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Pre-Departure Orientation

Santa Clara provides a mandatory orientation for all students studying off-campus. There are three components to pre-departure orientation with our office: 

  1. Virtual Health & Safety Webinar
    • The virtual webinar for Summer 2023 and Fall 2023 students will take place via ZOOM on May 24 from 5:30 pm - 7 pm (Pacific Time). Students are automatically added to the Google Calendar invitation where they can access the login link. 
    • Winter/Spring 2024 students will participate in their virtual webinar in Fall 2023. 
  2. Online Camino Modules 
    • The the online modules for Summer 2023 and Fall 2023 students will be available to students in Camino on May 11 and are due June 1.  
    • Winter/Spring 2024 students will complete their online camino modules in Fall 2023.
  3. Social Engagement Events (optional) - View upcoming Region Meet N Greets

The online modules, webinar, and social engagement events will cover the following topics:

  • Tools to Prepare for Departure and Arrival Abroad
  • Cultural Adjustment
  • SCU Policies and Procedures
  • Health & Safety
  • Diversity & Identity Abroad
  • Course Planning & Earning Credit
  • Billing & Financial Aid

Attendance Policy

Failure to complete SCU’s required Pre-Departure Orientation materials will result in withdrawal from study abroad. Attendance during the Virtual Health & Safety Webinar and the completion of all online modules is mandatory.

Absences are excused for class conflicts only; students who anticipate they will not be able to attend the live session should email studyabroad@scu.edu as soon as possible. Students who are unable to attend the live session will be required to make up this portion of the pre-departure orientation by watching the recording.

Program-Specific Orientation

Your program provider or host institution will likely have a mandatory orientation as well. This orientation is in addition to Santa Clara University's required pre-departure orientation materials. Your program provider or host institution orientation may be online, or it may be on-site when you arrive in the country. This is a great opportunity to ensure that you understand grading policies, housing rules, and to connect with other program participants from around the world. Be sure to adhere any attendance policies set by your program.