Learning Abroad Center

COVID-19 Updates & Policies

The University of Minnesota continues to closely monitor the impacts of COVID-19 and its variants. As countries around the world continue to adapt to COVID-19, public health regulations and policies can differ by location. You will receive program- and location-specific information as part of your program pre-departure process. Your health and safety is of the utmost importance to us. Review our general health and safety information before you depart, and refer to the UofM Boyton Health Services and Center for Disease Control and Prevention for the latest COVID-19 updates and guidelines.

Vaccination

Effective July 1, 2023, the University of Minnesota ended the COVID-19 vaccine requirement.

Vaccination may still be required for participation in some programs, depending on local regulations. Individual program pages include information on whether vaccines are strongly recommended or required for participation. Vaccination gives you the best chance for participation in a program and will keep open the most options. When you travel abroad, bring your original CDC COVID-19 vaccination record card as well as a copy.

The inability to participate in a program because of local, national, or airline restrictions if you are not vaccinated but are eligible to be vaccinated is not considered a valid reason for a refund.

Cancellation Policy

Standard cancellation policies apply. If a program is canceled related to COVID-19 (or for any other reason) prior to the program start date, you’ll receive a full refund including application fee and deposit.

Contracting COVID-19

If you test positive for COVID-19 prior to your departure, reach out to your program adviser to discuss your next steps and options for a late arrival.

If you test positive for COVID-19 while you’re abroad, reach out to your on-site contact for information on any required quarantine or isolation precautions, as well as to discuss academic options. All students are covered by international health insurance, in the case that medical intervention is necessary. Depending on location, students may incur additional non-medical expenses as a result of quarantine or isolation requirements. 

Feeling unwell

If you are feeling unwell, communicate with your on-site contact or program leader immediately. In the event that you are experiencing COVID-like or other communicable illness symptoms (i.e. flu, bronchitis, strep, etc.), we recommend that you take a COVID test and/or seek out medical assistance. Your staff leader and local support team can assist you in obtaining that if needed. 

Note that, while we highly recommend these precautions, we cannot force students to test, mask, seek medical care, or isolate unless otherwise required by local law or required by the onsite support organization.