6. Do I need a visa?

It depends on the destination and the length of your stay. Each program should spell out the country's visa regulations, but it's ultimately your responsibility to comply. Go to travel.state.gov to double-check what's needed for entrance where you plan to study.

Dianna Stephens in London [enlarge photo] STUDY ABROAD CHECKLIST Sending you child to study in a foreign country can be overwhelming. Download this checklist to make sure you have it all covered. If you don't already have it, you will need Adobe Acrobat, a free (and easy!) plug-in, to read the PDF Download the PDF Download Adobe Acrobat TRIP COACH • On August 29, 2006, Jennifer McKendree from Youth For Understanding (YFU) answered your questions about studying abroad OCTOBER 2006 ISSUE • Table of Contents • 2006 Extra Mile Awards • There's Something About Sydney • Lijiang: Forgotten Kingdom • Trip Coach: Costa Rica Eco-Trip • 40 Best Vacations

7. Will I fit in?

How much of an effort do you plan to make? First, conduct some research. "Students don't ask enough about the customs of the country they'll be staying in," says NYU's Gagliardo. "They assume things in France or China will be the same as in America." He recommends seeing films and reading books about life in the locale. Still, no matter how much preparation you do, there will probably be an adjustment period. "The most important thing is not to close yourself off from your new reality, but to try to understand it," says Massimo Avuri, who teaches Italian at NYU's program in Florence. "Contact with the people and daily use of the language are of the highest importance."

8. How do I stay safe?

Use good sense, as you would at home: Be alert, dress modestly, stay in groups, and know where to go for help. "There's almost always a 24-hour emergency phone number," says Melanie Andrich, associate director of Rutgers University Study Abroad. "When students are hurt, it's often because they made themselves vulnerable. They get inebriated and walk alone at night, or they're not careful with their wallet or laptop." If you're leaving town to explore for the weekend, tell someone where you'll be. Make sure your health insurance covers you abroad; some programs include basic coverage. Every program should provide a list of English-speaking doctors and dentists, as well as nearby hospitals.

9. Do I have to be fluent in the language?

Not really. But when there, learn as much as you possibly can--you may never have an opportunity to immerse yourself again. "Studying shouldn't be excessive, but constant," says Avuri. "A language isn't learned in a day. Traveling and recreation will augment what's learned in school."

10. What should I pack?

As little as possible, in a bag that's easy to carry--if only because most airlines charge extra for bags over 50 pounds. "The best way to pack is to imagine two weeks of crazy weather and different events," says Rutgers's Andrich. "Bring clothes you can mix and match, layer, and clean easily." Leave expensive jewelry at home. There's no need to stock up on toiletries unless you're picky about brands; everything you'll need will be available. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, and two nice outfits is plenty. Fill your carry-on with vital medications, copies of your passport, and a list of emergency contacts, bank and health insurance info, and your flight itinerary. E-mail the list to yourself and to someone at home, too. And don't forget to bring an open mind.