Risk Management / COVID

COVID-19 Updates

We have been sending students abroad throughout the pandemic, and we are grateful for your confidence in us! 

RECENT UPDATES

HEALTH AND SAFETY

I am supposed to depart for my program in a few weeks and just tested positive for COVID. I’m worried I will test positive before my flight. What do you recommend?

If the country you are going to accepts  PCR or antigen testing, then scheduling the antigen test, not the PCR test, may be advantageous. Though it may be challenging to find an antigen test within 24 hours of departure (often antigen tests are required within 24 hours of flying) –  it may be better for you.

This is why:

  • A PCR test will detect even a small amount of virus in the system – so someone could test positive for weeks after getting over COVID.  
  • An antigen test will likely only show if a person has large quantities of the virus in their system (and is most likely currently shedding the virus).  

In summary, if you’ve tested positive for COVID in the weeks leading up to travel, if your airline/host country regulations allow, try to use the antigen test path, if available, to fulfill the testing requirement for travel.  This article provides an overview of the different kinds of tests and how they work. Please contact your program coordinator with further questions.

If no testing is required to fly, we simply ask that you test yourself with rapid at home tests, and if you are testing negative then you are safe to join your program abroad.

What are CIS Abroad's health and safety policies with respect to COVID-19?

CIS Abroad has developed a site-specific risk management plan for every location so that health and safety protocols are monitored, managed and communicated throughout the semester. We have developed a COVID Care Package included in our program fee to make traveling and living in a host country easier on students, especially those first few weeks on-site:

  • COVID compliant airport pick-up and transfer to housing.
  • COVID-safe classrooms and campus facilities as well as access to masks, hand sanitizer, and cleaning supplies according to country and location specific standards.
  • Access to accommodation if isolation is necessary due to positive COVID test or exposure; this housing may incur additional charges.
  • Information and assistance on meal delivery, if students need to isolate.
  • Access to COVID testing; this testing may be an additional charge.
  • Medical and accident insurance that covers COVID-related illness (except for on programs operating in the USA).
  • Cultural activities and reflection that emphasize safe, local exploration geared to the specific context of being abroad at this special time.
Is CIS Abroad requiring COVID-19 vaccines for students?
For all 2022, and January/Spring 2023 programs, a vaccination is required. For all Summer 2023 and beyond programs, vaccination and boosters are strongly recommended. You can read the current policy here.
Why is CIS Abroad strongly recommending vaccination?

The WHO and US CDC agree that the vaccine helps reduce the risk of serious illness and helps prevent the spread of COVID-19.

CIS Abroad strongly recommends all participants receive the vaccination and boosters because it:

    • Reduces the health risk of:
      • Spreading COVID-19 and its variants to other parts of the world, including CIS staff, international partners and the communities where we have programs.
      • Contracting COVID-19 while abroad, which could lead to serious illness and death, missed classes and excursions, and mandatory isolation.
    • Reduces the financial risk of:
      • Being denied entry abroad if a country requires vaccination for entry.
      • Being denied acceptance to one of our international universities, housing, host families, or other local venues.
      • Having to isolate for longer periods of time if COVID positive
    • Reduces the academic risk of:
      • Missing important classes due to illness or mandatory isolation, due to changing regulations.
      • Missing out on amazing cultural experiences due to decreased access.

We’ve created this Why get vaccinated to study abroad? handout that outlines the reasons why being vaccinated is beneficial while abroad.

Can I get be denied entrance to a host country if I am not vaccinated?
International rules and regulations change rapidly. We abide by the local, regional and foreign government regulations governing COVID-19 and other vaccinations. CDC guidelines are here. We also abide by US sending institution rules and regulations re: sending students abroad. Host country and airline rules around vaccination can change at any time; participants are responsible for all related expenses that are incurred due to these changes and are subject to regular withdrawal policies if participation is not possible. This is why we strongly recommend vaccination; not only does it protect one’s health and those around them, but it protects against changing vaccination rules and regulations around the world.
Will I have to show proof of being vaccinated while I am abroad?
Maybe. International rules and regulations are subject to change at any time. This means that at any time, the country/region/host institution can change their rules and regulations regarding requiring vaccinations. This includes restaurants, flights, subways and other day-to-day activities. Some countries where we operate are requiring vaccination for entry, and some venues require people to be fully vaccinated to enter. This is why we strongly recommend being vaccinated and traveling with your card.
Will CIS staff and international university partners be vaccinated?
100% of CIS Abroad’s North America-based staff are fully vaccinated, and we’re getting close to 100% vaccination for staff around the world.  International universities will have their own requirements. Students will come into contact with unvaccinated individuals as they travel.
Will I be housed with vaccinated students?
Because we do not require vaccination, you will not necessarily be housed with vaccinated students.
What if CIS Abroad cancels a program after the program start date or a participant’s home university moves to recall all participants from their program abroad due to COVID-19 or any other event?
If CIS Abroad or a host university cancels or suspends a program after the program start date, or if a participant’s home university recalls participants from abroad after the program has begun, participants are not eligible for any refund of program costs. NOTE: If CIS cancels a program after the program start date due to health and safety concerns, early departure costs, travel plan changes, and housing are the responsibility of the participant. We have recommendations for trip cancellation and interruption insurance to protect against this possibility.
If I am studying on my program and the government mandates that universities close, what will happen to me?
In the unlikely event that a university closes during the program, we will ensure that either you are housed until the university is able to reopen or that you are housed until you are able to return to the US. In either case academic continuity is guaranteed – you will be able to finish the semester either in person or online. See our Return to Travel Plan for our academic continuity information.
Will I be able to travel to other countries while I'm abroad?
Due to travel restrictions, we may ask students to not travel outside of their host countries during certain programs, however in most locations students will be able to travel freely anywhere they wish to visit.
Will I need to quarantine when I arrive?
Currently there are no CIS Abroad locations that require quarantine upon entry.

PROGRAMMING AND FINANCE

What are your refund policies?
We have fundamentally changed our refund policies to be as flexible as possible. Read more: CIS Abroad Refund Policy.
When can I book my plane ticket?
Please do not book your airplane ticket until your Program Coordinator tells you to do so!
When will I get a pre-departure orientation?
A pre-departure orientation webinar about a month prior to your program will give you program specific information. We also offer webinars designed for parents and guardians.
What if I've applied to a program that gets cancelled?
Please review the “special circumstances” section of our refund policy.
If I decide to withdraw from a program before it begins, will I receive a refund?
Please review our CIS Abroad Refund Policy. If you want to protect even more of your investment in your travel abroad, you can opt to purchase Trip Protection Insurance.
If I decide to withdraw from a program after it has begun, will I receive a refund?
Perhaps. Our refund policy states that once your program has started, if for any reason you withdraw or the program is suspended or cancelled, CIS Abroad will always recoup and refund you any recoverable* costs. Recoverable costs are noted on our refund page. If you want to protect your trip, you can opt to purchase Trip Protection Insurance.
If I have questions that are specific to my program location, to whom can these be directed?
Specific program location questions are addressed on the website page specific to your program and by your Program Enrollment Coordinator.

ACADEMIC CONTINUITY

What if my US university cancels all study abroad programs?
CIS Abroad recommends that you talk to your study abroad office directly about your situation. Some students were able to petition to study abroad through an affiliate education abroad program, like CIS Abroad, even though their universities had officially cancelled study abroad.
Can CIS Abroad help me with my university's petition and/or risk management approval process?
We know some institutions are still in the process of making decisions around future travel. CIS Abroad has developed Site Specific Risk Mitigation Plans for each location in which we are operating. Talk to your Program Coordinator about how they or you can share this information with your study abroad office, use information to complete approval paperwork, etc. We also have a risk rubric that offices have found helpful in understanding which locations to open. If your university requests additional information not covered in these documents, please reach out to us.
Will my classes be in person?
Yes! Courses are scheduled to be in-person. Should the need arise due to the pandemic, hybrid courses or other types of online learning may be offered.
Hear what students, interns, and alumni have to say
BOLDLY COMMITTED to providing the best experiences abroad
While studying in Tokyo for a semester, I aimed to live by the quote: "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Because of that, I have gotten to experience incredibly fascinating things and meet amazing people. Tokyo almost feels like a second home to me now. I am immensely thankful for the opportunity to have experienced the beauty of Japan and its rich culture.
Kenae Turner
Elizabeth City State University
Semester in Tokyo - Toyo University

Based on personal experience from my home university, Australia does not tend to be a popular destination for study abroad, likely due to its distance. However, I am extremely grateful I made the decision to come here. The geographical diversity, numerous cultural representations, and major cities so close to nature make Australia a truly unique and unforgettable country. Spending three and a half months here will be an experience I treasure for the rest of my life.

Joshua Grossman
Coastal Carolina University
Semester on the Gold Coast - Bond University
CIS provided a brilliant network of people so I never felt alone, and everyday was a new adventure. I got to explore a place completely different from anything I could have imagined. It was challenging navigating a new culture, a language I didn't know completely, and a new environment, but that was the beauty of it all. No one goes abroad searching for comfort, but you learn that comfort can be found anywhere, if you know how to look.
Alisa Geise
Virginia Commonwealth University
Semester in Costa Rica - Universidad Veritas
Studying abroad has allowed me to grow as a person. I have conquered fears, experienced new things, tried new foods, and met wonderful people who helped make my experience unforgettable. I am more confident in myself and the person that I want to be in the future.
Ashlyn Holmes
Texas A&M University - Corpus Christi
Semester on the Gold Coast - Bond University
Studying abroad in London has been an experience I will never forget. Living in a new country is something I think everyone should experience in their life. I've made so many new life long friendships I never would have unless I came here. I've also grown so much as a person and become more independent. The CIS team has been so supportive during the whole process. From applying to my program to arriving on campus in London. My site directors have been so helpful and supportive answering any questions I have. The social program activities were amazing and helped me see a different side of London than I would have without it. I will never forget this experience; it really has changed me for the better.
Katlynn Orloski
Michigan State University
Semester in London - University of Roehampton
Studying abroad changed my life in all of the best ways and CIS Abroad made it all happen!! Through CIS, I was able to make my first friends and integrate into the culture way easier than I would have on my own.
Amy Zochalski
Valparaiso University
Semester in Newcastle - University of Newcastle
My time abroad has been the most eye opening journey and I’m a more independent person because of it. I’m so grateful for all the experiences, friends, and memories I’ve made along the way!
Casey Ferguson
Kean University
Semester in Scotland - Edinburgh Napier University
Unlike many people on this trip who come with the intention of being a tourist, I feel like I had a different goal. I wanted to rediscover my culture and where I belonged. Being a hafu living in America and not fluent in Japanese, I was never really able to get in touch with my Japanese heritage. This trip completely changed that and I now have a goal of one day living in Japan for the rest of my life.
Dean Handler
University of Central Florida
Summer in Tokyo - J.F. Oberlin University
The CIS program was truly a one of a kind experience. I was able to meet many students from all across America, attend several events (such as food tours or a trip to Kyoto), and make many friends. I would not trade it for anything. I am thankful I decided to study with CIS Abroad. Before this, I was thinking about just plowing through my degree, getting my master's and PhD, and immediately entering society. However, this experience changed my life. Through meeting many people from many places, and living in a new area for an extended period of time, my view of my own philosophies, culture and place of living, changed. This would not have happened if I stayed in the States. I would say if you are able to go, you should go. There is no time like the present.
Lexington Whalen
University of South Carolina - Columbia
Semester in Tokyo - Toyo University
Studying abroad in Japan was lifechanging! Embracing a rich culture, forging international friendships, and gaining valuable insights broadened my perspective, fostering personal growth and unforgettable memories.
Bricen Williams
West Texas A&M University
Semester in Tokyo - Toyo University
I knew I wanted to study abroad, particularly in Japan, because it was on my bucket list. Thanks to CIS, I was able to go to Tokyo! Even now, it is surreal to me that I got to go! I can't put it into words how much fun I had in Tokyo. I enjoyed every second of my time there, from walking around the bustling streets of Shibuya and Shinjuku, to going to class, eating delicious Japanese cuisine, and even going to the convenience store. Even the simplest things were incredibly fun to me. I was initially anxious about being homesick, my Japanese skills and traveling alone, but I'm happy to say that I very quickly made lovely, lifelong friends and was met with nothing but kindness from the locals. I learned not to let my worries get in the way of an opportunity of a lifetime. Thank you, CIS Abroad. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity I had to go to Tokyo.
Sada Chaudhury
Hunter College
Summer in Tokyo - J.F. Oberlin University
During my time in Costa Rica, I took Intermediate Conversation and Cultural Photography at Veritas University. I really enjoyed how relaxed the classes were and how the teachers taught us not only Spanish, but also culture and day-to-day life. I was also involved in the biology lab here (BIOMOL) and had fun doing some lab work every week. I got to explore multiple places with my program, such as Manuel Antonio, Curubandé, and Jaco. I went surfing for the first time and got to hike some amazing trails. I highly recommend traveling to Costa Rica for study abroad; it is a beautiful country with beautiful people and memories to make!
Lauren Adams
William Woods University
Summer in Costa Rica
I took Spanish for Healthcare Professionals and Conflict Resolution & Healthcare at Universidad Veritas in San Jose, Costa Rica. I really enjoyed how interactive my elective class was; the students often led the class by doing presentations on various topics. We also had a field trip to the local school. My favorite part of the study abroad experience was all the weekend trips. It was awesome to see so many different places in the country. My favorite trip was to Tamarindo and Curubande where I got to take a surf lesson and hike to waterfalls.
Faith Johnson
University of Michigan - Ann Arbor
Summer in Costa Rica
This past month I spent my time studying abroad in Sorrento, Italy with CIS Abroad. The opportunity of being able to study in Italy was a dream come true! From my peers in the program to Frankie and Kayla, everyone has been so open and welcoming. CIS has done any amazing job making sure I felt prepared for my travels and was available to answer my many questions. Without CIS, this opportunity would have seemed like a dream, but they helped me turn it into a reality. I have met some amazing friends and grown into a better person during my time in Sorrento!
Alana Bergin
University of Alabama - Tuscaloosa
Summer on the Italian Coast
I’ve always wanted to study abroad, even though I was initially very nervous since I had never been over seas before. But even my imagination could never have dreamed of the amazing things I got to see and experience while abroad. I didn’t get to just see all these new places but studying abroad allowed me to have the time to fully submerge myself into so many different cultures. I’ll never forget my time over here and I will forever be grateful I was able to experience studying abroad!
Mary Claire Vaughan
University of Alabama -Tuscaloosa
Semester in London - University of Roehampton
CIS Abroad planned a trip for our group to Orvieto for a weekend. It was one of my favorite things I have done so far. We got to make pasta dough and fully immerse ourselves in Italian family home culture.
Summer Megnia
University of Massachusetts Amherst
Semester in Rome - American University of Rome
I had the opportunity to work with the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources Research and Development Center in Thailand as a veterinary assistant this semester. Their facility here is funded by the royal family of Thailand and is a rehabilitation center for turtles who have become displaced, injured or are in need of surgical procedures (most commonly abscess removals). Thailand is home to 5 of the 7 species of sea turtles: the Olive Ridley, Hawksbill, Green, Loggerhead, and Leatherback! I was lucky enough to perform blood-draws, give injections, restrain, do a series of radiographs, calculate drug doses and assist in an abscess removal during my time here so needless to say I am having a blast and learning lots.
Scout Aulenbach
Berry College
Veterinary Science Semester in Thailand
My Drawing on Location class spends most of our class time outside, learning about local history and drawing our environments, rather than staying in a classroom. My marine biology class took us on a field trip to a turtle rescue center, where we learned about their processes in caring for injured turtles. 
Hannah Chan
University of Massachusetts - Amherst
Semester on the Italian Coast - Sant'Anna Institute
CIS Abroad allowed me the opportunity to explore new places and ideas, and make some great friends at the same time! I really enjoyed my time in Japan as it let me explore both new and old aspects of Japanese culture.
Mads Muraoka
Berry College
Summer in Tokyo - J.F. Oberlin University
This was the experience of a lifetime being able to spend a semester in Rome. I’ve had the opportunity to be exposed to many new things, travel to new places, and make lifelong friends!
Corrine Drew
Kean University
Semester in Rome - American University of Rome