Health and Safety
The safety of our students abroad is our first and most fundamental priority. We subscribe to the best practices as laid out by NAFSA (National Association of International Educators). We monitor safety conditions using U.S. State Department information along with other reliable sources.
If conditions change and the University cancels a program before its departure, students will receive a full refund. If a program is already underway and must be canceled, the University will arrange for students to return home and issue appropriate refunds. If a program is not canceled and conditions warrant, we will alter itineraries to maximize security. If a student wishes to withdraw from a program that is not canceled by the University, withdrawal must be received in writing at [email protected] the normal policy regarding withdrawals is in effect. As we continue to monitor safety conditions for each of our programs, we'll provide updated information to students.
Program Location
EMU does not permit study abroad programs to be held in countries at Level 4 on the US State Department Travel Advisory list. Programs in countries with a Level 3 warning are typically considered on a case by case basis; however, since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, travel to Level 3 locations is currently suspended as well. Health and Safety are our primary concerns, and in cases when a previously approved program's location appears on the Travel Warning or Alert list, the itinerary or program in process may need to be changed or cancelled.
EMU University Resources
All student will be enrolled in a health insurance policy through our provider, GeoBlue.
The plan includes access to a 24/7 Worldwide Assistance Network for emergency assistance, anywhere in the world. This service provides referrals to the nearest medical facility or English-language provider, as well as help relaying messages to family members. In addition to on-the-ground medical coverage, our policy provides for medical evacuation and repatriation and security evacuation. Students who need assistance with claims should seek help from the Office of Study Abroad.
U.S. Government and Global Travel Resources
- U.S. Department of State travel warnings
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- U.S. Embassies
- U.S. Department of State
- Overseas Security Advisory Council
- Services and information for American citizens abroad (emergency services, medical information, etc.)
- Bureau of Consular Affairs, travel abroad
- Passport services