Education Abroad Office

before you go

Pre-departure checklist

• Apply for a passport

  • If you don’t have a passport, apply for one as soon as possible. The Center for International Studies and Programs office provides a passport service. For further information, please visit CISP Passport Information and Photos.
  • If you do have a passport, verify that it is valid for at least 6 months after the end of your program date. If it is not valid for at least 6 months after the end of your program, you will need to renew your passport.
  • For non-U.S. citizens, please visit the embassy/consulate website of your destination country to find out your specific requirements.

 

• Research

  • Research your host destination’s language, culture, climate, politics, and health. 
  • For more information about health, go to Center for Disease Control's Travelers' Health Page.

 

• Apply for Scholarships

  • You can start applying for scholarships before you are accepted to your program of choice.
  • For more information, visit our Funding Study Abroad page.

 

• Accessibility

  • Do you need to request an accommodation for accessibility?
  • This process can take some time and may require some creative logistical planning, so start this process immediately.

 

After being accepted to the program

• • Complete all the forms and paying a deposit, if applicable.
  • Attend pre-departure orientations.
  • Book your travel arrangements.
  • Visa/entry documents.
    • You may need a visa to study in your host country. It is your responsibility to verify the visa requirements of your host country and to obtain a visa if needed. Visit the embassy/consulate.
    • Visit the embassy/consulate website for your destination country to find a specific visa information.

 

2 weeks before departure

• • Scan any important documents and email them to yourself and a trusted individual.
  • Review your program itinerary and begin packing.
  • Attend any remaining pre-departure orientations or complete any pre-departure forms.
  • Inform your bank of your travel plans so that your account is not frozen for international activity that may otherwise appear fraudulent.