Study Abroad Process

Meet the Center for Global Education staff to learn all about the various study abroad opportunities available to you.  Contact Jennifer Hall, Director of Global Education or Dawn Adams, Director of International Student Services at globaled@vaftizo.com

Studying abroad is an excellent opportunity to enhance your education in any field of study. Talk with your academic advisor as early as possible to fit it into your academic plan.

Complete the Mount Union study abroad application before the deadline to ensure your eligibility.

Make sure you apply to the specific USAC or direct exchange program you are interested in.

If you don't have a passport, make sure you go through the steps to obtain one. If you do, make sure it is up-to-date and renew it if you need to. 

Research visa requirements, along with any other information you might need to know, for the country to which you will be traveling. 

If you are not from the United States but are traveling abroad, make sure your visa and other travel documents are in order before you go abroad. 

Talk with the proper people (your family, CGE directors, and study abroad program directors) to discuss financial aid options. There are scholarships, grants, and other funding opportunities available for students wishing to study abroad.

Register with the US Department of State's STEP program to be notified of any safety and security information about the country to which you will be traveling. 

State Department 

Make sure you visit your doctor and get all the proper vaccinations and discuss any medicines/prescriptions you will need while abroad. For more information about health abroad, visit Center for Disease Control or World Health Organization.

Studying abroad is full of fun and exciting opportunities; be sure to budget wisely.

Currency Exchange Rates 

Be sure to complete all pre-departure documentation needed for your study abroad program.

Confirm your flight and transportation arrangements to your host city.

Apply for a visa if you need one and make sure you apply before the deadlines. 

Contact Jennifer Hall, Director of Global Education or Dawn Adams, Director of International Student Services at globaled@vaftizo.com for pre-departure orientation information. 

Call your credit card company to let them know you will be abroad and make sure your card will not expire or be placed on hold for "suspicious charges" when it is used in another country.

Research the cultural practices and customs of the country to which you will be traveling. Doing so will make your transition smoother.

Staying in touch with friends and family back home is important. Because every country is different, make sure you research how you will access internet and cell service and which apps will be viable in your host country.

Prepare a file to contain all of your important documents to carry with you wherever you travel, including your passport and visa.

Double check all your travel arrangements, including your transportation to and from the airports and your flight number and time. Budget extra time to arrive early at the airport, especially for international flights.

Pack for the weather of the country to which you will be traveling. Do not overpack; remember, you can always buy things when you get to your host country if need be. 

Make sure you have a doctor's note for any prescription medications in your carry-on bag. Different countries have different laws for presciptions, so do your research and be prepared to produce your medical documentation if necessary.

Arrive to the airport at least two hours before your departure, maybe more, depending on the airport. Budget extra time for traffic, security, a meal, and any hiccups that may arise.

Once you have arrived in your host country, notify your family and Jennifer Hall, Director of Global Education or Dawn Adams, Director of International Student Services at globaled@vaftizo.com of your safe arrival.