How to Plan for a Study Abroad Experience

The Golden Rule: Plan and Apply Early!

• Begin planning 9-12 months in advance: choose the program, plan your finances, make sure the courses you take overseas will count toward your degree requirements.
• Study Abroad Programs are in high demand: plan to submit your application at least 2 months BEFORE the deadline.

Initial steps:  

• Discover the opportunities: visit our Study Abroad web pages, attend a Study Abroad information session in the Campus Center, attend a Study Abroad Fair in September or February 
• Submit a Study Abroad Interest Form
• Contact the Study Abroad Manager: studyabroad@farmingdale.edu 
• Make your Academic Advisor aware of your interest in studying abroad 
• Ensure your passport is valid.  

Next steps: 

• Work with the Study Abroad Manager to determine the program you will attend
• Apply for the program at least 2 months before the deadline
• Meet your Academic Advisor to discuss the program and verify course equivalency  
• Reach out to the Academic Chair of the course you are enrolling in and ask them to approve your Course Approval form
• Make sure your passport is valid and you have applied for a Visa (if applicable). To renew your US passport, follow this link:

  https://www.state.gov/announcing-online-passport-renewal/

• Book your flight!
• Research your new country and university; review country’s information on the US Department of State website and enroll in STEP 
• Attend the pre-departure orientation organized by FSC or the host SUNY
• Make copies of all important documents (passport, visa, course planning etc)  

While you are Abroad: 

• Email the Study Abroad Manager once you arrive and confirm classes match your course approval form
• Ensure any course changes are approved by your Academic Advisor
• Continue to review the country’s information on the US Department of State website 
• Start a blog or travel journal to share with friends and family
• Stay on top of deadlines like housing and registration for the following semester  back at FSC
• Request transcript prior to the end of the semester

After Returning to FSC:

• Ensure grades from your study abroad program have been posted to your Degreeworks
• Submit a program evaluation 
• Attend a Welcome Back reception
• Visit the Nexus Center to learn how to add your study abroad experience to your resume
• Remain a part of FSC's Study Abroad community!