If you do not currently have a passport, begin making an application for one immediately. Carry the originals on your person. Leave one set of copies at home with your parents and place the other set in your room or luggage. If the originals are lost or stolen at least you will have the copies available until new identification can be obtained. Plan ahead where and when you will exchange your U.S. dollars for foreign currency.
Many exchanges charge a commission and it is possible to lose money in the transaction.
Be aware of the prevailing monetary exchange rate before you depart and when you arrive. If the U.S. dollar value drops siginificantly, please notify the Office of Financial Aid at once. Double check comprehensive costs including off-campus housing and food, commuter travel, field trips and expenses associated with breaks and vacations. If you need to notify the Office of Financial Aid regarding changes to you original budget, please do so before your departure or early in the semester, so that we may adjust your award accordingly. If you are studying away for the year or for the first semester and winter study, financial aid renewal materials for the following year will be mailed directly to your home address.