Study Abroad Pre-Departure Checklist

Getting Started

Meet with your academic advisor about course selection and study abroad goals
Review program budget
Consult the Office of Student Financial Aid about applying your financial aid package to your program
Change your status to “committed” in My Study Abroad
Complete required questionnaires/materials in My Study Abroad, including Confirmation of Participation
Attend mandatory pre-departure session(s) for your program
International students: visit ISSS about immigration status and documents needed to re-enter the U.S.
Learn about your host country’s required visas and gather materials, if necessary
Complete your host institution’s application

Secure housing through your program (host family, campus housing, apartment, etc.)
Register for courses according to your host institution’s instructions
Complete the Course Approvals Summary Form (refer to the Course Approvals page for instructions)
Apply for a visa, if required, and review your passport and visa for accuracy
Students with visible or non-visible disabilities: meet with your DRES advisor and arrange accommodations
Consult your physician and International Health Insurance about medications for your time abroad
Post on the Study Abroad Housing Board to find a sublessee
Book a flight to your host country and a return flight (refer to your program calendar for exact dates)

Obtain necessary vaccines, if applicable
Create a communication plan with family and friends, both for your arrival date and while abroad
Change/upgrade your cell phone plan and check with your program about options in-country
Make temporary housing arrangements if housing won’t be available upon your arrival
Sign up for the U.S. State Department STEP program

Create an airport arrival plan, if necessary (some programs will have airport pick-up, others will not)
Alert your bank of your travel and have multiple forms of payment on hand (upon arrival and while abroad)
Review International Safety and Security’s safety and wellness tips
Print and keep a copy of your International Insurance card in your wallet
Stock up on medications, eye contact supplies, etc. that you need while abroad
Know the electrical outlets/voltage in your host country and acquire relevant adapters
Pack (refer to suggested packing list)
Familiarize yourself with TSA rules and customs procedures for your host country
Verify your airline’s baggage restrictions/limits and be prepared for overage charges
Make photocopies of your passport/visa, prescriptions, and flight itineraries

Label your luggage with your contact info and weigh it to make sure it is within the airline’s parameters
Write down and keep any host country contact numbers with you, in case of travel issues
Disable any data roaming on your cell phone, if needed, to avoid unexpected usage and charges
Check your flight status and arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to flight departure