Preparing for Your Time Abroad

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, 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.

ASA Student Visa Information

Information for U.S. Passport Holders

IMPORTANT! PLEASE DO NOT PLAN ANY INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL DURING THE 3 MONTHS PRIOR TO THE START OF YOUR PROGRAM. IT COULD INTERFERE WITH YOUR VISA PROCESS. To get a visa, you typically have to leave your passport at the Consulate for 5-8 weeks.

  • 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.  

    *NOTE: 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. 

Pre-Departure Guides

ASA’s Pre-Departure Guide for All Programs is a MUST-READ! This guide is relevant to both students and parents and covers the following topics:
__icon-3-Apr-08-2024-10-33-34-6957-AM

What to Pack & NOT to Pack

__icon-1

Money & Banking

__icon-Mar-20-2024-10-08-05-6502-AM

Cell Phones

__icon-1-1

Voltage & Plug Adapters

__icon-2-1

Medical Care & Insurance

__icon-3

Prescription Medication Abroad

__icon-2

Vaccination Requirements

__icon-3-2

Culture Shock

__icon-1-Apr-07-2024-11-54-34-5722-AM

Identity Resources

__icon-4-1

Mental Health & Wellness

__icon-4

Safety & Security

__icon-Mar-20-2024-10-27-56-6671-AM

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!

Parent & Family Guide
__icon-1-2

Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion Resources

ASA offers resources and support tailored to students from diverse backgrounds, including first generation college students, racially and ethnically diverse students, LGBTQ+ students, students with disabilities.

 
 
DEI Resources
__icon_play

ASA Video Library

Check out ASA’s YouTube channel for helpful videos on a variety of topics, such as: cell phones, what to pack, money, handling jet lag, mental health, and safety abroad.

ASA YouTube Channel

ASA Site-Specific Pre-Departure Guides

These cover topics specific to each program location, such as housing, communications, academics, and everyday life:
img-card-filters-Aberdeen-Mar-20-2024-10-36-56-2963-AM

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.