The Office of International Research, Education, and Development understands that parents are concerned about their son’s and daughter’s health and safety. In this section we provide information about health issues and insurance overseas, we outline our safety and security policies and procedures, and we discuss study abroad options for students with disabilities.

It is important that your son or daughter remains healthy abroad by eating well and getting sufficient rest. If he or she becomes ill it is important that he or she get proper care immediately. Please know that there is usually someone who speaks English at doctor’s offices and hospitals around the world. For a list of English speaking doctors in foreign countries please visit the U.S. Department of State's web site at www.travel.state.gov.

All students should visit with a medical professional before departure. Students should receive a full and proper health examination before departure. Be sure to ask the doctor whether certain prescription drugs are available abroad. If students take large amounts of prescription drugs be sure to obtain a statement from the doctor explaining the condition and why the medication is needed. Be sure to take a copy of the prescription with the scientific name, as foreign countries do not always use the same names for drugs as in the United States.

Study abroad students are required to purchase a health insurance policy that covers them while abroad. Students participating in an ISEP program will be required to purchase ISEP health insurance. Students participating in VT bi-lateral exchanges must complete the Health Insurance Certificate form (pdf) and attach a copy of the policy explaining overseas coverage. This form must be returned to the Office of International Research, Education, and Development before the student departs. For students participating in non-VT programs, be sure to check with the program provider on health insurance requirements. The Health Insurance Certificate is also required by these students.

The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is highly recommend for students studying abroad. In addition to providing discounts on airfares, accommodations, in-country transportation, and attractions in over 90 countries, the ISIC also provides basic accident and sickness insurance including emergency evacuation. For detailed information, please call Council Travel at 1-888-Council or visit www.counciltravel.com.

The Office of International Research, Education, and Development at Virginia Tech (VT) provides study abroad options at more than 100 institutions in over 50 countries. Whether students are attending VT programs or affiliated programs, there are resident employees assisting students.

Safety while studying abroad is our priority. During the Pre-departure Orientation we spend quite a bit of time discussing health and safety abroad. VT, as well as our affiliates, monitor the U.S. Department of State’s “Travel” statements. These statements are updated daily and give detailed information for U.S. citizens abroad. This is public information and can be viewed at www.travel.state.gov.

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Management Entity: Office of International Research, Education, & Development,
Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA - 24061-0334