British Columbia Studies Abroad Consortium

Study abroad programs offer students alternative study environments, international experiences and exposure to diverse cultures while earning credit towards their degree.

Some top reasons to Make the World Your Classroom are:

Enrich your education and extracurricular experiences
Internationalize your degree and increase your employability
Challenge yourself to be self-sufficient by living and studying abroad
Travel to foreign destinations that you would not otherwise be able to go to
Broaden your understanding of the world and gain inter-cultural skills
Meet new people and make friends to last a lifetime
Live as a resident in another culture
Develop your foreign language skills
Learn more about your own culture and increase your exposure to different perspectives
Have the time of your life!

Where can I study abroad?

Study abroad programs are offered in destinations all over the world! Please refer to the section on Find a Study Abroad Program and the Where in the World Would You Like to Go? sections for more detailed information regarding the exciting range of possibilities that are open to you.

Deciding where to study abroad also includes selecting the right program for you. Please see the Is Study Abroad Right for You? section to view a list of factors to consider when deciding to participate in a study abroad program.

Eligibility and Application Procedures

Do I have to have travel experience in order to study abroad?

For most study abroad programs, no previous travel experience is required. An open mind and strength of character are extremely helpful when faced with cultural differences that may prove challenging.

What are some examples of the requirements institutions have for studying abroad?

Each institution has different criteria to be eligible to study abroad - please contact the Study Abroad Advisor for specific requirements pertaining to that institution's SA programs.

Some examples of potential eligibility requirements are:

minimum GPA requirement
minimum age requirement
have completed a minimum number of academic credits at home institution
be a full-time student
be involved in extracurricular activities such as campus or community clubs
provide a written statement which details the expected contribution of studying abroad to the student's academic and career goals
provide letters of academic reference from faculty and personal references
produce a Curriculum Vitae/Resume
be willing to return to your home institution for a specified amount of time or minimum number of credits after studying abroad
submission of a study abroad program application on time

I have a disability. Can I still study abroad?

If you have a disability, study abroad remains an option worth exploring. Speak with a Study Abroad Advisor at your home institution to determine what accommodations or assistance you will need and to explore potential study abroad options.

Although there may be some limiting factors, there are various support organizations that may be able to help you with your study abroad plans. Mobility International USA (MIUSA) is a non-profit organization with excellent resources dedicated to expanding opportunities for people with disabilities. Check out their website at www.miusa.org. Another excellent resource for students with disabilities who want to study abroad is Studying Abroad: A Guide to Accessible University Programs and Facilities for Students with Disabilities.

Do I have to be enrolled in a specific program to study abroad?

Study abroad programs are offered across many programs. Please contact your Study Abroad Advisor to find out which programs are open to study abroad opportunities.

At what point in my academic career can I study abroad?

Please meet with a Study Abroad Advisor at your home institution to discuss specific study abroad criteria and guidelines.

Typical examples of institutional study abroad criteria and restrictions may include-

Some institutions require students to complete a certain number of course credits, either at your home institution or another institution before being eligible to study abroad. Many institutions will not allow their students to study abroad for the first year as institutions prefer that students have some university experience - this allows you to acquire an academic history and gives you time to get used to post-secondary life and expectations.

In addition, most study abroad programs prefer for students to be at least 18 or 19 years of age. Based on these requirements, most students study abroad in the second semester of second year, during the first or second semester of third year or during the first semester of fourth year. Some programs have limitations on when you can study abroad.

Many institutions also have graduate-level study abroad programs. In addition, upon your return from studying abroad some institutions may require students to stay at their home institution for a specified period of time or certain number of course credits.

Can I study abroad at more than one university?

You will need to speak with a Study Abroad Advisor at your home institution to determine what options are available for you. Some institutions allow students to study abroad in multiple locations over the course of their program or degree.

How long can I study abroad for?

Most students study abroad for one semester but it is possible to go for up to one full academic year depending on your institution.

How do I apply to study abroad?

Each institution has a unique individual process for applying to study abroad. Many institutions require students to fill out an application form and mail or submit all completed documents in person, while other institutions have online application systems available for students to apply online. Please consult your institution's study abroad website or speak with a Study Abroad Advisor for more detailed information particular to your institution. If you have attended more than one institution of higher learning, you may be required to submit an official set of transcripts from each institution.

What does the application consist of?

Each institution has a different set of processes, requirements and documents that must accompany a student's application for studying abroad. The application package could consist of, but is not limited to, a personal information sheet, a written statement outlining personal, academic and career goals for studying abroad, a budget breakdown, personal and/or professional references and a current resume/CV. It is important to keep abreast of deadlines and to submit your study abroad application on time.

After submitting my application, can I change the courses that I want to take?

Depending on the flexibility of your home and destination institutions, you may or may not be able to alter the courses you wish to take at your study abroad destination once you have submitted your study abroad application. Before submitting your application, it is very important to consider what courses you will be able to take at the destination institution in order to ensure that they fit into your program and are eligible for transfer credit.

What if I miss the application deadline?

Most institutions have a certain number of study abroad placements they are able to fill each semester or each year. Contact your Study Abroad Advisor to find out if there are additional spots available after your institution's deadline. Late applications may be considered on a case by case basis depending on space availability and lead time required for a successful study abroad program. To have the highest chance of getting a spot at the school or destination of your choice, you should apply before the deadline.

How competitive are study abroad programs?

Some schools and programs are more competitive than others. Although study abroad placements are not guaranteed, most institutions try to ensure that everyone who expresses a genuine interest in their application and meets the minimum eligibility requirements gets an opportunity to study abroad.

What happens after I've been accepted to study abroad?

Each institution has a variety of requirements you must complete before you go. Most students attend a pre-departure session which will cover an array of topics ranging from how you need to apply to the destination institution, how transfer credit works, information on cultural adjustment, health and medical insurance, and the application process for passports and visas.

How do I apply to my destination institution?

After being accepted into a study abroad program, please contact the Study Abroad Advisor at your home institution for specific instructions on how to apply to your destination institution. Each institution has a different application process. You may be informed of this process at a pre-departure session. If you have attended more than one institution of higher learning, you may be required to submit an official set of transcripts from each institution.

Can I be rejected by my destination institution?

In certain circumstances, it is possible for a student to be rejected by the destination institution. Rejection can be based on timeliness of the application, space in the desired program, and quality of the application. Destination institutions will typically send you a notification shortly after receiving your application, transcripts and tuition fees, if applicable.

Course Registration and Credit Transfer

I do not speak a second language. Are there courses available in English?

Most destination institutions offer at least some instruction in English. Please consult with an institution's Study Abroad Advisor to determine the language of instruction for specific programs.

How do I register in classes while I'm studying abroad?

Each institution has a different registration process. Please consult with your Study Abroad Advisor for detailed information and support with registering for courses while participating in a study abroad program.

If I decide that study abroad is not right for me, is it possible to withdraw from my program after I have been accepted?

Each institution will have specific program withdrawal and refund procedures so please contact the Study Abroad Advisor at both your home and destination institution to discuss relevant policies before you register for your study abroad program.

Once registered, please contact your Study Abroad Advisors immediately to inform them if you have a change of heart. Institutions put a lot of effort into placing students in an appropriate study abroad program, and they expect that students will carefully consider their situation before applying to study abroad.

Do I get credit for all the courses I take while studying abroad?

It is important to determine which courses you can get credit for before you go. Course transfer eligibility is usually determined on a course-by-course basis specific to your home institution. It is the student's responsibility to consult with their Academic Advisor to ensure that they are meeting their program or degree requirements while studying abroad.

How will my courses transfer back to my home institution?

Before you leave to study abroad, please consult with a Study Abroad Advisor who can help you to determine which courses to take and how your credit will transfer back to your home institution.

Tip-Once you finish your courses, arrange for your Official Transcript to be sent to your home institution. Destination institutions do not always have an automatic process in place to send transcripts back to home institutions and a special request may be required.

What do I need to prepare to return to my home institution before I go?

Before you go, it is important to secure your good standing with your home institution and to make any necessary arrangements beforehand. You should consider which courses you will need to take upon your return. Some home institutions will allow you to pre-register for your courses before you go. You may need to make housing arrangements so you have a home to return to, especially if you plan to live on campus. Remember to pay your tuition and ensure that your credits will transfer properly. Your transition back to your home institution will be much easier if all paperwork is completed and procedures followed prior to your departure.

Living Abroad and Travel Planning

Where do I live when I study abroad?

Each destination institution is different. Some institutions have on campus housing, others have home stay programs available where you will be paired with a host family, and others will assist you in finding independent accommodations.

Please visit the Find a Study Abroad Program section to check each institution's website or contact each institution's Study Abroad Advisor for detailed information about specific accommodation options for each study abroad program.

Where can I find out more information about the country and city in which I am studying abroad?

There are many resources available to use in planning your overseas study abroad experience. Some popular travel guide publishers are: Let's Go, Culture Shock, Lonely Planet, DK Eyewitness Travel Guides, Footprints, and Rough Guide. Please visit the Where in the World Would You Like to Go? section of this website for direct links to these websites.

The key to finding out more information about which country and city is a good fit for you and your study abroad experience is research, research, research. Please visit the Where in the World Would You Like to Go? section of this website for direct links to websites that can help you pick your study abroad destination and start planning your trip.

What kind of support is offered by my home institution?

Most institutions with active study abroad programs support their students through the application process, partner school application process, cultural preparation through pre-departure sessions and orientations, transfer credit process and any re-adjustment to life as it was upon return.

Please see the Support Services and Helpful Links section for further information regarding support resources available to you outside of your home institution.

What is culture shock?

Culture shock is the feeling of disorientation some people experience when suddenly exposed to an unfamiliar culture, way of life or set of attitudes. It is an emotional and behavioural reaction to living and working overseas and involves an adjustment to everything from the food to the language to learning how to mail a letter. Adjusting to a new culture can be difficult and frustrating, and at times you may feel depressed or homesick. These are completely normal reactions and you are not alone. The most important thing you can do is talk about your feelings and build up a support network for yourself.

Please see the Support Services and Helpful Links section for further information regarding support resources available to you outside of your home institution.

What is reverse culture shock? What can I do to manage it?

Reverse culture shock refers to the anxiety and feelings an individual may experience upon returning to their home country after living and studying abroad.

Although your family and friends have probably heard about your adventures through email and phone conversations, they were not there with you to personally experience it. As a result, their reactions to the �new you� may appear to be distant as they try to understand the full impact of the events that have shaped your views and attitudes into what they are today. Allow yourself some time to relax, reflect and adjust to life back at home without losing the ideas and lessons learned while you were abroad.

Try to use your new knowledge to understand your own culture from an international perspective. To help ease your re-entry process, make sure to attend any orientation or welcome home sessions offered by your home institution to find out new and interesting ways to integrate your recent study abroad experience with your continued life and studies. Find opportunities to practice your newly acquired language skills by taking advanced language courses, joining a language club, or seeking out a conversation partner.

Attend workshops, meetings, foreign cultural gatherings or international clubs that can provide the opportunity to meet other students who have studied abroad, as well as international students. Share your insights into the daily cultural, academic, political and social realities of life abroad with students who are considering studying abroad; they are certain to be interested in what you have to say.

For more information on support services, please visit the Support Services and Helpful Links page of this site.

What should I pack for my study abroad trip?

You should be able to obtain a detailed list about what to pack from your home institution at the time of acceptance to your study abroad program as well as at Study Abroad Pre-departure Orientations, if offered.

It is important to pack essential items but not to try to bring everything. Remember that you will usually have to carry your luggage while in transit and most airlines have baggage restrictions. Weighing in over the limit can really put a hole in your wallet. Before you go, make sure you know what your luggage restrictions are, and take this into account when considering what you might want to bring back.

If you forget something, remember that most things can be purchased at your study abroad destination. It is a good idea to consider the cost of items overseas compared to the cost of goods at home - if products are cheaper at your study abroad destination, wait until you get there to buy them.

You will also want to keep your bags light to give yourself room to bring back souvenirs and items you acquire while living abroad.

Use the Where in the World Would You Like to Go? section to research the environmental conditions of your destination, paying close attention to weather patterns and temperature expectations. Keep clothing simple and basic, allowing yourself to layer, mix and match easily.

A list of suggested essential items when you travel abroad are the following:

Hat with a brim
Waterproof jacket
Good walking shoes
Antibacterial hand sanitizer (eg. Purel)
Band-Aids
Necessary medication that you require
Anti-nausea medication (eg. Gravol)
Anti-diarrhea medication (eg. Immodium)
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Money belt
Travel alarm clock
Small flashlight
Paper and writing utensil
Camera
Water bottle

What if I lose my airline ticket?

Contact the appropriate airline or travel agency immediately to inform them that you have lost your ticket. Many airlines have procedures you must follow to report the lost ticket, and some require you to fill out a claim form in order to issue a new ticket.

What can I expect upon arrival at the airport of my host country?

After a long flight you may be tired from jet-lag and disoriented when you arrive at your study abroad destination. After you exit the plane, you will go through Immigration and Customs. Officials may ask you about the purpose of your visit and how long you will be staying in the country. You will need to produce your passport, and any visa or immunization documents, if required. It is important to be polite, patient and answer any questions honestly.

Be cautious about your belongings and take care not to set down your baggage where it could be stolen or tampered with. It is recommended that you purchase insurance for your personal belongings, as you are responsible for any personal loses incurred while abroad. It is also recommended that you have a small amount of money in your destination country's local currency to use when you first arrive.

What are the rules and regulations regarding Customs at the airport?

Canadian citizens and residents should be aware of the rules and regulations regarding what you can bring into the destination country you are traveling to, and what you can bring back into Canada. Please visit the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) website at www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/menu-eng.html for detailed information on Customs concerns before you go. Please remember to remove all sharp objects from your carry-on luggage before you travel and leave all liquids in your checked baggage. If you plan to ship items by mail, make sure you check current customs regulations when sending restricted items such as medicines, brand new items, and electronics to ensure your packages are received without any problems.

I want to travel before and/or after my study abroad program begins. Where can I store my luggage?

Can I travel during my study abroad program?

Depending on the duration of your study abroad program, you may have some spare time to travel during weekends or extended holidays. Class attendance is mandatory when studying abroad, and any classes missed will be difficult to catch up on. Oftentimes courses will have scheduled fieldtrips where you will be able to explore the area and take in the local scenery. Remember that you are there to study, and not just to travel.

How do I file my taxes while studying abroad?

If you will be out of the country when taxes are due, and you have an income that requires you to file a return, you can file your taxes from abroad.

Before you go, you may want to speak with an accountant or choose a representative such as a Power of Attorney to handle your finances while you are away. There are services available to file your taxes online, or you may need to arrange to have tax forms sent to you or have taxes paid for you while you are out of the country.

Please consult the Canada Revenue Agency at www.cra-arc.gc.ca/menu-eng.html to familiarize yourself with your tax responsibilities while you are away.

Can I vote while studying abroad?

If you are eligible to vote in a federal electoral event, you can do it from anywhere in the world.

Visit Elections Canada's website for more information.

Do I need to nominate a Power of Attorney while studying abroad?

A �Power of Attorney� is a legal document that allows you to choose a representative, such as a parent, sibling or spouse, to act on your behalf regarding legal or official business while you are studying abroad. Although this is not necessary, it can be very helpful to have someone that you trust at home to personally deal with your bank, home institution or any financial matters that arise. You can obtain a Power of Attorney form at your local post office, from your lawyer, a notary public or online. It must be notarized to be valid. You will want to take a copy of this document with you while studying abroad and to make sure that your representative has copies of all of your pertinent information and documents necessary to act on your behalf.

I have a family. Can I take my children to study abroad with me?

Depending on the flexibility of your program and destination institution, it may or may not be possible to bring your children with you on your study abroad trip. It is advisable to consult with both an advisor at your home institution and someone who can assist you in your destination country.

If you are able to obtain permission to bring your children to study abroad with you, it is your responsibility to fulfill all necessary requirements and prepare all appropriate documents for travel and living abroad. Advisors at your destination institution must be aware of and prepared for a student with children. Children are generally not allowed on program field trips, tours or in classroom sessions. Parents will be held completely responsible for arranging childcare, education and for all costs associated with childrearing, such as housing, food, and schooling. Please be advised that bringing a child with you to study abroad can increase your costs significantly. Pets are generally not allowed on study abroad programs.

Can I bring my own cell phone with me?

Before you go, check with your cell phone provider to inquire if your phone will work at your overseas destination. Some carriers provide an international roaming service that will enable you to receive and make calls while abroad. Alternatively, you may be able to replace your SIM card with a local SIM card to cut down on costs and roaming charges. Please contact a representative from your cell phone company to determine the costs and availability of these services. Upon arrival, many students rent or purchase cell phones from local providers and buy pay-as-you-go minute packages. If you wait to purchase a cell phone, ask your Study Abroad Representative at your destination institution to help you understand your mobile options.

Should I bring a laptop with me to study abroad?

Since laptops are becoming smaller, lighter and more compact, many students prefer to bring their laptops with them for ease of comfort and familiarity. However, most study abroad campuses have computer labs with free internet access that are readily available. There are also internet cafes in most cities which charge reasonable fees by the minute or pre-calculated increments of time. Some countries have keyboards that are formatted differently.

For more information about foreign keyboards, please visit www.translation.net/keyboard_layouts.html. If you decide to bring your own laptop, please remember that if something breaks, they are often difficult to fix in foreign countries, and can get lost, damaged or stolen at your own expense.

Can I get a driver's license while studying abroad?

Depending on the length and location of your study abroad program, you may be able to get a driver's license and/or purchase a motor vehicle while abroad. Having a reliable form of transportation can ease your commute and increase your enjoyment and exposure to the area if you live in a remote community. Each country and city has different rules for obtaining a driver's license. Most cities around the world have the following basic requirements: proof of identity, proof of residency, an eye examination, a written test, automobile insurance and payment of a fee. You may also have to re-take your driving test with a local instructor. Speak with a Study Abroad Representative at your destination institution who will be able to inform you regarding whether or not driving is an option for you while abroad.

What happens if I am accepted to study abroad but need to postpone my departure due to unforeseen circumstances?

Contact your Study Abroad Advisor immediately to inform them of your change in circumstances. Some institutions have more flexibility than others and postponing your study abroad program to a later date may be a possibility. Most situations must be dealt with on a case by case basis. Depending on what stage of planning you have completed, you may need to make arrangements for a cancellation, credit or refund of prepaid airline tickets, insurance, accommodation arrangements, etc.

Passports, Study Permits and Visas

How do I get a Canadian passport?

In order to board an international flight and enter your host country, you will need to have a passport. Passport applications typically take up to 6-8 weeks for processing, but can be longer depending on demand. It is necessary to gather all pertinent documents, such as proof of Canadian citizenship, proof of identity, two recent passport-sized colour photographs and all application fees well ahead of time to prevent any delays in your application. Visit Passport Canada for more detailed information.

If you already have a passport, it must be valid for at least 6 months after you plan on returning to your home country.

Do I need to get a Study Permit or Visa to study abroad?

You may be required to get a study permit or visa before entering your destination country if plan to spend an extended amount of time studying abroad. Each country's requirements are different, and much of this information may be given to you by your Study Abroad Advisor or at a pre-departure session.

To find out what the requirements are for your destination country, contact your destination country's visa office in Canada at the following site: www.international.gc.ca/protocol-protocole/foreign_reps.aspx?lang=eng

Please be advised that it is the student's responsibility to procure all appropriate documents to enter and stay in your destination country for the duration of your study abroad program. Please apply for any required documents at least 3 months before your departure date, as processing times for official documents can be lengthy.

What should I do if I lose my passport while studying abroad?

If your passport is lost or stolen during your time abroad, you must report the situation to the local police station immediately. There you will receive official papers documenting your claim. Next, you will want to report the loss to the nearest Canadian Embassy or Consulate to apply for a new one. A list of Canadian Embassies and Consulates around the world can be accessed at w01.international.gc.ca/cra-rce/index.aspx

Don't forget to speak with a representative from your destination institution to let them know about the status of your passport.

Financial Matters

How much does it cost to study abroad?

The cost depends on the cost of living in the country that you are traveling to and what your individual spending habits are. For one semester abroad students can expect to pay for:

air travel
accommodation
tuition
medical insurance
passport
visa costs
books
and personal spending.

These amounts can vary significantly depending on where you study abroad and your personal financial habits.

Below is an approximate budget of what it may cost to study abroad for one semester:

Item	Approximate Cost
Accommodation and Daily Living Expenses	$5000
Books and Supplies	$500
Airfare	$500 - $2000
Medical/Health Insurance	$250
Passport and Visas	$150
Personal Spending	$2500
Tuition	$2000
Approximate Cost for 3 Months	$11,900 Cdn

Am I still eligible for student loans, scholarships, bursaries, and awards?

Please talk to a Financial Advisor at your home institution and refer to the Getting Started section to consult various external sources of funding to help finance your trip. Please be advised that student loans are usually determined by family income as well as educational cost.

The following website - http://www.studyabroadfunding.org/ - allows you to search by country or subject to find study abroad funding information. This site provides a database of study abroad scholarships, fellowships, and grants that can help make your dream of studying abroad a financial possibility.

How do I apply for financial aid?

You can apply for financial aid at the financial aid office of your home institution or online through various government and organizational websites. Since studying abroad may have a different fee structure, you should consult with a Financial Aid Advisor at your home institution for more specific details about program costs.

Are there any sources of funding specifically related to my study abroad program?

Many institutions provide scholarships, awards and bursaries to students studying abroad. Please speak with an Study Abroad Advisor at your home institution to find out what options are available to you. You may also consult the Getting Started page to source out additional external funding opportunities.

Is there a fee to apply to study abroad?

Depending on your home institution, there may or may not be a nominal non-refundable application fee for applying to study abroad. Please consult with a Study Abroad Advisor at your home institution.

Are there any discounts available for students studying abroad?

At your pre-departure session, your home institution will usually supply you with resources for obtaining possible student discounts while studying abroad.

One of the most popular and well-recognized student discount programs is the International Student Identity Card (ISIC). Students can obtain an ISIC from their website at www.myisic.com. Students must have a passport size photo and be able to prove your student status with documents such as a student ID from your home institution, a current class schedule or a tuition receipt. ISICs may give students access to discount airfares or cheap accommodation rates.

If you plan to travel while studying abroad, other sites such as Hostelling International provide students with access to a network of affordable accommodation in cities around the world.

If I have a student loan, how do I extend my funding after my return from studying abroad?

Please speak with a Financial Aid Advisor about your financial situation before you go. It is important that you are aware of your financial standing as you return to your home institution. Financial aid and loans may need to be reinitiated or re-applied for by a certain date. Government and/or loan organizations may need a statement from your home institution confirming your continued enrollment and verifying your registration. It is essential to discuss any concerns related to financial aid with your Financial Aid Advisor before you leave to study abroad.

How do I access my money while studying abroad?

It is important to meet with a financial representative at your bank before you go to advise them about your study abroad plans. In the majority of cases, the easiest, least expensive and most convenient way for you to access funds is to use an ATM debit card, major credit card (AMEX, Mastercard, Visa) or traveler's cheques.

Consult with your local bank to ensure that your ATM debit card has been approved for overseas use and has an international pin number. Money can be deposited from Canada into the account and taken out at the standing exchange rate in the local currency abroad. Please be advised that taking out small and frequent amounts can result in multiple expensive service charges both by your home bank in Canada and the bank abroad for each transaction. Check with your bank for details about foreign ATM fees and your ability to access your bank account online to check balances and pay bills.

Can I use my debit card while studying abroad?

Debit cards are the best way to withdraw money while studying abroad. Before you go, consult with your bank to let them know you will be using your debit card while studying and traveling abroad. They will be able to advise you regarding what international withdrawal and currency conversion fees you may be subject to and how best to avoid these extra costs.

Can I use traveler's cheques while studying abroad?

Traveler's cheques are important to have for emergency cases or when you are unable to access an ATM machine. However, in some parts of the world traveler's cheques are not always equal to cash and Canadian currency and are not always widely accepted. Buy your traveler's cheques in the appropriate currency or in US dollars. You may be required to exchange traveler's cheques to local currency at a lower exchange rate. In addition, sometimes foreign banks require you to produce the original receipt in order to exchange the traveler's cheques. It is often easier and more practical to use your debit or credit card for regular transactions.

Can I use my credit card while studying abroad?

Most major credit cards, such as American Express, MasterCard and Visa are accepted internationally. Be prepared to have an alternative form of payment ready as credit cards are not accepted in all areas, particularly in rural areas. Before you go, speak with a representative at your bank so you are informed about overseas fees and percentage charges for currency exchange rates on your credit card.

How do I avoid high banking fees while studying abroad?

It is possible to travel and study abroad without incurring numerous high bank charges at home. Try to avoid frequent withdrawals from ATMs: budget for your spending needs ahead of time and take out the appropriate amount. Some banks have international partnerships with other banks across the world. Before you go, inquire with a financial advisor at your bank about possible partnerships your bank may have with other financial institutions. If your bank does not offer any international services, you may want to look into a more globally-oriented bank that can serve your needs while you are studying abroad. It is also possible to open an account with a local bank to save you money. Please consult with a Study Abroad Representative at your destination institution for further information upon your arrival.

Medical and Safety

Where can I find information about health and safety abroad?

Information regarding health and safety abroad is most commonly discussed at pre-departure sessions and destination institution orientations. Before you go, make sure to have your regular physical and dental checkups. If you take prescription medications on a regular basis, bring a supply with you to last the duration of your stay. If this is not possible, ask your doctor to write a letter describing your condition and the generic name of the medication you take and at what dosage. Make sure all prescriptions are in the original container and carry a copy of the prescription with you to avoid any problems. Try to get information about the health care system and quality of care where you will be studying abroad. Be prepared for any reactions you may have to a new diet, water quality and other concerns.

Take a basic medical kit with you and be prepared for common travel ailments such as diarrhea and nausea. Staying safe and healthy abroad includes following any rules you would at home: avoid drug use, dangerous alcohol consumption, sexually transmitted diseases and HIV. Use common sense and be aware of your surroundings. Be careful not to walk alone at night and protect your passport at all times.

Students are advised to familiarize themselves with the address and phone number of the nearest Canadian Embassy or Consulate in the city or country they are studying in. It is important to keep all personal documents such as your passport, credit cards, medical insurance records and any other travel documents in a safe and easily accessible location. Money belts or other protective pouches are a good investment and a convenient way to safeguard your vital documents and can be purchased at many outdoor recreation or travel stores before you go. Do not display large amounts of money in public and distribute your funds throughout your person and in your luggage.

Students can find information about any warnings for those traveling abroad through various travel advisory websites including the Centre for Disease Control's travel website at www.cdc.gov/travel, DFAIT's Country Travel Reports and Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada's �Bon Voyage, But...Information for the Canadian Traveller�.

I am a British Columbia student. Will MSP cover my medical insurance costs while studying abroad?

BC students who leave BC temporarily to study abroad may be eligible for provincial Medical Services Plan (MSP) coverage for the duration of their studies, provided they are in full-time attendance at a recognized educational facility and are enrolled in a program which leads to a degree or certificate recognized in Canada. However, certain conditions apply. Students are advised to contact MSP directly for further information.

Since costs of medical care overseas may exceed the cost and services covered by MSP, it is recommended that students purchase additional medical insurance for the duration of their time abroad. Some students may also be required to enroll in the medical insurance plans provided by the destination institution or country where they plan to study.

Many post-secondary students may have already �opted in� to the student society's extended health care plan of their BC home institution. If this is the case, students are advised to review their insurance provider's benefits booklet to find out the coverage period, range of services, and corresponding cost limits for travel emergency medical insurance.

Do I need to purchase medical insurance for studying abroad?

To find out more about what types of medical insurance are recommended for studying abroad, please contact your Study Abroad Advisor for more detailed information. Medical insurance topics are usually covered extensively at pre-departure sessions offered by your home institution.

Please talk with your Study Abroad Advisor to determine if you need to purchase additional extended medical insurance.

Making the decision to buy travel medical insurance involves asking yourself the following questions:

Do I have the financial resources available to pay for an unexpected hospital visit if I fall ill or have an accident?
Do I have family members or friends at home who can assist with flying me home or visiting me in a time of medical need while I am traveling?
Do I have the resources to return home in the case of an untimely death or accident?
Am I traveling to a country where health care is expensive or access to quality health care if difficult?
Do I have a pre-existing condition that may flare up while I am abroad?
Will I be participating in any activities that may increase my chance of injury?

There are many types of medical insurance and no two plans are the same. You can choose from different types of coverage, such as trip cancellation, baggage loss/theft, and emergency/accidental medical insurance. Additional important questions to ask include:

what are the details and limitations of your medical insurance coverage?
what exactly does your insurance plan cover?
is an insurance card provided with the plan?
what are the exact dates of coverage?
is it possible to extend your insurance coverage in the case that you decide to leave before your program's official start date and/or continue your stay after the program ends?
does your insurance plan cover your personal belongings?

If you already have medical coverage, it is worthwhile to do some investigating before investing in a private plan. Check with your credit card companies, existing health and life insurance plans and rental/homeowner's insurance to determine what type of coverage, if any, you already possess.

If you do decide to purchase medical insurance, carry the claims phone number for your travel insurance company as well as your policy number with you at all times. Contact your insurance company immediately in the case of injury or illness, and keep a written log of all communication with the insurance company. Keep copies of everything you mail in and any other vital paperwork.

Do I need to get immunization shots before studying abroad?

Pre-departure sessions can give you a lot of valuable information about the country you are traveling to and what health advice you may need to take. Each country is different, and depending on where you plan to study abroad, the length of your stay and whether or not your routine vaccinations are up to date, you may need immunizations. If you are traveling to a developing country, typhoid fever, hepatitis A and B, cholera and yellow fever are frequently recommended. If traveling to malarial areas, you may need to take anti-malarial pills. Since it can take several weeks for an immunization to take effect, you should consult with a travel health clinic two to three months before your departure.

For detailed and current international medical information, visit the Centre for Disease Control at http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/ and click on the �Traveler's Health� button.

How should I let my family and friends know that I have arrived safely?

Family and friends are often just as excited about your trip as you are, and are anxious to know that you have arrived safely. The first few days after your arrival can be overwhelming as you absorb information and adjust to your new surroundings and time zone.

Don't forget to contact your friends and family upon arrival to let them know how you are doing. Most cities have internet cafes and/or you can purchase a calling card which is an affordable and convenient option to contact them. Calling cards can be purchased prior to departure in your home country or your can purchase them once abroad. Be sure to check the rates offered in the country in which you are studying abroad, as costs tend to vary depending on the type of card you buy. It is strongly recommended that you leave detailed contact information about your residence and destination institution with your family before you go.

Internet calling has become an increasingly popular and cost-effective method that allows you to make phone calls using a computer with an internet connection. Companies such as Skype, Vonage and Google Videochat provide this VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) service, which is often free to sign up and free to use if you're calling someone with the same VoIP provider.

Are there risks involved in studying abroad?

Studying abroad can be a challenging experience. Regular tasks may at first be difficult as you adjust to your new environment. Students will be exposed to a new environment with risks that may be different to the risks faced by those staying in Canada. Culture shock and language differences can be very challenging for students.

Pre-departure orientation sessions help to reduce the risk as institutions try to select and prepare students appropriately for their experience. Despite preparations for departure, students need to take the appropriate precautions in order to have a safe and successful trip. The best way to prepare yourself for studying abroad is to research your destination thoroughly.

The Canadian Government publishes Travel Reports on all countries which offer information on safety and security, local laws and customs, entry requirements, health conditions and other important travel issues. To access governmental Travel Reports and Warnings please visit www.voyage.gc.ca/countries_pays/menu-eng.asp#G

Is it necessary to register myself with the Canadian Embassy or Consulate while studying abroad?

In the case of an emergency or a disaster overseas, it is beneficial to be registered with the Canadian Embassy in the country in which you will be studying abroad. If a consulate officer needs to contact you to notify you of any important news or assist in evacuation, having information about your presence and whereabouts beforehand becomes a helpful precaution. Make sure to keep your contact information up to date.

For a list of Canadian Embassies abroad and to register with a Consular Office, please visit www.international.gc.ca/ciw-cdm/embassies-ambassades.aspx?lang=eng.

I identify as an LGBTQ individual. Should I be concerned about discrimination while studying abroad?

Depending on the country in which you are traveling to, the acceptance or discrimination of individuals who identify as LGBTQ can vary greatly from your home country. Community policies, laws and socially acceptable behaviour may be different in foreign countries, and local governments may or may not provide the same level of protection or support of individuals' liberties in the LGBTQ group. Public decency laws, prejudices and attitudes will fluctuate depending on societal norms, however, attitudes may be less prejudicial than you may expect. It is important to research the situation in your host country before departure. Be aware of civil liberties and social laws towards sexuality that you may come across before you go.

Consult the following websites for some helpful resources for LGBTQ travelers.

What happens if there is an emergency while I am away?

Please refer to the Support Services and Helpful Links page for more information. In the case of an emergency or a disaster overseas, it is beneficial to be registered with the Canadian Embassy in the country in which you will be studying abroad. In addition, many institutions have extensive systems of support to deal with emergencies that occur while studying abroad.