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Planning Timeline

1. Explore your options

Search online to choose a few countries and/or programs that look like they might be what you want. Attend a General Advising session (Mondays through Thursdays at 4 p.m. in the Study Abroad Center whenever classes are in session).

2. Meet with a study abroad advisor or program coordinator

Call us at 294-6792 or stop by the Center (3224 Memorial Union) to make an appointment with one of the advisors who is familiar with the program and/or country that interests you. This will give you a chance to discuss what you're looking for in a program and what countries interest you and to get a better handle on planning your time abroad. The advisor will also be able to suggest programs you may not have considered. If you've already chosen a program, make an appointment with the program's coordinator to clarify details and requirements.

3. Meet with your academic advisor

Discuss your ISU course requirements and the course descriptions from the program you want to attend. Your academic advisor will help you make selections from what is available at the host school so that your credits will best transfer back to ISU.

4. Apply for the program

Fill out the application forms from the Study Abroad Center Web site (for ISU programs) or those provided by the program sponsor (if a non-ISU program). Read all the instructions carefully; not all applications are alike! Some will require you to submit copies, too; don't lose out because you didn't read the directions!

5. After you're accepted

Now the real planning begins! Make sure you've completed the necessary forms (Credit Transfer Approval, etc.) and applications (Sojourner Scholarship, etc.); check with the Study Abroad Center if you're uncertain. Get an International Student Identity Card from the Center or STA and start looking for airfares and travel dates.

If you're earning your final 32 credits, make sure you've taken care of the necessary waiver with your advisor. Get a passport, and check to see if you need a visa. Check the CDC or contact the Travel Nurse at the Thielen Student Health Center to see if any inoculations are required by the country to which you're going. Attend the Predeparture Orientation courses. Borrow travel books from the Study Abroad Center Library and prepare yourself for the locale and for meeting the people