Preparing for your Experience Abroad

Visas

Unless you are already authorized to work in your host country, you will likely need a visa. Requirements vary by country and by person. Start by contacting the local consulate of your destination country to determine what you need and how to apply.

Vaccinations

Some countries require or recommend certain vaccinations for entry or internships. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also provides destination-specific health recommendations for travelers.

Before you travel, review the CDC's Traveler's Health guidance for your destination to determine whether any vaccinations are required or recommended. Be sure to do this well in advance of your departure, as some vaccines require multiple doses or time to become effective.

If you have questions about vaccinations or preparing for international travel, contact UChicago Student Wellness/Student Health Services for guidance.

Health Insurance

Contact your health insurance provider to confirm what's covered while you're abroad — medical and dental care, prescriptions, and more.

For extra coverage, short-term travel insurance is available through providers like BETINS, CISI, Gateway Plans, HTH Worldwide, International Student Insurance, ISO Student Health Insurance, Seven Corners, UnitedHealthcare Global, and Wallach & Company. Listed for reference only — UChicago has no relationship with these providers.

Watch for common exclusions: pre-existing conditions, mental health treatment, sports injuries, alcohol-related injury or illness, self-inflicted injury, STDs, and pregnancy.

If you're on a parent's plan, confirm it covers dependents through the full internship — some cut off coverage at age 21.

Housing

Start your housing search early, as securing accommodations abroad can take longer than expected. Explore options through your host organization, short-term rental platforms, and local student or expat housing groups. You can also connect with UChicago students and alumni who have lived in your destination city for recommendations and advice.

Local Laws & Safety

Before you travel, review your destination's visa requirements, local laws, and travel advisories. The U.S. Department of State's Country Information pages provide guidance on local laws and special circumstances, while Travel Advisories highlight country- and region-specific safety information. It's also a good idea to know how to contact your home country's embassy or consulate in your host country in case of an emergency.

SARSAC

UChicago does not permit undergraduates to participate in internships or other experiences in countries with a U.S. Department of State Level 3 or 4 Travel Advisory (or an equivalent CDC or International SOS rating) without prior approval.

To request an exception:

  • Email the Study Abroad Risk and Security Assessment Committee (SARSAC) at sarsac@uchicago.edu to schedule a meeting with Chris Fuglestad or Chiara Montanari

  • Submit a 1–2 page petition explaining the risks of your destination, your plan to mitigate them, and why the experience cannot be completed in a lower-risk location

  • Submit a signed waiver (by you and a parent or legal guardian) along with your petition as a single PDF or Word document

UChicago Traveler and International SOS (ISOS)

UChicago supports students throughout their time abroad. If you're participating in an international internship, be sure to register your travel through UChicago Traveler so the University can assist you in the event of an emergency.

Registered travelers also receive access to International SOS (ISOS), a global leader in medical and travel security. ISOS provides 24/7 assistance with medical care, travel safety, security guidance, and emergency support while you're abroad.