Orientation
The Office of International Programs requires participation in pre-departure orientations for all study abroad participants.Ìý Orientation details are announced in program acceptance letters.
Passports & Visas
Passports
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Please note! Current can take up to 4 months.Ìý
Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months after your program return date.
Visas
A visa is a special stamp that the consulate will issue in your passport, allowing you to enter the country for your study abroad program. Not every study abroad student needs to apply for a student visa. In fact, most summer study abroad programs (lasting fewer than 90 days) do not require a visa. If you are studying abroad on a Meredith Abroad faculty-led program, the Office of International Programs will notify you if obtaining a visa is necessary. Students applying for affiliate programs will work with their study abroad providers to obtain student visas, should they be required.
Electronic Travel Authorizations (UK ETA & ETIAS for Europe)
As global travel requirements continue to evolve, two new electronic travel authorization systems may impact your study abroad plans: the UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) and the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). These systems are not visas, but required travel authorizations for short stays in the UK and many European countries.
UK ETA – Electronic Travel Authorization (United Kingdom)
- Who needs it? U.S. citizens and other visa-exempt travelers entering the UK for short-term stays.
- When to apply: Check theÌýÌýfor up-to-date implementation dates by nationality.
- How to apply: Online application, typically requiring a valid passport, a digital photo, and a small fee
ETIAS – European Travel Information and Authorization System
Starting in 2026, travelers from visa-exempt countries (including the U.S.) will need an ETIAS to enter most European countries in the Schengen Area. This includes popular study abroad destinations like France, Spain, Italy, and Germany.
- Who needs it? U.S. citizens and other visa-exempt travelers visiting Schengen countries for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period).
- When to apply: Once ETIAS becomes active (expected in 2026).
- How to apply: Online, through the — a valid passport, personal information, and a fee will be required.
Note: These authorizations are typically processed quickly but should be applied for well in advance of your departure date to avoid travel disruptions.
If your program is longer than 90 days, you may still need a student visa, even if you have an ETA or ETIAS. Make sure to follow the visa instructions provided by your program or study abroad provider.
Pre-departure Handbook
Studying abroad will likely be one of the most exciting adventures of your life!
Prior to departure, you will begin to wonder what you should pack, what health precautions you should take, and what it will be like living and studying in your host country. This handbook and the general study abroad orientations will help answer most of those questions. Read the handbook before orientation and share the link below with your parents, family, and support network if they are helping you prepare.
Office of International ProgramsÌýStudy Abroad Pre-departure HandbookÌý(±Ê¶Ù¹ó)
