Pre-Departure Information

Get Organized

Find or purchase a loose-leaf notebook. Add tabs for different categories (Calendar, Program Info, Flight Info, Items to Bring, etc., etc.). Include a checklist of things to do.

• Sample Checklist

Passport

If you don't already have a passport, apply for one as soon as possible. Click here to download a passport application: Application Form DS-11 . Visit www.travel.state.gov/passport for more information.

To apply for a passport, you need:
A completed application (Form DS-11)
Proof of U.S. Citizenship
Proof of Identity
2 Passport Photos
Application Fee $75
Execution Fee $25

Apply for your passport at:

UT Austin - International Office
600 W. 24th Street
Woolridge Hall, Ste. 2.126
Austin, Texas 78705
(512) 232-5899
Appointments are not necessary
www.utexas.edu/international/passport

Passport Acceptance Facility
Find the location nearest you at:
http://iafdb.travel.state.gov/
Appointments may be required


Be sure to keep a copy of your passport application, as well as the passport locator number. You can check on the above website to find your passport application status.

When you receive your passport, be sure to make several photocopies. Take a copy with you abroad, and leave a copy at home with a relative or friend.

Visa

A visa is official permission to enter a specific country and is granted by that country’s government. A passport is required to obtain a visa, as most visas are typically stamped directly into the passport.
Because of the short length of ACC programs, most host destinations to not require a visa for U.S. citizens. However, your program coordinator will notify you if a visa is required for U.S. citizens for entry into the program destination.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, it is your responsibility to determine if your host destination requires a visa for entry. Please feel free to contact your program coordinator with any questions.
Find more information at the Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov

Insurance

All elegible study abroad participants must obtain an International Student Identity Card (ISIC). The ISIC also offers a limited health insurance policy that covers you while you are abroad. (It is recommended that you obtain a comprehensive insurance coverage with a US-based carrier). The cost is $22.

UT Austin - International Office
600 W. 24th Street
Woolridge Hall, Ste. 2.126
Austin, Texas 78705
(512) 232-5899
When purchasing your ISIC, you will need to provide a passport-size photo and proof of enrollment at ACC (or other institution of education). Photos can also be purchased at this location, 2 x $10.

Students are encouraged to obtain additional coverage by purchasing a temporary policy. One example is www.hthstudents.com, where coverage for one month abroad is between $34 and $90. A list of health & safety tips as well as other international insurance providers can be downloaded by clicking here

If you are not eligible for the ISIC/ITYC, you must submit proof of health coverage abroad:
-Call your health insurance provider to ask about their policy regarding “out-of-area” coverage. Most providers cover emergency situations only.
-Purchase affordable, temporary health insurance that offers coverage overseas at www.hthstudents.com Additional international insurance providers can be downloaded by clicking here

Language

For most programs, command of the host language is not a requirement. Regardless, you should attempt to learn basic vocabulary and phrases. Try language tapes, language books, even private tutoring. Whatever method you choose, put your heart into it! It will make your time abroad a more rewarding experience.

World Awareness

Learn about "what is going on in the world" before departing on your study abroad trip. Inform yourself about world events!

www.cnn.com
www.nytimes.com
www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/index
News magazines: Time, Newsweek, U.S. News and World Report
Cable news networks

Host Country/Culture

What is the usual dress for women in Florence? How do people gree one another in Japan? What is the history of relationships between Costa Rica and the U.S.? Find out as much information as you can about your host country and culture. Not only will you feel more prepared, but the people you meet in your host countries will appreciate your efforts.

www.everyculture.com
www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/index.html
www.wikipedia.com

Miscellaneous

Preparation for studying abroad can be a long process. There are applications to fill out for each program, deadlines to be met, insurance and vaccines to acquire, and passport and Visa documents to be received and approved. With the help of the ACC International Programs staff, you can get all of this accomplished in plenty of time to enjoy your trip. Please contact us at gtaylor2@austincc.edu or eaoki@austincc.edu or call 512-223-7114 to begin the process.

Begin your preparations as soon as possible!!!