International student open return flight

[CalistoNoSolo]

Dd is hopefully going to a uni in the states in September. One visa requirement is that she has an open return ticket. I've had a look at BA and Virgin websites but can't see any relevant information and it's next to impossible to email either as far as I can see. Does anyone have a child at uni abroad and do you have any information on getting an open return flight?

Generally speaking, return flights to the US are open returns as the return date can be modified for a fee. This is certainly the case with the major carriers such as BA, KLM, Air France, etc.

You just need to book a flexible fare

Dd booked a return flight date but in theory it can be changed paying a fee and any difference in price.

OK great, thank you, that's really helpful 🙂

When I book I try to pick a realistic date for the return leg but about half the time dd changes her mind! Usually there's just any change in fare price to pay, and this can vary from almost nothing to not worth changing the flight for. As pp said you can book flexible fares but these can be pricey. Maybe look at the date that her semester ends - probably December 15th - and book a day or two after that?

It's also worth looking at American Airlines and United. AA is a BA partner and United is allied with Virgin but sometimes the US carrier prices are better. You'll see when you search, for example on BA, that some the flights are actually operated by AA. Also, with AA and United you can often book straight through if you need a connecting flight as they fly to more US cities.

Thank you so much @winterdaze that's really helpful. I'll have a look at term dates and book the return for when her Christmas hols start. There is so much to think about right now and you've made my life a little easier ❤

Skyscanner is very useful for checking the best prices.
https://www.skyscanner.com/

It's a very good idea to book the return flight as prices for the Christmas flights can rise considerably after the summer.

@CalistoNoSolo - what visa will your DC be using? DS1 will have an F1 and I haven't seen mention of flights evidence. Just about to courier his docs to the US embassy...

@CalistoNoSolo I have one DD already there and another going in August so quite a bit of experience on the US college front. I remember what a minefield it was when DD1 first went so happy to answer any other questions you may have!