Guardianship for under-18 students
If you're sending a student under 18 to study abroad, especially to the UK, many schools require an appointed guardian in the country. A guardian is a trusted local point of contact who supports the student and stands in for parents when needed. This general guide explains what guardianship involves and how to arrange it — requirements vary by destination and school.
What is guardianship?
A guardian is an adult based in the study destination who acts as a local representative for parents living abroad. They are not a replacement for parents but a responsible point of contact close to the school.
Guardianship is most common in the UK, where boarding schools and many colleges require under-18 international students to have a UK-based guardian for the duration of their studies.
When is a guardian required?
Guardianship is mainly needed for students under 18, particularly those attending boarding schools or colleges that ask for a local guardian as a condition of enrolment.
Even where it isn't strictly mandatory, schools often strongly recommend a guardian so there is always a nearby adult who can respond in an emergency or attend meetings on the family's behalf.
What does a guardian do?
A good guardian provides both practical and pastoral support.
Local point of contact
Acts as the emergency contact and liaises with the school on the family's behalf.
Host during breaks
Arranges accommodation during half-term and exeat weekends when boarding houses close.
Attends school events
Goes to parents' evenings and meetings when the family cannot travel.
Welfare support
Checks in on the student's wellbeing and helps with travel and care.
How to arrange an approved guardian
Most families use a professional guardianship organisation rather than relying on a private individual.
- 1
Confirm the school's rules
Ask whether a guardian is required and any standards the school expects.
- 2
Choose an accredited provider
In the UK, look for organisations accredited by AEGIS or a similar body.
- 3
Complete the agreement
Provide student and parent details and sign the guardianship contract.
- 4
Share the contacts
Give the school the guardian's details before term begins.
Documents and costs to expect
Costs vary widely by provider and the level of service, but you should budget for:
- An annual guardianship fee, plus possible registration and deposit
- Charges for host-family stays during school breaks
- Transfer or travel arrangement fees if included
- Copies of the student's passport, visa and school details
- Parental consent and medical or emergency information forms
Frequently asked questions
Can a relative be the guardian?
Sometimes, if they live near the school and meet its requirements, but many schools prefer or require an accredited professional guardian.
Is guardianship only for the UK?
It's most associated with the UK, but other destinations may have similar arrangements for younger students. Always check with the school.
When should we arrange it?
Well before term starts — many schools want the guardian confirmed as part of the enrolment process.
This is a general guide and guardianship rules depend on the destination and school. IDP's free counselling can help families understand what their chosen school requires.
Related guides
Sending a younger student abroad?
Our IDP counsellors in Kuwait can guide your family through guardianship for free.