1. Application

   • Download the ACA online application from https://www.acastudyabroad.com/
   • Complete the application
   • Print the application out and bring a copy to the Studies Abroad Office in Gladwyn Hall 202

2. Post Application

   • Fill out an interest form/post-application with an ACA representative from the Studies Abroad Office, Gladwyn Hall 202

3. Interview

   • Meet with the Studies Abroad coordinator, Dr. Carlos Parra. Schedule an appointment with him via email at cparra@lasierra.edu. His signature is needed in order for you to submit your application.
   • Make an appointment with Student Financial Services. You will need to talk to Letty Fonseca who is in charge of the ACA financial services.
   • Make sure you have completed your FAFSA.

4. Submit Application

   • Submit the completed ACA application to the Admissions Office in the Administration Building with 2 passport pictures and the $100 application fee for the year, or $25 for the summer.
   • Once the completed application is received by the Admissions Office, you will be contacted regarding your acceptance to participate in the ACA experience. With this letter you may begin the visa application process (if needed).

5. Visa

   • Contact your visiting country's consulate (most likely in Los Angeles) and make an appointment as soon as possible. Make sure to have all necessary documents ready before going into your appointment.
   • Have your passport ready and validated up to date (at least one year after coming back).
   • Requirements vary from country to country. You are responsible for contacting them, making your appointment, and having all documents ready before your departure date. Keep in mind that making an appointment can take from weeks to months. Start this process early.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Visas may take weeks or months to get approved and weeks to arrive. Make sure you have enough time.
• Some consulates require additional documents (finger prints from the police station, doctor's letter, etc.) Check your consulate's webpage to find out what you specifically need!
• Your passport should be valid up to one year after coming back. If it is expiring soon, make sure you get it renewed as soon as possible. You need it for your visa.
• You will need your ACA acceptance letter and the attached documents included in your package for all processes.
• Note: Some countries do not require a visa.

Miscellaneous

• Don't forget to email your school abroad and send them the full flight itinerary so they know what time to pick you up from the airport.
• Check your airline's TSA requirements to know what you can or cannot take in your carry-on. Sometimes checked luggage may get lost or arrive late. We recommend taking an extra outfit in your carry-on just in case.
• Here's a link that can help you with the packing process: http://www.aca-noborders.com/info/year/Preparing/102
• You can also refer to your ACA bulletin book for more tips and information.
• Remember that this is a once in a lifetime experience. You will also be in another country that is very different from yours. Try to be open-minded and friendly.