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Visas

You will want to begin the visa process within one week of your acceptacne into your study abroad program. The OSA cannot assist in obtaining visas. Please contact your program provider and the Embassy or Consulate of the country you plan to study in for specific requirements and regulations.

Many countries require you to have a visa before entering the country. This is official permission to visit a country allowing you to stay for a certain period of time. Some visas cost money; others do not. Several months before your departure, contact the consulate for the countries you plan to visit to find out if a visa is required — remember you are seeking a student visa, not a tourist visa, so be sure to ask for this specifically. Visa processing can take anywhere from several hours to several weeks. Be sure to get your visa(s) immediately, if required. Please note that some visas carry certain restrictions (e.g. no employment in student status).

If you are traveling to your destination and make a stop in another country, you may be required to get a transit visa for your layover at the airport. For more information,contact the Embassy or Consulate of the country where the transit stop(s) will be made.