When should I start planning for study abroad?  

Advanced planning is strongly advised. Students studying abroad for a semester or a year are encouraged to attend a General Advising Session about a year before departure or come meet with a Peer Mentor to discuss options. Every student, regardless of major, should discuss plans to study abroad with an academic advisor; ideally, this will be done at the beginning of your undergraduate career to insure time abroad is built into your 4-year plan.  At the very least, be sure to consult your academic advisor as soon as you  know you want to study abroad.