Resources for Parents of International Students

Parent Information Session

Join the upcoming online and in-person parent information session. It’s a great opportunity to connect with U of A staff and learn about various University services available to support students.

Sending your young adult abroad to study is a big decision! A student's success is a team effort, and your role as a parent or supporter is invaluable. Our goal is to make sure you feel confident and prepared to guide your child as they prepare for their studies at the University of Alberta.

International Students Under 18

If your child will be under 18 when they start their studies, they are legally considered a minor. Review the information for students under the age of majority.
If they are 18 years of age or older, your child is an adult under Alberta provincial laws, including rules protecting an individual’s privacy.

Privacy Policy and Communication with Parents or Guardians

  • The University of Alberta collects and protects personal information under the authority of the Alberta Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act to operate the programs and services of the university.
  • The student must authorize disclosure of their personal information to another person, designated agent or agency, legal counsel, or other purposes, and they must fill out a consent document as required under the Act.
  • U of A staff are only able to disclose what is in the public record, that is, a student is a registered student or has graduated. We cannot share information such as grades, home address, academic status, and the like, without written student consent.
  • For you to receive information about your child from the University, a student 16 years of age or older needs to complete, sign, and submit this Informed Consent for Disclosure of Personal Information form to authorize the Office of the Registrar to disclose their personal information to another person, designated agent or agency, legal counsel, or others. The form must be submitted to the Student Service Centre directly from the student.
  • Encourage your child to have you listed as their Emergency Contact in Bear Tracks. The University will use this contact information in the event of an emergency involving your child

Advice for Parents and Supporters

  • Connect with one of our International Student Specialists during a Parent Information Session
  • Subscribe to the U of A Parents and Supporters E-News
  • Review the Parents & Supporters Handbook
  • Encourage regular and open communication with your child during their studies to stay current with how they are doing.
  • Remind your child to register for Orientation
  • If you will be in Edmonton in late July, register for the Family Orientation

Resources