Preparing to Go

A Word About Passports

First things first. If you are even remotely considering studying abroad, apply for your passport immediately! The passport agency is experiencing long delays with passport processing, so it is important that you apply early. If possible, please use the expedited service. For full information on passports and how to apply, please visit the National Passport Agency web site.

Where to Start?

You probably have a million questions about how to prepare, what to bring, and how you'll handle daily activities in another country. Our "Living In" guide is bursting with great tips to help you adjust quickly to daily life in Florence. It covers specifics on everything from home-stays, family life, and local customs, to safety, money, and public transport.

Safety & Security

The safety and well-being of our students is our utmost priority. We ask that you visit our Health & Safety pages to learn about our safety policies and procedures. This comprehensive resource contains an overview of our practices, along with a 24-hour emergency number, and a link to our Student Handbook, which contains very detailed information on how to prepare for life within another culture.

Parent/Guardian Resources

Please visit the SU Abroad Parent pages, which have been designed to address your specific concerns regarding topics such as acculturation (culture shock and reverse culture shock), Who to Contact When (a list of helpful phone numbers), and Responsibility Guidelines (including SU Abroad, student, and guardians).