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Pre-departure planning
Flight arrangements
Many students find it desirable to travel with other students from their study abroad program, especially if going abroad for the first time. For some programs, the Office of Study Abroad works with local travel agencies to obtain competitive airfares for students. However, please keep in mind that the MSU Office of Study Abroad does not serve as a travel agency. All arrangements need to be made with an actual travel agency. If you are participating in a program with an optional group flight, you may receive flight information from such an agent. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS INFORMATION MAY BE SENT TO YOU BEFORE YOU ARE FORMALLY ACCEPTED INTO THE PROGRAM. IT IS FOR PLANNING PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT IMPLY YOUR ACCEPTANCE.
The travel agent will assist with travel questions, and make the arrangements that best meet your personal needs. You may reserve a flight with the travel agency or make independent arrangements if you wish. However, you should wait until you receive an official letter of acceptance before making your final booking and payment.
Suggested inexpensive airfares can be made through sites such as:
You are expected to be at the study abroad location the day the program begins and remain for the duration of the program. If you arrive early, you need to make your own housing arrangements. If you are not on the group flight as planned, or you do not check-in on the first official day of the program, this will be considered an emergency and the emergency contact listed on your application will be contacted.
As you begin your arrangements, you may consider having a friend or family member accompany or visit you while abroad. Contact your OSA Program Coordinator to discuss possible resources. Although the OSA staff can make recommendations, the University can not provide administrative support (transportation, housing, childcare, etc.) or assume responsibility for non-participants. Accompanying non-participants are not part of the program and therefore cannot attend classes, field trips, or any other activities formally associated with the program. If such individuals become disruptive to the program, it may be grounds for your dismissal.
Leave your detailed flight itinerary with your family and if you promised to call them upon arrival, don’t forget!
Whether you are leaving to go abroad or to return home, you must confirm your flight well in advance of the scheduled departure. Arrive at the airport at least two-and-half hours before departure. If you should experience difficulty with your flight, you should contact the travel agent and/or airlines. If it is a travel emergency, inform OSA and we will work with the appropriate travel agent to try to resolve your problem.
