Before You Go

You're almost there. Let's get you set up for takeoff.

Studying abroad comes with a little prep work, but it's all manageable and worth it. From passports to financial aid to class registration, here's what you need to know before heading out.

Getting a Passport

You'll need a valid passport for any study abroad program. If you don't have one yet, apply as soon as possible.

You can pick up an application at the Post Office near University Mall, Study Abroad Programs, or download it from the U.S. State Department. You'll need:

Two passport photos
Proof of citizenship (like a birth certificate)
Proof of identity (like a driver's license or SIU ID)
A processing fee

Already have a passport? Make sure it won't expire within six months of your return date. Some countries won't let you enter if it does.

Visas

A visa gives you legal permission to enter and study in another country. Whether you need one depends on where you're going, how long you'll be there, and your citizenship.

Short-term programs may not require a visa, but longer ones usually do. Your program will let you know what's required. Just remember, you need a passport before you can apply for a visa, so don't wait.

Registering for Credit

All students must stay enrolled at SIU while studying abroad.

Faculty-led Global Seminar: Registered for the connected course automatically
Exchanges: Enrolled in LAC 388 – Study Abroad (minimum 12 credit hours per semester)
Other programs: Start in LAC 288 – Study Abroad Orientation, continue with UNIV 388 – Study Abroad Continuing Enrollment, and be co-registered at your host school

This keeps your enrollment active and ensures you stay eligible for credit and financial aid.

Financial Aid

Yes, financial aid can be used for study abroad. Most federal, state, and institutional aid applies, and there are scholarships specifically for students pursuing international programs. After you’ve applied for a study abroad program, SIU or your program provider will issue a budget letter that you’ll submit to the Financial Aid Office. To receive financial aid, you’ll need to have a FAFSA on file for the correct term and be registered in a study abroad course. If you plan to study abroad during the summer, you can also request a preliminary aid estimate before the summer financial aid application becomes available.

Financial Aid Process

Scholarships

SIU Scholarships
Every Global Seminar has at least one scholarship tied to it. If you're doing a semester or year-long program, you’ll be considered automatically for relevant SIU awards when you apply. Some departments also offer scholarships you can use toward study abroad.
Undergraduate Academic Scholarships

Graduate Scholarships
External Scholarships
There are national scholarships that SIU students have won before. These include:

Gilman Scholarship

Freeman-ASIA

Bridging Scholarships for Japan

DAAD for study in Germany

Fulbright and Boren Awards

You can find more details and scholarship databases on our External Scholarships page.

Health and Safety

Before you leave, you’ll get an overview of health and safety basics. That includes a short video and information tailored to your destination.

We also recommend visiting the Travel Consultation & Immunization Clinic at the SIU Student Health Center, especially if you're going to a region that requires vaccinations or has limited access to medical care.

For more, visit the Health & Safety section on our Resources page.

Insurance

All SIU students studying abroad must have international health and emergency insurance. You’ll be enrolled in Gallagher insurance automatically if you’re in a Global Seminar. For other programs, enrollment depends on your program type and length.

Some third-party programs come with their own insurance. In those cases, Gallagher may not be required.

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