Study Abroad Process
Thank you very much for your interest in Richland College’s Study Abroad Programs. I will be happy to assist you in this important decision toward your career goals. Please schedule an initial appointment with me, by email, for us to discuss the main program you can choose from.
You can contact me by email at:
tmarion@dcccd.edu
972.761.6742
I am looking forward to meet with you.
Regards,
Tommy
1. Select your program
Please visit the website www.ccisabroad.org and select either Summer Programs or Semester Programs (Spring and Fall). Once you selected the semester please select the country and the program that you would like to attend.
2. Learn about your program.
When you have a clear idea about the program you want to apply, you should consider calling the institution that is offering the program and asking any questions you have to the program director. A lot of students have questions about room and board, classes offered, travel expenses, student life, etc. Call as many times you need until you know for sure that this is the program you are looking for.
3. Talk to your family
It is important to have your family’s support in this important decision toward your academic goals. Please make sure you get the support and approval you need prior to applying for the program.
4. Fill out the application
Please visit the website and download the application and fill it out as requested. http://www.ccisabroad.org/ccisapp.html
Have your application package completed prior to meeting with me.
5. Get a Passport
You can apply for a passport at post offices and county and municipal offices. Apply several months before you leave, especially if you need visas from foreign embassies. You must apply in person if you are obtaining your first U.S. passport, if your old one was lost or stolen, or if you have an expired passport issued more than 12 years ago. Otherwise, you can renew your passport by mail.
To apply for a passport, you first need to complete Application Form DSP-11, which you can pick up anywhere you can apply for a passport. The form is also online at http://travel.state.gov.
When you apply, bring proof of U.S. citizenship, such as a certified birth certificate, a naturalization certificate, a consular report of birth abroad, a previous passport, or a certificate of citizenship. You must also bring proof of identity, such as a driver's license, a current student or work ID, or an old passport. Your social security card is not considered proof of your identity, but you must be able to supply the number. You will also need two 2"x2" photos of yourself taken in the past six months. Don’t forget $97 for the application fees.
As soon as you receive your passport, make a copy of the front page that has all of you identification information, and keep it in a separate place from your passport. If your passport is lost or stolen, the copy will make it easier to get a new one.
6. Get information about Student Visa.
Do some research and find out if your country of destination requires a student visa. If so, how to apply for one? How long does it take? What kind of documentation do you need to provide to the embassy?
Sixty percent of the world's countries require visas for any length of stay. If you travel around, you may need visas for other countries. Apply early for visas as processing times vary everywhere. Embassy addresses and phone numbers can be found at www.embassiesabroad.com
7. Develop a Budget
Consider the in-country costs before you go. Consider the costs of optional excursions, gifts, school supplies, internet access, in-country transportation and general living costs.
8. Know exactly which classes the program offers.
It is important that you request from the director of the program for which you are applying for have a list of all the classes you can take overseas. Once you know which classes they offer, please analyze which classes you will need toward your degree. Make a list of those classes and add it into your admission package.
9. Schedule an appt. with the Study Abroad Advisor
When you have completed all the above steps, please schedule another appointment with me by email Tommy Marion tmarion@dccccd.edu.
For the day of the appointment, please bring the following:
- The name and dates of the program for which you are applying.
- The admission package filled out completely.
- Copy of you passport
- Visa information for the country/countries you plan to visit.
10. Keep the deadline
Richland College will not accept an application that is being handed in late, meaning past the deadline given in the program application.
11. Get a International Student ID
I will provide the information needed for you to obtain an International Student ID by the time of your appointment with me.
12. Scholarship Opportunities and Financial Aid
I will provide the information needed for you to apply for scholarships/financial aid by the time of your appointment with me.
13. Get your Shots
The Center for Disease Control offers the most up-to-date information regarding vaccinations and shots. You should also consult your doctor although most International Education Programs destinations do not require pre-trip vaccinations.
14. Consider a Phone Card
Do a little research and find out how you'll be communicating with people back home. Phone cards are great but they don't always work. I recommend the e-kit which combines voice mail, e-mail and phone card with conversions at the cheapest rates. See www.goabroad.ekit.com/ekit/home.
Another recently developed option is the travel cellular. Though expensive, you'll have a number to give your friends before you get on the plane (see www.travelcell.com).
15. Get Insured
International Education Programs provides comprehensive study abroad insurance for all participants. Your coverage will include medical evacuation, trip interruption, emergency reunion, and repatriation.
16. Learn about your Destination
You're going to experience culture shock, no matter who you are, how diverse you are, or how good your foreign language skills are. One way to have a better experience is to have realistic expectations. Read everything you can about your study abroad destination.