Semester Abroad Checklist

Semester Abroad Check List

Studying for a semester or year abroad can be a life-changing experience. In order to make that possible, there are several steps that must be followed — from discernment about desired place of study to getting on the plane! To help you track your progress here’s a list of things that need to be done. The steps are not necessarily in order — for instance, if planning to study abroad in the Spring 2025 and you do not have your passport you should apply for one now, using the expedited process.

1. Attend a Study Abroad Workshop, ether in person at OIP or at one of our Information sessions, and/or the Study Abroad Fair (Sept. 30, 10am-2pm)
   • Also check out our partner programs at https://goabroad.whittier.domains/semester-abroad/
2. Complete the required internal Whittier College Application at https://goabroad.whittier.domains/apply/ to get approved to study abroad.
3. Once you receive approval, apply to your program.
   • Follow all deadlines and requirements instructed by your program.
   • Check to see if your program requires international travel and health insurance; if not, notify the Office of International Programs.
4. Confirm with WC Financial Aid about how/whether your Whittier aid applies to your study abroad experience (e.g., for affiliate 3^rd party programs JGW, etc., do not apply, though State and Federal Aid do; for Exchange programs usual Whittier aid package does not usually change much, but no work-study). It is the student’s responsibility to confirm how their aid applies.
5. Fill out as soon as possible the WC Concurrent Enrollment Form(s) in conversation with your academic advisor. 
6. With the help of the Office of International Programs, enroll in INTD 380 for the semester(s) you are studying abroad.
7. Get your passport as soon as possible! Passport applications can easily be done through many local Us post-offices.
8. Make sure you obtain the proper visa.
9. Continue to apply for federal and state financial aid if you plan on using that kind of financial to help pay for your program.
10. Complete the WC insurance fee waiver through the Business Office for the semester(s) in which you study abroad. 
11. Complete the eRefund form through the WC Business office portal so that any relevant financial aid can be used for your study abroad.
12. Complete any and all forms required by the WC Business Office, Financial Aid Office, Res Life, etc., not listed above. 
13. Get your plane tickets!
14. Go on your program!