Essential Final Tasks Before Departing for Study Abroad
Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity that requires careful planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. From booking flights to securing medical insurance and preparing essential documents, being well-prepared will help you focus on making the most of your time overseas. This guide combines all the final tasks you need to complete before your departure, so you can travel with confidence and peace of mind.
1
Apply for a Passport & Student Visa
Without a valid passport, your study abroad plans won’t get off the ground! Make sure your passport is up to date and remains valid for at least six months after your return date. If you don’t have one, apply as soon as possible, as processing times can vary.
Depending on your destination and the length of your stay, you’ll also likely need a student visa. This process can take time, so check the requirements with your host country’s embassy or consulate well in advance. Gather the necessary documents, such as proof of enrollment, financial statements, and passport photos, and keep copies of everything for your records.
2
Meet with Your Academic Advisor
Before leaving, schedule a meeting with your academic advisor to discuss how your study abroad courses align with your degree requirements. Confirm which classes will transfer to your home institution and ensure you’re making the most of your academic experience abroad.
This can be one of the most crucial final tasks if you are further into your education and have specific credits you’d like to get. Even if some courses don’t transfer directly, your study abroad experience will still be incredibly valuable for your education, career, and personal growth.
3
Book Your Study Abroad Flights & Plan Travel Logistics
Once you’re accepted into your study abroad program, securing your flight should be a top priority. Book early to lock in the best prices, and consider flexible tickets in case of unexpected changes. Research multiple airlines and student travel discounts to find the best deal, and keep a printed copy of your flight itinerary while you travel.
In addition to booking your flight, confirm your airport to host institution travel that StudyAbroad.com advisors have organized for you. Ensure you have their contact information easily accessible for when you land, that way you can communicate any potential changes with them.
4
Secure Medical Insurance for Your Time Abroad
Many study abroad programs require students to submit medical forms and obtain travel medical insurance as part of the enrollment and visa process. At StudyAbroad.com, comprehensive travel medical insurance through VolunteerCard is included in your tuition, ensuring coverage for the entire duration of your program. This plan supplements your regular health insurance, providing medical protection abroad, even if your primary insurance doesn’t extend internationally—so you can enjoy your journey with peace of mind.
Your advisor will coordinate this for you, and it’s important you keep the card with you when you’re traveling. Having the right preparation will allow you to focus on making the most of your enriching experience abroad, knowing that your health and safety are well taken care of!
5
Make Copies of Important Documents
Losing important documents while abroad can be a frustrating setback, so it’s a good idea to take precautionary measures by making multiple copies. Essential documents to duplicate include:
- Passport (keep one copy in your luggage, one at home, and one at your residence abroad)
- Student visa and enrollment confirmation
- Health insurance details
- Birth certificate (if needed for certain official processes)
- Emergency contacts and travel itinerary
Having backups of these documents can save you stress in case anything is lost or stolen.
6
Sort Out Communication Options
Staying connected while abroad is essential for keeping in touch with family, friends, and even classmates. Download communication apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, or FaceTime to make free or low-cost calls and video chats over Wi-Fi, avoiding expensive international phone plans. Many of these apps also support group chats and file sharing, making it easier to stay in touch with your loved ones back home, as well as coordinate plans with your new friends!
If you plan to use your phone abroad, consider unlocking your device and purchasing a local SIM card or an international phone plan to stay connected affordably.
7
Prepare Local Currency & Banking Arrangements
Having some local currency on hand (about $300 worth) will make your first few days abroad much smoother, especially for expenses like transportation and meals. You can exchange money at your local bank before departure to secure better rates and lower fees than airport exchanges, or find an ATM upon your arrival.
Additionally, it can be a good idea to inform your bank and credit card providers that you’ll be traveling abroad to avoid any issues with international transactions. Consider getting a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, or even opening a bank account abroad for added convenience.
8
Purchase a Travel Adapter
Electrical outlets differ worldwide, so make sure you pack a universal travel adapter or one specific to your host country to charge your devices. This small investment prevents unnecessary hassles, ensuring you can charge your laptop, phone, and other electronics as soon as you arrive.
9
Pack Smart & Prepare for Cultural Adjustments
Packing for study abroad requires a balance—bring essentials, but don’t overpack. Check the climate of your host country and pack accordingly. Keep in mind that you can buy most things abroad, so prioritize necessities like:
- A lightweight but durable backpack for daily use
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll likely be exploring a lot!)
- A few culturally appropriate outfits, depending on your destination
- Prescription medications (with a copy of your prescription)
- Travel-sized toiletries for your first few days
Beyond packing, take time to research your host country’s customs, traditions, and cultural norms to help ease the transition. Your StudyAbroad.com advisor will also brief you on this before your departure. Understanding local etiquette and daily life expectations will make adjusting to your new environment much smoother.
10
Research Transportation Options in Your Host City
Getting around in a new country can be intimidating at first, so it’s important to research transportation options before you arrive. Look into whether your city relies more on buses, trains, subways, or trams, and check if there are student transportation discounts or passes available.
If your destination has bike-sharing or ride-hailing services like Uber or local equivalents, download the necessary apps in advance. It’s also a good idea to download maps of the area you’ll be living so you can access them without having service if you experience technical issues. Understanding public transportation ahead of time will help you navigate your new city with confidence from day one!
Are You Ready?
Completing these essential final tasks will ensure you have a stress-free and enjoyable start to your study abroad experience. By booking your flights, securing important documents, preparing for cultural adjustments, and completing all the other final tasks, you’ll set yourself up for success.
Once everything is in place, you can focus on what truly matters—embracing new experiences, making lifelong memories, and enjoying the adventure of studying abroad. Safe travels and best of luck on your journey!
