Travel Information
The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. For your study abroad journey, consider taking these first few steps with us to make your initial “getting there” travel experience easier.
A good place to start is http://studentsabroad.state.gov, where you can learn more about the culture, required travel documents, local tips and more. In addition, you can register your travel with the U.S. Department of State so that you may be contacted if need be, whether because of a family emergency in the United States, or because of a crisis in the area in which you are traveling. https://travelregistration.state.gov
We also recommend that you look into the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) for its valuable forms of travel insurance, discounts on travel and more. For more information on the ISIC card, please visit, http://www.myisic.com/
Although you are not required to carry an ISIC card, it does carry a great deal of benefits, such as:
- Access to special student airfares;
- Student prices on coach, rail and ferry travel abroad;
- Access to the worldwide student travel office network;
- Savings on accommodation, sightseeing and entertainment;
- Access to the ISIC 24 hour free helpline - this can help with health, legal and general emergencies.
The Study Abroad Office does not recommend that you book your flight until you have secured your visa (if required). However, if you do decide to take the risk (e.g. to secure a cheap deal) you are advised to find out how much your airline will charge you for a cancellation, or if they’ll let you alter departure dates and how much that will cost you. It is possible for you not make your original flight due to delays with visa applications.
You can make travel arrangements by first checking with your local travel agent. If you purchase the ISIC, you are eligible for the discounted student airfares at Council Travel, or STA Travel. Reserve your tickets as early as you can because rates usually rise the closer you get to your departure date. Make sure you double check the arrival dates of the host institution and when the semester begins to plan accordingly.