Just as cultures differ, so do disability accommodations and perceptions. The key for any study abroad participant is flexibility. Students are encouraged to communicate their needs and consider alternative ways to meet them. We are here to assist you before and during your trip abroad.
Quick Tips for Students with Disabilities Going Abroad
- Disclose your disability needs to program staff early, so appropriate arrangements and reasonable accommodations can be made in advance.
- Remember that other cultures may provide disability access in a different way — learn about what types of accommodation are typically provided in your host country, and be flexible and open to different ways of accommodating your disability.
- Before you go, find out as much as you can about your host culture and how they view disability by reading, talking to other students, and attending pre-departure orientation sessions. The more you know, the better prepared you will be for the interaction between your disability and the new environment.
- Think about how you will answer questions about your disability in the language of your host country — look up key vocabulary words ahead of time.
Preparing to Depart
Students with both visible and invisible disabilities should consider what accommodations they may need abroad. We encourage students to disclose any concerns they have about mobility, access, and accommodations to their program coordinator.
Your host country may not have the same resources that you are used to in the United States, and they may view accessibility differently. Legal regulations — both domestic and international — may apply differently when you travel. Cultural norms may be more accommodating or less accommodating for certain abilities. Some prescriptions may not be allowed abroad, so make sure you speak with your physician to determine what alternative or supplemental medications you can take while you are abroad.
Questions to Consider When Choosing a Program and Before Departure
- What is the contact information for local disabilities services organizations in my host country?
- If I wish to take a service animal with me, what are the domestic and international regulations on doing so?
- What mobile apps or other tools that could help me abroad?
- Are my medications legal in my host country and other countries I may be traveling in or through?
- Will I have the same access to medication and physical or mental health services abroad?
- Will my housing accommodate my needs?
- What solutions can I plan for now to manage new challenges I might face abroad?
For additional assistance, please contact the Services for Students with Disabilities at (661) 654-3360.