Before You Go - Colorado College

In order to make the most of your time abroad, it is important to prepare as much as possible before you leave. To assist with your preparation, our office will provide a pre-departure orientation. During this orientation, held in May for students studying abroad in the fall and December for students studying abroad in the spring, you will receive important information about adjusting to a new culture, health and safety, academics abroad and more. We hope you'll also take advantage of the resources on this site as you prepare for your departure.

Download a copy of the Pre-Departure Handbook.

Pre-Departure Checklist

1. Submit a Course Approval Form and make sure you understand College policies on the transfer of credit from abroad.

2. Confirm your plans with the Registrar’s Office (by May 1 for fall programs; December 1 for spring programs).

3. Consult the Office of Study Abroad if you plan to participate in a program other than what you’ve been approved for. You will also need to file a Revision Form.

4. Pay all phone bills, parking tickets and library fines.

5. If you will be away during the spring, appoint a proxy to go through room selection for you. Make sure to let your proxy know what s/he should do in your absence. Proxy forms are available at the office of residential life.


6. Meet with your academic advisor to discuss the courses you will take when you return.


7. Notify the mailroom of where to forward your mail while you are away.


8. If you receive financial aid, meet with the student accounts and financial aid offices to completed required paperwork for the transfer of your aid.


9. Make sure you have a passport that will be valid at least six months beyond the end of your program.


10. Get any needed vaccinations or immunizations. Contact Boettcher Health Center or your physician for more information.


11. Get all the required visas for your program and any countries you plan to visit. This process can several months to complete, so don’t wait until the last minute!


12. Make sure that you have health insurance that will cover you overseas.


13. Register your travel information with International SOS.


14. Have a routine physical and dental checkup. If you use prescription drugs, have them refilled shortly before you leave.


15. Submit a completed medical form and waiver (for students participating in Colorado College programs only).


16. Thoroughly read through all materials sent to you by your study abroad program. Learn as much as you can about your host country before leaving!