Can minors study abroad alone?

Yes, minors can study abroad alone, but their eligibility depends on their age and the country’s legal requirements. In the Philippines, where 3D ACADEMY is located, the government has established clear guidelines for underage students. As a result, the minimum age and the need for additional documentation like the WEG (Waiver of Exclusion Ground) play a crucial role.

✅ Students aged 15 and above can study independently

At 3D ACADEMY, students who are 15 years old or older are welcome to join our programs without the need for parental accompaniment or special permits. These students are treated as independent learners and are allowed to live in school dormitories or designated accommodations, participate in regular classes, and enjoy school activities just like adult students.

This age group is ideal for high school students who are motivated to improve their English skills during school breaks or gap periods. Many Japanese students aged 15 to 18 choose our programs to gain confidence in communication and to prepare for university entrance or future careers.

⚠️ For students under 15: WEG or parental accompaniment is required

For students who are under the age of 15, the Philippine Bureau of Immigration requires a special travel permit called the WEG (Waiver of Exclusion Ground). This is a legal document that allows minors to enter the country without their parents or legal guardians, provided that certain conditions are met.

In most cases, a WEG is required if the minor is traveling alone or with someone who is not their parent. The WEG must be applied for in advance at the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate in the student’s home country. The process involves submitting documents such as:

• A copy of the student’s passport
• Parents’ consent letter notarized
• Birth certificate of the student
• Letter of acceptance from 3D ACADEMY

Students who are 13 or 14 years old may still join 3D ACADEMY’s regular courses alone, as long as they successfully obtain the WEG before traveling. However, it is important to note that 3D ACADEMY does not offer direct assistance with the WEG application process. We can only issue the necessary documents such as the official Certificate of Enrollment, which is part of the WEG requirements.

Students aged 12 or below: Only group or family programs allowed

Students who are 12 years old or younger are not eligible for individual enrollment at 3D ACADEMY. This is due to legal and safety considerations, as well as the structure of our academic programs. However, we do accept younger students under two specific conditions:

1. Parent-child programs (Family Study Abroad): The child joins the program alongside a parent who also attends classes. This allows the parent to supervise and support the student both in and outside of class.
2. Group tours organized by agencies or schools: In this case, the student is part of a supervised group with designated chaperones or teachers responsible for their welfare during the study period.

These arrangements ensure the safety and well-being of young learners while still giving them the opportunity to experience international education and improve their English skills in a safe environment.

Summary of age requirements at 3D ACADEMY

Tips for parents and guardians

If you are a parent or guardian considering sending your child abroad for language study, here are some important tips:

• Start the application process early, especially if WEG is required.
• Ensure your child’s passport is valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay.
• Gather all documents needed for WEG, and verify with the Philippine Embassy.
• Talk to your child about travel safety, communication, and rules abroad.

Why choose 3D ACADEMY for minors?

3D ACADEMY is located in Cebu City, a student-friendly and relatively safe city in the Philippines. Our school has experience hosting international students of various ages and backgrounds. For younger learners, we provide a supportive environment with on-campus staff, security measures, and flexible dormitory options.

With small class sizes and personalized instruction, even shy or first-time travelers can adjust quickly. Our dormitories offer supervised accommodations with curfews and designated staff, making it easier for parents to feel confident about their child’s safety abroad.

Contact us for more details

If you are unsure about your child’s eligibility or have questions about the WEG process, please contact our support team. We’re happy to assist with the necessary enrollment documents and provide guidance on planning a safe and successful study abroad experience.

At 3D ACADEMY, a clear and structured curfew system is in place to ensure the safety, well-being, and discipline of all students—especially minors under the age of 18. While we respect the independence of each student, we also provide necessary rules and supervision to create a secure and productive environment for language learning.

✅ Standard Curfew Rules

For students staying in the on-campus dormitory, the curfew is 11:00 PM (23:00) on most days. Students must return to the dormitory by that time. On Fridays, Saturdays, and the nights before public holidays, students aged 18 and above are allowed to stay out later. However, students under 18 must follow the 11:00 PM curfew at all times, including weekends and holidays.

In addition, minors are not allowed to go out after 8:00 PM unless accompanied by someone aged 18 or older. This rule ensures that younger students are always supervised during evening hours.

️ Curfew Management and ID Check

At exactly 11:00 PM, security staff verify each student’s return by checking their student ID card. Students must carry their ID whenever they go out. Upon returning, the ID card should be placed in the designated slot at the entrance (marked with their room number). This system helps staff monitor student safety effectively.

Hotel Dormitory and Commuter Students

Students staying in hotel-type dormitories or commuting from outside are not subject to a fixed curfew. However, they are not allowed to enter the school campus after 11:00 PM, regardless of age.

• Hotel dormitory residents may remain in the cafeteria or study rooms after 11:00 PM, but once they leave the building, they cannot re-enter the school until morning.
• Commuter students can access the campus only between 5:00 AM and 11:00 PM. Staying outside these hours is not allowed.

⚠️ Warnings and Penalties

If a student fails to return to the dormitory by 11:00 PM without a valid reason, a formal warning will be issued. This rule applies to all students. Even after the graduation ceremony, curfew rules remain in effect until the student officially checks out of the dorm.

The school entrance doors are locked from 11:00 PM to 5:00 AM on curfew days. No one can enter or exit during these hours. Morning outings are allowed after 5:00 AM.

Safe and Structured Environment for Minors

At 3D ACADEMY, we prioritize safety for all our students—especially minors. With 24/7 security, clear curfew enforcement, and supervision requirements, younger students and their families can feel confident. Our structured policies ensure a healthy balance between independence and safety, helping minors grow both academically and personally during their study abroad experience.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact our team. We are here to support both students and their families.