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  1. Before you go

    Before you go

    Tips


    From your passport and student visa to emergency funds, there are several steps for you to take to prepare for your trip abroad.


    While a language immersion program in a foreign country will be a life changing event, there are several steps that must be taken to prepare properly. From getting your student visa to speaking with the consulate in your country of choice, there are several steps to take to ensure you have all of the proper documentation for traveling to a foreign country.


    Streamlining this process can save you a lot of time and hassle before its time for you to catch your plane.



    Get your passport and visa


    One of the first things you will need to do is get your passport if you don't have one already.  This is required by most consulates for you to obtain your student visa.  The process of getting your passport can take several months, so you must plan ahead accordingly.  But, once you have your passport and have chosen and enrolled in a study abroad program, you can apply for your student visa.


    The application process for getting your visa will vary depending on the country you choose to visit.  However, all consulates will provide you with resources that will help you find out what is required for you to apply for your student visa.  This will help make your application process easier.



    Get a student travel insurance


    Another area of concern when preparing to travel abroad is your health.  Depending on where you are traveling, you may be required to get certain vaccinations.  You will also need to get insurance for yourself while you are in another country.  In order to do this, you will need to obtain a copy of your medical records.


    Insurance for traveling abroad will cover most anything that could happen to you, from illness to a broken bone.  It can even cover lost luggage!  An insurance policy will be required and it is recommended that you purchase yours from a reputable insurance company.



    Leave emergency contact information to your family


    Be certain that you know ahead of time where you will be staying so that you can provide your family and friends with contact information.  Depending on the study abroad program that you select, you may be living with a host family or in a dormitory.


    With Internet being available nearly wherever we travel today, it should not be hard to keep in contact with your friends and family, but you should always provide them with emergency contact information so they can contact you directly.  You can also purchase worldwide cell phone coverage from most major carriers.



    Set aside money


    Finally, you need to consider your budget for traveling abroad.  Set aside money for food, sightseeing, shopping and other unexpected expenses.  Don't forget that you will want to go to sporting events, movies and other attractions, so plan to have some "spending" money as well.


    Additionally, emergency funds are a must as well.  You may not need the money come the end of your trip, but you definitely need to be prepared for the unexpected.  Who knows, by the end of your trip you may be able to use those funds to buy an extra souvenir on your way home.