Lana Oconnell
If you're a student who wants to fly internationally, there are a few things you need to know. First, you need to ensure that you have the necessary travel documents, such as a valid passport and visa, and that you meet the requirements of your destination country. You may also need to register your travel plans with your university and carry specific documents with you while travelling. Additionally, you should be mindful of the costs associated with international travel, and look out for student discounts and deals on flights. Finally, if you plan to take flying lessons, you'll need to be at least 17 years old to obtain a Private Pilot License (PPL) in the US, and you should research flight schools and choose one that suits your needs.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Student Airfare | StudentUniverse offers cheap, low-cost international and domestic airfare options to students worldwide. |
| Lufthansa Student Fares | Lufthansa offers student fares for both one-way and return trips from selected countries, with benefits such as significant savings and free baggage allowance. |
| InternationalStudent.com Account | Creating an InternationalStudent.com account can provide a $20 discount on the first flight purchase. |
| Eligibility | To be eligible for student airfare, individuals must be registered in an accredited college, community college, or university of 2-4 years. |
| Age Requirements | Some student airfares have age requirements. |
| Group Bookings | High school students and teachers are eligible for student fares if they are part of a group of 12 or more passengers. |
| Travel Documents | Students traveling internationally should carry valid passports, visas, and other important documents, such as Form I-20 or Form I-94. |
| Travel Registry | Some universities maintain a travel registry where students, faculty, and staff can enter their travel itineraries and housing accommodations for safety and support purposes. |
| Travel Planning | Students should plan their travel, including arranging accommodation and learning about cultural differences at the destination. |
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What You'll Learn
Student airfare and discounts
International students can access cheap, low-cost international and domestic airfare options through StudentUniverse, in partnership with InternationalStudent.com. To be eligible for a ticket purchase, you must be a currently registered student or teaching faculty member at an accredited college, community college, or university of 2-4 years. High school students and teachers are not eligible to purchase from StudentUniverse unless they are part of a group of 12 or more passengers.
InternationalStudent.com also offers a $20 discount on your first flight purchase when you create an account with them.
KAYAK for Students is another option for college students and travelers under the age of 26. They have partnered with travel companies that offer discounts on flights specifically for students. You can search for flights by entering your origin and destination and selecting "students" instead of "adults" as your traveler option.
CheapOair also offers cheap flights for students, with over 500 airline options to choose from.
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Required documents
As an international student, you need to ensure that you have the correct documents before flying to your destination. Here is a list of the required documents you should carry with you:
- Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the date of your re-entry to your home country or the country where you are studying.
- Visa: Check if you need a visa to enter the country you are travelling to. If your visa has expired since you last travelled, you may need to renew it before your trip. Remember to carry both your new and old passports if your old passport contains a valid visa.
- Form I-20: If you are studying in the United States, ensure that your Form I-20 ("Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status") is signed by your DSO within the last year.
- Form I-94: If you are an M-1 student travelling to the US, bring your most recent Form I-94 ("Arrival/Departure Record").
- DSO Contact Information: Make sure you have your DSO's most up-to-date contact information, including a daytime telephone number and a 24-hour emergency phone number.
- Proof of Student Status: When booking student fares, you may need to provide proof of your student status, such as an offer letter or student ID.
It is important to note that specific document requirements may vary depending on your country of origin, destination, and student status. Always check with your school or local embassy for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the required documents for your international travel.
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Visa and passport validity
When flying internationally as a student, it is crucial to ensure that your visa and passport are valid and up-to-date to avoid any issues during your travel. Here are some essential points to consider regarding visa and passport validity:
Passport Validity:
Firstly, always ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date. This requirement is standard across many countries, and having a passport that meets this criterion is essential for smooth entry and exit. Check your passport's expiration date well in advance of your travel to allow sufficient time for renewal if needed.
Visa Requirements:
The visa requirements vary depending on your destination country and the purpose of your visit. Some countries may require you to obtain a student visa if you plan to study there, while others may have specific visa categories for different types of student exchanges or programs. Check the visa requirements for your destination country and ensure that you understand the specific type of visa you need.
Maintaining Active Status:
If you are an international student studying in a country and plan to travel internationally during breaks or vacations, it is crucial to maintain your active student status. Consult with the relevant authorities or your student advisor to ensure that your records in the student system are up-to-date and reflect your active status. This step is essential for re-entry into your host country as a student.
Re-entry Requirements:
Before travelling internationally, understand the re-entry requirements for your host country. For example, if you are studying in the United States, you may need to have your Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status," signed by your designated school official (DSO) within the last year. Additionally, ensure that you have your DSO's most up-to-date contact information, and carry any other required documents, such as your Form I-94 ("Arrival/Departure Record") with you during your travel.
Visa Expiration:
Be mindful of your visa's expiration date, especially if you plan to travel outside your host country during your studies. If your visa expires while you are abroad, you may need to reapply for the appropriate visa from abroad, following a similar process as your initial student visa application. Always carry your valid travel documents, including your passport and visa, with you during your travel to avoid complications.
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Accommodation and cultural preparation
When it comes to accommodation, there are a few options available to international students. These include:
- Campus accommodation: This is university-run accommodation, usually within the confines of the university. It offers convenience, safety, and a social environment. Many first-year students prefer this option.
- Off-campus accommodation: If your university does not provide on-campus housing, they will often have an off-campus housing office to assist you in finding a suitable place to live. They can help you find a compatible roommate and provide information about the local area.
- Homestays: Some students may prefer to stay with a local host family, especially those under the age of 18. This can be a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture and navigate your new surroundings with the help of your host family.
- Private accommodation: In some countries, private accommodation may be readily available, but it can be more expensive. This option may provide a different social experience, but it can also offer the chance to live more immersed in the local community.
It is important to research and explore your options before making a decision, as your accommodation will impact your overall experience. Your institute will likely offer help and support, so don't hesitate to reach out and ask for assistance.
In terms of cultural preparation, staying with a host family can be a great way to learn about the local culture and customs. Your host family can provide insights into interesting places to visit and help you navigate local transportation options. Additionally, your university may offer a "pre-departure orientation" packet with information about the local culture and other important topics.
Other cultural preparation tips include:
- Researching the local customs and traditions of your host country.
- Learning some basic phrases in the local language, if applicable.
- Familiarizing yourself with the local transportation system and planning how you will get to and from the airport.
- Researching and planning for any necessary visa or travel documentation. (See "Travel Arrangements" for international students)
- Learning about the cultural differences you may encounter and being open-minded and respectful of these differences.
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Travel registry and safety
When travelling internationally as a student, it is important to register your trip with your university's travel registry system. This is mandatory for students travelling as part of a faculty, staff, or student-led group. You will receive an email notification with a link to complete your registration. Trip leaders should also complete a checklist for group travel before departure. This process ensures your university is aware of your travel plans and can provide assistance in case of an emergency.
At Northwestern University, students are required to register their international travel in the Travel Registry at least two weeks before departure. Similarly, students at the University of Texas at Austin must register their trips in the International Travel Registry (ITR) if they are not participating in approved Education Abroad programs. After completing travel registration, students should create a confirmation receipt and email it to the Global Risk and Safety team. This team provides mandatory Overseas Insurance and emergency assistance coverage through On Call International.
If you are a student at the University of British Columbia travelling outside of Canada for university activity, you must complete UBC's travel authorization requirements. This includes exchanges, research, internships, conference attendance, and more. UBC also requires students to have emergency medical travel insurance and obtain special authorization with the Safety Abroad Advisor and their faculty.
Before travelling, it is crucial to check the travel advisory level of your destination and follow immunization guidance. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after your planned re-entry date. If you are an M-1 student, bring your most recent Form I-94, “Arrival/Departure Record”. Keep all important documents easily accessible and do not put them in your checked baggage. Additionally, ensure your record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is active, and you have the most up-to-date contact information for your DSO.
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Frequently asked questions
Websites such as InternationalStudent.com and StudentUniverse offer cheap international flights for students. To be eligible, you must be a currently registered student or teaching faculty member at an accredited college, community college, or university.
It is important to carry all the necessary documents with you when flying internationally. This includes your passport, which must be valid for at least six months after the date of your re-entry, your visa, and your Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status”. If you are an M-1 student, it is recommended that you also bring your most recent Form I-94, “Arrival/Departure Record”.
Before flying internationally, be sure to check in with your school's DSO to ensure your record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is up-to-date. It is also important to plan ahead and be aware of any cultural differences at your destination. Additionally, always carry valid travel documents with you, as U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may carry out enforcement actions and request to inspect your documents.
