Support for under-18s
Moving abroad to study is a big step, especially at a young age. As an international student under the age of 18, you’ll need some specialised support for your safety and wellbeing.
Here’s how we’ll support you in the UK
Support
Our support begins before you even leave your home country. We’ll help you to find the safe and comfortable home that you’ll need while you study, and arrange an airport transfer so you know you’ll get there safely. If you have any questions before you travel, we’ll be here to answer them.
- Help arranging your UK accommodation.
- Pre-arrival briefings so you and your parents/guardians can ask any questions you have.
- Kaplan-arranged airport transfers (free on main arrivals weekends). If you choose a private transfer, we’ll oversee the whole process to make sure it goes smoothly.
- 24-hour support line on main arrivals weekends.
We’ll be waiting to welcome you at the College! We will help you settle into your new life in the UK and prepare you for your studies. That dedicated support will continue throughout your time at the College. There will always be someone you can talk to and help you stay on track with your education.
- When you arrive at the College, you’ll have a talk introducing you to college life and all the academic and wellbeing support services that are available to you.
- A dedicated under-18 co-ordinator will conduct regular check-ins to monitor your progress and address any concerns you may have.
- A named Learning Advisor will be available throughout your studies to offer personalised academic advice and support.
- Your college will arrange frequent social events that are suitable for younger students, like movie nights, pizza parties and day trips so you can explore the local area.
Students under the age of 18 are legally required to have a UK Guardian. If you don’t know an adult in the UK willing to act as your Guardian, we can arrange one for you.
- Guardians provided by College Guardians a recognised and accredited private company.
- Guardians will be available 24/7 during term time.
- You’ll enjoy regular face-to-face meetings with your Guardian, who will also maintain contact with your parents and the College, so you have a dedicated UK support network.
Our Kaplan Living residences are friendly and supportive, with special facilities for under-18s. Security cameras and secure entry doors keep you safe, and the on-site staff will help you to feel at home. If you ever need advice or support, you will have someone there who can help you.
- Dedicated flats for under-18s so you’ll live with people your own age.
- Single-sex accommodation: male and female students won’t share a flat.
- 24-hour, on-site staff who care about your wellbeing — you’ll always have someone to talk to.
- Access to the Student Assistance Programme, a 24-hour confidential helpline and app.
Kaplan Living Special Support
This additional support service provides you with personalised support at your accommodation. For an additional £300, you’ll benefit from a live-in Wellbeing Co-ordinator who will be available whenever you need them. This service is available to everyone but is mandatory for under-18s for your wellbeing.
Here’s what a Wellbeing Co-Ordinator can do:
- Help you settle into your new home and engage with the College and residence community
- Assist you with making medical appointments, and be on call during the night to handle any emergencies
- Liaise with your parents/guardians, College and Guardian to make sure you get all-round care
Support for minors in the USA
In the USA, students under the age of 18 are not required to have a dedicated guardian to support them during their studies. Instead, all university faculty and staff are trained and certified to provide support to minors while they are at university.
In cases where guardian approval is required — for example, an off-campus, class-related field trip — a minor’s parent or guardian may be asked to sign permission forms.
Any other questions?
Can I choose my own guardian?
Guardians must be at least 21 years old and live in close proximity to your study centre. If you know someone who meets these criteria and can be your legal guardian in the UK until you turn 18, then this person can be your designated guardian. However, if there is no-one you know, then you will be assigned a guardian from the College Guardians network. This ensures that your guardian will be available 24/7 during term time.
How will my guardian contact me?
When you start your studies in the UK, you’ll be provided with your guardian’s contact details. They are in regular contact with our colleges and will be there to support you with any issues you may face. Your guardian will be experienced in communicating with parents, families and agents who are based abroad.
Can I opt out of Kaplan Living Special Support?
If you are under 18 and living at a participating residence then our Kaplan Living Special Support service is mandatory, so you will not be able to opt out.
