Education Abroad COVID-19 Information and Resources

The University of Texas at Austin and Texas Global are committed to providing meaningful education abroad opportunities to students who seek to engage with the world in a way that is ethical, responsible and safe. COVID-19 has changed the world forever, but it has not diminished the benefits of international education—cultural awareness, adaptability, self-reliance, and problem solving.

To support the safety of UT students beginning to plan their education abroad, we will:

• Provide students with the information and resources to make an informed decision about going abroad during a pandemic.
• Instruct students to follow the standards as set forth by our institutional partners, foreign governments and public health authorities.
• Ensure that policies outline the financial responsibilities for participation, financial consequences for withdrawals, and clarity regarding refunds related to program cancellations.
• Assist any student who wishes to come home at any time and provide clear guidance related to academic and financial impact, overseas insurance, and transportation resources.

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COVID-19 Travel Guidance 

Per the UT Austin campus Coronavirus (COVID-19) Resource page the following applies to education abroad students.

Current UT System policy states that all international travel must be essential and is considered High Risk through December 31, 2021. All countries are currently included in the “restricted regions" list. Therefore, all university-related international travel requests (business, educational, medical, research, presentations, conferences, competitions, etc.) for summer and fall 2021 must be reviewed and approved by the International Oversight Committee (IOC). Restricted Regions requests require Dean/VP and Chair approval.  For more information on the steps to obtain approval for international travel, follow the International Travel Process.   

As you prepare to travel from locations outside of the U.S. to Austin review the information in the Fall 2021 COVID-19 Pre-Departure and Arrival Expectations for International Travelers. These expectations were created to prioritize your health, along with the health of our campus community. 

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Global Risk and Safety

The Global Risk and Safety (GRS) team in Texas Global monitors world events, supports students preparing for departure and assists when emergencies occur abroad. GRS is supported by the International Oversight Committee, which is responsible for establishing guidelines and formulating policies to maintain the health and safety of our students, faculty, and staff.

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Frequently Asked Questions

• Are there students currently abroad?

  Yes, UT students have been abroad during AY20.21. The majority of programs are operating for AY21.22. For a full list of programs do to the Program Search.

• Will students be required to get a vaccine to go abroad?

  Students will not be required by UT Austin to be vaccinated before departure. However, UT Austin strongly encourages everyone to get vaccinated when they are eligible. In the coming months, some program hosts or countries may require the vaccine for entry. Student must closely monitor travel guidelines provided by their program and ISOS.

• Will students need to have a COVID-19 test before departure or upon return?

  Before Departure

  Students may be required to take a COVID-19 test before departure. Students should consult with their program coordinator, host university or program and airline requirements. ISOS can be a resource for students departing.

  Upon Return

  Effective Jan. 26, 2021, all air passengers entering the U.S. are required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken no more than three days before boarding their flight.

• Will students be required to quarantine upon arrival in country or upon return to the U.S.?

  Arrival in Country

  Students may be required to quarantine upon arrival. Students should consult with their program coordinator, host university or program for exact requirements. ISOScan again be a resource for students.

  Return to the U.S.

  UT Austin follows the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of State.

  Get tested 3-5 days after travel and stay home for 7 days after travel. Even if you test negative, stay home for the full 7 days.

  If your test is positive, isolate yourself to protect others from getting infected. If you don’t get tested, it’s safest to stay home for 10 days after travel. Avoid being around people who are at increased risk for severe illness for 14 days, whether you get tested or not.

• Is my UT Austin $75 application fee refundable if I choose not to go abroad, withdraw from the program before departure, or if my program is canceled?

  No, the application fee is non-reversible, non-refundable and non-transferable. Students must decide if they are willing to take the risk of applying under the current circumstances.

• Is my program deposit refundable if I choose not to go abroad, withdraw from the program before departure, or if my program is canceled?

  All programs have different policies related to deposits and balances due. Please consult with your individual program coordinator or provider.

• Can I participate in a virtual education abroad program instead of physically going to the location abroad?

  Yes, UT is offering students the opportunity to participate in Reciprocal Exchange programs virtually or Global Virtual Exchange courses.

• When should I buy my flight for a maymester or summer program?

  We strongly advise students to not buy their flight until they receive confirmation from their program coordinator. Students wanting to buy their flight before that date should consider purchasing a ticket with a favorable cancellation policy or supplemental travel insurance.

Last updated: July 19.2021