In preparation for your overseas program, it is important to be aware of the risks involved. To better inform yourself you should check out these helpful resources on health and safety abroad.
All students going abroad are required to have health insurance with international coverage. In some cases your program will provide you with health insurance. Be sure to check with your program and your current insurance provider to ensure you are covered while abroad. If you are looking for insurance coverage while abroad we would recommend CMI at www.studyabroadinsurance.com.
We also recommend that students get an International Student ID Card, also known as an ISIC card. Students can obtain the cards online at www.myisic.com or drop by Old Main 320 to obtain the card prior to departing. You can also download an application here. This card gives students discounts all around the world; for a complete list of discounts check the website.
The procedure for obtaining the card at the office is as follows:
- Complete the application form
- Submit application, $22 fee, and one passport sized photo to Kylie Gallagher in OM 320
- $22 fee can be paid by exact cash or a check made out to: Marshall University Foundation
Health and Safety Resources for Study Abroad
- Association for Safe International Road Travel (ASIRT) – They provide valuable information regarding road travel. This includes specific country travel reports and a Road Safety Toolbox for the study abroad community.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Infectious Diseases: Travelers’ Health – Includes vaccination recommendations and information on the latest outbreaks of diseases around the world, and provides health information on specific destinations.
- Department of State Travel Warnings and Consular Information Sheets – U. S. government lists travel warnings for Americans in light of political unrest or health issues in individual countries as well as announcements for particular regions.
- Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) – This is the Federal Advisory Committee that aids and promotes good relations between American businesses and private sector interests worldwide and the U. S. Department of State as well as other U. S. government agencies. The website provides useful region and country specific reports and news. It is a resource library on various topics as well.
- Students Abroad – This website was specifically designed for U. S. college students studying abroad by the U. S. Department of State. The site has a ton of resources for students and parents related to studying, living, and traveling abroad.
- U.S. Department of State Tips for Students – Provides information on medical insurance and what consular officers can and cannot do to help U.S. citizens abroad.