Planning & Resources
Overview
Before students depart for their study abroad experience, the CIP will hold a series of pre-departure meetings designed to provide them with important information and resources to help them throughout their term abroad. In addition, all accepted students have access to general and program-specific pre-departure information through their secure, CIP account. However, we recognize that we cannot always give students information that may be specific to their individual needs. Therefore, we encourage each and every student to conduct their own, supplemental research in order to prepare for the program and the destination. CIP staff are happy to meet with students who have questions, concerns or individual considerations. In the meantime, please use the information below as you plan for your study abroad experience.
There are also a lot of great campus resources available to you before, during and after your study abroad experience:
Study Abroad Policies
In conjunction with the Saint Joseph’s University colleges and administration, the Center for International Programs has established academic and financial policies that apply to students before, during and after their study abroad experience. All SJU students should ensure that they understand the policies before they commit to studying abroad:
- Semester Abroad Policy
- Non-SJU Summer and Winter Policy & Procedures
- SJU Study Tours & Summer Programs Policy
- FERPA & Study Abroad
Students should also review the Saint Joseph's Student Handbook to understand what is expected of them as a student on campus and while abroad.
Please note that students who wish to apply to study abroad in a country under a U.S. Department of State Travel Warning or a CDC/WHO Travel Health Warning are — first and foremost — subject to the International Travel Policy, which prohibits such travel unless an appeal is filed and approved. (Details and appropriate timelines for appeals can be found within the policy.)
Health & Safety Abroad
The Center for International Programs provides students participating in a study abroad program with in-depth information on program location, instructions for how to prepare for a program and its locale and tips and suggestions for how to remain safe and healthy throughout their study abroad experience. Click the button below to learn about student health abroad, medical insurance and student safety tips.
Financing Study Abroad
Don’t let cost get in the way of your chance to study abroad. With financial aid, good budgeting, and saving and planning, study abroad can be very affordable. In addition, the returns on your investment — academic learning in an intercultural environment, broadened horizons and new cross-cultural skills — will prove invaluable for decades to come. Use all of the information provided to you by the CIP office and the Office of Financial Aid to make informed decisions about how to finance your semester abroad.
Identity Abroad
We strongly believe that every student can have a meaningful and successful experience abroad. However, traveling overseas can present unique challenges to different groups of students. CIP staff works closely with the Office of Student Disability Services and other resources on campus to accommodate a variety of needs, and we are prepared to assist each student on an individual basis. Please review the following sections for more detailed information, and if you have a specific concern or request, make sure to contact us as early as possible in the process to set up an appointment with one of our knowledgeable staff members.
DISCLAIMER: The resources listed below are not affiliated with Saint Joseph’s University, nor should they be the “be all, end all” of your research and preparation.
Recovery Abroad
Studying abroad is an amazing life experience, but, just like any new situation, it can test your sobriety. The resources below can help you as you consider and prepare to study abroad.
Information for Student-Athletes
A common misconception is that student-athletes do not have the time to participate in a meaningful study abroad experience. The reality is that, with a little extra planning, it is possible. Learn more about the benefits of studying abroad and what you can do to plan smartly.
Study Abroad Myths Debunked
We know students have a lot of questions and concerns about the idea of studying abroad, and we want to set the facts straight on myths surrounding the following topics: students, location, program, cost, time, major and graduation.
External Resources
Government, Health and Safety:
- US Department of State
- Overseas Security and Advisory Council (OSAC)
- Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- Association for Safe International Road Travel
Travel: