Introduction to Study Abroad Student Handbooks

When preparing to study abroad, it is important to gain a balanced perspective. Safety is a global, national, regional, and local phenomenon. As Americans have come to realize, the United States is no more immune to acts of crime or violence than other parts of the world. The resources we provide will assist you in understanding the particular safety challenges of studying abroad. The Study Abroad Student Handbook gives a framework of information, checklists, questions, and resources that helps review the type of study abroad program you will choose/have chosen, the available support services, and ways for you to be prepared for the realities abroad. If you already know the country where you will be studying or want to study, you can refer to our Country-Specific Handbooks for information geared towards individual host countries. If that country's handbook is not available, it is most likely still in development. In this case, he/she can use this general study abroad handbook.

Students may find it extremely helpful to do some research before going abroad; understanding a country's culture, laws, customs, politics, etc. can be tremendously important. The more you know ahead of time about your program, the better prepared and more confident you will feel when you arrive.

Internet research is one of the easiest ways to find more information about where you would like to study. The Center for Global Education compiled a condensed list of information and helpful Internet resources for students considering study abroad. In creating this site, the Center's goals are to help educate and inform students so that they can enjoy a safe and healthy time abroad. Students are encouraged to read through the information and visit other recommended sites provided in each section.

While no study abroad program can offer an absolute guarantee that students will be safe, there are many steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of becoming injured or a victim of crime abroad. We encourage all students, their parents, and study abroad program administrators to read through the following safety suggestions in order to better prepare themselves in the case of health or safety challenges while in another country.