A visa is a document granting permission to enter the issuing country. In addition to your passport, you may need a visa issued by the country where you plan to study. It’s important to research the visa requirements of the country you will visit.

Generally, if you have a U.S. passport and will travel for less than 90 days (as in a summer program), you won’t need a visa; but this isn’t true for every country, so do your research.

If you’re a resident alien or international student and don’t have a U.S. passport, different rules could apply. Again, check with the specific country you plan to visit.

Start by making a visa checklist as soon as you’ve been accepted into a program. Visa processing times vary by country, so don’t delay.

You can’t apply for a student visa without a passport and an acceptance letter. Typically, you’ll also need bank documents or proof of funds, plus health insurance and a plane ticket.