Review the following steps before you depart on international travel. Questions? Contact safety-abroad@uiowa.edu.

1. Understand your Environment 

Consult the following resources prior to departure to identify known risks for your destinations:

2. Mentally Prepare

Picture yourself taking steps to mitigate known risks. What transportation will you use? Are there locations you will need to avoid? What resources will you consult to get your bearings? Do you know what to do in the event of a medical or security emergency, natural disaster or other event impacting your safety?

3. Emergency Services

Consult the U.S. Department of State country information pages - specifically the Safety and Security section - to find 911 equivalents.

4. STEP

Register your trip in the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). If you are not a U.S. citizen, consult with your local embassy for similar programs.

5. Communication Plan

Have a communication plan in place; know who to call when. Confirm communication plans and emergency contacts with your program provider, if applicable. Always carry a smartphone and keep it charged. International Programs emergency cell phone for international travelers: +1 319-530-2540

6. Research

Read up on local culture, customs and current events. Write down key phrases in the local language that would help you ask for help in an emergency and convey any medical condition or allergy you may have.

7. CISI Insurance Plan

Confirm receipt of your CISI insurance card. It will come to your uiowa.edu email account around 25 days prior to departure. Consult the Iowa Regents Universities International Health Insurance Plan to learn about coverage under the policy.

8. CISI Web Portal

Consider creating an account on the CISI web portal so you can access destination information, locate local healthcare specialists, and download additional insurance cards if needed.

9. Visit Your Healthcare Provider

Consult the International Travel Health Preparation Guide and get medical and dental check-ups before departure. Contact safety-abroad@uiowa.edu for assistance setting up a continuity of care plan if you will be managing an ongoing physical or mental health condition while you are abroad.

10. Finances

Call your bank/credit card companies to make sure they know where you will be traveling. Consider signing a Power of Attorney. UI Legal Services can provide assistance and referrals for legal needs.

11. Complete Mandatory Education Abroad Pre-Departure Training in ICON (students)

Iowa student travelers are enrolled in this course once registration to travel abroad as a student or enrollment in a study abroad program is confirmed by International Programs.