You will need to have a valid passport before applying to a study abroad program. US citizens are required to have a passport to enter foreign countries and to gain re-entry into the United States. If you do not have a passport, or your passport has expired or will expire within 6 months, apply for one as soon as possible. Passport processing can take up to 6 weeks or longer, and we recommend that you apply several months in advance. You will need a valid passport before you apply for any country-specific visas. You can find more information at the US Government passport.

UVM International Students: You will need your passport from your home country to be valid during the full time of your study abroad experience. You will also need your UVM immigration document updated to reflect your approved study abroad program. This can be done by meeting with our International Student Services team.

You should make copies of your passport and visa before you travel abroad. Keep a copy of these with you, whether it is a digital copy or a physical copy, and leave a copy with a trusted contact.

Many students need visas in order to study abroad. In most cases, you will need to obtain a visa before leaving the United States. As with your passport, please allow plenty of time for your visa to be processed. Students have missed the chance to study abroad by not being attentive to their visa processes.

Find out if you need a visa: Once you have been accepted to your program, check with your program provider or host program's guidance see if you require a visa, and if so, which type of visa you need.

Find out if you or the program secures the visa: Some external programs provide direct support for students to get their programs through a bulk application. Generally, students are applying for their visa themselves. 

Obtain the visa: You can learn more about the visa process you will need to follow from visiting the website of your host country's embassy in the US. Go to the US State Department. The country page will provide general information and links to the host country's application information. Visa application processes vary widely between countries. Some countries allow  you to apply online, but many will require you to appear at least once for an appointment at a consulate or visa processing center. Check the consulate or embassy website for information regarding application fees, requirements, process timeline, and regulations regarding visa validation upon arrival in your host country. If you need to apply at an embassy or consulate in person, schedule your appointment far in advance. 

UVM International Students: Check with the foreign embassy/consulate of the country where you will be studying abroad to confirm the type of visa you need. Note that in some cases consulates and embassies will only work with individuals who are citizens of the country in which the consulate/embassy is located. 

Tip: Photocopy everything before submitting it and use certified mail both ways if your country requires you to have your documents mailed. 

While making your plans to study abroad, verify your own health insurance policy to see what coverage it provides for medical services abroad. You will also be covered by UVM's Travel and Medical Assistance Provider and Emergency Health Insurance as long as you complete the GoAbroad process that grants your final study abroad approval.

• Check with your current health insurance provider to understand their coverage for any possible medical expenses incurred while traveling abroad, whether that's UVM's SHIP insurance or a private health insurance.
• Many programs and/or countries may require that you purchase specific health insurance. Check with your host university or program provider for requirements.
• Be prepared that you may need to pay cash for medical services on-site.
• While traveling, you should sign up for Healix's Oracle app.
• If your friends and family are planning to visit you, they should plan to purchase additional health and travel insurance that will cover them in their travels.

If your physician locally or at home can provide you with international travel medical advice, please feel free to the seek the guidance of that specialist to help you determine what immunizations and medications you might need abroad.

Under the International Health Regulations adopted by the World Health Organization, a country may require International Certificates of Vaccination against yellow fever, and a cholera immunization may be required if you are traveling from an infected area. If you are required to get vaccinations for your country, you will need to carry your immunization records with you. Typically they are listed in a small yellow packet that your doctor or the Travel Clinic will give you, although this may vary depending on the vaccination and location. 

UVM students studying abroad must attend a pre-departure orientation. These orientations are held on a Saturday or Sunday during the last few weeks of the semester; students should attend the orientation in the semester before the intended study abroad date (usually mid-November for Spring/Calendar Year students, and mid-April for Fall/Summer/Academic Year students). The pre-departure orientation is interactive, and we require students to bring their laptops with them if they have one.

Note: This pre-departure orientation does not apply to students participating on short-term UVM Travel Study programs - those are hosted individually by course. 

UVM Semester, Exchange, and External Students: Final UVM approval is not granted until you have completed all of your GoAbroad checklist items and have been registered for the Overseas Study Program (OSSP) or ENGL for the Buckham Program. The Registrar's Office will automatically register students who have completed the Request OSSP Registration form in GoAbroad once all other forms are also completed.  

Travel Study, and Independent Travel Students: Final UVM approval is not granted until you have completed all of your GoAbroad checklist items. You will receive a confirmation email after you have completed the final form to let you know that you are approved. 

Prior to purchasing your flight, read arrival information from your program/University. You want to be sure to arrive during their suggested times, as it may impact your housing/transportation. UVM doesn’t recommend any specific travel websites, however resources like Google Flights can be a good place to start. It is a good idea to start looking for airfares early, so that you can learn what its typical cost range is. This will allow you to recognize a good price when you see one, so that you can purchase it. 

Make sure you are flying on a reputable airline and to the correct local airport, and are leaving enough time for any layovers. Planning to arrive at your final destination early in the day will leave room for flight delays, customs, and finding your way in a new country in daylight. Some programs/host universities will pick you up at the airport or a train station, while others will have you make your way to your university and housing on your own. Do your research ahead of time about where you will need to go once you've arrived in your host country, and the best ways to get there.

Be sure to review TSA Guidelines and your specific airlines baggage requirements for all connecting flights. International flights will often allow larger bags than in country/continent flights. For example, students may be allowed two large suitcases to fly to New Zealand, however the connecting flight may only allow one suitcase. To avoid extra baggage fees be sure to pack for the lowest weight/size allotment. In addition, make sure to research customs requirements for your host country so that you are prepared when you arrive, and do not bring anything that is not allowed into the country. That said, we recommend packing light vs. heavy whenever you can...it will make coming home simpler, as you are sure to pick up a thing or two abroad!

Notify all of your banks and credit card companies prior to leaving the country about your intended travel. If you do not do this and use your credit/debit card/ATM while abroad, your account will likely be frozen due to suspected fraud. You may be asked for a list of the dates that you will be in each country you plan to visit. It is uncommon for students to have all this information before even arriving in their country, so it is important to find out the requirements for informing your bank of unexpected travel. It is also advised that you ask for the best practice if your card is lost/stolen, and their policy for getting a new card sent to you

If you are a US citizen, voting in US elections is your right and civic duty. You can still vote in local, state, and national elections using an absentee ballot when studying abroad. 

The voter registration and absentee ballot request processes are different depending on your state of residency. Typically UVM students who are US Citizens are allowed to register to vote in either Vermont or their home state. Please see additional information and resources for voting abroad. 

Money as a component of your study abroad experience can be a learning experience in itself, and like most things, requires some planning around building a budget, how you will get and spend your money while abroad, how you will access a bank account, etc. The sections below offer a starting point for that learning. 

We recommend that prior to departing, you plan out an overall budget. If you have financial aid, you would have a budget sheet for your program. Even if you do not have financial aid, we would still recommend that you complete a budget sheet to help understand the costs and share with anyone helping you finance your time abroad.

The budget sheet can help you think about costs, but doesn't include any non-required costs, which are often the things that students are budgeting for more closely themselves: phone bills, transportation in your host country, going out to eat and drink, local and bigger travel, shopping, etc. 

Build a budget early that feels like you can stick to. Some internet searches can give you a sense of the cost of those types of things, as can former study abroad students from your destination!

Do your research about what currency your host country uses, and whether you should purchase some of that foreign currency before you leave the United States. This can be helpful when you first arrive in your country for unexpected expenses. Many US banks can exchange money for a small service fee, some banks will have a minimum requirement. 

You can also exchange money at most international airports or simply withdraw cash from an ATM upon arrival. Exchange rates are often more favorable at the airport than at places like hotels or restaurants. Likewise, if you are prompted on a machine to pay in USD or local currency, likely local currency will be in your favor. . Any time you exchange money, you may need your passport as identification.

During day-to-day life abroad, many students find debit/ATM cards to be the easiest method to withdraw cash. You should find out from your bank if they have any agreements with international banks that will ensure you do not pay a fee each time you withdraw money. When you use an ATM abroad, all transactions will be in the local currency. Most times your balance will not show on the screen or receipt. Most international ATMs only accept a four-digit PIN - work with your bank changing that if yours is currently longer.

Not all ATMs will accept all cards. Some countries will not allow cash withdrawals from foreign bank accounts using all ATMs. Plan ahead so you don't get stranded - your local host can guide you. It is advised that you always have more than one way to pay for your expenses. Many banks have withdrawal limits to prevent fraudulent withdrawals. You should be aware of your limits, and plan accordingly when leaving for extended trips.

Whenever you travel to a new country during your study abroad experience, be sure you know the currency, and exchange some before you depart, especially if you are arriving by bus, car, or train. Some countries rely on using cash most often, rather than credit or debit cards. Learn about the options in your host country before you go.

Your study abroad program may require you to open a local bank account, especially if you are receiving stipends for your cost of living. If this is the case, your international office or local director should be able to assist with this and advise you on the best bank.

Even if it is not required to open a bank account, it may be worthwhile to look into, because it will limit the number of fees you pay when using a US debit/credit card.

If you do open a bank account in your host country, make sure to close it before you return home at the end of your term abroad.

Credit and debit cards can be extremely useful abroad, both to make foreign transactions easier, and in the case of emergencies. If you choose to take a credit card with you, be aware of any service fees and interest charges you may encounter. Some credit card companies have high fees for international usage, and some have no international fees at all, so make sure you know what fees, if any, you might incur from using your card abroad. Credit cards can also make it easy to overspend, lose track of your budget, or forget to pay off your charges each month, so be careful.

Most countries have a "chip and PIN" requirement instead of the "chip and signature" or "swipe and signature" requirements more common in the US for credit and debit cards. If your card does not have a chip, you should request a new card before you depart. When using your credit/debit card for purchases abroad, make sure the cashier or business knows that you have a US card and will likely need to sign for the purchase. It is good to have enough cash as a back-up option in case a business does not accept the use of foreign credit cards.

UVM students who participate on Approved Study Abroad Programs (any program found in GoAbroad) and complete all of the pre-decision and post-acceptance phases of GoAbroad may be eligible to receive some financial aid while abroad. Financial aid packages will be re-calculated to reflect the costs of the study abroad program. After completing all of the steps in your GoAbroad account, students must notify OIE of any changes to their study abroad plans. Students receiving financial aid should note the following:

• Financial aid will not cover any coursework abroad that is repetitive of coursework already completed at UVM;
• Financial aid will not cover any courses you audit abroad;
• Financial aid may be reduced if you withdraw from a course while abroad.

These and other adjustments to your coursework could affect your aid eligibility. This means that you could see a reduction of or loss of financial aid, resulting in a balance due to UVM.

If you have any questions about your financial aid award or disbursement date, contact Student Financial Services. 

Most countries will not allow study abroad students on student visas to work, with very few exceptions. Your host institution abroad can guide you on this. While you cannot work for UVM while you are abroad, if you hope to return to an on-campus UVM position, make sure to talk to your supervisor about that so that they know your intentions. 

Create a communication plan with anyone that will want to know you have arrived safely. The first 48 hours of your arrival can be busy. You may not have internet access immediately. As soon as you are able, be sure to send a quick text, Facebook post, or email that you have safely arrived. Make sure everyone involved has a clear understanding of when they can expect to hear from you, so that they aren't unnecessarily worried.

When you go abroad you may find yourself with a different SIM card, phone number, or phone entirely. However you decide to maintain your communications while abroad it’s likely your access to Duo will be impacted. Duo is necessary for access to UVM email, Brightspace, and other essential UVM services. You are expected to check your UVM email regularly and respond to messages from the OIE while abroad, so please make sure you understand clearly the following:

Must do before you go:

1. Generate a batch of Back-up Access Offline Codes using your current phone number.
   1. Visit the multi-factor site
   2. Follow the instructions under MFA using Offline Codes > Generate Backup Access (Offline) Codes
   3. Once overseas: Either continue to use single-use backup codes (and use the last code to get your next batch of codes) OR update your UVM Duo information with an overseas SIM card/phone number.
      1. You can add devices to your Duo MFA
      2. Once you return from your program, please be sure to remove the international SIM/phone number from Duo if you do not plan to keep it.

Plan ahead on how you will keep in touch with your support network and program staff. Consider your mobile phone options ahead of time to ensure you can still access necessary UVM services while abroad.

Your friends and family back home will want to be in contact with you while you are abroad. Key is to make a plan for communication so that people know when they might (and might not) hear from you. We want you to keep in touch and tell your study abroad story, but not so much that you miss out on being fully present in your experience. 

• Some students bring their US-based cell phones with them abroad and purchase a local SIM card in their host country. Other students purchase an e-SIM to load onto their phone. Your program provider or host institution will likely offer some guidance. If not, talk to local students!
• Occasionally, students purchase a local phone while abroad, typically an inexpensive flip-style phone, which comes with a local plan (often "pay as you go") so that they can call and text while abroad. They often also bring their US-based smartphone to use as a device on wifi networks.
• You can work with your US-based cell carrier to sign up for an international plan before you go, but this is typically the most expensive option.

Social media is a powerful connector and may have a role in your study abroad experience. Remember that social media is just a thin slice of the richness you can share about your study abroad program. 

If you decide to use social media, be thoughtful about how its use might change in another environment. Consider whether the content you are posting reflects positively on you and your program , whether it is respectful (and legal) in your host community, whether it keeps you safe (ex: don't post your address publicly), and the extent to which your social media presence is helping or hindering deep immersion in your host community.

If you do use social media, give the office of international education a follow on our Instagram account - tag us in posts that we can reshare to tell the study abroad story, and look out for some opportunities to do an Instagram featured post or takeover!

It is important to learn the basics about your host country's culture, norms, and expectations before you study abroad. Learning as much as you can before you study abroad will help ease your adjustment as you arrive and settle in to your host country, and will help you be a good representative of the United States and UVM while abroad.

Remember, it is completely normal to feel a little overwhelmed or homesick while abroad- you are in a new place, outside of your comfort zone and normal routine. It takes some time to adjust, so be patient with yourself as you make this transition.

• You should consider your host country's culture in deciding how to dress while you are abroad. It is important to be aware that certain items of clothing may be viewed as offensive to your host country's culture. Wearing clothing that is not typical of the host country may also call more attention to your foreign/American background, and might invite others to stereotype you negatively. Americans traveling or living abroad can be the subject of resentment or even violence due to the local perception of US government policies, so it's a good idea to blend in as much as possible and not call attention to yourself. Researching your host country’s dress and customs beforehand will allow you to be prepared for your time abroad and help ease your transition. By showing respect for the local culture and learning appropriate dress, it is more likely that you will be welcomed into the local community and as a result improve your experience abroad.
• When communicating in another country it is important to pay attention to both your verbal communication and body language.
  • In many countries it is preferred that you attempt to speak the local language even if your skills are entry level. For example, you might want to try performing simple tasks like greeting people, ordering food, buying a bus ticket, etc. in your host country's language. It shows respect and a willingness to incorporate yourself into the local culture.
  • Body language varies between cultures. In the United States personal space is greatly valued when speaking with others, but many cultures have different norms about the amount of personal space necessary.  Greetings may be different in your host country than in the US. For example, in some cultures cheek kisses, forehead-to-forehead touches, or bowing are normal greeting behaviors, even for people you haven't met before.

• Think about your own cultural background and how it will impact your experience abroad. Knowing what you've learned about your host country's culture, are there any aspects of your values and expectations that you think differ from those of your host country?
• It is important to remember that preconceived notions of what Americans are like may impact your initial communication and relationship with locals in your host country. By taking into account the numerous negative and positive stereotypes you can help be a good representative of UVM by reinforcing the positive stereotypes and not the negative ones.

While at times it may be a stressful experience to go through, adapting to a new culture provides great opportunities for personal growth and development. Allow yourself time to adjust. The first few weeks may feel very difficult– this is perfectly normal. Most students do experience homesickness to some degree while abroad. Below are some stages of adjustment that you might go through, although not all stages are experienced by everyone.

1. Honeymoon stage - When you first arrive, the differences you observe are new, exciting and interesting. You are optimistic and are likely to focus on the positive aspects of your new environment.
2. Cultural stress - As some time passes, the differences that were once interesting have now become obstacles for you to get things done or communicate effectively. Sometimes your new cultural context can feel irritating, inefficient, or wrong. Around holidays, birthdays, or special events at home, you might feel homesick.
3. Adjustment period - Gradually, you begin to feel more oriented and comfortable in the new culture. Your confidence builds as you start to adjust to the differences and expand your circle of friends.
4. Adaptation - You are fully immersed in routines and feel part of the community. This will be similar to when Burlington became your home.

These stages are present at different times and each person has their own way of reacting. Some stages will be longer and more difficult than others, and this is different for each person. Many factors contribute to how you move through this process, including mental health, type of personality, previous experiences, socio-economic conditions, familiarity with the language, family and/or social support systems, and other factors. 

• Be aware that other countries’ education systems may be very different than the U.S. (e.g., course/class structure, feedback, grading and organization).
• Be patient with yourself as you transition into life in your host country. This is not an easy transition to make, and everyone experiences some tough times as a part of this. Practice self-care and give yourself time to adjust.
• Remain open-minded, respectful and curious to enjoy and learn the most through your experience. When you meet someone, listen to what they have to say—be respectful and reserve judgment of them and/or their country. Remember that just as your opinion may not reflect that of your home country and everyone in it, the opinions of individuals you meet do not represent their entire country’s population.
• Resist the temptation to disparage your host country. You do not have to agree with the way that locals view things or do things, but criticizing things in your environment could cause feelings of unhappiness. Begin to consciously look for logical reasons for anything in the host country that seems strange, confusing, or threatening. There is a reason why locals do things differently than people do in your country.
• Overcome the Fear Of Missing Out (FOMO) you might feel about life back home. Remember that you are embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and one that - for all its good and bad moments- is very temporary. While you are abroad, even when things might feel tough, try and learn something you can take back to your normal life.
• Get out of your room and explore your local area. Engaging with your host city and host culture will make you feel better than isolating yourself in your room or apartment. Put down the Netflix, Whatsapp, and Skype- and go outside!
• Go out and meet people from your host country.  Getting to know them will enhance your experience!
• Maintain a sense of humor. Be able to laugh at yourself and at the predicaments you get into.
• Find people who can be understanding and sympathetic to your situation, with whom you can share your feelings of confusion. This person can be your “cultural informant” and help explain things to you about the local culture and lifestyle.
• Participate in activities and hobbies you would normally do at home. This will help you manage stress. If those activities are not available in your host country, try to find an activity that gives you the same feeling of happiness or relaxation.
• Record your experience. Journaling and blogging can help you process your experiences and provide a means of self-discovery. Once you've returned home, you will be able to look back upon your term abroad more easily with a written record of it. It can also give your family and friends a window into what your experience was like.
• If you feel that your mental health and well-being are suffering, seek help and resources from your host university and/or program provider. Mental health can suffer during the transition to a new culture, and it's important to use the resources you have available so that you can have a successful experience abroad.

It's important to take steps to protect your health while studying abroad. Being in a new environment can add stress, and factors that may influence your health may be different than they are in Burlington. Work with your doctors before you leave to develop a plan for staying healthy while abroad. At times, moving abroad and experiencing a transition to a new environment, culture, food, etc. can exacerbate or uncover physical and mental illnesses. It is important to work with your health professionals to make a plan for dealing with your health abroad.

• Before you study abroad, visit your doctors, dentists, and any other health care practitioners that you regularly see. Your coverage through UVM's International Assistance Provider and Emergency Insurance does not include preventative care. During these visits, you should discuss any medical issues you have that may affect your experiences abroad.
• Make sure your health records are up to date and that you have copies that you can access while you are abroad. This is particularly important if you have a medical condition or if you expect to need medical care abroad.
• Research whether or not you will need immunizations or specific travel medications (like malaria pills) for your host country. UVM's Travel Assistance Provider can provide you with information about the health and immunization requirements of your host country, and UVM Student Health Services may be able to assist with certain vaccinations.
• Make sure to practice self-care while abroad. This includes taking basic precautions like wearing sunscreen, taking medications as prescribed, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and building time into your daily life to relax and de-stress. If you do experience health concerns while abroad, contact your on-site program staff or host university, or UVM's Office of International Education if you are unsure of where to begin.

If you use any prescription medications, visit your health care provider prior to departing to discuss transporting your medications abroad.

• Learn about the legality of your medications in your host country. Some medications that are common in the US are strictly controlled in other countries.
• Ask your health care provider and insurance company for guidance on how to secure a sufficient supply of medication to last through your stay. Take enough to cover your full stay if it is possible - that will avoid having to do a refill abroad.
• Carry your medication in their original, labeled containers along with a copy of the original prescription. This will ease your way through Customs. Always keep your medications in your carry-on bag.
• If you have a medical condition, consider wearing a medical alert bracelet or other notification while abroad. You might want to bring cards with an explanation of your allergies or illnesses in your host country's language to show when necessary.
• Bring photocopies of your prescriptions- even a glasses/contact lens prescription. 

Resources:

Mobility International Medication Tipsheet

State Department: Your Health Abroad page

Centers for Disease Control: Traveler's Health page

If you are sexually active, use safe sex precausions while abroad as well. Rates of STIs vary from country to country, as does availability of healthcare related to sexual health and reproductive care. If you are sexually active, you may wish to bring your preferred methods of contraceptives with you- do not assume you can easily find them in your host country as availability abroad may vary significantly. 

Any mental health issues you have at home will likely still be present while you are abroad. In some cases, being in the new, unfamiliar environment of your host country can exacerbate your symptoms. You will not have access to UVM CAPS while abroad, and likely not to a counselor from home due to licensing issues. Availability of mental health care can vary overseas and a good plan is critical. Conversations with your mental health care provider before you leave will be important to set you up to draw on tools you have to manage these conditions when overseass. It is critical to keep taking any prescribed medication while abroad, and if you feel that your mental health is becoming unmanageable, to ask for help. 

Like most things, rules and attitudes around alcohol and drugs vary greatly across the world. As a study abroad student, do not assume you can treat alcohol and drugs in the same way you may have at UVM or at home. Educate yourself carefully.

While you may be of legal drinking age in your host country, you should still be responsible in your use of alcohol. Safety should be your first priority. Overconsumption of alcohol can make you an easier target for criminal activity of many kinds, and you will be even more vulnerable abroad where the culture, neighborhoods, and language may be unfamiliar to you. Most countries have a more moderate cultural relationship with alcohol than the US, and while drinks with dinner may be normal, drunkenness is viewed as inappropriate. Make sure to be respectful of the culture you are visiting.

Many countries have very strict rules around other drugs, including marijuana. These rules can include significant penalties including inprisonment and even death. Each year hundreds of Americans are jailed abroad for drug offenses. UVM students have been arrested and imprisoned abroad for drug offenses in the past. 

Insects can cause serious illnesses such as malaria, dengue fever, chikungunya, yellow fever, zika, lyme disease, and others. Many of these diseases do not exist in the US but are prevalent in other countries. Students studying abroad have become ill with these diseases.

• Be aware of what insects pose a threat in your area and take the appropriate measures to alleviate your risk of disease.
• Use bug spray, mosquito netting, and preventative medication where appropriate
• Discuss potential threats with your travel doctor and program director or host university contact.

Due to differing regulations, getting tattoos and piercings in your host country may have more risks than doing so back home. If you choose to get a tattoo or piercing while abroad, you should make sure to research the tattoo/piercing shop's practices and reputation, and the country's regulations and risks to make sure it is safe. 

• Exposure to blood borne pathogens (HIV, Hepatitis B and C) is possible.
• Even in countries with strict tattoo/piercing regulations, tattoo/piercing shops may or may not follow all of them.
• Cheap tattoos and piercings can sometimes mean:
  • Non-sterile or reprocessed needles
  • Cheap ink, which can cause skin irritation or can fade quickly

Staying well-fed and hydrated are critical to your health, and in a new environment are important to keep focused on as you settle in. Food and water safety can vary - based on conditions abroad as well as how regulated (or not) things are. It is also quite common for your body to feel unsettled from the shifts in diet abroad, even if the local options are totally healthy.  

Some good basic health tips related to food and water safety:

• Observe local's behaviors but be mindful of adjusting slowly. For example: locals might be able to tolerate certain spices more easily than you simply because it is something they are used to.
• Wash your own hands before you eat
• Wash your produce with clean water before consuming it, and in locations where water may not be safe to drink or your food may have come from unsanitary conditions, cook or peel your produce.
• Avoid food that has been sitting out - that can invite food borne illness
• Ask about the safety of tap water - if it is not safe to drink, that will include using it to wash foods, brush teeth, etc.

You may need to see medical care while abroad. Your program support can guide you on how to do so. In general, some guidelines:

Seek Medical Attention When…

• You have a fever of 101 degrees F for 24 hours or more
• If you have severe and frequent diarrhea or vomiting

Seek Emergency Medical Attention When…

• You have a fever of 103 degrees F or more
• You feel confused or disoriented
• You are experiencing reduced levels of consciousness (fainting)
• You have a severe headache

UVM's contracted International Travel and Medical Assistance Provider (HEALIX) offers emergency medical support including medical insurance. More information about how to access these benefits is available through UVM Risk Management. Sometimes these benefits will require payment and seeking reimbursement, even for medical emergencies. 

Students must additionally hold health insurance for routine matters. Some tips as you arrange this:

• Many programs and/or countries may require that you purchase specific health insurance. Check with your host university or program provider for requirements before purchasing anything special.
• If there is not a specific requirement from your host country, we recommend starting by checking with your current insurance provider about coverage abroad.
• A number of companies provide short-term health insurance coverage for students studying abroad and their families and friends visiting them, we would recommend you look into options that would fit your needs and read policy information carefully.
• We recommend getting check-ups/dental cleanings/vision exams you would normally get before you leave home to avoid needing that abroad.
• If your friends and family are planning to visit you, they should plan to purchase additional health and travel insurance that will cover them in their travels.

The State Department publishes a Worldwide Caution announcement that is updated twice yearly. This announcement summarizes possible safety risks to US citizens due to terrorism abroad. The chances of experiencing a terrorist attack while studying abroad are very small, but all students should be aware of all possible safety risks associated with their travel.

It is important to keep in mind that the United States is known around the world as a relatively dangerous country due to US crime and gun statistics. US media outlets, when covering international current events, tend to focus on political upheaval, violent strife, and natural disasters when these are not typical in most countries. Most students find that life abroad is very “normal” in spite of cultural differences. However, dangerous situations can arise anywhere, and you will still be in a new place with an unfamiliar culture. Thus, you should always take proper safety precautions while abroad. Using common sense and being observant and aware of your surroundings will help keep you safe, whether you are in Burlington or abroad.
 

• Read and evaluate all materials provided by your program or university that relate to safety, health, legal, environmental, political, cultural, and religious conditions in your host country.
• Know where to get help if needed.  Familiarize yourself with your neighborhood, locate your nearest police station and hospital, and be sure you have all necessary emergency phone numbers on your person at all times.
• In the case of an emergency affecting the public, please follow any emergency procedures put in place by your program director or in-country international office.
• Stay informed about local and regional news, read newspapers with good international coverage and analysis of local issues.
• Utilize UVM's Travel Assistance Provider to inform yourself of safety related issues in your host country. 
   

• If you are out at night, stay in well-lit areas and don’t use short cuts or narrow alleys.
• Stay in groups of at least two. Never leave a friend alone at a bar or nightclub while out.
• Don’t walk alone at night or in questionable neighborhoods.
• Be cautious and use common sense while patronizing restaurants, nightclubs, cafes, bars, or places where large crowds may gather (stadiums, malls, festivals)
• Alcohol and drugs decrease your ability to consent and to make good judgment.  They also make you an easier target for all types of crime.  Be wary of impairing your judgment through excessive use of alcohol, and do not use drugs while abroad.
• Laws regarding alcohol and drugs vary between countries, and many countries have stricter policies than the US. Students have been jailed abroad in the past for drug and alcohol-related offenses. 
   

Some general tips around transportation safety:

• Learn about taxis and public transportation, and know what your safest travel options are. Even taxis and public transportation that are considered safe by the local community may have risks. It is especially important to travel with a buddy while taking a taxi or overnight transportation. In many places, you arrange the cost of the taxi before starting your ride - these are a common way that visitors can be taken advantage of. Busy public transportation hubs are also easier spots for opportunistic crime like pickpocketing - keep your eyes peeled!
• Driving customs vary a great deal, and in most countries pedestrians are not given the right of way.  Pay attention also to which side of the road vehicles travel on as you cross roads - this can be disorienting if it is different from home.
• We urge students not to drive while abroad. Traffic congestion and different traffic laws and regulations can make driving motor vehicles in foreign countries extremely hazardous. Students have been involved in serious car accidents abroad involving major injuries and fatalities - usually there is a safer option to do what you hope to do. 

If you are traveling away from your host location: 

• Travel with others whom you know and trust when possible.
• Make sure your resident director, host family, or foreign university official knows how to contact you in case of emergency. Leave your itinerary with them if you are traveling. 

What you consider harassment may not be considered so in another culture. For instance, staring and “catcalling” is extremely common in some countries. Usually the best way to deal with this behavior is by ignoring it and getting to a safe place as necessary. Dealing with this type of harassment can be very frustrating or tiring, and can take an emotional toll. Ask for help from your program staff or host university staff if you have concerns about harassment or need support. It is also a good idea to watch locals and see how they deal with street harassment.

Just like at UVM, sexual misconduct and assault abroad are more likely to occur with someone you know than by a stranger. What is different from UVM while you are studying abroad is that culturally, the definition of sexual ‘consent’ varies from country to country. For example, at UVM if your sexual partner is incapacitated due to consumption of alcohol, it is impossible to get consent from him or her. Failure to get that consent constitutes sexual misconduct or assault. That is not the case in many study abroad destinations (including "Western" destinations); sex may be considered consensual unless you yell or unless you push back, and whether anyone has consumed alcohol may be irrelevant. Sexual assault is never the fault of the person who is assaulted. It is important that all of us understand that that may not be how it is seen where you are going. And please – if you’re thinking ‘sexual assault isn’t something I need to think about because I am going to the U.K. or Australia’ or some other place that you perceive is ‘just like the U.S.,’ please know that you do need to think about it.

• If you are raped or assaulted—remember it is never your fault. Get to a safe place; seek medical attention and emotional support.
• Toll-free sexual assault crisis lines are available for Americans abroad. For more details, please visit: HOPEworks and/or Pathways to Safety 
   

• Laws in your host country may be very different than US laws. Your rights under the US Constitution do not apply to you when you are in a different country. Many countries have stricter constraints on speech, religious practice, protests, and other rights you have in the US. Many countries may also have laws regarding gender, race, sexual orientation, and other aspects of identity that you may feel are discriminatory.
• While you may be uncomfortable or strongly disagree with some laws in your host country, you are individually responsible for following all local laws. If you do not, you could be subject to arrest.
• When US citizens are arrested abroad, the US embassy or consulate can help them by providing a list of local attorneys and an overview of the local justice system, and by visiting the US citizen in prison and advocating for their proper medical care. However, the US embassy or consulate cannot provide legal advice, pay for legal or medical services, or get a US citizen out of jail. For more information visit the US State Department's page on their services to Americans arrested abroad. 
   

• The US State Department lists Travel Advisories for all countries according to a scale from 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to 4 (Do Not Travel). We require students to read through their host country's travel advisory to see what risks and safety concerns they may encounter while they are abroad.
• UVM students who are US citizens are required to sign up for the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). If you are not a US citizen, you should look into the resources provided by your country of citizenship to travelers. Many countries have similar programs, and you should sign up for your country of citizenship's version of this program if available.
• The US State Department's page on driving and road safety is very helpful to learn more about transportation safety in your host country. It also links to a number of outside resources.
• Review the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website on traveler's health.
• UVM's International Travel Assistance Provider has an excellent section on country-specific safety concerns. Students are required to sign up for security email reminders and alerts.

While the vast majority of students have a completely safe experience abroad, just like at home, emergencies like natural disasters, terrorist attacks, crime, health crises, and others can occur. Researching your resources in case of an emergency is an important way to be prepared.

As part of your pre-departure orientation, you will be given a Personal Emergency Action Plan form that you should complete to be prepared for emergencies. You should bring this with you in paper or digital form so you they can refer to it while abroad. It is important to keep your program, university, embassy, and other emergency contacts on you at all times. Many programs will give you a card with this information, but you should also put them in your phone.

If you are a US citizen, you should also register with STEP, the US State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, so that the State Department can contact you in case of an emergency and provide you with information and relevant services. If you are not a US citizen, research your native country's services to their citizens in an emergency abroad. They may have a similar registry program.
 

We recommend that before you ever step on a plan, you have added to your phone a few key emergency contacts: 

• Local emergency services that is the equivalent to 9-1-1 in the host destination
• Your program directors/staff at your host university to contact in an emergency - you should have this before you depart in case something goes wrong while in transit
• UVM Police Services at +1-802-656-3473 who can reach UVM Office of International Education staff 24/7
• UVM's emergency services provider abroad, Healix, is available by calling +1-802-500-5420.
• Your emergency contacts at home - in the event of an emergency, you want to keep them informed as quickly as possible

UVM contracts with Healix to provide emergency assistance for all registered UVM students abroad. All services can be reached either through the Oracle App or by calling Healix. See information about how to access UVM's services.

Examples of services that Healix can provide include:

• Basic insurance coverage for illnesses and accidents abroad
• Emergency evacuation
• Medical and dental referrals
• Lost document advice
• Security Services
• Online travel security information
• Access to security crisis center

Please note: Coverage is only available to students starting two days prior to their program start date, and ending two days after their program end date. Students who travel for personal reasons before or after their term abroad beyond these dates are not covered during that time period of personal travel.

• Many students find that the adjustment back to the US and UVM can be more challenging in some ways than adjusting to their study abroad host country. This can be called "re-entry adjustment". Some of the same cultural adjustment principles apply when you return.
• The OIE would love to hear about your experience abroad and is happy to talk with you about adjusting back to the US. All UVM study abroad staff have had significant experience living, working, and traveling abroad, so we've experienced cultural adjustment also.
• If you are struggling with the adjustment and would like to speak with a counselor, UVM CAPS is available to provide counseling services and other resources as well.  

Sometimes, when students return from study abroad, they can feel like all they do is talk about study abroad but that those who weren't abroad just don't really "get" it - that is normal, though usually your friends who didn't go abroad with you love learning about your experience. That said, there are lots of ways to share your study abroad experience with others through the Office of International Education:

• Submit your photos to our annual Photo Contest - we will email returnees about this opportunity. Its a great way to tell your story visually...take good photos while abroad!
• Join our staff in the OIE as a Peer Advisor - we hire students each year through Federal Work Study (FWS) and regular student roles to help advise students about the study abroad process and experience. We will post jobs on the UVM student JobX board, but also will promote this through our returnee email list.
• Help welcome international students to UVM - we welcome exchange and undergraduate students to campus each year and are always looking for study abroad returnees who want to be a "buddy" to them - help with airport pick-ups, support them as they settle in, etc. We will connect with returnees as these opportunities arise. There are also lots of student organizations for international students that you can reach out to and possibly meet students from the place where you studied abroad!

When you study abroad, you develop characteristics and skills that set you apart. Some of these include: Intercultural communication, Flexibility, Independence, Confidence, Problem-solving skills, foreign language skills, and more. Articulating these to prospective employers can help set you apart in the applicant pool. Think about how you might market this to employers, including through your:

• Resume: Include your study abroad experience on your resume. You can do this by creating an entry under “Education” and listing relevant projects, volunteer work, or skills you acquired.
• Cover Letter: Talk about your international experience in your cover letter. This is a great place to mention specific skills and experiences that may not stick out on your resume. Remember, your cover letter should be written for a specific position.
• Interviews: Think about ways you can discuss your experience abroad in an interview. Common interview questions include how you dealt with uncertainty, handled a conflict, learned from failure, or dealt with a challenging situation. You can use examples from study abroad to help answer these questions and show how your student abroad experience sets you apart. Remember to only bring up what is relevant to the specific position you are applying to.

Many students are also interested in working abroad after graduation. UVM's Career Center can be a great place to start, but don't forget connections with your network abroad - they can often help understand the job search process, see opportunities abroad, and make introductions for you. UVM's Fellowship and Undergraduate Research (FOUR) Office is another great source of support.