This checklist contains many important action items you will need to complete before departing for your program. Keep a copy with you for reference as you prepare for your journey. As always, let us know if you have any questions at spartansabroad@sjsu.edu. 

• Maintain good academic standing (over a 2.0 GPA)
• Maintain conduct eligibility (you cannot be on disciplinary probation before the start of the program)
• Pay all required fees to SJSU
• Apply for and obtain your passport (if you already have one, check the expiration date)
• Apply for and obtain your student visa (if required for your program)
• Log into your Spartans Abroad Portal account to make sure you have completed all post-acceptance items on your checklist. This could include:
  •  Review important program policies within the Commitment to Participate Form that you signed upon acceptance to the program.
  • Complete and submit the Health Form. The information shared is confidential and will only be necessary if you incur a major health issue, an accident, or if we need to contact your emergency contact(s).
  • Enroll in STEP (only for SJSU Exchange and Summer School Abroad students)
  • Upload your passport information.
  • Apply for your visa (if applicable).
  • Upload your itinerary information.
  • Upload your academic approval form (only for SJSU Exchange, CSU IP, and ISEP students)
• Read through your health insurance coverage.
• Make copies (3 paper copies) of the following to bring with you (and leave additional copies with loved ones/at home):
  
  •  Passport (photo page)
  • Visa (if applicable)
  • Credit Cards/ATM Cards
  • Insurance Card information
  • Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination or Exemption
• Meet with your doctor and make a plan for your: 
  •  Prescription medication (if applicable)
  • Vaccinations for your destination country
  • Treatment of any ongoing conditions
  • Share your program dates and get their office’s contact information in case you need to obtain documentation or medical information when you are abroad

•  Look into purchasing trip cancellation/interruption insurance and health insurance for any additional travel outside of the program dates.

• Let your bank know where you are going and for how long (call the numbers on the back of your credit cards and debit cards).

• Pack some self-administered COVID-19 tests to use, if needed, during the program.

• Make a communication plan with your loved ones to stay in touch while you are abroad.  Remind them you may take a day or two to get settled when you first land so not to worry if you don't call immediately when the plane lands.

• Set up a WhatsApp account so you can text your friends/family for free!

• Do some research about where you are going and make a list of places you want to see and things you want to do.

• ISEP and CSU IP students must complete requirements in the ISEP or CSU IP portal in addition to the Spartans Abroad Portal

• Complete Pre-Departure Orientation Canvas Course and attend any in-person Pre-Departure Orientation meetings (if applicable).