A Division of the International Studies Office
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Student International Travel Considerations
Non-US Passport Holders: UVA students who are not U.S. passport holders should consult ISSP FAQs and UVA Federal Information to understand how changes to U.S. immigration policy could affect them. This includes guidance on the June 4th Presidential Proclamation restricting entry to the United States for nationals of 19 countries.
Safety Considerations due to Conflict in the Middle East: The U.S. Department of State has issued a Worldwide Caution directing travelers with U.S. affiliations to exercise increased caution worldwide, especially in the Middle East. UVA students should not book flights that travel through a country with a University Travel Restriction, State Department Level 3 or 4, or other restriction. Consult the ISO's Travel Alerts, Notices & Warning page for details.
Date: 7/29/26
Preparing for the Experience
Congratulations on your decision to study abroad! This will inevitably be one of the most exciting times in your life as a student. This is a time filled with learning, observing, practicing new skills, making new relationships, some adventure, and quiet moments of personal development. The ISO has made the following resources available to help support you on your journey.
Education Abroad Handbook
This handbook should help you explore issues such as academic expectations, cultural adjustment, and health and safety, and encourage you prepare for living in the area of the world in which you will be a guest. This handbook is not a substitute for your own research about your host country.
Pre-Departure Preparation
Students participating in all education abroad programs are required to read the above handbook and complete a series of related assessments in their online pre-departure requirements. UVA in Valencia participants have a different handbook, linked in their online pre-departure requirements.
Students participating in a UVA program are also required to attend a program-specific Pre-Departure Orientation (PDO). Participants will receive a Program Manual on acceptance, containing additional details about the program, and Travel Guide prior to departure.
Additional Resources
U.S. Department of State Country-Specific Information: The U.S. government’s information page on every country around the world. Includes details on entry/exit requirements, advice for American travelers, U.S. embassy contact information, etc.
World Cultures and History Digital Collection: A resource from the Library of Congress that provides authoritative, in-depth information about various nations and areas of the world. Selections are hand-picked by Area Specialists, so they do the vetting for you and you can go straight to valuable resources online.
We challenge you to be good will ambassadors and actively participate in improving international relations whether in the classroom or on a train, in a restaurant or with new friends. Take every opportunity to open your mind to new experiences, customs and people. Remember that you are a guest in another country, thus the utmost respect and appreciation should be evident.