Resources for Students and Families
There are many resources available for students planning to study abroad or away. Find some resources and answers to common questions below as you plan your experience.
Pre-Departure Resources
A passport is required to travel internationally. Be sure to apply for a passport early! If you already have a passport, check that it will be valid for your travel dates. Visit the U.S. Department of State website for a full guide to renewing or applying for your passport.
- First-time Passport
- Passport Renewal (online)
- Passport Renewal (by mail)
Depending on the country and the length of your stay, you may need to apply for a visa before you travel. Visit the U.S. Department of State website to learn about visa and other requirements of the country you plan to travel.
The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service provided by the U.S. Department of State that sends important email updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy for the destination you are visiting or living in.
All students are required to enroll in STEP and follow any applicable safety directives while traveling. While STEP enrollment is only available to U.S. citizens, students who are not U.S. citizens can subscribe to alerts from STEP as well. To do so, visit the STEP enrollment page and click "Start." Then, select "Continue as Guest." Additionally, you may want to explore similar alert services offered by your country of citizenship, if available.
The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is a globally recognized proof of student status that offers access to discounts and benefits on travel, shopping, and cultural activities worldwide. Purchase of the card is optional.
OANDA's currency converter tool helps students planning to study abroad by providing accurate exchange rates, allowing you to budget effectively in your host country's currency. Note that exchange rate fluctuation is a normal occurrence, so using this tool can help you make informed financial decisions while abroad.
On-Site Resources
This is the official list of U.S. embassies, consulates, and diplomatic missions around the world. You can use it to find and access each location's website and contact information in case you find yourself in need of support while abroad.
All students who study abroad are required to enroll in international health insurance for their program duration. Programs through University Studies Abroad Consortium (USAC) and WorldStrides automatically include insurance. The Center for Global Engagement manages insurance enrollment for students participating in faculty-led courses and exchange programs.
Moorhead partners with Mantra Health, an all-in-one platform that gives students access to free virtual services. In-the-moment support is available 11am - 11pm CST via video, and crisis support is available 24/7, making services accessible to students in all time zones.
Post-Completion Resources
The Returnee Workshop is designed specifically for students who have recently returned from studying abroad or away. The session offers space to reflect on your global experience, navigate reverse culture shock, and learn how to articulate the skills you gained for future academic, professional, and personal opportunities. You will connect with fellow returnees, share stories, and discover ways to stays globally engaged on campus and beyond graduation.
Every year, the Center for Global Engagement hosts the Celebration of Nations. Visit us to learn how you can get involved! Student organizations at Moorhead also host a variety of events throughout the year, so keep an eye on Dragon Central for upcoming events.
Moorhead features a variety of diversity-focused student organizations that promote inclusion, cultural awareness, and community engagement. These groups provide opportunities to connect, celebrate identities, and advocate for social justice. View student organizations on Dragon Central.
Accessibility Resources
The U.S. Department of State provides guidance for travelers with disabilities, including tips on accessibility, airport services, and TSA screening assistance. It also offers resources for traveling with service animals and assistive devices, along with information on international accessibility laws.
The National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange, administered by Mobility International USA and supported by the U.S. Department of State, works to increase accessibility for people with disabilities in international exchange through free advising, training, and resources.
Wheelmap is an online map designed to help users find and mark wheelchair-accessible places. The platform covers millions of locations worldwide, including cafés, libraries, swimming pools, and other public spaces. It is available in multiple languages and has a free app for Android and iOS.
The Accessibility Resources office supports students with disabilities by providing accommodations, advocacy, and resources to ensure equal access and opportunity.
Information for Families
Keeping in touch with your student while they study abroad can be different from what you're used to. If daily communication has been your norm, expect some changes as they adapt to a new routine and immerse themselves in their international experience. Time zone differences can make scheduling calls tricky, and students may naturally communicate less as they focus on academics and cultural engagement.
Fortunately, staying connected is easier than ever with modern technology. You and your student can agree on a preferred method, whether it’s email, messaging apps like WhatsApp, video calls on Zoom or FaceTime, or social media platforms such as Instagram or Snapchat. Discuss expectations before they depart so both sides feel prepared.
Mobile carriers now offer international plans with more affordable rates, making direct phone communication a practical option. Students don’t always need roaming enabled but having it on when needed can be helpful. Even without roaming, Wi-Fi access allows them to stay connected through messaging and calls.
Encourage your student to embrace their study abroad experience while maintaining a balance in communication that works for both of you.
When your student returns home, expect them to be eager to share stories, photos, and reflections on their experiences. Many describe study abroad and away as life-changing, and it can take time to fully process everything. Be patient and supportive as they unpack their journey, and show interest by asking thoughtful questions—they’ll appreciate your engagement.
You may also notice subtle or even significant changes in them, which is a natural outcome of navigating life in a different culture. Study abroad and away foster independence, adaptability, and problem-solving skills, shaping them in ways that benefit both their personal growth and future career. Embrace the transformation and encourage them to integrate their new perspectives into life at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit the Center for Global Engagement to learn about program options and think through what type of experience best fits your personal, academic, and career goals. We will also consider your individual needs for program accessibility. Schedule a meeting today!
Generally, students must meet these eligibility criteria to study abroad or away:
- Good academic standing
- Completion of at least one academic year at Moorhead
- No current student conduct cases
- No outstanding financial obligations
Be sure to check additional eligibility criteria for your specific program of interest.
Yes! While knowing your host country's language can enhance your experience abroad, it is always necessary. Most of our programs offer courses taught in English, so you can easily engage in academic and cultural activities without language barriers. For students looking to develop your language skills, there are also immersion programs available to suit your interests.
Finances are a key factor in planning your experience abroad or away. Students typically use some form of financial aid and/or scholarships to fund their experiences. See our Financing Your Global Experience page for more information and be sure to work with the Office of Scholarship & Financial Aid as you plan financially.
With early and careful planning, studying abroad or away should not negatively impact your graduation timeline. You will work closely with academic advisor to identify courses on your program of choice that meet your degree requirements. The Center for Global Engagement will guide you through this process and help you navigate the credit transfer process.
Studies show that Dragons who study abroad or away are more likely to graduate within 4-6 years and have a higher GPA.
Student safety and well-being is our top priority. Every student studying abroad is automatically enrolled in international health insurance and must register with the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important safety updates. The Center for Global Engagement actively monitors global travel advisories that could affect travel plans. Before departure, faculty also lead in-depth orientation sessions to help students prepare for cultural differences and navigate your new environments with confidence.
Future Global Opportunities
Many students find themselves eager for more global experiences after studying abroad or away. If you feel the same, there are plenty of ways to engage in the global community even after your program ends.
The Fulbright U.S. Student Program provides grants for graduating college seniors, graduate students, and young professionals to conduct research, study, or teach English abroad for one academic year. It promotes cross-cultural exchange and academic collaboration.
The Peace Corps is a volunteer program run by the U.S. government that sends Americans abroad to work on social and economic development projects. Volunteers serve in sectors such as education, health, agriculture, and community development.
AmeriCorps is a U.S. government program that engages individuals in public service work within the United States. Members serve in areas such as education, disaster response, public health, and environmental stewardship. In return, participants receive a living stipend and an education award to help pay for college or student loans.
The Rhodes Scholarship provides full financial support for outstanding students to pursue one or more degrees at the University of Oxford. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious international scholarship programs.
The Marshall Scholarship finances high-achieving young Americans to pursue graduate degrees at any university in the United Kingdom. It aims to strengthen the relationship between the U.S. and the UK.