Pre-Departure Orientation

UMD & Affiliate Program Participants

Congratulations on your decision to study abroad! The more you prepare for your experience, the more you’ll enjoy it. Please read the carefully compiled materials, as even the most experienced travelers can find new and useful information. Be safe and have a wonderful experience.

—UMD Study Abroad Team

Pre-Departure Orientation

UMD and Affiliate program participants are required to attend a synchronous orientation. 

UMD Email Account | Staying Connected

Email is the official form of communication at UMD. We expect you to check your UMD email account regularly. 

• Email is the easiest and most efficient way to reach our office, should an issue arise while abroad 
• Email is the optimal (and only) way for UMD to contact you while abroad regarding matters such as:
  • financial aid
  • registration queue times

Resources

• Insurance Policy
• UMD Billing Dates
• TSA (Transportation Security Administration)
  • Carry-on Luggage Liquid Rules (toiletries, hand sanitizers, aerosols, gels, creams, pastes, shampoo etc.)
  • What Can I Bring? Search for items that can/cannot be in your carry on or checked bags 
• Electricity & wall plugs abroad
  • IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) World Plugs List
    • Verify the plug type that fits outlets at your destination.
    • Get the correct adapter plug for that outlet. This isn’t needed if you’re headed to a destination that has U.S.-compatible outlets.
    • Verify the voltage in the outlets at your destination.
    • Verify the voltage input on each of your devices. Look for this info on its cord, plug, or somewhere on the device itself.
    • Get the correct voltage conversion accessory. This isn’t needed for dual-voltage devices (many are) or if your single-voltage device matches your destination’s voltage.
• Culture Shock
• Life Abroad (alcohol safety & student behavior)
  • UMD Safety Abroad
  • University of Minnesota Education Abroad Alcohol & Drug Policy
  • University of Minnesota Student Conduct Code
• Absentee Voting (register to vote or request your absentee ballot)
• VAT Refunds (for those going to European Union)

Program Specific Orientation Information

UMD Study Abroad Programs 

• Australia
• Croatia
• Germany
• Ireland
• New Zealand
• Spain
• Sweden
• United Kingdom (England & Scotland)

Affiliate Programs

For further details to prepare for your program, refer to your program provider.