Advising & Applications now open for Spring 2026 in London, Argentina, Chile, Costa Rica & Paros Island. Click here to get started

Pre-Departure Guide

Screenshot 2025-09-24 at 12.07.27
We have all the resources you need to prepare for your time abroad!

 

We know it can be overwhelming and you likely have a ton of questions. Our Pre-Departure Guide is full of helpful info, including packing tips, insurance information, budgeting, and more. 

 

 

  • Questions about credit transfer? Check out the Credit Transfer & Academics section of our FAQs!
  • Parents have questions? We have a Parent & Family Guide just for them. 
  • Don’t have a passport? Apply ASAP (we recommend expedited service to ensure you have your passport in time).
  • Already have a passport? Check the expiration date and confirm it will be valid 6 months after your program ends. If it does expire before then, plan to renew it immediately. 

Pre-Departure Guide - For All ASA Programs

ASA’s Pre-Departure Guide for All Programs is a MUST-READ! This guide is relevant to both students and parents and covers the following topics:

__icon
What to Pack (and what NOT to pack)
__icon-1
Money and Banking
__icon-Mar-20-2024-10-08-05-6502-AM
Cell Phones
__icon-1-1
Voltage and Plug Adapters
__icon-2
Vaccinations
__icon-3
Bringing your Prescription Medication Abroad
__icon-2-1
Medical Care and Insurance
__icon-3-1
Culture Shock
__icon-4-1
Mental Health while Abroad
__icon-4
Safety
__icon-Mar-26-2024-03-01-24-2253-PM
Pre-departure Guide

Site-Specific Pre-Departure Guides

These cover topics specific to each program location, such as Housing:

 

img-section-b-student (1)-1
__icon-Mar-20-2024-10-27-56-6671-AM
Parent & Family Guidebook

 

Parent and family support are a vital part of a successful study abroad experience. This guidebook addresses concerns that parents may have and offers best practices for helping launch their student on a life-changing experience! Explore ways parents can help students prepare and support them before, during, and after their study abroad experience. Click here for the Parent & Family Guidebook

__icon-1-2
Diversity, Equity, And Inclusion Resources

 

At this link, you can find resources and support tailored to students from diverse backgrounds - first generation college students, racially and ethnically diverse students, LGBTQ+ students, students with disabilities, and more.

__icon_play
ASA Video Library

 

Check out ASA’s YouTube channel for helpful videos on a variety of topics, such as: Cell Phones, What to Pack, What NOT to Pack, Money, Jet Lag, Safety, and more.

Student Visa Information

(Applies To U.S. Passport Holders Only)

IMPORTANT! PLEASE DO NOT PLAN ANY INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL DURING THE 3 MONTHS PRIOR TO THE START OF YOUR PROGRAM. IT COULD INTERFERE WITH YOUR VISA PROCESS. To get a visa, you typically have to leave your passport at the Consulate for 5-8 weeks.

*STUDENTS GOING TO SPAIN: ASA may be able to get your Student Visa FOR YOU if you live or study in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Maine, or Vermont. Minimum number of sign-ups required. The additional fee for this service is $150. Full details will be sent to eligible students after they are accepted to the ASA program. If you do not live or study in the specific states listed above, you will need to apply for your visa on your own – ASA will send you detailed, helpful information about how to apply for your visa on your own after you are accepted.

img-card-filters-Aberdeen-Mar-20-2024-10-36-56-2963-AM
Flight Booking Tips

 

Please wait to book a flight until you're accepted to the program and you receive an email from ASA with detailed arrival and departure instructions. This will ensure you don't miss any mandatory orientations, and help you arrive in time for our airport pick-up.

Learn More Tips
img-card-filters-Aberdeen-1-1
International Medical Insurance

(Included with all ASA Programs)

 

img-card-filters-Aberdeen-2-1
Financial Aid

 

Financial Aid Verification (FAV) If you’re planning to pay for the program with financial aid, please read our Financial Aid Guidelines

book

Download the Free Ultimate Study Abroad Roadmap!

 

 

Epic study abroad experiences don't just happen. To have a truly life-changing experience you need a plan - a roadmap. We can help.

 

 

Download