Travel Approval
Suspending Programs
The International Travel Risk Assessment and Advisory Committee is responsible for deciding whether to suspend an education abroad opportunity sponsored by the University when a significant health or safety concern is raised regarding the opportunity. (See University policy on Addressing Health and Safety Risks in Education Abroad.)
Reasons Programs are Canceled
Though uncommon, it is possible that a specific program, activities in a specific location (city, region, or country), or all activities abroad would need to be canceled by the University due to a health or safety concern. This concern may arise from a number of sources, including but not limited to,:
- U.S. State Department travel warnings/advisories
- CDC or WHO travel warnings/advisories
- Natural disasters
- Wars or other political disturbances
- Pandemics or other illnesses
Financial Responsibilities
The University of Minnesota does not assume responsibility for financial risks associated with participation in its study abroad programs. If the University cancels a program before departure or while the program is in progress for reasons beyond its control including, but not limited to such things as political unrest or danger to participant safety, only those fees refunded to the University by service providers will be returned to participants. The University of Minnesota will make reasonable efforts to obtain refunds from service providers such as hotels, airlines, and dormitories but no refunds are guaranteed. Fees paid will only be refunded to program participants to the extent they are refunded to the University. The University of Minnesota assumes no responsibility for the financial losses of program participants.
Supplemental Insurance
Students, staff, and faculty are encouraged to consider supplemental insurance options to cover losses if programs or activities are canceled. Supplemental insurance is also helpful if you need to cancel your participation in a program or return early due to unforseen personal emergencies. Such insurance is not required by the University of Minnesota and must be purchased on an individual basis.