Before You Leave

Finances

1-2 months before you leave, research the different options to receive money from your parents while on your study abroad program. In addition to your primary plan, you should also have a back-up plan in case you need some extra money for an unforeseen reason. Students are not allowed to borrow money from host families!

  • Look into using a combination of the following options: ATM/Check/Debit cards with a VISA/MASTERCARD logo; Traveler's Checks; Cash (in the foreign currency); Cash (U.S. dollars); Pre-Paid Credit Cards (offered by some banks).

Electronic Devices

If you plan on bringing any electronic devices with you abroad, contact the manufacturer of the equipment to ensure the proper adapter and/or converter is being used.

  • Adapters and converters can be purchased at electronic stores and online.

  • Ayusa does not recommend bringing hair-styling appliances abroad, such as curling irons or blow dryers. It is better to purchase these in your host country.

Make 2 photocopies of the following documents. Leave one set of copies with your parents in the U.S. and take one set with you

  • Passport
  • Visa
  • All documents you were required to submit with your visa application. Depending upon your host country, you might need these to apply for your Residency Card.
  • Health Insurance information. Have your insurance card with you at all times! Give a photocopy to your natural parents in the U.S. and to your host family
  • Flight itinerary

Read the Ayusa Student Handbook

  • Review and discuss the Ayusa rules with your parents
  • Consider the phases of culture shock and write down some strategies on how you plan to manage the symptoms
  • Spend some time thinking about what you want to accomplish while you are studying abroad, and make a list of goals that you absolutely want to achieve.

Familiarize yourself with the Ayusa insurance policy and coverage

Use the Suggested Reading List provided by Ayusa to learn more about studying abroad and your destination country.

Contact your host family as soon as you receive their information. Think about what types of gifts you could bring from your community.

Talk to your parents about how you'll keep in touch and set an initial schedule for phone calls (once a week initially, then every other week is best for your cultural adjustment)