Financial AidHealth and Safety Cultural Information Travel & Flights Important DocumentsAdditional Links
Embarking on an ELAP experience is very exciting, and naturally you will have questions. To help prepare you for your adventure, we have compiled a list of resources that have been helpful to ELAP participants in the past. Please be aware that the websites found in this section may not be directly affiliated with ISA, and you may always contact an ISA-ELAP representative for more information.
The following resources are applicable for students participating in ELAP alongside an academic program, some but not all may apply to ELAP only programs.
Scholarships:
Funded by the National Security Education Program (NSEP), these scholarships provide up to $20,000 to undergraduate students from the US to study abroad in areas of the world that are underrepresented in study abroad.
Recipients are awarded up to $5000 to defray the costs associated with studying abroad.
Fifty $1,000 grants are awarded each year to help support undergraduates as they seek knowledge and experience in their academic fields by studying abroad.
Eight $1000 scholarships are awareded each year to currently registered students at US universities who will study abroad at a BUTEX member institution in the UK.
The Glimpse Foundation and The National Geographic Society are seeking talented writers, photographers, and filmmakers. Each selected participant will receive a $600 grant and will see their work published in Glimpse and National Geographic media.
Scholarship opportunity for students taking Language and Culture courses in Spain.
Ambassadorial Scholarships
Scholarships for Italian-Americans
Financial Aid Websites:
Scholarship Search:
Features an online questionnaire that matches information with specific scholarship opportunities.
Provides details on more than 600,000 scholarships.
Contains a scholarship search and insights on a variety of related topics.
Study Abroad Loans:
*Please note that we are in no way affiliated or partnered with this lender.
Should you have any questions about the health information in the region where you will be studying, please visit the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website here. Along with a list of resource materials provided by the CDC, you will find information pertaining to the following categories: Outbreaks, Diseases, Vaccinations, Food and Water Safety, Traveling with Children, Special Needs Travelers, and Cruise Ships and Air Travel.
The Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) is a Federal Advisory Committee with a U.S. Government Charter to promote security cooperation between American business and private sector interests worldwide and the U.S. Department of State. OSAC currently encompasses the 34-member core Council, an Executive Office, over 100 Country Councils, and more than 3,500 constituent member organizations and 372 associates.
The U.S. State Department is an incredibly valuable source of information for anyone who is planning to travel and/or live abroad. One of the main objectives of the State Department is to protect and assist U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad. The State Department also strives to keep the American public informed of any important issues developing around the world.
Their website contains a vast amount of information that will be helpful for students and parents who have concerns about international travel. The website offers information about travel advisories, tips for living abroad, U.S. foreign policy, ideas for American students abroad, international doctors/hospitals, and more. In addition to passport/visa information, you may also access Country Specific Information (previously: Consular Information Sheets) for every country in the world.
The U.S. State Department recently launched a website specifically for students abroad, their parents, and study abroad advisors. We highly recommend visiting this website to learn more about being a student abroad.
The U.S. State Department closely monitors countries around the world to ensure that American citizens are aware of issues that may affect their international travel. The following information is issued by the State Department and can be found on their website.
"Travel Warnings are issued when the State Department decides based on all relevant information, to recommend that Americans avoid travel to a certain country.
Travel Alerts (previously: Public Announcements) are a means to disseminate information about terrorist threats and other relatively short-term and/or trans-national conditions posing significant risks to the security of American travelers.
Country Specific Information (previously: Consular Information Sheets) are available for every country of the world. They include such information as location of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the subject country, unusual immigration practices, health conditions, minor political disturbances, unusual currency and entry regulations, crime and security information, and drug penalties."
Helpful Links
U.S Department of State
U.S. Department of State: Bureau of Consular Affairs
Foreign Entry Requirements
Passports: Applying for Them the Easy Way
Locate a U.S Consulate
Replace a lost or stolen passport
(back to top)U.S. Department of State: Bureau of Consular Affairs
Foreign Entry Requirements
Passports: Applying for Them the Easy Way
Locate a U.S Consulate
Replace a lost or stolen passport
Diversity and Study Abroad:
GLBT
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Out & About
A basic newsletter for gay and lesbian travelers. http://www.outandabout.com
International Lesbian and Gay Association
A world-wide federation of national and local groups dedicated to achieving equal rights for lesbians, gay men, bisexuals and transgendered people everywhere. http://www.ilga.org
International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission
IGLHRC's mission is to advance the human rights of those persons around the world who are subject to discrimination or abuse based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or HIV status through documentation, advocacy, coalition building, public education, and technical assistance. http://wwwiglhrc.org/site/iglhrc
Minority Students
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AntiRacismNet
International online network of anti-racism organizations and practitioners. http://www.antiracismnet.org/main.html
Voices of Change
Voices of Change (VOC), based in Madrid, Spain , has a website, but it is currently under construction and temporarily unavailable. This link to the SAFETI Clearinghouse website posts an article from VOC that focuses on the challenge of responding to discrimination for study abroad students. http://www.usc.edu/dept/education/globaled/safeti/v1n2_sanders.html
Students with Disabilities
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Mobility International USA
Provides resources for students with disabilities who are considering study abroad. http://www.miusa.org
Disability Travel and Recreation Resources
Numerous resources for disabled travelers to all parts of the world. http://www.makoa.org/travel.htm
Study & Volunteer Abroad Articles:
Blending In
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Each culture has standards of appearance and social behavior that set it apart from others in subtle ways. In your new surroundings, what you consider normal dress and interaction may let others know that you are not a local. Those who stick out as obvious visitors are targeted more often by pickpockets and other thieves. Less importantly, appearing "different" may draw stares from strangers, especially in heavily fashion-conscious cultures.
Since apparel tastes are different in each country, we recommend simply observing differences in dress for yourself when you arrive and adjusting as you see fit, depending on what makes you most comfortable. A common clothing trend in many countries is less "athletic" clothing for day-to-day activities outside of the gym. For example, normal casual attire for an American student going to class in the US may include a hooded sweatshirt or team logo t-shirt, shorts, tennis shoes, white athletic socks, and a baseball cap. Such accessories may be less common in the classrooms or cafeterias of your host university. In addition, you may notice that your host country peers tend to dress up more than you're used to when they go out for an evening on the town, however this varies from city to city.
Many American students also quickly notice slight social differences in their new home. These, too, vary widely depending on where you will be studying. For instance, in some cultures, making eye contact with or greeting strangers may illicit a strange look or even draw unwanted attention. In contrast, other cultures may make inquisitive eye contact, which may seem like rude staring to an American visitor.
*Please note that your ELAP coordinator or an ISA Site Specialist will be happy to provide you with more details, please don't hesitate to contact them.
Cultural Adjustment
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Transitioning into a new culture can be a difficult part of the study abroad experience. However, recognizing the stages of this process and adjusting accordingly will help you overcome these challenges. Cultural adjustment is often described in four stages, though they don't necessarily take place in this order:
- Up Stage:
This stage is characterized by positive fascination toward the host culture. The food tastes delicious, and everything is novel and exciting. There is a sense that a wonderful experience lies ahead with excitement for the adventure to come. - Down Stage:
In the Down Stage, participants encounter difficulties with the language (where applicable), colloquialisms, studies, and awkward interactions with the locals. There is also a tendency to compare what the host culture lacks to the things you miss about your home. In this stage, it's important to acknowledge that frustration caused by the cultural change is completely normal, and that it doesn.t mean you will always feel this way. - Turnaround Stage:
With your stronger understanding of the language and culture, it becomes apparent that the new situation abroad is not as difficult as it may seem. With these renewed insights, participants examine the different attitudes and behaviors of the people in your host country. - Comfort Level Stage:
In this final stage, participants come to accept the customs and realities of the country for what they are. The experience has a renewed feeling of enjoyment and there is exhilaration in the overseas adventure.
Weathering the tide of cultural adjustment will give you not only a greater understanding of the host culture, but also of yourself. It will challenge you to grow in ways you may have never expected!
Getting To Your Destination
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Flights
- When preparing for your trip, it is important to plan ahead and to be aware of what ISA offers. Reading pre-departure materials from ISA thoroughly will allow you to best take advantage of our services. We recommend purchasing a plane ticket only after you have been accepted into the program. Once accepted, you will be sent an itinerary with the exact dates and information on how to book a ticket, along with specific airport pick-up times if applicable. Please make sure you understand the details of when to leave the U.S., when to arrive on site, whether an airport pick-up is included, and any pick-up times that may apply. Remember, you can always feel free to contact ISA with questions!
Packing
- Packing for the trip ahead can be exciting yet overwhelming, and the task commonly leads to many questions. When considering what to bring, first think through the seasons that you will encounter during the program in the part of the world you.ll be. Pack clothes that layer well and that can be mixed and matched (solid colors usually work best). It's generally easier to take full-sized (instead of travel-sized) toiletries even though you'll be able to find most everything abroad. It will save you the hassle of having to run such errands when you will be busy settling in. In general, students tend to pack too much and then regret it once abroad so remember whatever you pack will need to be carried around during transfers etc. Furthermore, you will most likely acquire souvenirs and clothing from the country, so leave extra space.
Dos and Don'ts of Packing
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- Don't forget a raincoat and umbrella
- A scarf is an excellent accent to your solid colored clothing and, wrapped around your neck, keeps you warm during the cool weather seasons.
- Individually-wrapped hand wipes are great when you find yourself without a sink.
Another consideration when you are packing is airline regulations. Check with your airline to ask about specific limits. Most airlines allow two pieces of checked luggage and one carry-on item (within certain dimensions and weight), plus a personal item such as a purse or a laptop. Any excess of the airline's limits will incur a charge. Also, keep in mind that the airline may charge for any checked baggage.
- Arrival: Individuals experience a varying range of effects from jet lag, from minor to severe. To combat the problem of crossing many time zones in one day, we recommend the following measures to help reduce the time it takes your body to adjust:
- Get the trip off to a good start: be organized, well rested, well fed, and comfortable.
- Stay hydrated: drink plenty of water before, during, and after the trip
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol
- Start adjusting as soon as the plane takes off: set your watch to your destination's time, and follow it accordingly: when it's time to sleep, sleep, even if you do not feel tired; when it is daytime where you are headed, keep yourself awake, even if you feel tired.
- Bring ear plugs, an eye mask, and a neck pillow. Also, sit in a window seat so that you have something to lean on, and people do not wake you when they want to step over you.
- Do not feel obligated to talk to your neighbor if you are trying to sleep
- Just before your plane lands, wash your face, change into a clean set of clothes, brush your hair and teeth as if you are following your morning regime and getting ready for the day. This (along with the excitement of having arrived) will boost your energy level after the long journey.
- Once on site, try to stay awake until a normal local bedtime. You may want to take a nap during the day but it should not exceed two hours.
- If you are starting to feel tired during the day, take a walk to revive yourself.
* Please note that an ELAP representative can provide you with further details.
Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Students
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GLBT students should be aware that attitudes and tolerance toward gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender issues vary throughout the world. Some countries are more welcoming and open than the US, while others can be less accepting and receptive to the GLBT lifestyle. Generally speaking, acceptance is highest in large cities, but every student needs to be aware of legalalities related to GLBT issues in the country they wish to study in. Students should research information regarding the laws and social acceptance to the GLBT lifestyle in the country, prior to choosing a program destination. It's also helpful to be aware of the organizations and support groups available in the country. Many travel guide books have helpful information specifically for GLBT students including: Let's Go, Lonely Planet, Frommer's, and more.
Information can be widely found on the internet. Helpful websites include:
International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission: http://wwwiglhrc.org/site/iglhrc
International Lesbian and Gay Association:http://www.ilga.org
Out and About:http://www.planetout.com
How Americans Are Viewed Abroad
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The name United States of America evokes strong feelings abroad, both in positive and negative ways. The cultural, economic, and political prominence of the US on the global scene means that it affects other nations. Therefore as an American abroad, it.s important to be aware of how our country is viewed.
The US leadership of the War on Terror faces harsh criticism from the general public in many countries including those nations whose administrations are strong allies of the United States in this effort. While strong ideological opposition towards initiatives like the US-led War in Iraq will not generally mean that people look negatively on you as a person, be prepared for statements that confront US policies. Negative feelings toward American policy rarely mean that you are in personal danger, however, US citizens are advised to keep a low profile and avoid political demonstrations while abroad.
There are other common perceptions towards Americans on a social level. While many generalizations hold some truth, other ideas are exaggerated by movies and media coverage. On the other hand, many will be very interested to hear about where you come from. Remember that by studying abroad you are an ambassador for your country. Keep in mind that for some of those with whom you form relationships, you may be one of the only Americans that they've been in contact with! That personal connection provides you the opportunity to build a positive perception for yourself and fellow Americans, regardless of politics.
How to Stay In Touch
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During your time abroad you will undoubtedly see and do things that you will want to tell your friends and family about back home. Email is often the most common and easiest way to communicate while abroad. All ISA offices have computers with internet access that students can access in addition to local internet cafes; charges vary widely so leave some flexibility in your budget to accommodate this. There are several options when communicating via telephone. Calling cards are easy to find abroad and your directors can help you determine which card is the best. Calling cards can be used at any pay phone, but students will need to ask permission with their host family before making calls on the home phone (even if using a calling card). Purchasing a cell phone abroad is becoming poplar and your resident director will be a great resource when making this purchase if buying a cell phone is an option in your country of study.
Meeting the Locals
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Most participants embark on their volunteer or study abroad journey with high expectations of making friends with host country locals. But many participants return from the experience expressing disappointment with the low level of interaction and/or long-term "connection" they developed with their peers abroad. The good news is that there are many initiatives you can take in order to better integrate.
There will be a natural tendency for many American students to remain surrounded by American peers throughout their time abroad. Of course, some contact with fellow Americans, such as excursions, orientations, and roommate arrangements, will be unavoidable and healthy as you adjust to your surroundings together. However, pushing yourself to move beyond this comfort zone in your free time will enrich your time abroad and yield many unique experiences and friendships.
Extra-curricular activities are a great way to meet locals. As a foreigner, limited knowledge of the local language or other natural barriers may pose challenges to meaningful connections with locals. However, the casual environment of dance lessons, sports teams, places of worship, or interest clubs facilitate connections. These settings may put you in touch with a variety of age groups beyond your student peers.
Social outings are another great way to meet locals. Striking up conversations at discos, bars, or restaurants puts you in close contact with locals your age in a relaxed setting. Keep in mind that going out on the town with a large group of Americans may decrease your chances of meeting host country peers.
Your homestay may also be a source of introductions to extended family or community members. Take advantage of whatever level of contact is offered by your homestay.
Finally, have reasonable expectations. Acknowledge factors affecting how locals will relate to you, such as the short length of your stay in the host country, the subtle norms of social interaction unique to each culture, and the fact that your background and accent make you different. Think of how your American peers tend to relate to international students on your home campus. While some are interested in finding out more about their country of origin and reaching out, others are indifferent. Keep a good attitude and don't be surprised when not everyone is warm and friendly. Relationships take time and are not automatic, but building friendships with locals is very possible.
Forming relationships with host country nationals is part of the goal and reward of study abroad. With the above suggestions to help you, you will be able to interact with locals in your host country. Hopefully, you will cultivate relationships and keep in touch with some of your friends abroad for years to come.
Public Transportation Abroad
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What you need to know about public transportation abroad
Getting from place to place when abroad can be very simple when you know some basic information. Trains, buses, and taxis are common means of transportation for all people in a foreign country, visitors included! In fact, the majority of people living in foreign countries utilize public transportation on a daily basis. Because public transportation is not as frequently utilized in the United States as it is in other countries, please see the information below for some helpful tips on getting around with foreign public transportation.
Getting from place to place when abroad can be very simple when you know some basic information. Trains, buses, and taxis are common means of transportation for all people in a foreign country, visitors included! In fact, the majority of people living in foreign countries utilize public transportation on a daily basis. Because public transportation is not as frequently utilized in the United States as it is in other countries, please see the information below for some helpful tips on getting around with foreign public transportation.
- Buses
City buses are usually the cheapest form of transportation abroad. Traveling this way will require some patience and attention in order to be effective, but many students find that the bus system is a great way to live like a local and to see the city. Some of the bigger cities may sell a bus pass and your directors abroad will help you if you wish to buy a pass. Traveling by bus through out the country is very common abroad and is a good way to travel if you are on a budget. - Taxis
Taxis are a good way to get to the doorstep of a specific destination within a city such as a specific restaurant, shop, or home. Different countries and cities have various systems of calculating fare. Some countries or cities have meters that run in the taxi while some have specifically set prices that they charge for certain trip destinations. Before you decide to get in a taxi, be clear about how fares are calculated and how much tip (if any) will be appropriate. This information can be obtained from your ISA on-site staff. Be aware that some countries have laws about how many people can be in a taxi at one time, and some taxi drivers may charge extra for multiple passengers.
Safety Abroad
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General Tips
- Always be aware of yourself and your environment.
- Be visibly alert and looking around for people who look suspicious.
- Avoid any unattended packages and report them to the proper authorities.
- Avoid dangerous people, places, and behaviors. If a neighborhood is known for its criminal element, stay out!
- Avoiding eye contact can make you less of a target for unwanted attention
- Be careful around any political rallies or demonstrations that may turn violent.
- Men should carry their wallet in a front pocket, and everyone should avoid carrying a lot of cash on you if it.s unnecessary.
- Women should guard their purses very carefully. Purses should close with a button or a zipper, to better secure the contents inside. When in crowded areas keep it tightly in your grasp, and consider a money pouch for keeping your money and credit cards especially safe.
- Leave flashy or valuable jewelry at home.
- Women should use caution when relating to local men, even though they may seem harmless. Ignore inappropriate comments.
- Women shouldn't acknowledge male strangers with a smile, unless it is appropriate for a certain situation. Men can often take advantage of the somewhat "American" habit of being friendly to everyone that we meet. Do not feel obligated to talk to men if they attempt to initiate a conversation (the local women don't!).
- Walk down the street confidently signaling others that you know where you are going. Also, if it is possible walk in small groups, especially at night.
- Blend in by looking like a local. Certain articles of clothing, like shorts, athletic apparel, and baseball caps can cause you stand out as a foreigner, which may make you more susceptible to crime.
Women
- For women, dressing inappropriately in revealing outfits such as short skirts and midriff-baring tops may be the latest style. However, in the host country those fashions may cause you to be the object of unwanted attention and potentially obscene comments.
- Unfortunately, minor crimes and inappropriate comments towards women are commonplace in cities all over the world, even in the United States. These types of actions are often directed at foreign visitors, because they are generally seen as more vulnerable.
- Staying safe abroad requires the same awareness it does at home: use common sense and be conscious of where you are and what is going on around you at all times. Always remember that you are in a CITY. Act as you would in any city in the States, but with caution. By using good judgment, you will be able to relax and enjoy all that your host country has to offer!
- Don't walk home alone at night. Women should stick together in groups of 3 or 4, or with a male escort. Use caution when choosing this escort. Don't let a stranger walk you home or accept rides from newly met "friends."
- A helpful travel resource for women is www.journeywoman.com. Check out this website for tips and advice for female travelers.
Drink Responsibly
- Drinking excessively is not a good idea while abroad for many reasons, including safety. It may put you in danger and will separate you from the host culture by causing locals to avoid you, except for those who want to take advantage of you. This is not to say you can't enjoy going to a bar, club, or restaurant with friends. Just don't drink as much in an hour as the locals would drink in a whole evening!
- Keep in mind that drunkenness is seen as very ugly and unacceptable in many countries. Don't drink too much and expect others to take care of you; you may end up in jail. Don't leave with anyone you don't know or don't trust.
Theft
- Unfortunately, pick-pocketing and theft are often directed towards unwary tourists and foreign students. Theft of small items such as radios, cameras, backpacks, purses, wallets and even cigarettes is a common problem, and often occurs in busy areas such as bus stops, bars and clubs. Thieves frequently attempt to distract their victims by spilling food or drinks on a person's clothing, asking for directions on the street, or by using other tactics aimed at diverting the attention from themselves or an accomplice.
- It is a good idea to carry your wallet in one of your front pockets and not to carry excessive amounts of cash on you if it is not necessary. Also leave items that are extremely valuable or that may attract unwanted attention at home.
Savoring Your New Environment
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Your temporary home away from home will be full of new and different experiences, people, ideas, and places. For years to come, you will reflect back fondly on certain unique aspects of your foreign environment. Having an attitude of appreciation and openness while abroad will enhance your experience and enrich the memories you will carry with you when you return home.
Food
- Dinner with your homestay is just one everyday experience that will bring you into numerous intimate encounters with the host culture. You may be introduced to many unfamiliar foods, some of which you will love, while others you may not like. Don't be afraid to try exotic foods, you may be surprised at what new favorites you'll discover. Also keep in mind; you may also be eating at a far different time than the normal North American meal schedule! Many cultures have lunch and dinner much later than is custom in the US.
- Another enjoyable dinner highlight may be the conversations you have with your others from your host country. Not only does this give you a chance to practice and develop your language skills, but it will also open the door for learning firsthand about your host culture, and sharing about your own. Be aware that political or religious discussions are normally sensitive subjects, just as they are in the U.S.
- Beyond mealtime, you will have hundreds of other opportunities to appreciate your host culture: in the university, visiting other cities, traveling on the train or bus, and with new friends! When you are confronted with different foods, ideas, or people, remind yourself that you are spending time abroad to experience another culture. With this in mind, it is easier to maintain the right attitude and try to appreciate the aspects of your new environment that make it special.
Cultural Adjustments
- The ongoing process of cultural adjustment not only encompasses your actual volunteer or study abroad experience, but it will begin before you leave, and will continue long after you return! "What's Up With Culture" is a useful web resource that we recommend as you prepare for your ISA program. Intended to help guide students through the process of interpreting their experiences abroad, "What's Up With Culture" will help you deal with the often surprising effects these new encounters bring while you adjust to a new culture. The program is divided into three interactive Modules as follows:
- Module 1: What to Know Before You Go
- Module 2: Welcome Back! Now What?
- Module 3: Glossary/Bibliography
*ISA acknowledges the creator of "What's Up With Culture", Dr. Bruce La Brack, School of International Studies, University of the Pacific.
(back to top)We are happy to direct ELAP participants towards airlines, travel agencies, and other resources that we find useful when planning a trip. We recommend inquiring with three types of resources before purchasing a ticket, including: student travel agencies, discount internet search engines, and the airlines themselves.
Student travel agencies tend to offer discounted rates. They are especially accommodating when a change or cancellation is made to the flight, as they tend to charge nominal fees for such changes compared to the fees charged by most airlines and travel agencies.
Internet search engines provide a quick and easy method for comparing multiple airlines; at times special "web fares" may also be offered. It is always important to call the airline directly for details and questions on flights and prices.
The following price suggestions reflect average round-trip airfare prices to ISA program sites:
- South America ($1200 or more)
- Costa Rica ($500-$800)
- Mexico ($300-$700)
- Dominican Republic ($400-$700)
The following websites will help to find fares for specific travel dates:
Student Travel Agencies
ISA Featured Partner. Book online and get special student pricing.
Internet Search Engines
Airfare Resources
ISA Featured Partner. Book online and get special student pricing on airfare and other travel.
Airlines
Travel Resources
We are happy to direct students towards travel guides and other resources that we find useful when planning a trip.
Arthur Frommer's Budget Travel --
visit Arthur Frommer's Budget Travel for expert advice and travel discounts.
Let's Go offers 51 best-selling budget titles to help you on way, wherever you are.
The Internet Guide to Hostelling
Lonely Planet
The World Factbook
Tico Tours and Adventures offers tours and vacation packages to a variety of exciting locations in Costa Rica.
(back to top)Let's Go offers 51 best-selling budget titles to help you on way, wherever you are.
The Internet Guide to Hostelling
Lonely Planet
The World Factbook
Tico Tours and Adventures offers tours and vacation packages to a variety of exciting locations in Costa Rica.
Travel Visa Information
ISA-ELAP program countries vary greatly in their visa requirements for participants. While some participants may be required to obtain a student visa, others may be able to stay in the host country for the duration of their program as a tourist. The application process for a student visa also varies by country. Depending on the foreign consulate, ISA-ELAP participants will either have to apply for the visa in person, via an online application, or by mailing in all application materials. ISA will inform all participants if a student visa is required or optional for their particular program. For specific visa requirements for ISA-ELAP program countries, please refer to the U.S. State Department's web page, located at: http://travel.state.gov/visa/americans1.html or refer to the Embassies and Consulate Resources page (Helpful Resources link) to find foreign consulate contact information and relevant student visa requirements
Embassies & Consulate Resources
Depending on your travel destination, your length of stay, and your citizenship, you may be required to obtain a visa for your trip abroad. It usually comes in the form of a stamp, placed in your passport. (Thus, getting a passport is the first step to getting a visa!) It allows you to enter (and re-enter) a specific country for a designated period of time. Generally, one works with the US-based consulate or embassy of his or her destination country, to apply. It is important to note that every consular and embassy office operates differently, under varying rules and requirements. Therefore, it is important to contact your jurisdictional office for application materials and information on obtaining the necessary travel documents. There is a wealth of information found on the World Wide Web for research into these matters.
Anyone who is planning overseas travel should look at the following site to begin research on foreign entry requirements:
travel.state.gov/visa/americans1.html
Anyone who is planning overseas travel should look at the following site to begin research on foreign entry requirements:
travel.state.gov/visa/americans1.html
Embassy Resources
Before you go, to locate foreign embassies in the US, visit:
www.embassy.org/embassies/index.html
In Canada, visit: www.allembassies.com/embassies_in_canada.htm
The embassies of ISA-ELAP program sites are located below.
www.travel.state.gov/visa/questions_embassy.html
www.embassy.org/embassies/index.html
In Canada, visit: www.allembassies.com/embassies_in_canada.htm
The embassies of ISA-ELAP program sites are located below.
- Embassy of Argentina
www.embajadaargentinaeeuu.org/ - Embassy of Chile
www.chile-usa.org/ - Embassy of Costa Rica
www.costarica-embassy.org/ - Embassy of Dominican Republic
www.domrep.org/ - Embassy of Mexico
www.embassyofmexico.org/ - Embassy of Peru
lima.usembassy.gov/
www.travel.state.gov/visa/questions_embassy.html
Consulate Resources
www.travel.state.gov/index.html is a useful website for general information on consular affairs. To view consular information on your ISA program site, follow the links below.
- Consulates of Argentina
www.emb-eeuu.mrecic.gov.ar/consulat.htm - Consulates of Chile
www.chile-usa.org/consular.htm - Consulates of Costa Rica
www.costarica-embassy.org/consular/consulates/default.htm - Consulates of Dominican Republic
www.domrep.org/ - Consulates of Mexico
www.mexonline.com/consulate.htm - Consulates of Peru
www.consuladoperu.com/archivos/visas_requisitos.htm
Passport Information
All ISA-ELAP program countries require that participants have a valid US Passport. For information on applying for a passport, renewing a passport, or replacing a lost/stolen passport, please visit the following website:
travel.state.gov/passport/index.html
travel.state.gov/passport/index.html
State Department
The U.S. State Department is an incredibly valuable source of information for anyone who is planning to travel and/or live abroad. One of the main objectives of the State Department is to protect and assist U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad. The State Department also strives to keep the American public informed of any important issues developing around the world.
Their website contains a vast amount of information that will be helpful for students and parents who have concerns about international travel. The website offers information about travel advisories, tips for living abroad, U.S. foreign policy, ideas for American students abroad, international doctors/hospitals, and more. In addition to passport/visa information, you may also access Country Specific Information (previously: Consular Information Sheets) for every country in the world.
http://www.state.gov
The U.S. State Department recently launched a website specifically for students abroad, their parents, and study abroad advisors. We highly recommend visiting this website to learn more about being a student abroad.
http://www.studentsabroad.state.gov/
(back to top)Their website contains a vast amount of information that will be helpful for students and parents who have concerns about international travel. The website offers information about travel advisories, tips for living abroad, U.S. foreign policy, ideas for American students abroad, international doctors/hospitals, and more. In addition to passport/visa information, you may also access Country Specific Information (previously: Consular Information Sheets) for every country in the world.
http://www.state.gov
The U.S. State Department recently launched a website specifically for students abroad, their parents, and study abroad advisors. We highly recommend visiting this website to learn more about being a student abroad.
http://www.studentsabroad.state.gov/
To see links to currency exchange, weather and other helpful resources, click here.
XE.com
USA Today weather
High School Study Abroad Programs
College Study Abroad Programs
Go Abroad
E.L.E. Asesores Lingüisticos
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Exchange Rates:
Oanda.comXE.com
Weather:
Weather.comUSA Today weather
Other Resources:
Euro Currency InfoHigh School Study Abroad Programs
College Study Abroad Programs
Go Abroad
E.L.E. Asesores Lingüisticos
(back to top)