• Population: 15.85 million, with a median age of 19
• Capital: Dakar
• Demographics: Islam is the most prevalent religion in Senegal with 95% of the population identifying as Muslim. Senegal has a large diaspora in France, Spain, and Italy.
• Type of government: Presidential Democratic Republic
• Common foods: thieboudienne (fish and rice), mafé (chicken stew), yassa (caramelized onions with chicken or fish)
• Currency: West African CFA Franc

The official language of Senegal is French. French is used in government, school, and other official capacities, but Wolof is much more widely spoken in the general population.

While some Senegalese people, especially the younger generations, may know English, French is more commonly spoken. Learning basic phrases in French or Wolof will go a long way.

As a University of Illinois student, you have access to library resources (such as Rosetta Stone and Libguides). You may also want to consider free sources to learn basic phrases, or to refresh your language skills prior to departure.

It is each students responsibility to independently verify the visa information below and ensure they apply and secure the appropriate documentation to travel and stay in their host country for the duration of their program.

Senegal requires a visa for stays longer than 90 days. Contact the Embassy of Senegal in Washington D.C. for more information.

To read more on passport and visa terminology see the Passports & Visas page of this website.

Phones

• Make sure you have the Duo Mobile app set up on your phone. If you get a new SIM card, use the passcode options instead of PUSH, or go to UI Verify website to enter your new phone information.

Electricity

• Senegal uses Type C, D, E and K plugs, so a universal adapter is needed.
• Senegal uses 220 Volt AC and 50Hz
• While an adapter makes your device fit into the local outlet, a converter converts the voltage. The voltage will not be the same as in the U.S. For that reason, it is recommended that you do NOT bring appliances such as hair dryers or hair straighteners with you unless you also purchase a voltage converter.

Banking Tips

• Many ATMs do not accept foreign cards, and ATMs are generally hard to find outside of major cities.

Geography

• Senegal is home to many natural treasures, such as Lake Retba, a lake famous for its pink color.

Climate

• Senegal has a hot tropical climate. November to June is the dry, warm season, December to May is peak travel, and July to October is the hot, rainy wet season.

Packing

• Students should pack cool, comfortable clothing, including their bathing suits, as Senegal has many beautiful beaches on its Atlantic coast!
• Depending on the time of year, students should pack raingear (July-October).
• For more packing considerations, view the Packing List (PDF).

Senegal has one of the most developed road systems in West Africa. Paved roads and railroads connect all major towns. In Dakar, the traditional Car rapide was a common form of transport, operating as a bus-taxi hybrid. Today they are being slowly phased out in favor of safer options.

Each student faces different barriers and unique challenges based on their identity. For example, how you identify in the United States may not be how you choose to identify abroad because of the local social culture. We encourage all students to reflect on the different aspects of their identity and consider how they may play a role in their study abroad experience. To help with this thought process: visit the State Department website and look into the Identity & Inclusion resources available on this website.

International Safety and Security provides important wellness tips, along with using your insurance and the emergency phone number. Be sure to become familiar with this website and the resources available to you. Review the U.S. Embassy page and the Department of State website for additional safety resources.

Enroll yourself in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the U.S. Department of State. Registration in STEP will allow you to get alerts on the latest safety and security information. In addition, the information you provide enables the U.S. embassy or consulate to contact you in an emergency.