Academic Programs Abroad

Student Checklist

We've thought of everything!

After refering to the Getting Started Section, please examine these detailed checklists to ensure you are ready to begin your study abroad adventure!

1. Select a Study Abroad Program
2. Complete the application forms. This may require getting references from faculty. Be sure to provide the faculty member with the reference form, and allow time for it to be turned in.
3. Complete the budget form. Understand how program payment is made and be realistic about the costs involved. This will help to avoid disappointing surprises later in the process.
4. Get a copy of your official transcript. This can be done by going to the Cashier’s Office in Parsons Hall. Pay the $5 fee, then proceed downstairs to the Registrar’s Office to pick up your transcript. Be sure it is in a sealed envelope.
5. Apply for your passport.  If you don’t already have a passport, apply as soon as possible! It can take up to six weeks, and remember, you cannot leave the U.S. without one. Click here for application info. 
6. Contact your academic advisor to review possible courses. It is your responsibility to discuss your program with your advisor.  Bring the Notification Form to your advisor for signatures.

1. Once you receive your official program acceptance and packet of information, review everything carefully. Most programs have forms to complete and return. Many programs require an up-front housing deposit, which must be paid in order to secure accommodations.
2. Check to see if a visa or residence permit is required and what you need to do to obtain one. This is very important since many countries have strict requirements, and this may take time.   http://travel.state.gov/foreignentryreqs.html
3. Book your flight. You are responsible for purchasing and providing for your transportation. Although students make use of http://www.statravel.com/ and http://www.studentuniverse.com/, others have looked at the http://www.travelocity.com/ website and have found good fares.
4. If you are eligible for FINANCIAL AID, make sure all your paperwork has been signed, arrangements for direct deposit have been made, etc. Loan notes must be signed before you leave and they will be sent to your home address. You may also want to sign a POWER OF ATTORNEY in case your parents need to sign a check for you.
5. Clear all hold on your ISU account, or you will not be able to register for your semester abroad or via the web for the following semester.
6. Contact Ginny Jones in Residential Life if you need to reserve a room for when you return to ISU.
7. Make sure immunizations that are required are up-to-date. It is your responsibility to find out which immunizations are required. Check out www.cdc.gov/travel
8. Update any changes in email, home address and phone between now and departure. Check email often. This is the best and easiest way to keep you informed, and messages are sent regularly to all students going abroad.
9. Read as much as possible about the country (climate, customs, rules and regulations, currency relative to the dollar) before leaving.
10. For students traveling to Europe, you may want to purchase the International Student ID Card. Available from http://www.statravel.com/
11. Plan a budget, and make sure you have both credit as well as debit cards, and also a backup.
12. Obtain rail passes if needed. In Europe, http://www.eurail.com/ is helpful.
13. Talk with your physician regarding medications that you take regularly. It is often possible to get a supply to last the entire time you are away. Your doctor should make a list of the prescriptions you are taking with you , and  may also need to provide the generic name for medications you are taking.
14. Make sure you understand how the Health Insurance plan you have actually works.
15. COPY, COPY, COPY. Make two copies of the following: your passport, credit cards, ATM cards, any special visa papers, airplane tickets and any other important documents. Take a copy with you and store in a safe place, and leave one at home.
16. Be sure to give your parents Janis’ email address (jhaleprn@indstate.edu) and phone number. If they have any questions while you are away, direct them to the ISU Study Abroad Office.
17. You must also plan on attending the mandatory pre departure orientation held during finals week. The date and time will be announced in advance. 
18. You will also need to sign and return to the Study Abroad Office the following documents:

• Waiver of Liability
• Health Information
• Information release
• ISEP ( if applicable)