A little planning and preparation can go a long way to ensuring that your study abroad is a safe and healthy experience.
The College Consortium for International Studies is dedicated to providing you with safe and secure study abroad programs as well as helping you prepare. Below you’ll find easy to follow steps and resources for before you go, while you are abroad, and resources to support your planning.
Learn about the culture and understand social, political, and religious norms and expectations
Visit the U.S. Department of State’s Students Abroad page for destination specific information
Review the Health & Safety Student Handbook for preparation checklists, advice, and resources
Schedule a travel appointment with your health care provider or student health center
Know what your health insurance policy covers. CCIS programs are covered by CISI international medical insurance.
Check if your medications are available and legal in-country and make a plan with your physician
Review necessary vaccines or immunizations
Identify mental health resources in-country and form a mental health plan with your current provider
Sign up for the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program STEP to receive up-to-date country advisories
Establish a communication plan with your family, home institution, and study abroad program
Prepare copies of important travel documents, contact information, address, and any other relevant information you should keep with you and share with a trust family or friend
Read the local and international papers
Learn local laws, and familiarize yourself with the legal system
Review country alerts or advisories from U.S. Department of State’s STEP program
Conduct yourself responsibly and be respectful of your surroundings
Become familiar with emergency medical procedures. What’s the local number for 911? Where is the nearest medical facility?
Know your study abroad program’s emergency plan
Keep your study abroad program emergency contact information with you
Keep your program, home institution, and relevant family or friends aware of your travel plans and location
Ask yourself and your study abroad advisor … ?
• What is the number one health risk at my destination?
• What are the most common safety risks?
• Who is your emergency contact?
• What is my "emergency" plan?