may be allowed to assist with moving them into their housing, only students are allowed to participate in their ISEP program orientation.
How does my student receive their transcript?
Shortly after the conclusion of your student’s ISEP program, ISEP will receive your student’s program transcript from their host university and, as long as any outstanding fees are settled, will send their transcript to their home university. Students can see further information on the projected timeline for their transcript to be sent to ISEP in the “Transcript” section in their ISEP Program Information and Contract in their ISEP Acceptance Package tab.
Can I use my contact information in my student’s account?
No, ISEP requires that the student’s account contain all their proper contact information. This is particularly critical in matters of insurance and health and safety.
What is ISEP’s withdrawal policy?
Please review ISEP’s withdrawal policy here.
What actions can my student take to help promote safety abroad?
ISEP recommends that your student sign up for travel alerts. See Emergencies and Crisis Awareness for more info.
U.S Citizens: Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
We also recommend that you discuss all of the health and safety information your student has received in his or her Acceptance Package and Country Handbook, and what precautions should be taken while abroad and when traveling on weekends and during academic breaks.
What advice does ISEP have for families if their student experiences culture shock in their host culture?
Initial disorientation is a normal part of adjusting to a new culture. The frustration your student may feel will pass and they will begin to enjoy their new experiences. While it may be disconcerting for you to watch your child go through this process, culture shock is a catalyst for self-growth that will help him/her develop an understanding of his/her host culture and of him/herself. Your child may call you complaining about all of the things in their host country that frustrate them or are not working. You can help your student understand that what they are experiencing is likely a temporary result of culture shock.
Are there any additional resources ISEP recommends for families?
We recommend IIE’s A Parent Guide to Study Abroad (available in English and Spanish).