Medical Consultation Before Leaving the U.S.

Your health and well-being are important parts of a successful study abroad experience. Before you travel, it's important to take time to prepare for any health needs you may have while living and studying in another country.

As part of your pre-departure requirements, all students must complete a medical consultation shortly after being accepted into their program. This appointment provides an opportunity to discuss your overall health, review any necessary immunizations or vaccinations, address prescription medication needs, and prepare for any health-related considerations specific to your destination.

Whether you visit the SCSU Medical Clinic or your personal healthcare provider, planning ahead can help ensure you stay healthy, safe, and prepared throughout your time abroad. If you plan to travel to additional countries during your program, be sure to discuss those destinations as well, as health recommendations and requirements can vary by location.

Taking care of your health before departure allows you to focus on what matters most: making the most of your education abroad experience.

Complete the medical consultation form two ways:

Required Step: Complete the Medical Consultation Form with your healthcare provider, then scan and upload the completed form to your Education Abroad application portal. This form is required for all study abroad participants and must be submitted before your application can be completed.

MEDICAL CONSULTATION FORM (PDF)

Health, Safety & Insurance Considerations

Preparing for your time abroad involves more than booking a flight and packing your bags. Understanding how to manage your health, medications, finances, and personal belongings while overseas is an important part of a safe and successful study abroad experience.

Before departure, we encourage all students to carefully review the information below regarding medications, drugs and alcohol, international health insurance, and personal property and liability insurance. Being informed about these topics can help you avoid unexpected challenges, understand your responsibilities, and ensure you have the resources and coverage you may need while abroad.

Taking time to prepare now will help you travel with confidence and focus on making the most of your education abroad experience.

Medications

If you take prescription medications, it's important to research whether they are legal and permitted in your host country before you travel.

Make sure you have enough prescription medication to last the entire duration of your program. Medications that are readily available in the United States may be unavailable, restricted, or difficult to refill abroad. Plan ahead with your healthcare provider to avoid interruptions in your treatment while overseas.

Before departure:

  • Discuss your medications and travel plans with your healthcare provider.
  • Verify that your prescriptions can be legally brought into your host country.
  • Carry medications in their original labeled containers.
  • Bring copies of your prescriptions and any required medical documentation.

Important: Some medications that are commonly prescribed in the United States, including certain medications used to treat ADHD, may be restricted or prohibited in other countries.

Planning ahead can help you avoid delays or issues when passing through customs and ensure you have access to the medications you need while abroad.

Drugs & Alcohol

Different countries have different laws, cultural norms, and expectations regarding alcohol and drug use. Understanding and respecting local laws is an important part of being a responsible traveler and student abroad.

Students are often most vulnerable to accidents, injuries, and poor decision-making when alcohol is involved. If you choose to drink, do so responsibly and be aware of your surroundings, local customs, and your personal safety.

Important: Be especially aware of local drug laws. Penalties for possessing, purchasing, or using illegal drugs can be severe and may include fines, detention, or imprisonment. Assistance from the U.S. Embassy or Consulate is limited if you are arrested or detained for violating local laws.

Make informed choices, look out for your fellow students, and prioritize your health, safety, and well-being throughout your education abroad experience.

Your program fees include required international health insurance coverage through GeoBlue, the insurance provider for SCSU Education Abroad programs.

This coverage is designed to support you throughout your time abroad and includes benefits such as:

  • Medical treatment for illness or injury
  • Emergency medical assistance
  • Emergency medical evacuation
  • Political evacuation
  • Natural disaster evacuation

Having international health insurance provides peace of mind and ensures you have access to support if unexpected situations arise while abroad.

Before you depart, take time to review your insurance benefits and understand how to access medical care and assistance services while overseas.

Additional Host University Insurance Requirements

Some host universities require international students to enroll in their own health insurance plan in addition to the insurance provided through SCSU. These requirements vary by institution and country and may be mandatory for enrollment.

If your host university requires additional coverage:

  • You will receive instructions during the application or acceptance process.
  • The cost of the additional insurance may be your responsibility.
  • Waivers may or may not be available depending on the institution's policies.

Important: Be sure to review all communications from your host university carefully so you understand any additional insurance requirements before departure.

If you have questions about your coverage, host university requirements, or how to access healthcare while abroad, please contact the Education Abroad Office. We're here to help you prepare for a safe, healthy, and successful experience abroad.

While abroad, you are responsible for your personal belongings, including items such as laptops, phones, cameras, and other valuables. Accidents, theft, and lost items can happen, so it's important to understand what coverage you have before departure.

Consider purchasing liability or personal property insurance to help protect yourself from unexpected expenses related to damaged, lost, or stolen belongings.

Before you travel:

  • Review your family's homeowner's insurance or your renter's insurance policy to determine whether your belongings are covered internationally.
  • Verify what types of items are covered and whether there are any coverage limits or exclusions.
  • Consider additional insurance coverage if you are traveling with expensive electronics or other valuable items.

Important: Keep a record of important items, including serial numbers and receipts when possible. This can be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim while abroad.

Taking a few minutes to review your insurance coverage before departure can provide peace of mind and help protect your belongings throughout your education abroad experience.

Return to Planning Menu