The following section is designed to provide more information on important elements of study abroad and travel. If you have questions on any travel logistics or other elements involved in travel for your study abroad experience, please contact us and we can get you the information you need.
If you are a parent of a Viterbo student looking for more information, head to our Parent Information section.
Passports and Visas
All students traveling internationally MUST have a valid passport. The passport should remain valid six months after your scheduled return date to the United States. If you do not currently have a passport, or will need to renew before your study abroad program, please ensure you apply at least five months before you leave. You can find more information on applying for/renewing your passport online.
Depending on your country of study, you may also need a visa. Participants on Viterbo-Sponsored study abroad will receive assistance from the Study Abroad Office in obtaining the proper visa. Students participating in Non Viterbo-Sponsored study abroad may contact their program provider for visa assistance, as this service is generally included in the program fee.
REAL ID
Students participating in a domestic study away program will need to ensure that their form of ID is valid for use at domestic airports. Beginning May 7, 2025, every air traveler over 18 years of age will need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States. Find more information about REAL ID online.
Travel Health Information
While traveling, it's important that our students stay as healthy as possible. The following links are useful to help learn about health while traveling. Students will receive more information about travel health during their pre-departure orientation.
- World Health Organization (WHO): Gives information about global health topics and provides general health profiles for different countries
- Center for Disease Control (CDC): Provides in-depth information to travelers about health risks in each country, vaccination information, and tips on staying healthy while traveling
- US State Department general international travel information
- Note* The US Department of State is no longer posting COVID-19 information. You may wish to check the country and location you are traveling to for specific health-related information about COVID-19.
Travel Safety Information
While studying abroad/away, safety is of utmost importance. The following links are great sources of information to learn more about travel safety. Students will receive more information about safety while traveling during their pre-departure orientation.
- US Department of State: Provides information on safety risks in different countries, issues travel advisories, and lists what to do in emergencies
- Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC): Publishes safety and crime reports for different countries, sends travel advisory alerts, and gives general travel safety information
- US Embassy: Provides a list of United States Embassy locations and contact information around the world
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
This free program through the US Department of State allows you to receive up-to-date safety and security information while abroad. It is also a way for the US Embassy to know that you're abroad and to contact you in case of an emergency. Students on Viterbo-Sponsored study abroad programs will be registered for the STEP Program through the Study Abroad Office. Those who are participating in non Viterbo-sponsored study abroad are strongly encouraged to enroll as well. Enroll here: https://step.state.gov/STEP/Index.aspx
Pre-Departure Orientation
All students on Viterbo-sponsored study abroad/away programs are required to attend a pre-departure orientation session. These will be scheduled by the Study Abroad Office and cover important information regarding travel, culture, health, and safety while you're away. Further information on date, time, and location of your pre-departure orientation will be emailed to you. Please make every effort to attend this important event!
Parent Information
If you're the parent of a Viterbo student participating in study abroad, you may be looking for some additional information about their programs. For students on non Viterbo-sponsored study abroad programs, you'll find that many program providers supply information specifically for parents. Ask your student which program provider they're using, and you should be able to easily find information via their website. Otherwise, here are a few links filled with helpful information for parents!
The Study Abroad Office is always happy to speak with parents about the importance of study abroad and the many benefits it can bestow upon your students. Please feel free to contact us with questions or concerns!