Banking Abroad
Before you travel abroad, notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans, including the countries you’ll visit and your travel dates. Many banks now allow you to submit travel notices directly through their mobile apps, making the process quick and easy.
While some banks no longer require this, notifying your bank helps prevent your accounts or cards from being flagged for suspicious activity while you’re overseas. It’s also a good idea to ask about international transaction fees, ATM withdrawal fees, and any travel-related benefits your cards may offer. You may also want to check whether your bank has international banking partners or participates in global ATM networks that reduce withdrawal fees overseas.
We do not recommend opening a bank account abroad, and in most cases students will not be able to. Setting up and closing an overseas account can be time-consuming and may involve additional fees.
Plan to use your current bank and credit cards. Some students choose to apply for a travel-friendly credit card with low or no foreign transaction fees, which can help save money during their time abroad. Be sure to bring at least two payment methods (e.g., a debit card and a credit card) and store them separately in case one is lost or blocked
Communication with Home
While you’re abroad, your schedule will likely look very different from life at home — between classes, travel, new friends, and time zone differences, you may find yourself communicating with family and friends less often than you do now.
Before departure, it’s a good idea to set expectations with loved ones about how often you’ll check in. Some students prefer quick daily updates, while others schedule a call once or twice a week. Find a routine that works for you and helps everyone stay connected.
If you plan to travel during weekends or breaks, be sure to share your travel plans with family or trusted contacts so they know where you’ll be and how long you’ll be away.
Before leaving, download a few communication apps that work well internationally and encourage family and friends to do the same. Popular options include:
- FaceTime
- Zoom
- Kakao
- Line
Downloading and testing these apps before departure can make staying in touch much easier once you arrive abroad.
Mobile Phones & Internet Access
All students are expected to have a working phone number and be reachable while abroad.
Before departure, take some time to research your phone and data options so you can decide what will work best for your program location, travel plans, and budget. Many students compare international plans offered by their current mobile carrier with local SIM card or eSIM options available in their host country.
Before leaving, check with your carrier to confirm whether your phone is unlocked and compatible with international SIM cards or eSIMs. You should also review costs for international data, calls, and texting so there are no surprises once you arrive abroad. Pay-as-you-go plans and eSIMs are often popular choices because they can be flexible and easy to manage while traveling.
Internet speeds and Wi-Fi access may vary depending on your location, so flexibility is important. Some students also choose to purchase a Virtual Private Network (VPN) before traveling abroad. VPNs can provide an extra layer of online privacy and may help you access websites, streaming services, or apps that are limited in certain countries or on public Wi-Fi networks. If you’re interested in using one, be sure to research options and download it before departure, as access to VPN services may vary by country.
Voting Abroad
Studying abroad doesn’t mean you have to miss out on voting! With a little planning, it’s easy to stay informed, request your ballot, and make your voice heard while overseas. Be sure to research your state’s voter registration and absentee ballot deadlines before you leave, as requirements and timelines can vary by state.
TurboVote is a helpful tool that many students use to register to vote, request absentee ballots, and receive election reminders. You can also explore resources like Overseas Vote Foundation, Vote From Abroad, and the U.S. Department of State Voting Assistance Information for guidance on voting from outside the United States.
If you are not yet registered to vote, many states offer quick and easy online voter registration. Planning ahead before departure can make the process much smoother once you’re abroad.