Travel Resources

Travel Information and Resources

Currency Conversion

Students are responsible for arriving at the designated location for the start of their respective programs. Late arrivals for short term or semester off campus study programming is not permitted. Please contact the Civic, Global and Professional Opportunities offices with questions.

Travel Documents:

Passports
Students traveling internationally will need a passport. This includes projects traveling to Mexico or Canada. Passports must be valid at least 6 months after the anticipated return date.

To apply for a new passport, or renew an existing passport, please visit the Passport Information page published by the U.S. Department of State.

Visas
Some destinations require visas to enter the country. Students are expected to secure their own travel documents by working with their travel provider, program host, or faculty leader. As some visa applications required advance planning, including completion of an immunization series and detailed information, it is imperative that students submit all visa required documents on time. International students traveling on international off campus study programs may have different requirements from U.S. citizens.

Travel Cancellation Insurance:
It is recommended students purchase travel cancellation insurance. Some travel agents will offer cancellation insurance that entitles you to a refund if you cancel your flight because of sickness or calamity. The cost is typically $5 for each $100. Please contact your travel provider for travel cancellation insurance recommendations. Before you commit yourself, check your ticket's cancellation conditions. You can also purchase travel cancellation through independent travel insurance providers. Some "nonrefundable" tickets may be refunded if the cancellation occurs because of illness or a death in the family. Check your coverage carefully; some policies will not provide refunds for cancellations 24 or 72 hours before departure. Always ask about the refund, change, or cancellation procedures and penalties for the ticket before purchasing.

Currency:
Some foreign currencies can be purchased through U.S. banks. Contact your banking institution for details on exchange rates, fees, and availability of currencies. It is strongly recommended students care more than one means for accessing funds. Keep multiple sources of funds (cash, credit card and traveler's checks) in different places so if one method fails, you have a back up source of funds.
For the most up to date currency exchange rates, visit www.xe.com

Communication:
Many parents ask how they can communicate with their student while they are traveling internationally. The following are methods that past students and parents have used to keep in touch:

International cell phone
International calling cards
Skype
Internet Cafes
Text messaging

Students are encouraged to let their parents know they have arrived at their destination safely. However, it is important to recognize that some locations don't always have access to cheap and reliable means of communication. Plus, it is best for students to get as much local experience as possible—that is something they can't do if they are texting or messaging friends and family on a regular basis.