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Step 1
Apply for a passport. If you are applying for your first passport or if you lost your passport, you have to apply in person. You can do this at many United States Post Office branches. It can take anywhere from six to 12 months to get a passport, so plan accordingly.
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Step 2
Get proper vaccinations. The vaccines you need vary depending on the country in which you will study. Contact your local health department to find out what vaccinations you need.
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Step 3
Check your insurance. Some insurance companies won't provide coverage in other countries. You should contact the benefits department of your insurance company to find out if you will be covered during your trip. If you will be covered, you should request coverage information, including health care facilities that accept your insurance.
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Step 4
Obtain a copy of your medical records. This is especially important if you have any health conditions or need daily medications. Providing a copy of your medical records to health care providers abroad allows them to use that information to help diagnose or treat any illnesses.
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Step 5
Prepare your finances. You need to determine the amount of money you will use in both U.S. dollars and the currency of the country in which you will study. Use a currency exchange rate calculator to do this step. See the Resources section below for a link.
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Step 1
Make an effort to learn a few basic phrases that are commonly used in the country where you will be studying. Taking an online course to learn proper pronunciation and spelling.
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Step 2
Make associations. When you are learning a new language, it is usually easier to remember words and phrases if you say them while you are looking at the item or performing the task associated with the words. For example, if you are drinking a cup of coffee, say the corresponding phrase for drinking a cup of coffee while you are taking a sip.
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Step 3
Research the local customs. Some gestures and actions mean different things in different countries. You should become familiar with any holidays that will occur during your stay. Many holidays have different traditions in every country.
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Step 1
Pack appropriate clothing. Packing shorts and sleeveless shirts would be inappropriate for a Russian winter. In most cases, two weeks worth of clothing is enough to get you through your settling in phase.
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Step 2
Bring adapters for your electronics. You may need multiple adapters if you are bringing more than one electrical appliance. You can find these adapters at your local electronics store.
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Step 3
Keep your important documents, one full change of clothing, medications and essential toiletries in a carry on bag in case your luggage gets lost.
