We can help prepare you to experience new cultures, ensure your SAIT program requirements are met, and provide direction regarding in-country accommodation.
Before your trip, and as a starting point for your preparation, ensure you read and fully understand SAIT's Student Conduct Procedures (AC.3.4.3 Academic and AC.3.4.4 Non-Academic) and Study Abroad Procedure.
Pre-departure orientation sessions
If travelling outside Canada, you must attend a mandatory pre-departure orientation session facilitated by SAIT's Study Abroad office. If you don't, you won't be allowed to travel, even if you've already paid for your program.
Your trip leader may offer additional pre-departure sessions, which you should also attend, but this does not exempt you from completing the mandatory session facilitated by the Study Abroad office.
Pre-departure orientation session dates will be provided to students and trip leaders leading up to their departure date.
Health and travel insurance
You must have valid travel health insurance for the entire period you're away as part of a study abroad program. In many cases, your trip leader will arrange this insurance for the whole group. Otherwise, the policy you choose is at your discretion.
Make sure you read and fully understand your policy before travel.
Safety and security
Before leaving Canada, you must register with the Registry of Canadians Abroad. In the event of an emergency, this information will be used by the Canadian Government to contact you and provide the necessary support.
All SAIT students travelling outside Canada as part of their SAIT program are covered by an additional assistance service provided by International SOS.
Before your departure, you will receive a membership card in order to register. Once registered, you can access their online services, including extensive health, travel, and security information; a mobile app service to keep you current on local health, safety, and security issues; 24/7 access to health and security experts and general travel advice. You can access these services before and during your study abroad trip.
Always keep up-to-date with current safety and security information for your destination country. Visit the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories web page.
Visas and permits
Depending on your destination country, you may be required to obtain specific immigration documentation, such as a visa or permit, before you depart from Canada.
In many cases, your trip leader will have investigated these requirements on behalf of the group and will share this information either at a pre-departure session or via email before travel.
If you are not a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident, you must inform your trip leader as soon as possible and contact your local embassy for entry/exit requirements of the destination country.
If you are travelling independently, without a trip leader, visit the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories web page for current immigration information.