Phase 3: Prepare & Go

Once a student has selected a program and completed course planning, the focus shifts to preparing for departure. During this phase, students complete final Moravian and host requirements, confirm travel and housing arrangements, attend orientation, and make sure all logistics are in place for a successful semester away.

Preparation now happens on two fronts: completing Moravian’s final semester-away requirements and finishing all post-acceptance steps required by the host institution or affiliate provider. Because every program has its own process and timeline, students should carefully monitor email and complete all requirements by the deadlines provided.

Moravian Requirements

Students must complete all required Moravian semester abroad/away steps before departure. This may include:

  • Completing required CGE pre-departure forms and documentation on the AMOS Travel Portal
  • Registering for FORL SABR, the 12 credit placeholder course to keep students enrolled full-time at MU as instructed
  • Confirming pre-approved courses and keeping copies for their records
  • Reviewing billing, enrollment, and financial aid expectations

Host Program or University Requirements

Students must also complete all post-acceptance requirements from their affiliate provider or exchange institution. These may include:

  • Submitting required forms and confirmations
  • Completing housing applications or preferences
  • Following visa or immigration document instructions & completing visa application process
  • Reviewing host orientation materials
  • Meeting all program deadlines

Because host requirements vary, students should carefully follow the guidance provided by their host institution or affiliate provider.

Travel Documents & Visas

Students are responsible for obtaining a valid passport and any required visa or immigration documents. Processing times can vary, so students should begin this process as early as possible once they receive guidance from their host. Their MU Education Abroad Advisor can support this process.

Before departure, students should:

  • Confirm passport validity
  • Apply for any required visa
  • Keep copies of important travel and immigration documents
  • Review entry requirements for the destination country

Housing, Travel & Budgeting

Students should confirm housing arrangements, understand arrival expectations, and make travel plans that align with host program dates and visa timing.

Before departure, students should:

  • Confirm housing details
  • Review move-in or arrival instructions
  • Purchase flights at the appropriate time
  • Plan for meals, transportation, and personal expenses abroad
  • Prepare a budget for the semester via Navigating Study Abroad in Canvas

Pre-Departure Orientation 

Students should attend all required pre-departure orientation sessions offered by Moravian and/or their host program. Orientation helps students prepare for the academic, cultural, logistical, health, and safety aspects of studying abroad/away.

Pre-Departure Checklist 

Before leaving, students should make sure they have:

  • Completed Moravian requirements in the AMOS Travel Portal & Navigating Study Abroad in Canvas
  • Completed host requirements
  • Registered for FORL SABR (if abroad/away for a fall/spring semester)
  • Finalized pre-approved courses with alternates
  • Obtained a valid passport and any required visa
  • Confirmed housing
  • Purchased flights
  • Attended pre-orientation
  • Reviewed health, safety, and emergency information
  • Saved copies of important documents & shared with a trusted person at home

Questions during this phase are common. Students should stay in close contact with their Education Abroad Advisor and carefully monitor both Moravian and host communications to stay on track for departure.