Be assured that student safety is our number one priority.  While past participants have enjoyed a safe and healthy time abroad, it is important to remember that petty theft, traffic accidents, illness, injury and crime all exist overseas, just as they do in the United States. The College of Business makes every effort to establish programs in areas of political stability and openness to Americans. We have strong relationships with the host institutions and communicate often with students and coordinators throughout the term abroad. Please understand that we are limited on the type of information we can legally release due to FERPA laws that protect student confidentiality. We suggest you familiarize yourself with the following health and safety resources. Remember students are subject to host country laws.

OSU Office of Global Opportunities  — OSU GO oversees and supports study abroad programs across campus. Their website provides excellent information regarding health and safety of OSU students abroad.

Health and Safety Abroad — The OSU GO office monitors travel health and safety risk for all OSU students studying abroad. This also includes enrolling students in a mandatory travel health insurance program (billed to student account).

From a Student

Study abroad is more than just a trip; it's a chance to learn about yourself, explore a new culture and uncover topics that spark your interest. Challenge yourself to see what the world has to offer.

Mariah | Germany, Spring 2017

Steps students can take to help ensure a safe and memorable time abroad:

  • Formulate an emergency plan so that should a crisis occur, you are well prepared.
  • Contact our office if you have additional concerns.
  • Carry a list of people to call, copies of insurance papers, passport, medications you need and a list of allergies.  
  • Have a copy of your passport available to access digitally and/or leave a photocopy at home.
  • Periodically check in with family members.
  • Discuss finances well before leaving home. Financial aid may be available; however, refund checks will not be accessible until classes begin at OSU which is often up to one month after arriving in the host country.
HELPFUL LINKS ON TRAVEL SAFETY
 

U.S. Dept of State Health/Safety Information

Travel Alerts/Warnings

Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)

Emergency Help for citizens overseas

The Office of Overseas Citizens Services emergency number:  1-888-407-4747.