Preparing to go abroad

Once your nomination and application has been confirmed by the Study Abroad Manager, you should consider the following items in preparation for your journey abroad.

Travel and living arrangements

Information regarding the host institution's housing options, expected arrival dates, in-country orientation and services is generally provided once you have been formally accepted into the program abroad. In the meantime, it is a good idea to check the host university's website in order to familiarize yourself with their services.

Most institutions offer on-campus accommodation. In cases where on-campus housing is not available, the institution will help you with resources and support to find suitable accommodation.

After you are accepted into the program and have received your official admission documents, it is essential that you meet any deadlines outlined by the host institution to ensure that you do not jeopardize your international exchange.

It is your responsibility to arrange your international flights to/from the destination. It is recommended that you do so after you have been accepted into the program and that you purchase cancellation insurance in the occassion that you may have to alter your travel dates.

Visas

The host institutions will also provide instructions regarding the appropriate, required, travel documents. You will be responsible to follow the outlined procedures in order to secure the necessary documents.

Pre-departure sessions

All students participating in an exchange are required to attend a pre-departure session organized by the International Programs Office/Waterloo International. Pre-departure sessions are offered every term; you may choose to attend either the December, April, or July session (dates/location are posted here).