University/Vocational Student Sponsorship
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific benefits will the student I sponsor receive?
What specific expectations does COTN have of these students?
How long should my sponsorship last?
How important is prayer in COTN sponsorship?
How can I communicate with my sponsored student?
Will my student write to me?
May I send gifts to my student?
How does COTN ensure that my support actually benefits the student I sponsor?
Does my donation go directly to my student?
What specific benefits will the student I sponsor receive?
The student you sponsor through Children of the Nations (COTN) will receive opportunities and services that are not available to most of the world’s poorest population. Every student in our program is assigned multiple sponsors which enables us to provide higher education opportunities. Among the benefits of the University and Vocational Programs are: tuition, room, board, transportation, books and materials.
What specific expectations does COTN have of these students?
One of COTN’s values is to impact children’s lives in order transform them into contributing members of their society. Each student must complete an application to enroll in the University/Vocational Program. As part of the application process, students are given the opportunity to serve in our in-country ministry programs. Upon completion of the program, students are expected to contribute time, skills and/or finances in an effort to make the program self-sustainable.
How long should my sponsorship last?
Our desire is to see these young adults actively participating in their society and become leaders in their nations. The length of commitment would depend upon the requirements of the specific area of study your student has chosen. If we determine your sponsored student no longer requires support or leaves the program, you will be given the opportunity to sponsor another student or child in our COTN Village Partnership Program.
How important is prayer in COTN sponsorship?
Very—we not only desire your financial support; we highly value your prayer support as well.
How can I communicate with my sponsored student?
We encourage you to write letters to your student. Our Sponsorship Office will receive and send communication both coming and going, providing translation if necessary. If you prefer to email your correspondence, you may do so by sending it to: sponsorship@cotni.org
Will my student write to me?
Yes, your student will communicate to you at least three times a year through letters, as well as responding to letters you have written. We appreciate your patience as there may be a delay in receiving responses due to processing and translation of correspondence. You will also receive updates from your student as to their progress in school.
May I send gifts to my student?
We will identify a special Christmas project each year in which you will be invited to participate. You will receive a letter regarding this in October. We do not encourage sending packages directly to our countries as our in-country staff may be charged a customs fee.
How does COTN ensure that my support actually benefits the student I sponsor?
We have competent staff in each of our countries who make sure our programs are operating effectively. There are strict financial accountability guidelines in place to ensure that funds are used appropriately.
Does my donation go directly to my student?
The suggested donation of $50, $100, or $150 a month will go into the University/Vocational Program fund for the country in which your student lives. Your sponsored student will receive the services/benefits of this program through your contributions. It is our desire to support each student who shows the potential and motivation to accomplish their goal of attaining higher education. You can view the combined contributions and current financial status as well as the funding needs of our University/Vocational Program at www.cotni.org/children.