Planning

As you are registering for your Study Abroad experience, you should be aware of the information we are including in this page and start preparing for this unique opportunity. You want to be ready to succeed.

Specific Information

Apply for your United States Passport & Visa

Ensure you have Health Insurance

Study Health & Safety Tips

Arrange your Airfare & Flight Information

Register for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Research your country of destination, including: health, culture, transportation, laws and customs, climate, maps and location of American Consulate. To do so go to this website. 

Health Insurance

Health insurance with worldwide medical coverage, emergency evacuation, and repatriation is required for participation in study abroad programs.

If you carry WIU student health insurance, and will be covered for all of the dates of your travel with the study abroad program, this will fulfill the requirement.

If you do not carry WIU student health insurance you can either sign up for WIU insurance for your study abroad term or purchase a supplemental policy through IMG. Note: If purchasing through IMG, you will need to purchase the Patriot Travel Medical Insurance Plan. For more info and instructions on purchasing a policy through IMG, please see the IMG Health Insurance Instructions.

Health and Safety

Traveling abroad is an exciting experience that requires planning and care. Some countries might face health and safety concerns that would be wise to address ahead of time. Check the following sites to find out about your country of destination:

• for health related concerns go to the following website: https://travel.state.gov/content/studentabroad/en/health.html
• for travel warning and alerts go to: https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html

Travel Registry

Always be cautious and make use of resources for timely info and support in your country of destination. We expect ALL our students to make use of the "Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)" provided by the U.S. Department of State. Pay attention to travel alerts, and enroll your tip with the nearest US Embassy or Consulate.

Go to STEP now and register: https://step.state.gov/step/

 

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