Via Travel

Prior to departure, students must enter their flight details, housing information and cell phone number into Via Travel so that we may be in touch with them in the event of an emergency.  Please visit the Pre-Departure Videos webpage that has instructional videos for completing required tasks in Via Travel, for both Groups (i.e., Faculty-Led Programs, Athletic international trips) and Solo Travelers (i.e, Provider programs, Study Away programs)

Via Travel

Passport

To travel outside of the U.S., students must have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after the end date of the program. Apply now to get or renew a passport through the U.S. Post Office. Waiting times may be long, so get started early!  As of July 2023, according to the US Department of State, the current processing time for passports is 10 to 13 weeks for routine service, and 7 to 9 weeks with expedited service. If a traveler has international travel within 14 calendar days, they can request an appointment to have the passport expedited at an agency. 

There is a passport office at the Georgetown Post Office. In July 2023, the US Department of State launched Special Passport Acceptance Fairs for new passport applicants. FedEx (renewals only) and UT Global offer passport services.  

• • How to apply for a passport
  •  An original birth certificate is required
  • Schedule an appointment

Student Visa

In many countries, students are required to obtain a visa to study abroad in that country. The best resource is to consult either the embassy or consulate website to find out their requirements. The program provider may offer advise and assistance.

Each country will have different visa application requirements; however, the application typically requires photos, a fee, proof of funds to support the student while abroad, proof of enrollment, proof of housing in country, fingerprints or other biometrics, etc. In some cases, students will need to show that they do not have a criminal background.

Book a Flight

For most programs, students will be responsible for making their own flight reservations to and from their study abroad destination. The good news is that there are many resources available to help guide students through the process.

Before buying a ticket, students should make sure to review the details that their program has provided about booking a flight. 

search for flights (use in cognito mode)

• API Fare Finder (for any student booking travel for an academic program)
• Google Flights
• Kayak
• Student Universe

tips

• Pay attention to the date of arrival and departure, as well as the destination airport.
  • It is common leave the U.S. on one date and arrive at the destination another date (the day after or before) due to time zone differences.
  • Some cities have multiple airports; check the airport code. 
• It is recommended to book international flights at least 2-3 months in advance
• If possible, travel mid-week; it is generally cheaper
• Do not book an economy fare, as it does not include a seat reservation or baggage
• Review the baggage allowance (both carry on and checked)
• Pay attention to layover times - look for layovers of at least 1.5-2 hours
• Book a round-trip flight

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Aid/Scholarships may cover the cost of the flight, passport and visa. However, the monies are typically disbursed approximately 10 days prior to the start of the SU term. Thus, students pay up front and get reimbursed by the aid. Students may talk to a Study Abroad Advisor if this is going to be a financial hardship. 

Travel Insurance

There are options to purchase Travel Insurance that may help cover costs for unexpected events including trip cancellations, trip delays and medical care. See the SU Travel Insurance Overview Handout for information.