To participate in this study abroad program you will want to make some important preparations prior to the trip. Please make sure you have:
1. Valid Passport & Visa
Make sure that you have a valid passport with at least six months remaining validity from the date of applying for a Chinese visa. If it is expired or if you don’t have one at all, apply now at the nearest post office with your birth certificate and photos. It will take more than one month to get one mailed back to you. You will then need to apply for a Chinese visa which covers the length of time you will be in China. The cost for a tourist visa to enter China is $160 and typically needs two weeks to a month to be processed. See http://www.china-embassy.org/eng/hzqz/zgqz/t84248.htm for information on Chinese visa application. As an American passport holder, you can visit Taiwan without a visa for up to 30 days.
Do request for six month or one year multi-month entry choice for your Chinese visa, since the visa charge for such long term is the same as for short term stays. It would allow you to return without reapplying for visa again if you plan to visit China again soon.
2. Health Insurance
Make sure that you are in good health condition and have travel health insurance, which will cover your illness and accidents while you are in China and Taiwan. Bring the information such as the name of the insurance, your policy number, emergency contact number for the authorization of treatment abroad. Keep your immunization record up to date and have a copy of your record ready.
3. Non-Refundable Deposit
Make a non-refundable deposit of $300 by March 30 at the Cashier’s Office in program account 29022–52504. The deposit will be used toward your program fee and to secure your seat toward group flight reservation.
4. Suggested Packing List
Please start thinking about what is important for you to bring with you on the trip. See this Suggested Packing List as a starter. The travel agency also provided some Useful Information to us. Please read and use them as you prepare for your trip.
