Can I still cancel my study abroad plans if my parents object, even if I've already paid some fees or booked flights?
Yes, if you are 18 or older under Indian law you can legally cancel your study abroad plans even if your parents object, since majority is reached at 18. Refunds on university fees, visa charges, and flights depend on each provider's own written cancellation policy, not your parents' wishes.
Yes, once you turn 18, Indian law treats you as an adult with the legal capacity to make your own decisions, including cancelling a study abroad plan your parents no longer support or never agreed with. What you cannot control as easily is how much money you get back, since refunds depend on each institution's own policy.
What you can cancel and what gets refunded
| Item | Can you cancel | Refund likelihood |
|---|---|---|
| University or college fees | Yes | Depends on the institution's written withdrawal policy |
| Visa application fees | Yes | Usually non-refundable for a simple change of mind |
| Flight tickets | Yes | Depends on airline fare conditions, may get credit instead of cash |
| Accommodation, agent, or insurance fees | Yes | Governed by each contract's own cancellation terms |
Steps to take if you decide to cancel
- Notify in writing: email your university and visa or agent contacts immediately, since some refund deadlines depend on your notification date.
- Read the fine print: check your offer letter and airline fare rules before assuming money is lost.
- Keep records: save every payment receipt and cancellation confirmation in case a partial refund needs following up later.
My Advice
If money has already been spent, do not let sunk cost pressure you into going ahead with a plan you and your family are not aligned on. Cancel in writing as early as possible to maximise whatever refund is available, and separately have a direct conversation with your parents about who controls the funds already paid, since that practical issue can complicate things even when the legal decision is entirely yours.
Confused about SOPs, transcripts and documents?
Step-by-step application support from an expert.
More Universities & admissions questions
- What are some effective online German language classes for Indian students preparing to study in Germany?
- By when should my HEP point be completed, should it be this month to avoid delay in UK?
- If I apply to two courses at the same university, do I need separate letters of recommendation for each course or can I use the same letter for both?
- What are the chances of getting a conditional offer letter requiring IELTS even if I have a good 12th standard score?
- Is January 2027 intake possible for masters in business analytics in UK/UAE?
- Which universities in the USA offer MS Engineering Management for a B.Tech Automotive Engineering graduate, Duolingo 120 and ₹80 lakhs budget?
- Can I pursue an MBA abroad after completing a Bachelor of Science degree?
- Is it possible to study computer science with specialization in artificial intelligence in UK/New Zealand for a Master's?