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While you're abroad

A page within International Education & Engagement

While you're abroad tabs

Challenge by Choice - We encourage you to make the most of your experience abroad and recommend trying new things. With that said, be mindful of your own limits as well as the health and safety of others.

Upon Arrival & During the Semester
1. Orientation

  • Learn about the program/university and register for classes
  • Students completing a semester or academic year program should be enrolled in a full-load of courses. (Minimum 12 U.S. credits for semester; minimum 24 U.S. credits for the academic year)
2. Accommodations
  • Inspect your housing situation for damages/issues upon arrival
  • Know who to contact if you have any trouble (i.e. plumbing, electric outage, etc.) and how to exit your home in the case of a fire or emergency
3. Register with local authorities
  • You should have registered with STEP prior to departure, but if you have not, now is the time to do so!
  • Familiarize yourself with where the local U.S. Embassy is located
4. Billing
  • Access your bill through WINGS. Follow UWL's Cashier's Office schedule. Failure to pay timely can result in finance charges, holds for future registration, and the account being turned over to a collection agency
5. Involvement
  • Get involved with a sports team, volunteer organization, club, language exchange or anything that can enhance your experience
  • Voting while abroad

Before Returning Home

1. Register for the next Semester
  • Check your registration time in WINGS (CST) and sign up for classes
2. Grades
  • Pass your classes. Failed courses will be transferred back!
3. Transcripts
  • Ask for an additional transcript for yourself if you plan to attend Graduate School
  • Ensure transcripts will be mailed to:
International Education & Engagement
1140 Centennial Hall
1725 State Street
La Crosse, WI 54601

International Education & Engagement
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
1140 Centennial Hall
1725 State Street
La Crosse, WI 54601  (U.S.A.)
Tel: 608.785.8016
Email: international@uwlax.edu

Emergency Cell Phone
Cell: 608.386.6164
*This cell phone will be shared by an on-duty staff member outside of normal office hours of Monday-Friday, 8am-4:30pm.

University Police
(24-Hour Emergency): 608.789.9999

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