UIC takes participant health and safety with the utmost seriousness. Today's world is increasingly unpredictable, with local conditions which can rapidly change. Study Abroad references the following sources of information to help assess levels of program risk in advising and support of students.
1. We monitor U.S. Government advisories, considering both those issued by in-country embassies and consulates and by the State Department in Washington, DC . http://travel.state.gov/index.html The Study Abroad Office does support programs located in countries on the DOS Travel Warning list.
If at any time after the student's application is approved, there is a DOS Public Announcement issued, UIC Study Abroad notifies students by email immediately. If a Travel Warning is posted, the UIC Study Abroad Office will contact the program provider directly and work with them on any potential travel or safety issues and create a communication system to continue to share developments.
2. We rely on the considerable local knowledge and analysis of our cooperating institution colleagues with whom we generally have long and trusting relationships.
3. We are in contact with other study abroad programs through personal, professional, and on-line networks.
4. Our Chicago based staff have collectively lived and worked abroad for many years. These staff members are available on call twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Emergency contact information is posted on the Study Abroad Office web home page.
5. All students going abroad through the Study Abroad Office are required to attend a pre-departure orientation meeting. At this session the SAO staff review all university policies regarding academics and behavior, and safety issues.
Total safety cannot, of course, be guaranteed abroad just as it cannot be in the United States. UIC is committed to take the necessary steps to maximize student safety through working with our study abroad partners both here and in the field, scheduled student orientation sessions, and materials distribution.
As part of the application process, students are required to make a copy of their passport information page for the Study Abroad Office file. We recommend that they keep additional copies in case of loss or theft while abroad. All students are responsible for registering at the appropriate US Embassy or Consulate office closest to their program site. This can be done online at http://usembassy.state.gov/
Notice: The forms below are in .pdf format. If you do not have Adobe Acrobat Reader, a free download can be accessed here.
The SAO Health and Safety Protocol
CISI Health Insurance Information for Students
The CISI Insurance Petition for Exemption
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