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Before You Go

Before You Go

Once you have been accepted to a SHU study abroad program you should start preparing for your time abroad.  To help you prepare for this experience we have compiled a list of steps that you should take before going abroad, as well as some things to think about while abroad.

  • Stay informed: Read over your acceptance materials and check your email often.
  • Talk to your family: Be sure that they know about your plans for the upcoming term; including the program costs, your budget, the dates that you will be abroad, and so on.  Consider submitting a FERPA waiver form, which allows us to share information with your parents.
  • Get your travel documents together: It is your responsibility to make sure that you have obtained the necessary travel documents prior to departure. 
  • Plan for your program expenses: The costs of each program vary by program type, length, and location.  Be sure to read the program costs carefully and to check the budget sheets for information about cost of living, as well as expenses that are not included in the SHU billable total cost.  If you are thinking about increasing the amount of aid you take out for the semester, be sure to talk to Financial Assistance.  Look over our Finances and Scholarships pages for more information about funding and the Withdrawal Policy.
  • Cancel your housing and meal plans: Once you have received official word of your acceptance from the OGA and your Host Institution, you should go ahead and cancel your housing and meal plan.  This can be done by completing your Study Abroad Checklist form, available after your acceptance to a SHU study abroad program. 
  • Attend your Pre-departure Orientation: All students are required to attend the Pre-departure Orientation.  More information about specific dates will be sent to you once they are set.  Usually the Pre-departure Orientations are scheduled April for fall/summer programs and November for spring/winter programs.
  • Review the Health and Safety information and complete your mandatory Online Health and Safety Orientation on blackboard.
  • Conduct independent research: You should read all that you can about your destination.  You can read guidebooks, non-fiction, newspapers, explore internet sites, and you can even talk to a Global Ambassador.  Also take some time to read about Culture Adjustment.
Below are some useful links to help you prepare for your time abroad:
 
Health
Travel Information
Flights