Study Abroad Next Steps and Forms

What you need to do after you are accepted into your study abroad program, while you're abroad, and when you get back.

After You Are Accepted into Your Program: Next Steps

Congratulations! You've been accepted into your study abroad program. Before you can pack your bags and go abroad, you are required to complete the following.

  • Attend an Onboarding Meeting

    Once accepted, you'll be invited to an essential onboarding meeting by the Center for Global Engagement. This session will cover expectations, payment deadlines, and other predeparture necessities.

  • Submit a Copy of Your Passport and COVID-19 Vaccine Card

    To travel abroad with Central Piedmont, you must submit a copy of your COVID-19 vaccination card or provide a doctor’s note within 30 days of departure.

    Also, to travel internationally, you need a valid passport. Whether you also need a visa depends on your destination country's requirements. Please submit a valid copy of your passport to the Global Learning office promptly, as it is necessary for booking your flight. For more information on passport, visa, and entry requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State's website and search for your destination country.

  • Ensure your passport is valid

    Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the date you plan to depart from your destination country. Start the application or renewal process early, as securing an appointment and receiving your passport can take several weeks.

    First-time Applicants: You must apply in person. Follow the step-by-step guide for new passport applications on the U.S. Department of State website.

    Renewals: For renewing your passport, detailed instructions are available on the U.S. Department of State website.

    Note: There are limited facilities in the Charlotte area for submitting passport documents, so plan accordingly.

  • Applying for a visa

    If you need to apply for a visa, consult the website of your host country's embassy or consulate for detailed instructions. Begin the visa application process as soon as possible to ensure timely approval.

  • Fill out and submit the required forms

    Upon acceptance into a study abroad program, you will receive an email containing two DocuSign forms to complete. The first is the college’s FERPA form, which authorizes us to share your information with our vendors, including airline companies, insurance providers, and in-country partners. The second form is an Agreement to Terms and Conditions.

  • Attend all meetings and complete predeparture assignments

    Shortly after your acceptance, you will receive a 'save the date' for the mandatory predeparture meeting. Depending on your specific program, there may also be required assignments to complete prior to your departure.

  • Register for the course associated with your study abroad program

    The Center for Global Engagement will send participants the course title and number for registration. For most programs there will be a course offered for credit and a continuing education option for those who do not want transferable course credit.

While Abroad

  • Attend all activities and courses.

  • Notify your faculty leader of any issues or concerns impacting your experience on the program.

  • Take plenty of photos and videos, but try to disconnect from social media. Immerse yourself in your host culture.

  • Adhere to Central Piedmont policies, including the Student Code of Conduct. Refer to the student handbook (coming soon) for further guidelines.

Upon Return from Abroad

  • Complete all course assignments.

  • Submit some photos and videos to the Center for Global Engagement.

  • Complete the study abroad evaluation.

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