Prepare to Go Abroad

On this page:

Pre-Departure Checklist

photo of a student on a study abroad trip

  1. Policy

    Before you depart, review Wright State's study abroad policy and attend a pre-departure meeting with your Ambassador Program leader or study abroad advisor.

  2. Money

    • Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid potential holds on your account.
    • Obtain local currency (equivalent to $50–$100 USD) from a bank or AAA for emergency cash upon arrival (Optional).
    • Use ATM's to withdraw local currency on arrival; cash may be the preferred payment method in some places, be sure to read about the norms at your destination.
    • Bring a backup credit or debit card in case of emergencies (e.g., pick pocketing, lost bag).
    • Prepare a budget and familiarize yourself with the local currency conversion.

  3. Documents

    • Make copies of your passport, travel itinerary, and local contact information. Leave one set at home and bring another with you.
    • Bring copies of your SOS insurance card.
    • Have a list of local emergency resources, including the local equivalent of 911, Wright State police department's number, and your in-country emergency contact.
    • If you're participating in Third Party or Exchange programs, take a copy of your proposed course sheet with you on your abroad program as a reference in case course adjustments are needed while abroad.

  4. Packing

    • Pack lightly! You’ll be responsible for carrying your bags during travel. Ensure you can carry all your belongings on your own.
    • Check airline baggage limits, including international and any domestic flights; extra baggage fees can be costly.
    • Avoid placing valuables in checked baggage (especially prescription medications).
    • Pack practical, washable clothes that don’t require dry cleaning, and consider dark colors to hide dirt.
    • Leave irreplaceable items (e.g., sentimental jewelry) at home.

Passports and Visas

Important: Do not use websites such as "Rushmypassport" for obtaining a passport. You should never pay online for filling out the DS-11 Application Form. These websites charge you for their 'service' which can be done by yourself. The only website for US Passport inquiries is www.travel.state.gov.

Students must have a passport for participation in any education abroad program. Our office is a Passport Acceptance Facility and can help you with this process. You can now make an appointment with the University Center for International Education on campus to apply for a U.S. passport! We accept Wright State students, faculty, staff, family, and even community members.

Please note that you need to allow at least 4 to 6 weeks for routine service, and 2 to 3 weeks for expedited service.

To turn in your U.S. Passport Application at the University Center for International Education, an appointment is required. You can schedule an appointment online. We are located at 224 Student Union. Please email studyabroad@wright.edu for any questions.

Appointments are available during the following times and must be scheduled 24 hours in advance (same-day appointments are not available for passport applications).

  • 9–11 a.m., Tuesdays
  • 1–3 p.m., Tuesdays

Obtaining a First-Time Passport

Below is a list of the things you will need for a new passport.

  • Passport Application (DS-11 form)
  • Proof of Citizenship (birth certificate, proof of naturalization, consular report of birth abroad or certificate of citizenship).
  • Current Identification (driver’s license, or government issued identification card).
  • Passport Photo - Can be obtained from a number of local facilities including Meijer (next to campus).
  • Fees: $130 for routine service of an adult passport book. Passport cards are $30 for adults. Also, $60 fee for expedited service and $35 execution fee as well.

Payment Options

Passport fee: Check or money order (made payable to U.S. Department of State)

Execution fee:  Check or money order (made payable to Wright State University)

Passport Resources

Visas and other Entry Requirements

Each country has different requirements and procedures for entry. These will be your first steps to determine the requirements for your program:

  • Look to see if there is a need for a visa given your specific program’s location(s) and duration
  • Identify the consulate or embassy location which has jurisdiction over visa issuance for your state
  • Obtain up-to-date visa instructions from the consulate or embassy
  • Submit the visa application, passport, and other supporting documents according to the instructions provided to you It takes time to obtain a visa, so be sure to plan ahead!

For more information about entry requirements, please visit: www.cdc.gov/travel or embassy.org  

Travel Insurance

photo of a student on a study abroad trip

Ensuring Your Safety and Well-being While Abroad

At Wright State University, the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff traveling abroad is our top priority. To support this, we provide comprehensive travel insurance coverage through International SOS (ISOS), ensuring you are protected no matter where you are in the world. 

Why Travel Insurance is Important

Studying abroad is an exciting opportunity that comes with its own set of challenges and risks. Travel insurance is crucial because:

  • Health Emergencies: Access to medical care and prescriptions wherever you are.
  • Safety: 24/7 assistance in case of emergencies such as accidents or natural disasters.
  • Travel Updates: Stay informed about the latest travel advisories and safety tips.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing that you are covered allows you to focus on your studies and cultural experiences without unnecessary worry.

About International SOS (ISOS) Coverage 

International SOS, a Medical and Security Solutions Company, has been contracted to cover all faculty, staff, and students traveling for Wright State on business or Wright State-sponsored programs abroad.

Key Benefits

  • SOS Card: Access the ISOS website and receive email updates on your destination.
  • 24/7 Assistance: ISOS representatives are available around the clock, worldwide.
  • Medical Services: Access to clinics, prescriptions, and evacuation and repatriation services.
  • Consulate Registration: Automatic registration with the local US Consulate, as recommended by the US Department of State.

For Faculty and Staff: Apply for ISOS

Additional Insurance Requirements

  • Ambassador Programs: Students in Ambassador Programs will be registered for additional health insurance through the UCIE.
  • External Partner Programs: Students in these programs will have additional health insurance included in their program fee for the duration of their stay abroad.
  • Exchange Programs and Student Selected Programs: Students in these programs are required to purchase additional health insurance before departure through the UCIE.

For more information and assistance with your travel insurance needs, please contact the Study Abroad Office. Your safety is our priority, and we are here to ensure you have a secure and enriching experience abroad.  

Top Ten Tips for Travelers

  1.  Ensure you have a signed, valid passport and visa (if required). Fill in the emergency information page of your passport before you go.
  2.  Review the Consular Information Sheets and any relevant Public Announcements or Travel Warnings for the countries you plan to visit.
  3.  Leave copies of your itinerary, passport data page, and visas with family or friends at home for emergency contact purposes.
  4.  Be sure to have your insurance documentation with you, and you are informed of how to access help if needed. 
  5.  Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs of the countries you’re visiting. Remember, you are subject to the laws of the country you’re in.
  6.  Never leave luggage unattended in public areas and never accept packages from strangers.
  7.  Avoid using illicit drugs, drinking excessively, and associating with people who do.
  8.  Avoid becoming a target for theft by not wearing conspicuous clothing or expensive jewelry and by not carrying excessive cash or unnecessary credit cards.
  9.  Exchange money and purchase art or antiques only through authorized agents to avoid violating local laws.
  10.  Steer clear of demonstrations and other situations that may become unruly or where anti-American sentiments may be expressed.  

Other Important Details

  • Leave photocopies of important documents (e.g., passport, credit cards, driver's license, student ID, traveler check numbers) with someone you trust in the U.S.
  • Consider giving someone you trust Power of Attorney to handle your finances (e.g., tax returns, bills, money transfers) while you’re abroad.
  • Ensure your emergency contact has access to your passport, credit cards, and medical insurance information for easy replacement if lost or stolen.