Studying abroad is an opportunity to explore new places, experience different cultures, and grow academically and personally. Preparing for your health and safety before departure can help you navigate unfamiliar environments and make the most of your time abroad.
Review the guidance below before you leave, stay informed throughout your program, and know where to turn if you need assistance.
To help protect students traveling abroad, The University of Texas System provides an umbrella insurance program for eligible students participating in international study abroad and related educational activities through a UT System institution.
Coverage applies to eligible UTA students traveling abroad on a UTA-sponsored study abroad program or related educational activity outside their home country, including qualifying co-curricular and extracurricular activities associated with their academic program.
The Study Abroad Insurance Program is coordinated with On Call International, which provides emergency assistance services.
Insurance cost: $19 per week.
Enrollment and payment procedures are explained during the mandatory pre-departure orientation.
Review the UT System Study Abroad Insurance Policy Brochure for full coverage details.
Students participating in a UTA Study Abroad program or another UTA-sponsored program abroad are required to have UT System Study Abroad Insurance, regardless of any other insurance coverage they may have. This includes other insurance required by an affiliated study abroad program or a foreign government.
Under the policy, eligible participants include U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, and international students enrolled at a UT System institution who are participating in qualifying educational activities abroad.
Home country note: For purposes of this policy, the United States is defined as the home country. An enrolled UTA student participating in a UTA-sponsored program in their country of citizenship is covered under this policy.
Before departing for your program:
Keep your insurance information available throughout your time abroad so you can access it if you need medical care or emergency assistance.
Learn about your host country's current events, local laws, cultural expectations, transportation systems, and common safety concerns.
Consult your healthcare provider before departure to discuss your travel plans, medications, vaccinations, and any health considerations relevant to your destination.
Adjusting to a new culture, academic environment, and daily routine can be exciting, but it may also bring stress, homesickness, or feelings of isolation.
UTA Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers student support resources. Review UTA CAPS and check which services are available to you while abroad.
Protect your devices, accounts, money, and personal information while abroad.
If your passport, phone, or payment cards are lost or stolen, contact the relevant provider or authority and notify your program contact as appropriate.
Crime and other safety concerns can occur anywhere. Taking sensible precautions can help you reduce risk, especially when you are unfamiliar with your surroundings.
Want to learn more about making safe decisions while traveling? Explore these resources for practical guidance on transportation, personal safety, and preparing for unexpected situations.
Road conditions, traffic laws, and transportation systems may differ from those in the United States.
Laws and expectations regarding alcohol, medications, and other substances vary by destination. Some substances that are legal in the United States may be restricted or prohibited elsewhere.
Research the laws that apply to your destination and follow UTA and program policies. Never accept substances from unfamiliar sources, and avoid situations that may compromise your judgment or ability to respond to an emergency.
Learn about local customs and laws related to public behavior, clothing, photography, religious sites, and interactions with local communities.
Political demonstrations and large public gatherings can change quickly. Monitor local guidance, avoid areas where tensions are escalating, and follow instructions from local authorities and program staff.
Understanding local expectations can help you navigate unfamiliar situations respectfully and make informed decisions.
Health and safety preparation continues after you arrive. Conditions can change, so stay informed and know how to access assistance.
Eligible U.S. citizens and nationals are encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive relevant information from the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
If you experience a medical emergency, immediate safety threat, serious incident, or other urgent situation abroad, prioritize your safety and seek assistance as soon as possible.
Keep these contacts accessible throughout your time abroad. Save them in your phone and keep a backup copy in case your phone is lost, damaged, or unavailable.
Before leaving your program:
Important: Contact local emergency services first when immediate medical, fire, or police assistance is needed. On Call International and UTA can provide additional support, but they do not replace local emergency responders.