Study Abroad Resources & Policies for Students

Here’s important information whether you are considering your options, preparing for departure, currently abroad, or returning home: 

We highly encourage you to review our study abroad policies during all stages of your travel.

If you have additional questions, reach out to the Study Abroad Office or your faculty leader.

There are also study abroad resources for families that have a student who’s interested in study abroad.

Live & Study Abroad

Language Skills

You do not need to speak a foreign language to study abroad or participate in a faculty-led program.

All WSU approved programs offer coursework in English unless the program is specifically for language acquisition.

In non-English speaking countries, it is suggested to take a language course in addition to coursework in English. There are programs where you would take a course in the language of that country and take all the rest of your courses in English at the host institution. 

To improve your language skills, it is better to choose a program that teaches more of your courses in the country’s language.

Housing & Meals

If you live on campus, view the WSU Housing Policies to learn about canceling your housing agreement during your semester abroad.

Technology

You can choose to take your WSU laptop with you abroad. Learn more about using WSU laptops away from campus (PDF).

Experiential Learning 

Some faculty-led, semester and summer programs include an internship, a field experience, or service-learning opportunity. 

Grades & GPA

Prepare for Travel 

Passports

Need a passport? The WSU Study Abroad office can process applications for new passports

Most post offices and some other businesses can also process passport applications. Learn more about passports.

General Travel Information

Use a Currency Converter to understand how US dollars compare to the currency used in your host country. 

Pre-Departure Orientation

Pre-Departure Orientations are mandatory and located in the Learning Content area in your online study abroad account. 

The Pre-Departure Orientation introduces you to the important study abroad policies that apply to Winona State students regardless of where you study abroad. 

This orientation also provides resources on health and safety, cultural adjustment, and strategies for success while abroad. 

Semester/Summer students will also attend an in-person Open Forum to meet other students going abroad during the same term, have any remaining questions answered, and meet alumni of their program.

Faculty-led program students will take part in a series of in-person meetings prior to departure. These meetings are required and include information about course content, location-specific details, health and safety information, packing tips and more. 

Health & Safety

Prescription Medication

The laws around bringing prescription medications into a country can vary greatly, therefore it is necessary to check the legality of the medication in your host country. 

If you currently take prescription medication, plan ahead for the entirety of your time abroad. 

Review the travelers checklist for medications from the U.S. Department of State (Select “Get Required Documents section, Medications bullet”).

Problems & Emergency Situations

In the case of an immediate emergency, call the local equivalent of 911. Then contact your host university, program provider staff, or faculty leader. 

If a non-immediate problem arises while you are abroad, get in touch with your host university, program provider staff, or faculty leader. They will be familiar with your study abroad site and will have the best information to find a rapid solution. 

You can also contact the Study Abroad Office at 507.457.5081 and we will respond as soon as possible. Study Abroad staff are available Monday-Friday from 8am-4pm.

WSU Campus Safety & Security is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 507.457.5555. 

Sexual Assault Support

Whether you’re at home, living in Winona, or studying abroad, sexual assault can happen. If you need resources, these organizations can get you started.

Going Abroad After Graduation

Contact Study Abroad

Study Abroad Office

Maxwell 105
studyabroad@winona.edu
507.457.5081

Book an Appointment