Pre-Departure Information

This page is a resource to help you prepare for your study abroad program. We understand that you may have a lot of questions on your mind! The information below will answer many of them.

If you have questions about how to make sure your credits transfer, please read these FAQs.
Students and parents should read our Pre-Departure Guide for All Programs. You’ll find a packing list, tons of tips, and what to plan for and what to expect when you study abroad.
We also have a guidebook especially for parents: ASA Parent & Family Guidebook
IMPORTANT: If you don’t have a passport yet, apply for one immediately by EXPEDITED SERVICE. If you have a passport, please check the expiration date. If it expires between now and 6 months after the day you plan to return home from abroad, you cannot travel with that passport and must have it renewed immediately.

What to Pack (and what NOT to pack)

Money and Banking

Cell Phones

Voltage and Plug Adapters

Vaccinations

Bringing your Prescription Medication Abroad

Medical Care and Insurance

Culture Shock

Mental Health while Abroad

Safety

Pre-departure Guide

Parent & Family Guidebook

Parent and family support are a vital part of a successful study abroad experience. This guidebook addresses concerns that parents may have and offers best practices for helping launch their student on a life-changing experience! Explore ways parents can help students prepare and support them before, during, and after their study abroad experience. Click here for the Parent & Family Guidebook

Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion Resources

At this link, you can find resources and support tailored to students from diverse backgrounds - first generation college students, racially and ethnically diverse students, LGBTQ+ students, students with disabilities, and more.

ASA Video Library

Check out ASA’s YouTube channel for helpful videos on a variety of topics, such as: Cell Phones, What to Pack, What NOT to Pack, Money, Jet Lag, Safety, and more.

Italy - Semester
Italy – Summer Programs – Visa is not required for U.S. passport holders attending program under 90 days
Netherlands - Semester
The Netherlands - Summer Programs - Visa is not required for U.S. passport holders attending program under 90 days
Spain - Semester or Academic Year
Spain – Summer Programs – Visa is not required for U.S. passport holders attending program under 90 days
United Kingdom - Semester Study, No Internship
United Kingdom - Academic Year or Internship

*STUDENTS GOING TO SPAIN: ASA may be able to get your Student Visa FOR YOU if you live or study in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Maine, or Vermont. Minimum number of sign-ups required. The additional fee for this service is $150. Full details will be sent to eligible students after they are accepted to the ASA program. If you do not live or study in the specific states listed above, you will need to apply for your visa on your own – ASA will send you detailed, helpful information about how to apply for your visa on your own after you are accepted.

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Flight Booking Tips

Please wait to book a flight until you're accepted to the program and you receive an email from ASA with detailed arrival and departure instructions. This will ensure you don't miss any mandatory orientations, and help you arrive in time for our airport pick-up.

Learn More Tips