Salem State University
Sullivan Building, Room 114
Salem, MA 01970
978.542.7105
studyabroad@salemstate.edu
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Welcome
Welcome
Why Study Abroad
FAQs
Contact Us
Events and Announcements
Getting Started
How to Choose a Program
Application Instructions
Create Account
Pre-Departure Checklist
Programs
Exchange and Direct Enroll Programs
Faculty Led Programs
Programs
Resources
Preparing to Study Abroad
Health and Safety
Scholarships to Study in China
Study Abroad Scholarships
Diversity Abroad
Information for Faculty
Returning Students
Program Search
Program Type:
Program Country:
Program Term:
Major:

Pre-Departure Checklist

Below is a list of everything you will have to complete before your departure:

Getting started:
  • Research study abroad opportunities online
  • Come to the study abroad office to discuss your options
  • Meet with your academic advisor to discuss what courses/requirements you can and cannot take or fulfill abroad
  • Narrow your search down to your top two programs
  • If you do not have a valid passport, apply for one or renew your passport as soon as possible
Before applying:
  • Tell the study abroad advisor which program you would like to apply for and clarify the application process for your particular program
  • Determine deadlines (applications and payments due), requirements, and eligibility for your chosen program
  • Complete a budget form for your chosen program with the study abroad advisor
  • Meet with Walt Minnick in the financial aid office, located in the Navigation Center on Central Campus (bring the completed budget sheet with you); Walk in hours: Tuesdays 9:30am-12:00pm and 2:00-4:00pm, or email to request an alternate day: walt.minnick@salemstate.edu
  • Determine the sources of income that you expect to cover your expenses while abroad
  • Look into scholarships for study abroad, determine your eligibility, and apply early
Application Process
  • Complete the required application for your program before the deadline (only complete application after meeting with Walt Minnick)
  • Complete the Salem State study abroad application
After Acceptance: First Steps
  • Provide a copy of your acceptance letter to the study abroad advisor
  • Complete all forms and pay any deposits required by your provider/host university
  • Secure housing through provider/host university
After Acceptance: Academic Procedures
  • Consult with your academic advisor about which courses you plan to take while abroad
  • Complete the Request to Take Course Credit Outside SSU forms (please note that you will have to complete one form for each course you are getting approved)
  • Obtain course descriptions or a syllabus for each course from the program provider/university
  • Indicate on the form whether the course will fulfill a major, minor, or gen ed requirement, or will be a free elective
  • If the course is fulfilling a requirement, indicate on the form the equivalent SSU course
  • Find a back up for each course you wish to take, and get 7-8 courses approved
  • If a course is fulfilling any kind of requirement, obtain a signature from that department chairperson
After Acceptance: Financial Aid Procedures
  • Enroll in direct deposit through your Navigator account
  • Complete the Power of Attorney form and submit it to the study abroad advisor (please note that this form must be notarized)
  • Be sure to secure all financial aid at least 1 month prior to departure
Final Steps
  • Attend a mandatory pre-departure orientation (an email invitation will be sent out during the semester)
  • Pay the $200 study abroad fee (check or money order payable to Salem State University)
  • Complete the following forms and return to the study abroad advisor: Participant Agreement, Financial Responsibility, Travel Information and Notification, and Travel Participant Disclosure
  • Clear any holds on your Navigator account so you can be registered for the study abroad placeholder course
  • If you are enrolled in any SSU courses for the semester you're going abroad, withdraw from those courses so you can be registered for the study abroad placeholder course
Before Departure
  • Make travel arrangements
  • Complete any online orientations required by your provider/host university
  • If required, obtain a visa to the foreign country of destination (see program details)
  • Obtain international health insurance (if not covered in the program fee)
  • Obtain an International Student ID card ($25, optional)
  • Enroll in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
  • Contact your primary care provider to secure any necessary prescriptions for the entire duration of your program
  • Get any required immunizations
  • If you're expecting a financial aid refund, be sure to secure enough funds to cover expenses before getting your refund
  • Exchange about $100-$200 of host country's currency
  • Make a plan to get from the airport to your destination address (residence hall, homestay, or apartment). Confirm any airport pickups. Secure contact information for provider/host university, including after business hours. Research a back up plan (taxi, train, etc) in case you miss your airport pickup.
Salem State University Study Abroad Office