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Student International Travellers: Study-Abroad

Study-Abroad students remain a University of Windsor students during their period of study but will be enrolled in for-credit courses at the host institution. Tuition is paid at the host institution and course work is credited at the home institution. The student is expected to return to the home institution upon completion of the study-abroad period. Students participating in study abroad travel may be exposed to several types of risk and the individuals approving travel (if applicable) and the students participating in the study abroad period shall attempt to mitigate the following risks:

International Risks

Student participating in University sponsored exchange programs are required to have sufficient medical insurance prior to departure. Ontario residence can refer to (link). Other insurance may be available from a number of sources including but not limited to:

  1. Health insurance from the local host jurisdiction
  2. Temporary resident health insurance (more than emergency coverage)
    • Example: Guardme
  3. UWSA/GSS/OPUS coverage
    • This coverage may or may not be adequate; student must confirm with their respective student union group/provider
  4. Other: could be parent coverage or other
    • This coverage may or may not be adequate; student must confirm with their respective provider

  • It is recommended that students have appropriate health coverage that includes evacuation and repatriation coverage

  • Students may be required to provide evidence of medical coverage prior to travel

  • Students should be aware of any exclusions and fully understand what their policy covers.

Students are covered by the University’s liability insurance if they cause property damage or bodily injury to a third party while participating in a University sanctioned activity. Coverage is only for that period of time during which students are “in class.” Students are not covered during off-time activities.

Student would be responsible for their own property during international travel

  • Rental (apartment, auto, bike, etc.)
  • Misc.

International Orientation

  • Students participating in study abroad programs  are required to participate in a comprehensive orientation program that covers the risks of international travel and other relevant risks.
  • Students participating in study abroad shall “register” as required by the University (we note that the University will already have a file with the student’s exchange details).
  • Consider a central registry for all students undertaking international travel.
  • Student undertaking University sponsored/approved international travel should be required to complete Part A of the Checklist for Travelling Overseas on University of Windsor Business

DFAIT Travel Warnings

Exchanges may be suspended in areas that are subject to the following DFAIT Travel Advisories:

  1. Exercise a high degree of caution
    There are identifiable safety and security concerns or the safety and security situation could change with little notice. You should exercise a high degree of caution at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

    IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country may be compromised:

  2. Avoid non-essential travel
    There are specific safety and security concerns that could put you at risk. You should reconsider your need to travel to the country, territory or region. If you are already in the country, territory or region, you should reconsider whether or not you really need to be there. If not, you should consider leaving while it is still safe to do so. It is up to you to decide what “non-essential travel” means, based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with a country, territory or region, and other factors.  
  3. Avoid all travel
    There is an extreme risk to your personal safety and security. You should not travel to this country, territory or region. If you are already in the country, territory or region, you should consider leaving if it is safe to do so.