COVID-19 FAQs

The University continues to carefully monitor the COVID-19 pandemic globally and is continuing the gradual restart of global experiences.

The Center for Education Abroad continues to support undergraduate students by In-Person, Zoom, email or phone. Schedule Zoom appointments with an advisor via our online scheduling system.

 

How is the University making decisions about its study abroad programs amidst COVID-19 news?

The review and selection process to approve programs was thorough and based on several factors including but not limited to: host country border restrictions, host program’s on-site student support, healthcare availability, CDC COVID-19 risk levels, vaccination mandates, quarantine/travel requirements and, the financial risk to both students and the institution; should a program be canceled or students recalled home due to health and safety risks. 

All programs will continue to be monitored throughout the application process and leading up to dates of departure.   If a program has significant changes (e.g. host country closes border to U.S. flights or program is canceled by the host institution), CEA may need to cancel a previously approved program.  If a program is canceled, you will be contacted immediately. 

 

Is the COVID-19 Vaccine and booster required for me to participate in an education abroad program?

As with all undergraduate and graduate students on campus, all study abroad students are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 prior to departure or have an approved religious or medical exemption.  All University students who will be studying abroad during the spring 2022 semester are also required to receive a COVID-19 booster vaccine prior to departure, if eligible. This requirement is to ensure the safest possible experience abroad as many locations, including the U.S. continue to fight the spread of COVID-19. (Any student with a religious or medical exemption for the vaccine must carefully review the entry requirements of the proposed host country as many countries will not accept exemptions). Additionally, many countries are introducing requirements for individuals to receive a COVID booster within a specified timeframe in order for their vaccination status to remain valid.

You can review the full vaccination requirement policy here.

 

My education abroad program has been canceled, what do I do now?

Contact an education abroad advisor with any questions you have and to discuss options for a future education abroad program during another term.  Virtual appointments can be scheduled with an advisor here.  You can also email us at ceaadvisors@rochester.edu  

 

If my education abroad program is canceled.  Can I still apply for on-campus housing?

Yes. Contact Residential Life (housingassignments@reslife.rochester.edu) directly  to complete the housing lottery or to submit an application for the waiting list.  You can also contact Residential Life to explore off-campus housing options.