Before you leave campus:

• If you originally applied to more than one program, notify the Office of Off-Campus Study & Exchanges of your final program choice by completing a Change of Status form available through OCSE.
• Read thoroughly all the materials sent to you by your study abroad program and Skidmore’s OCSE.
• Complete all forms and paperwork as required by your program sponsor and Skidmore.
• Meet with your academic advisor to discuss the courses you will take when you return. Make a list of these classes and take it with you to your program abroad.
• Provide OCSE with an e-mail address if it is different form your Skidmore address. Also, provide the mailroom with a forwarding address in the U.S.
• Complete the Housing Preference Form and return it to the Residential Life Office.
• Pay all phone bills, parking tickets, and library fines before you leave campus.
• Move everything out of your residence hall room or apartment. Return all library books and settle all outstanding matters on campus.

Before you leave the U.S.:

• Make sure that you have a passport that will be valid at least six months beyond the end of your program.
• Obtain all the required visas for your program and the countries you plan to visit. This process can take months to complete, so do not wait until the last minute! The Department of State's web site is a good place to start.
• Review the State Department’s Country Background Notes for each country you plan to visit.
• Review the State Department's Current Travel Warnings.
• Make sure that you have health insurance that will cover you overseas and includes medical evacuation and repatriation. Students participating on Skidmore and approved programs will be covered through the Office of Off-Campus Study & Exchanges. Please see AIG information for details. Students studying on approved programs may have additional coverage through their program provider and should check with their program provider for details.
• Check with the Centers for Disease Control to see which immunizations are recommended for your program site.
• Research the culture, history, customs and politics of your host country.
• Know how you will handle other money related matters. Exchange a small amount of currency ($100 to $200) so that you have some funds when you arrive in country.