Steps to Study Abroad
Health & Safety
SU is committed to supporting students to have a healthy and safe experience abroad or away. SU supports students with disabilities, accommodations and/or health concerns to study abroad.
Safety
SU carefully monitors locations around the world to ensure that locations and programs are safe for our students. Generally, locations with a U.S. State Department Travel Advisory of Level 1 or 2 are considered acceptable for travel.
- All students participate in a Health and Safety Orientation pre-departure and again upon arrival
- Program Providers have safety plans in place, evacuation insurance and 24/7 emergency support on-site
- The Department of State offers tips for students studying abroad
- U.S. Embassies provide resources about countries around the world
Health
Study Abroad/Away Health Handout
Before departure, students should have a general physical and dental exam and talk with their healthcare provider or counselor about their study abroad plans. Many Program Providers will require a medical release.
Tips for a healthy experience abroad:
- Bring medications and copies of any prescriptions; some medications may not be available or legal in the destination country
- Consider food allergies, special dietary needs and the local food customs and availability
- Program Providers assist students to receive health care locally, offer comprehensive health and evacuation insurance as well as 24/7 emergency support
- Review information from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and World Health Organizations (WHO)
- Be up-to-date with routine vaccinations.
- Follow the latest vaccination and booster protocols for protection against COVID-19, as well as current best practices for mitigation risk of exposure. External entities and/or authorities may require COVID-19 vaccination and booster documentation for participation.
- Emotional support animals are rarely permitted
Insurance
Studying abroad in a COVID-19 era demands flexibility and Southwestern University encourages students to purchase trip cancellation insurance with CFAR and/or IFAR (“interruption for any reason’) to safeguard against losses or penalties associated with withdrawal or program cancellations. SU assumes no responsibility for such losses or penalties.