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Pre-Departure Overview

Congratulations on your decision to go global!  

Before you board your flight or pack your bags, there are important steps to ensure a smooth transition. This list is designed to help participants stay organized and confident throughout the pre-departure process—from securing travel documents to planning for health and safety. Use this guide as your go-to resource for getting ready to make the most of your experience.

OGO Student Portal Requirements (Due at least 1 month before departure)

Regardless of your destination or program, all participants need to complete four key pre-departure steps before they arrive onsite.

  • Course Registration: OGO will email participants information regarding registering for courses associated with the program.
    • Participants must be fully accepted on an experience prior to receiving registration instructions.
    • Participants are required to complete the registration using the class numbers provided.
    • There are two types of courses required (1) academic courses and (2) administrative. The academic courses will vary depending on the program, but the administrative course will always be an STDY (international programs) or DOME (domestic programs).
  • Bobcats Abroad/Away: This is a generalized pre-departure orientation focused on health and safety. This requirement is completed via online modules.
    • This requirement is manually reviewed/checked by the OGO team and can take 1-3 business days to be cleared on your application.
  • International SOS MyTrips: MyTrips is where you will enroll for emergency alerts relative to your travel.
    • Participants are expected to create an account AND add in their upcoming travel details.
    • In the event of an emergency, the system will send notifications out based on the travel details you have provided.
    • This requirement is manually reviewed/checked by the OGO team and can take 1-3 business days to be cleared on your application.
  • Portal Tabs through Submit for Confirmation: Your application needs to be in "Confirmed" status prior to travel. 

Travel Documents

Research your destination and confirm what travel documents you may need.

  • For domestic experiences, if you're flying this means having a REAL I.D.
  • For international destinations, review the entry/exit requirements for the particular location(s) you will be traveling.

Passports (5+ months before travel)

  • You will need to have a valid passport for international programs.
    • If you already have a passport, check the expiration date and make sure that you have enough blank pages necessary for entry.
    • If you need to apply for or renew your passport, U.S. Citizens can do so through the
  • Non-U.S. Citizens: Confirm your participation details with ISSS and for international destinations, please check the website of your home country’s embassy or consulate, as requirements may vary depending on your destination country.

Research your Destination
  • Take time to research your host country’s language, culture, climate, politics, and various health considerations.
  • Familiarize yourself with traditions, etiquette, and daily life.
  • Stay informed about current events and local regulations.
  • Check health advisories and any recommended or required vaccines from resources like the .

Resources:

  • - This global career platform can be used to gather country-specific insights when it comes to living/working abroad.

Final Steps (4-6 weeks before departure)

Phone Plan

  • Confirm that your phone will work abroad and make a plan for staying connected throughout your program.
  • Contact your carrier to see if they offer international plans.
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM in your host country and make sure your phone is unlocked in order to do so.

Backup your documents

  • Make digital copies of all essential documents and store them securely before departure.
  • Scan your passport, visa, program acceptance letter, insurance card, and flight itinerary.
  • Save copies to your email, cloud, or a secure drive.
  • Share copies with a trusted family member or friend in case of emergency.

Call your Bank

Prepare your finances before departure to avoid issues once you arrive. We encourage you to plan multiple avenues to be able to access funds while abroad (including cash, multiple debit/credit cards, etc.).

  • Notify your bank of your travel dates to prevent card holds.
  • If you are planning to use a credit or debit card, confirm if there are foreign transaction fees or ATM withdraw fees.  This can help you know what to expect when making purchases abroad.
  • Consider taking out some local currency in cash before leaving, so you have money on hand when you arrive.