Health & Safety

Physical & Mental Health 

All students are required to complete a physical exam prior to departure. Some countries or visa processes may require additional documentation. 

Before you leave: 

• Schedule a visit with your primary care provider. 
• Discuss both physical and mental health needs. 
• Review any country-specific vaccination requirements. 
• Make a plan for ongoing care if needed. 

Students are responsible for ensuring all required vaccinations and medical documentation are completed before departure.

Prescriptions & Medications

If you take prescription medication: 

• Bring an adequate supply for your time abroad (when legally permitted). 
• Keep medications in original labeled containers. 
• Carry a doctor’s letter explaining the prescription. 
• Pack medications in your carry-on luggage. 
• Research whether your medication is legal in your host country. 

Some medications available in the U.S. may be restricted or unavailable abroad, so plan early.

Food & Dietary Needs 

Food safety standards vary by country. 

To reduce risk: 

• Drink bottled or treated water where advised. 
• Be cautious with unpasteurized dairy. 
• Avoid undercooked or unrefrigerated foods. 
• Use discretion with street vendors until you are familiar with local practices. 

Students with dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, allergies, etc.) should research availability in advance and discuss concerns with their advisor.

Insurance (CISI)

All students studying abroad through UW-Platteville Education Abroad are enrolled in the mandatory Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) health and medical evacuation insurance. CISI's comprehensive plan provides students with all the coverage and security needed while traveling abroad, including the following: 

• 24-hour emergency crisis support with multilingual representatives 
• Medical evacuation and repatriation of remains 
• Payments in foreign currencies 
• Foreign hospital guarantees 
• Consulate letters for help in obtaining visas 
• Coverage for independent travel 
• Benefits payable at 100% of costs without co-payments 

This insurance in mandatory and students are advised to remain on the insurance plan they use in the U.S. as the CISI insurance will not cover any medical assistance that students may need upon any unexpected return to the U.S. for health reasons.

Safety & Security

Education Abroad staff monitor U.S. State Department updates and maintain communication with on-site program partners. 

Students are also expected to: 

• Stay informed about local conditions. 
• Follow guidance from on-site staff. 
• Use common-sense precautions. 

General Safety Tips 

• Research destinations before traveling. 
• Avoid displaying valuables. 
• Store important items securely. 
• Travel with others at night. 
• Stay aware of your surroundings. 
• Keep emergency contact information accessible. 

Large cities worldwide, including in the U.S., experience common crimes. Practicing situational awareness significantly reduces risk. 

Important considerations 

The UW-Platteville Education Abroad office will provide extensive information for program participants. However, UW-Platteville Education: 

• cannot guarantee or assure the safety of participants or eliminate all risks from the study abroad environments. 
• cannot monitor or control all of the daily personal decisions, choices, and activities of individual participants. 
• cannot assure that U.S. standards of due process apply in overseas legal proceedings or provide or pay for legal representation for participants. 
• cannot assume responsibility for the actions of persons not employed or otherwise engaged by the program sponsor for events that are not part of the program or that are beyond the control of the sponsor, or for situations that may arise due to the failure of a participant to disclose pertinent information. 
• cannot assure that home-country cultural values and norms will apply in the host country.

Travel Planning 

Planning your education abroad experience is exciting, and sometimes overwhelming. From booking flights to packing your bags, there are a lot of details to consider. The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone. 

Below are practical tips to help you prepare with confidence. 

Travel Documents 

Passport 

A valid U.S. passport is required to participate in an education abroad program. 

• Apply early — processing times can vary. 
• Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your return date. 
• Visit the U.S. Department of State website for application details and timelines. 

Visa

Some countries require a student visa for entry. 

• It is your responsibility to secure your visa. 
• If your program requires one, you’ll receive detailed instructions after acceptance. 
• Visa requirements can change — always verify information directly through official consulate or embassy sources 

Flights

Most programs allow students to book flights independently, as long as arrival and departure requirements are met. 

Booking Tips 

• Midweek flights are often less expensive. 
• Compare flexible departure and return dates. 
• Use flight search tools to compare pricing, then consider booking directly through the airline. 

Always confirm: 

• Arrival airport 
• Required arrival window 
• Program start date 

Do not book flights until officially accepted and instructed to do so.

Packing Smart 

You’ll receive a suggested packing list after acceptance, but here are a few general guidelines: 

• Pack light — you’ll likely return with more than you left with. 
• Leave room for souvenirs and local purchases. 
• Bring essentials to get started, but most toiletries and daily items can be purchased abroad. 
• Check airline baggage limits carefully. 

When in doubt: choose versatile clothing and comfortable shoes.

Money & Banking 

Opening a local bank account is rarely necessary for short-term study abroad programs. 

Recommended Approach 

• Bring a small amount of U.S. dollars to exchange upon arrival. 
• Use your U.S. debit card at ATMs for local currency (often the best exchange rate). 
• Notify your bank before departure to avoid fraud alerts. 
• Check international transaction and ATM fees. 
• Carry a credit card for emergencies. 

Keep some local cash on hand — card acceptance varies by country.

Research Before You Go 

Learning about your host country ahead of time will help you feel more prepared and confident. 

Research: 

• Cultural norms and etiquette 
• Current events 
• Transportation systems 
• Housing and neighborhoods 
• Safety information 

Use official government resources and reputable travel guides to stay informed.

Electricity & Electronics 

Electrical systems vary worldwide. 

Step 1: Check Voltage & Plug Type 

The U.S. uses 110 volts and two-prong plugs. Many countries use 220 volts and different plug shapes. 

Step 2: Know the Difference 

• Adapter: Changes the plug shape only. 
• Converter: Changes voltage. 

Most modern laptops automatically convert voltage (check for “Input 100V–240V” on the charger). Hair dryers and styling tools often do not. 

When possible, consider purchasing inexpensive electronics abroad rather than risking damage.

Internet Access 

Internet access abroad may differ from what you’re used to. 

• WiFi availability varies by country and housing type. 
• Campus networks are typically available once you’re registered. 
• Speeds may be slower than in the U.S. 

Plan to stay connected, but also give yourself permission to unplug and fully experience your surroundings.

Cell Phones & Staying Connected

International phone plans through U.S. providers can be expensive. 

Many students choose to: 

• Use WiFi-based apps (WhatsApp, FaceTime, Messenger, etc.) 
• Purchase a local SIM card (if phone is unlocked) 
• Buy an inexpensive local phone for in-country communication 

Your program orientation will provide guidance on the best options in your host country.

Travel Resources

U.S. State Department Travel Resources: The U.S. government provides accurate and timely information for travelers on passports, living abroad, emergencies, country specific information, and other helpful tips. 

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): STEP is a free service provided by the U.S. Government to U.S. citizens who are traveling to or living in another country and allow travelers to enter information about upcoming education abroad so that the Department of State can better assist in an emergency. 

U.S. State Department Travel Warnings: Travel Warnings are issued by the State Department to recommend that Americans avoid travel to a certain country. It is strongly recommended that education abroad participants closely monitor travel warnings. 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): The CDC is a federal agency that works to protect public health and safety and to promote health through partnerships with state health departments and other organizations. Students can visit the CDC website for important health and safety information.

Final Tips

• Keep digital and printed copies of important documents. 
• Share your itinerary with a trusted contact at home. 
• Review health and safety information before departure. 
• Ask questions early! Preparation reduces stress. 

Studying abroad is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Thoughtful planning now means you can focus on what matters most once you arrive: learning, exploring, and growing.