Final Preparations

Now what?

Here’s a final pre-departure checklist:

• Complete all items in your Comets Abroad portal checklist at least 3 weeks prior to your departure.
• Notify your bank/credit card companies of your travel plans.
• If you’re a U.S. citizen, register your program dates through the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). If you’re an international student, check for a similar program in your home country.
• Schedule a physical with your doctor or the Student Health Center.
• Make sure your prescriptions are legal in your host country and arrange to have enough medication to last your entire program, if possible.
• Schedule a dental check-up.
• Make photocopies or scans of important documents (passports, visas, travel itinerary, housing address, credit/debit cards, etc.).
• Create an Emergency Communications Plan.
• Research recommended vaccines for your host country.
• Create a budget for your time abroad using this budget worksheet.
• Consider applying for an International Student Identity Card (ISIC). This internationally-recognized card can be used to prove your student status abroad, while also providing access to over 150,000 discounts and benefits.
• Call your cell phone provider to discuss international coverage plans.
  • Article: How to Use Your Smartphone Overseas »
• Pack your bags.
  • Article: What to Pack for Study Abroad »
  • Article: What NOT to Pack While Studying Abroad »