At MISTI, we do our best to help you plan your trip abroad so you can get down to the important business of making an impact on the world through your placement. Here are some of the basics we’ll help you coordinate, and you can learn more about the specifics of your particular program on our program pages or through your program manager.
To participate in a MISTI program, you’ll need a valid passport. The U.S. Passport Agency can take 12 weeks or more to process applications. Even if your trip is months away, you should apply now.
Many countries also require that you obtain a visa. Your program manager will know what type of visa you need and how to apply. To apply for a visa, you must first obtain a passport.
Once your placement abroad is finalized, your program manager will work with you to make sure that your travel arrangements to and from your host city are in place. While some MISTI programs cover the cost of your travel directly, others will ask you to purchase tickets and will reimburse you prior to your trip.For study abroad, you will be responsible for booking a flight and covering the cost of your travel.
In most cases, your program manager knows the city where you will be living inside and out. The manager will work closely with you to help identify safe, adequate housing in a location that is convenient to your internship or host university. Some students stay in university dorms, some find apartments online, some are offered housing by a host company, and still others prefer homestays.
You also receive a stipend that is enough to cover living expenses for the duration of your experience abroad. (Study abroad students do not receive a stipend). Sometimes the stipend is covered directly by the host organization; other times it is covered by MISTI. Your program manager will make arrangements to ensure you receive your stipend when you need it. To receive your stipend electronically in your bank account, you will need to fill out an MIT direct deposit authorization form. Please visit the "My Reimbursements'' section of the Atlas site to find out how.
MISTI works with health insurance providers to make sure you are covered for the duration of your trip. In addition, MIT students are covered by International ISOS for emergency assistance while traveling abroad. Learn more about MISTI's health and safety procedures.