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The University of Minnesota considers the health and safety of students on education abroad opportunities one of its top priorities. While no organization or institution can guarantee the safety of participants, the risks can be significantly reduced if program staff, students, parents, and advisors at the host and home institutions all work together. Most professionals in the education abroad field tend to believe that study abroad in a foreign country is no more dangerous than study in the United States, however, safety remains a prime concern for all involved.
In response to the concern for the well-being of the students, the University of Minnesota has developed policies and procedures related to education abroad opportunities which require all students participating in an education abroad experience sponsored or endorsed by the university to complete a Release and Waiver form from the General Counsel's office and must have international insurance coverage provided by the university.
Additionally, the university endorses the recommendations of NAFSA: Association of International Educators' health and safety task force findings. Health and Safety Guidelines developed by NAFSA: The Association of International Educators.
Students, faculty and staff are responsible for reading and complying with the following:
Education Abroad Opportunities: Addressing Health and Safety Risks (policy)
Preparing for Education Abroad Opportunities (U of M Academic/Administrative Procedure 2.2.7.1)
Suspending Education Abroad Opportunities Due to Health and Safety Risks (U of M Academic/Administrative Procedure 2.2.7.2)
Education Opportunities in Countries on the State Department Warning List
Release & Waiver
It is extremely important that you read and follow the directions on the Information and Instructions page of the Release and Waiver. The name of the program, dates, etc. need to be typed into the fillable fields, then download, print and sign the document. No handwritten documents will be accepted.
Release and Waiver (for students participating on programs through Learning Abroad/Study Abroad Offices)
Release and Waiver (for students participating on sponsored or endorsed work, internship, volunteer and service-learning opportunities and learning abroad opportunities offered through colleges, departments, and/or faculty, including directed, research or independent study only (credit and non-credit)).
Additional Resources
State Department Travel Warnings
SECUSSA - A resource of web sites and publications related to study, work, and travel abroad, including information on safety issues abroad)
Things you should know about foreign drug laws
You are highly encouraged to consult the US State Department and the Centers for Disease Control for further information, travel precautions, and immunization recommendations for the country where you will be participating in your education abroad opportunity.
Health and safety information specific to your host country is included in program handbooks, discussed at program orientations, and/or addressed upon arrival in the host country. If you are participating on an outside program, contact your program sponsor for health related information specific to the host country.
Additional information can be found on Lonely Planet and Travel Health Online. They provide country specific information, immunization information, as well as links to other relevant sites, including official visitor information sites.
Last modified on May 13, 2008 |