Since 1957, IAU has supported students studying abroad. Our experience shows that successful study abroad experiences begin with early planning and a thoughtful consideration of each student’s identity, goals, and personal experience. Preparation includes securing the necessary documentation and planning how you will support your wellness needs, as well as building the mental and emotional readiness to navigate new and sometimes challenging situations outside your comfort zone.
On this page, you will find resources to help you or your student prepare for studying abroad. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the IAU Admissions Team at enroll@iau.edu for additional support.
PRE-DEPARTURE LOGISTICS
IAU provides extensive support prior to a student’s arrival to help them prepare for their adventure abroad. In addition to the resources shared by IAU prior to arrival, our study abroad advisors are available to connect with you and answer any questions at enroll@iau.edu.
Passports and Visas
All IAU students must hold a valid passport at the time of applying to IAU. Passports must be in good condition, issued within the past 10 years, valid for at least six months beyond the program end date, and contain at least two blank pages.
If you need a new or renewed passport, please visit the U.S. Department of State’s “Prepare to Apply” page for information on applying for or renewing a passport.
All U.S. passport holders and non-Schengen passport holders also require a study visa. After completing their IAU application, students will receive detailed guidance on securing a study visa for their country of study; however, obtaining a student visa and maintaining valid travel documents is the student’s responsibility.
Financing
IAU encourages students to explore a variety of funding options to make study abroad more accessible and financially manageable. Here are some of our tips:
- Apply for IAU Scholarships and Grants
- Identify the average costs of living abroad in your specific country compared to where you currently live
- Plan your budget using online budgeting tools and apps to anticipate your expenses
- Explore creative funding strategies, including personal fundraising and community support. Many students also choose to use crowdfunding platforms to share their study abroad goals and raise funds for their experience.
Travel
The journey abroad may be intimidating for some students. We absolutely understand this, which is why all our students receive detailed arrival instructions ~2 weeks prior to their arrival on how to navigate every step from getting off the plane through meeting with our on-site teams and checking into their housing.
Students are encouraged to always double-check their flights to ensure their arrival and departure align with our academic calendars. Students who arrive early or depart late are invited to book their own accommodations, as program housing is only available during the confirmed program dates.
WELLNESS & CULTURAL ADJUSTMENT
Participate in IAU's Early Start Program
Students eager to adjust quickly and start their adventure abroad with confidence are invited to join IAU’s optional week-long Early Start Program (ESP), an immersive pre-semester experience for students studying in France or Spain.
Students in ESP arrive and move into their housing one week earlier than the program start dates, earn one course credit and engage with their peers and IAU through interactive language instruction, cultural workshops, and guided local excursions. In this program, students build practical communication skills, gain insight into local customs and daily life, and learn to navigate their host city with ease.
ESP is a great way to set the stage for a successful and enriching semester in Aix-en-Provence, Barcelona, or Madrid. Students can register for ESP in their initial application or by emailing enroll@iau.edu.
Wellness Abroad
Studying abroad is exciting, and it can also be an adjustment. It’s completely normal to experience a mix of emotions as you adapt to a new culture, language, schedule, and way of life. Moments of homesickness or frustration are just as common as moments of joy and discovery.
Give yourself time to adjust. Stay curious, ask questions, and remember that cultural differences are part of the learning experience. Building routines, staying active, connecting with classmates, and exploring your host community can all help you feel more grounded. Remind yourself of what you do at home to help you feel centered and practice those activities while abroad. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out for support from family, friends, and on-site teams.
Medications
Prior to travel, students should consult with their current medical or mental health providers to discuss continuity of care, medications, and strategies for maintaining well-being abroad. If you take medication, it is important that you bring enough medication for your entire program and keep it in its original, labeled packaging alongside copies of your prescriptions and any relevant medical documentation. Students are also encouraged to familiarize themselves with general health guidance for their host country and any planned travel destinations through reputable public health resources such as the U.S. Embassy Search for your destination, Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
Identity
Your identity is an important part of your study abroad experience. Living in a new cultural context may shape how aspects of your identity, such as race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, ability, or nationality, are perceived or experienced.
Preparing ahead by learning about cultural norms and social attitudes can help you feel more confident and informed. Many students find studying abroad to be a powerful opportunity for self-reflection and growth. If you have concerns or want to talk through identity-related questions, IAU staff are here to support you and help connect you with resources. Below you will find some helpful resources to explore further.