Fachhochschule Salzburg GmbH

Studying Abroad with Children: Three Students, Three Paths, One Shared Goal

Three students show how a semester abroad can succeed with (a) child(ren) – thanks to targeted support, guidance, and a lot of courage. Their journey makes mobility for student parents tangible.

A woman in a white blouse is standing in front of a misty mountain range, smiling into the camera. — © Olivia Cobaxin Antele

Olivia Cobaxin Antele in front of a mountain range in Mexico.

Objectives

This example of good practice aims to actively promote and highlight the international mobility of students with children. The target group is student parents, especially those who have previously not considered studying abroad due to family responsibilities. The aim is to provide encouragement, guidance, and easier access to support structures. Through systematic information sharing and early identification of the target group, a low-threshold and transparent access structure is created. Structural measures to simplify the application process and enhanced communication are intended to sustainably improve inclusion support for students interested in mobility who need additional support. At the same time, this example contributes to the university’s strategic objective of strengthening diversity and equal opportunities in the international context. Mobility should be seen as inclusive, not exclusive—regardless of marital status or caregiving responsibilities. This perspective supports the goal of breaking down barriers and enabling mobility for all.

Background

Inclusion support within the Erasmus+ program was specifically promoted to better reach student parents. Olivia, Philipp, and Florian were identified ahead of their stays as “participants with fewer opportunities” using an optional questionnaire and were closely supported by the International Office from that point on. To implement inclusion support in a user-friendly way, both individual advising and digital tools were used. A checklist and online application form offer guidance and reduce bureaucratic hurdles. Targeted advice and support were provided by the International Office and International Academic Advisors, in close collaboration with OeAD. The university supports this implementation through targeted information offerings, individual advising, and structural measures (e.g., flexible study plans).

(Implemented) Activities

Structured Information An automated screening process during applications identifies students needing support early, allowing for timely outreach and assistance. The International Office developed a clear checklist outlining all necessary steps and documents for applying for inclusion support. Additionally, a digitized application form via Google Forms was introduced, allowing for easy upload of required documents and significantly reducing bureaucracy. Individual Advising and Digitalized Applications In personal advising sessions, students received guidance not only on suitable options abroad but also on funding opportunities. All three students received the Erasmus+ top-up for "fewer opportunities" and additional inclusion support, which significantly reduced financial barriers and made the stay abroad more manageable. Increased Visibility of Support Services The university uses its website and (online) info events to promote inclusion offerings and reach as many students with support needs as possible. To further raise visibility and motivate student parents, Olivia and Philipp were featured in the FH Salzburg ePaper “Warum!” and in an article by Der Standard. Olivia also shared her experience on the podcast A Life Abroad. Next Steps A network of “role models” has been established. The valuable experiences of the three students are being systematically documented and incorporated into future information sessions, publications, and advising practices. This allows support for student parents during semesters abroad to be continuously expanded and improved.

Results

All three students successfully completed their semester abroad—with positive experiences for themselves and their families: - Olivia traveled to Mexico with her husband and three school-age children, successfully managing various organizational challenges. Inclusion support eased many financial concerns. She later shared her story on the A Life Abroad podcast to inspire others. - Philipp spent a semester in Halmstad (Sweden) with his wife and son, benefiting from a family-friendly culture that offered supportive conditions. - Florian chose Darmstadt and benefited from inclusion support, which allowed him to focus on his studies while spending valuable time with his family. The financial support from the Erasmus+ top-up and inclusion funding enabled the students to plan their stays with far fewer financial worries. This allowed them to focus on academic development, intercultural experiences, and family growth. Public visibility through newspaper articles, online magazines, and podcasts increases the reach of this example and encourages other student parents to pursue similar paths.

Lessons learned

The biggest hurdle was often initial uncertainty. Personal conversations and role models are key to encouraging and reducing fears. Flexibility in study planning and caregiving is crucial for success. Digital tools and clearly structured informational materials make it easier to apply for inclusion support and lower the threshold for using such offers. Early identification and targeted outreach enable tailored advice and increase the success rate of mobility projects with support needs. Public outreach, such as newspaper articles and podcasts, helps reach new audiences and raises awareness of the particular challenges and opportunities for student parents abroad. This breaks down barriers and encourages more students to follow similar paths. At a university of applied sciences with many part-time study programs—especially attractive to students with families—easy access to inclusive mobility plays a crucial role.