Your Concerns Are Valid—And This Guide Will Help You Navigate Them

As a parent, the decision to send your child abroad for higher education is monumental. 

You're not just investing money—you're entrusting someone with your child's safety, future, and dreams. 

The anxiety you feel about costs, legitimacy, and whether your child will be properly supported in a foreign country is completely natural.

The overseas education industry has its share of genuine professionals, but also its share of consultants who overpromise and underdeliver. 

This guide exists to empower you with the right questions to ask, so you can distinguish between consultants who genuinely care about your child's success and those who are simply chasing commissions.

Remember: A good consultant will welcome your questions. In fact, they'll appreciate working with informed parents who care deeply about their child's future.

The 10 Critical Questions Every Parent Must Ask

1. "What is your success rate for university admissions and visa applications?"

Why This Matters: 

Success rates reveal track record and expertise. A consultant with high success rates has proven systems and strong relationships with universities.

What a Good Answer Sounds Like:

• Specific percentages backed by data (e.g., "Our admission success rate is 94% and visa success rate is 96% over the past three years")
• Willingness to share documentation or case studies
• Honest acknowledgment that some applications don't succeed, with explanations of why
• Breakdown by country, course type, or student profile if relevant

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Vague responses like "We're very successful" without numbers
• Claims of 100% success rate (unrealistic and dishonest)
• Deflecting the question or changing the subject
• Inability to provide any evidence or student testimonials

2. "How do you support students after they land in the destination country?"

Why This Matters: 

Your child's needs don't end when they board the plane. Settling into a new country brings challenges with accommodation, banking, culture shock, and academic adjustment.

What a Good Answer Sounds Like:

• Specific post-arrival services: airport pickup coordination, accommodation assistance, orientation programs
• Ongoing support structure: dedicated contacts in the destination country, emergency helplines
• Connection to student communities, alumni networks, or local mentors
• Regular check-ins during the first semester
• Clear communication about what's included and what costs extra

Red Flags to Watch For:

• "Our job ends when you get the visa"
• No mention of ground support in the destination country
• Vague promises without concrete details
• No emergency contact system or protocol
• Additional hefty fees for basic post-arrival support

3. "Are your commission structures completely transparent? Do universities pay you, and does that influence your recommendations?"

Why This Matters: 

Many consultants receive commissions from universities, which can create conflicts of interest. You need to know if their recommendations are based on what's best for your child or what earns them the highest commission.

What a Good Answer Sounds Like:

• Honest acknowledgment: "Yes, we receive commissions from partner universities, typically 10-15% of the first-year tuition"
• Clear explanation: "However, we recommend universities based on your child's profile, career goals, and budget first"
• Transparency about fee structure: exactly what you pay directly, what universities pay them
• Evidence of recommending non-partner universities when appropriate
• Willingness to put their recommendations and reasoning in writing

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Evasive answers or outright denial of receiving commissions
• Pushing only a small list of universities regardless of student profile
• Unwillingness to discuss financial arrangements
• Pressure to apply to specific universities without proper justification
• Discouraging you from researching universities independently

4. "Can we speak to at least two parents whose children you've recently helped?"

Why This Matters: 

References from real parents who've been through the process are invaluable. They'll tell you what the consultant doesn't—about responsiveness, hidden costs, and whether promises were kept.

What a Good Answer Sounds Like:

• Immediate willingness: "Absolutely, I'll connect you with several parents"
• Provision of references from recent clients (within the past 1-2 years)
• References for students in similar situations (same destination country, similar academic background)
• Contact details with permission from those parents
• Encouragement to ask those parents anything you want

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Reluctance or refusal to provide references
• Only offering hand-picked testimonials or written reviews
• References that are outdated (3+ years old)
• Only first names or vague contact information
• Becoming defensive when you ask for references

5. "What is your process for handling emergencies or crises while my child is abroad? Do you have 24/7 support?"

Why This Matters: 

Emergencies don't wait for business hours. Whether it's a medical crisis, safety concern, legal issue, or even severe homesickness, you need to know your child can reach someone who will help immediately, regardless of time zones.

What a Good Answer Sounds Like:

• 24/7 emergency hotline with specific phone numbers for different regions
• Clear escalation protocol: who responds first, how quickly, and what situations warrant immediate action
• Examples of past emergencies they've handled and how they resolved them
• Local emergency contacts in each destination country (hospitals, police, embassy contacts)
• Coordination with university emergency services and campus security
• Crisis communication plan: how and when they'll inform you
• Medical emergency protocol including insurance claim assistance
• Mental health crisis support and counselor referrals
• Legal issue support network (knowing reliable lawyers if needed)
• Regular welfare check-ins, especially during the first few months

Red Flags to Watch For:

• "Call us during business hours" or "Send us an email"
• No dedicated emergency contact system
• Vague responses like "We'll figure it out if something happens"
• No experience handling serious emergencies
• No network of local contacts in destination countries
• Dismissing the likelihood of emergencies ("Nothing ever goes wrong")
• Time zone excuse: "We're asleep when it's daytime there"
• Pushing all responsibility to the university without offering additional support
• No clear communication protocol for keeping parents informed
• Charging extra fees for emergency support that should be standard

Additional Context to Emphasize:

The consultant should explain specific scenarios: What happens if your child is hospitalized? What if they lose their passport? What if there's a natural disaster or political unrest? What if they're struggling mentally and need immediate counseling? A good consultant has faced these situations before and has systems in place, not just promises.

6. "How do you handle the selection of universities and courses? Do you consider my child's career goals and personality, or just academic scores?"

Why This Matters: 

University selection should be holistic, considering your child's strengths, interests, learning style, career aspirations, and even personality traits—not just which universities will accept their scores.

What a Good Answer Sounds Like:

• Comprehensive assessment process: academic background, career goals, interests, learning preferences, budget constraints
• Discussion about university culture, location, campus life, and how it fits your child
• Consideration of post-graduation work opportunities and immigration pathways
• Balanced list of universities: ambitious, moderate, and safe options
• Explanation of how each recommended university aligns with your child's specific profile
• Willingness to adjust recommendations based on your family's input

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Focus only on grades and test scores
• Same university list recommended to every student
• Pushing only high-ranking universities without realistic options
• No questions about your child's personality, interests, or goals
• Rushing the selection process without proper counseling
• Dismissing your child's preferences or your concerns

7. "What are all the costs involved—including your fees, application fees, and any hidden charges?"

Why This Matters: 

Budget surprises can derail plans and cause immense stress. You deserve a complete financial picture from day one.

What a Good Answer Sounds Like:

• Comprehensive cost breakdown document covering:
  • Consultant's service fees (itemized)
  • University application fees
  • Standardized test fees (IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, GRE, etc.)
  • Visa application and health examination fees
  • Document certification and translation costs
  • Travel costs for interviews if required
  • First-year tuition and living expenses estimate
  • Insurance requirements
• Clear payment schedule
• Written agreement with no hidden clauses
• Upfront disclosure of optional versus mandatory services

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Reluctance to provide detailed cost breakdown
• "We'll tell you as we go along"
• Surprise charges appearing mid-process
• Pressure to pay large upfront fees before services are clearly defined
• Verbal promises that aren't backed up in writing
• Costs that seem significantly higher or lower than market rates without explanation

8. "What is your team's qualification and experience? Who will be my main point of contact?"

Why This Matters: 

Your child's future is too important to be handled by inexperienced staff or constantly passed between different people.

What a Good Answer Sounds Like:

• Clear information about team credentials: education backgrounds, certifications, years of experience
• Specific experience with your target countries and course types
• Introduction to the main counselor who will handle your case
• Explanation of team structure and who handles what
• Assurance of consistent communication with the same person
• Backup contact system if primary counselor is unavailable

Red Flags to Watch For:

• Vague answers about team qualifications
• Freshly hired staff with no experience handling your case
• Constantly dealing with different people who don't know your case
• No verifiable certifications or professional memberships
• Counselors who've never visited the countries they're advising about
• High staff turnover (ask how long team members have been there)

9. "How do you stay updated with changing immigration policies, university requirements, and visa regulations?"

Why This Matters: 

Immigration and admission policies change frequently. Outdated advice can lead to rejected applications and wasted money.

What a Good Answer Sounds Like:

• Membership in professional organizations (ICEF, AIRC, NAFSA, etc.)
• Regular training and update sessions for staff
• Direct relationships and communication channels with universities and immigration authorities
• Subscription to official immigration and education newsletters
• Recent examples of how they adapted to policy changes
• Network of colleagues and partners in destination countries

Red Flags to Watch For:

• "We've been doing this the same way for years"
• No mention of professional development or training
• Outdated information on their website or in consultation
• Unfamiliarity with recent policy changes (test this by researching before you meet them)
• Working in isolation without professional networks
• Providing information that contradicts official sources

10. "Can you provide a written timeline and checklist for the entire process?"

Why This Matters: 

The study abroad process has many moving parts and strict deadlines. A clear timeline keeps everyone accountable and reduces stress.

What a Good Answer Sounds Like:

• Detailed timeline from initial consultation to departure
• Milestone-based checklist with deadlines for each stage
• Clear responsibilities: what the consultant does, what you do, what your child does
• Buffer time for unexpected delays
• Critical deadlines highlighted (application deadlines, visa interview dates, etc.)
• Regular checkpoint meetings to review progress
• Everything documented in writing

Red Flags to Watch For:

• "Don't worry, we'll handle everything" without specific timelines
• Vague process descriptions
• Resistance to putting timelines in writing
• Missing critical steps or unrealistic timeframes
• No accountability mechanism
• Last-minute rushes that could have been avoided with proper planning
• Blaming delays on you without prior warning or proper timeline communication

10 Quick Financial FAQs for Parents Sending Children Abroad

1. How much money should we have in our bank account for visa purposes?

Visa authorities want proof you can fund your child's education without financial hardship. Generally, you should demonstrate funds covering first-year tuition plus living expenses (approximately ₹20-40 lakhs depending on country). These funds should have a clear source and ideally be maintained for 3-6 months before application. Education loans are also accepted as proof. Each country has specific requirements, so confirm exact amounts with your consultant.

2. Is it better to take an education loan or self-fund?

Both have advantages. Education loans offer tax benefits, help establish credit history abroad, and preserve your savings for emergencies. Self-funding provides flexibility and avoids debt burden but requires substantial upfront investment. Many families use a combination: partial loan and partial self-funding. Consider interest rates, tax benefits, scholarship opportunities, and post-study work prospects when deciding.

3. What are the typical living expenses our child should budget for?

Living expenses vary dramatically by country and city. Approximate monthly ranges:

• USA/UK/Australia: ₹80,000-1,50,000 (accommodation, food, transport, utilities)
• Canada: ₹60,000-1,20,000
• Europe (Germany, France): ₹50,000-80,000
• Ireland/New Zealand: ₹70,000-1,00,000

Include additional budget for initial setup costs, textbooks, health insurance, and occasional entertainment. Part-time work can offset 30-50% of living costs in most countries.

4. Can our child work part-time? How much can they earn?

Most countries allow international students to work part-time:

• USA: Up to 20 hours/week on-campus during studies; earning potential $1,000-1,500/month
• UK: 20 hours/week during term, full-time during breaks; £800-1,200/month
• Canada: 20 hours/week during studies, full-time during breaks; CAD $1,200-1,800/month
• Australia: 48 hours/fortnight; AUD $1,500-2,000/month
• Germany: 120 full days or 240 half days per year; €800-1,200/month

These earnings significantly help with living expenses but shouldn't be relied upon to cover tuition.

5. What is the difference between bank statements, FD certificates, and education loan sanction letters for visa?

Visa officers accept multiple forms of financial proof:

• Bank statements (6 months): Show funds are available and demonstrate transaction history
• Fixed Deposits: Prove dedicated savings; may need to remain locked until visa approval
• Education loan sanction letters: Show approved loan amount; actual disbursement happens later
• Scholarship letters: Reduce financial burden demonstration
• Sponsor affidavits: If relatives are funding, with their financial documents

Most strong applications include a combination of these. Your consultant will advise on the optimal mix for your destination country.

6. Are scholarships really available? How can our child get one?

Yes, scholarships are real and can significantly reduce costs. Types include:

• Merit-based: For academic excellence; typically 10-50% tuition reduction
• Need-based: For financial need; requires additional documentation
• Country-specific: Government scholarships (Chevening, DAAD, Australia Awards)
• University-specific: Automatic or application-based; sometimes partial tuition waivers
• Field-specific: For STEM, arts, or other specific disciplines

Apply early (scholarships have separate deadlines), maintain strong academics, craft compelling essays, and have your consultant identify opportunities. Even partial scholarships of 10-20% make substantial difference.

7. What are the hidden costs we might not be aware of?

Beyond tuition and living expenses, budget for:

• Pre-departure: Police clearance, medical tests, visa fees, travel costs (₹1-2 lakhs)
• Initial setup abroad: Deposits for accommodation, initial groceries, SIM cards, local transport passes (₹1.5-2.5 lakhs)
• Health insurance: Often mandatory (₹50,000-1,50,000 annually depending on country)
• Study materials: Textbooks, software, equipment (₹30,000-80,000 per year)
• Emergency fund: For unexpected medical or other emergencies (maintain ₹2-3 lakhs accessible)
• Travel home: Annual visits can cost ₹50,000-1,50,000 depending on destination
• Visa renewals or extensions: If pursuing longer programs

Plan for 20-25% above published tuition and living costs to cover these elements comfortably.

8. What happens if we face a financial emergency while our child is studying abroad?

Preparation is key:

• Maintain emergency fund: At least 3-6 months of living expenses accessible in India
• Enable international money transfer: Set up services like Wise, RemitX, or Western Union beforehand
• Ensure child has credit/debit card: With international access and emergency limits
• Explore university hardship funds: Many universities offer emergency bursaries for genuine crises
• Check work allowances: Your child might temporarily increase work hours during breaks
• Communication with university: Most have support services for financial difficulties
• Insurance: Consider education insurance policies covering financial emergencies

Inform your consultant about financial constraints upfront so they can recommend countries/universities with better support systems.

9. How do we send money to our child abroad? What's the most cost-effective method?

Several options exist with varying costs and speeds:

• Forex cards: Lowest fees, good exchange rates, safe; best for regular expenses
• Bank wire transfers: Traditional but often expensive (₹1,000-3,000 per transaction)
• Online transfer services: Wise (formerly TransferWise), RemitX, Western Union; competitive rates and fast
• International bank accounts: Some banks offer international student accounts
• Traveler's checks: Outdated and not recommended

Recommendation: Use forex cards for monthly expenses, online transfer services for one-time larger amounts, and maintain a small buffer in their foreign bank account. Compare exchange rates and fees before each transfer.

10. Is the investment in overseas education worth it financially? What's the typical return on investment?

This is deeply personal and depends on multiple factors, but consider:

Potential ROI indicators:

• Salary difference: Jobs post-foreign degree often pay 2-5x more than Indian equivalents initially
• Career acceleration: Faster progression and global opportunities
• Immigration pathways: Many countries offer post-study work visas and PR routes
• Network value: Global alumni networks open doors
• Typical payback period: 3-7 years for most students who secure good jobs

However:

• Not all courses/universities offer same ROI
• Career field matters enormously (tech and business often better ROI than humanities)
• Individual drive and networking are critical
• Market conditions in destination countries fluctuate

Beyond finances: Consider intangible benefits—independence, global perspective, personal growth, life experiences. For families who can afford it without severe financial strain, the combination of financial and personal returns typically justifies the investment.Discuss realistic post-graduation scenarios with your consultant and research average salaries in your child's intended field before committing.

You Deserve Transparency and Partnership—Not Sales Pitches

The right education consultant becomes your family's partner in this journey. 

They should empower you with information, respect your concerns, welcome your questions, and put your child's interests above their own profits.

Don't settle for vague answers, pressure tactics, or dismissive attitudes. 

Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.

We Believe in 100% Transparency

At Augmentron Consultancy, we know parents like you have every right to be cautious. That's exactly why we welcome your scrutiny.

We invite you to book a nominal fee consultation session with us—come armed with these 10 questions and any others you have. We're ready to answer them all honestly, provide written documentation, connect you with parent references, and earn your trust the right way.

Your child's future deserves nothing less than complete transparency, genuine expertise, and a consultant who views success as your child's success, not just a commission earned.

Book your consultation today. Ask us anything. We're ready.

Because when it comes to your child's future, you shouldn't have to guess—you should know.