Every detail counts when planning a study trip abroad. The following checklist will help you in your preparations. In addition, refer to the additional resources mentioned on this website or to the University of Minnesota Learning Abroad Center website for the most current travel warnings and requirements.
Travel Insurance
This mandatory insurance is offered by the University of Minnesota. All students going abroad must have this insurance. Insurance must be purchased through the University of Minnesota. Do not purchase insurance directly from CISI. Go to the U of M Learning Abroad Center website. Click on `Health and Safety' followed by `Insurance. Hand in the form at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Academic and Student Affairs office.
Release and Waiver
This form is mandatory and must be turned in before going abroad. Go to the U of M Learning Abroad Center website. Click on `Health and Safety' and scroll down to the second `Release and Waiver' option (form OGC-SC246). Hand in the form at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Academic and Student Affairs office.
Safety Abroad
Travel warnings and advisories change constantly. Refer to the following websites for up-to-date travel information. If you propose to study abroad in a country on the U.S. State Department travel warning list, it is mandatory that you gain prior University approval from the Education Abroad Suspension Committee. Requests must be submitted at least two months before departure. For more information, go to the following websites:
www.UMAbroad.umn.edu
http://www.state.gov
http://www.usembassy.state.gov
Passports and Visas
If you do not have a current passport, make sure to allow at least 6 to 8 weeks, after applying, to receive your passport. When having passport pictures taken, have several extras taken for other program-related paperwork. Visa requirements constantly change, so be informed about the requirements in the country where you are doing your study abroad.
College Funding and Course Credit
If you receiving funding or course credit from the College, remember to inform Academic and Student Affairs of your whereabouts, be sure to receive approval to receive credit for your study abroad, and remember that you are still responsible for keeping up-to-date with College happenings. If you are unable to check your email abroad, be sure to have a back-up plan or a friend who can inform you of class activities, due paperwork, course registration, and anything else that pertains to the CVM program.
Orientation
Although attending a University orientation session is not mandatory, it may be extremely informative and will help you to get your questions answered by specialists in this field. The types of things covered at these sessions are travel information, visa information, customs and immigration, packing information, getting the most of your experience, and health and safety. The U of M Learning Abroad Center provides orientation information and can provide you with more detailed schedules.
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