{"id":122,"date":"2026-08-11T20:17:53","date_gmt":"2026-08-11T20:17:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/students.carleton.ca\/parents-family\/?page_id=122"},"modified":"2026-08-20T19:50:01","modified_gmt":"2026-08-20T19:50:01","slug":"parents-and-family-members-of-international-students","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/students.carleton.ca\/parents-family\/parents-and-family-members-of-international-students\/","title":{"rendered":"Parents and Family Members of International Students"},"content":{"rendered":"
\n
\n \n \n
\n

\n Parents and Family Members of International Students <\/h1>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n \n \n\n\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

In addition to the normal stresses and adjustments all new university students experience, international students face their own unique set of challenges. Being so far away from home and family can make the transition to university life significantly more difficult. Being in a new country, culture, climate and academic environment can be both exciting and overwhelming. Many international students require additional supports specific to their needs and experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While poor academic performance, financial difficulties and health issues will have a negative effect on any student, the stakes are much higher for international students, as these situations can have an impact on their immigration status as temporary residents. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Global Opportunities & International Student Services Office (GO-ISSO)<\/a> is here to support your student with this transition and for the duration of their stay at Carleton. Encourage your student to contact the GO-ISSO for help on any issue, whether academic or personal. If GO-ISSO is not the appropriate service to assist them, they will ensure they are quickly connected to the correct resource.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Immigration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Parents and students should know about the terms and conditions that apply to study permit holders in Canada. This includes the requirement to remain enrolled in classes and the rules about working.
The GO-ISSO has licensed immigration professionals who provide information and advice on immigration issues and assist students with their applications to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Health and Counselling<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

International students have full access to Carleton University\u2019s Health and Counselling Services<\/a>.
The GO-ISSO can answer any questions about the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP)<\/a>, the mandatory health coverage plan for international students that pays for these and other health services in Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Financial Matters<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

It is crucial that you and your student are aware of Carleton\u2019s payment deadlines and fees owing on the student account. Important financial information as well as payment deadlines can be found on the Student Accounts Receivable site<\/a>. Always use one of Carleton\u2019s approved payment methods<\/a> to pay your student account to protect yourself from fraud. Beware of tuition scams where unauthorized third parties offer to pay your fees in exchange for a discount. Do not share personal or payment details with any unauthorized third parties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Academic Advising<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Students can meet with an advisor at the Academic Advising Centre<\/a> to discuss choosing or changing degree elements or to ask questions about academic rules and regulations. Changes in academic status can potentially impact an immigration status, so students should also consult the GO-ISSO if they are planning to go from full-time to part-time status or take a break from school.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

International Student Employment Program<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The International Student Employment Program<\/a> helps international students find paid experiential learning opportunities that align with their academic and career goals, equipping them with the knowledge, skills and confidence to navigate the Canadian labour market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Concerned Parents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you are concerned about your student\u2019s well-being, you can connect with the following services directly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n