Before you go
Heading overseas requires careful preparation. Here’s what you need to ensure you're well-prepared for your international program.
Pre departure Sessions
Semester exchange
Students going abroad for one or two semesters are required to attend a mandatory pre-departure session. Details will be sent by email once you have been accepted.
Overseas short programs or international placements
A pre-departure session is not available for every experience given the varied nature of these programs. Instead, we’ll send you essential information by email once you're accepted.
If you're joining an academic-led study tour or international placement, your school may require you to attend a pre-departure session.
Pre departure information
Apply or renew your passport
Obtaining a passport may take a considerable amount of time so apply or renew your passport as early as possible.
Check the validity of your passport
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after the date of your return to Australia after your program and any additional travel.
If your current passport is set to expire before then, you will need to apply for a new passport.
As a student completing a La Trobe Abroad approved program, you will be covered by La Trobe University travel insurance.
Please refer to the La Trobe University travel insurance webpage for travel insurance policy details.
We recommend that you store the relevant insurance contact details in your phone prior to your departure.
NOTE: Limited cover applies to international students travelling to their country of residence. See the Travel to Country of Residence Policy [PDF 371 KB].
It is your responsibility to ensure that you have a valid visa for the duration of your overseas program.
La Trobe Abroad is not authorised to provide visa advice, so it is important you check with the appropriate consulate or embassy.
Search online for the consulate of the country you are going to (e.g. "Korea consulate Australia"), for the most up-to-date advice.
Once you’ve been officially accepted into your program and your visa (if required) is received, you can start booking your flights.
We do not recommend booking flights until this point in case you are not accepted into the program, or your visa is denied as you may not be eligible for a refund on your flights.
We recommend that you do not pay for accommodation until you have been accepted by your program and received your visa (if required).
While arranging accommodation is your responsibility, many programs provide helpful housing information and guidance to assist you in the process.
Review the information on the Australian government’s Smartraveller website for country-specific advice and subscribe to receive travel advice and alerts for your destination(s).
Visit your local GP or a travel doctor to discuss what vaccinations you may need for your destinations.
For information about travelling with medications, visit the Australian Government’s Smartraveller website.
For detailed information on taking care of your health overseas, explore the health section of the Smartraveller website.
Helpful resources
Contact us
We’re here to help. If you have questions, contact the La Trobe Abroad team.