Study Abroad and Travel: FAQ from Students for Students

Wednesday, March 31, 2021

By: Gabriella Anile B.S. and Olivia Seggie B.S. || Employer Relations Graduate Assistants

WHILE TRAVELING

The CDC and West Virginia’s Department of Health and Human Resources offer specific guidance for travel during the COVID-19 pandemic.

When around others, stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arms’ length) from other people who are not from your household. It is important to do this everywhere, both indoors and outdoors.
Wear a mask to keep your nose and mouth covered when you are outside of your home, and including when using public transportation.
Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer.
Watch your health and look for symptoms of COVID-19. Take your temperature if you feel sick.
Don’t travel if you are sick or if you have been around someone with COVID-19 in the past 14 days. Don’t travel with someone who is sick.

STUDY ABROAD

WVU has canceled all study abroad trips for spring 2021, including incoming and out-going student exchanges. Faculty-led study abroad programs will not run this summer, either.

Students and academic advisers who have questions about whether a long-term placement is feasible should contact the Office of Global Affairs.

Though study abroad trips may be canceled soon, it’s never too early to start planning for possible Fall 2021 opportunities! As students here at WVU, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions that you may have, including concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic and how this will affect your time abroad.

Any form of travel increases your chances of getting or spreading the virus. Airports, bus stations, train stations, hotels, rest and food stops, etc. -- these are all places we can be exposed, whether in the air or on surfaces. It can also be difficult to social distance, here.

Below are some common concerns and questions you may have about studying abroad, followed by sources of information:

First off, why should you study abroad? Check out WVU Education Abroad for more information on why having an international experience can help set you apart and give you valuable skills that will help you in the future, as well as the different options and program types for WVU students.

I’ve always been interested in studying abroad, but where do I begin? Get started with an Education Abroad information session, where you can find a program that will best suit you! Then, you’ll be able to meet with a coordinator to discuss the logistics, like pay, the application process, your pre-departure session, information on what to do while you're away, and what to do upon your return.

We know cost is usually the biggest factor - students are always presented with tons of info about why they should study abroad and how great it can look on a resume, but there isn’t always a lot of direction when it comes to applying for financial aid. WVU offers exchange, faculty-led, and affiliate programs, each with its information regarding cost factors.

How Will I Pay?

Are there any scholarships I can apply to that would help with the costs?

Scholarships for Study Abroad

Of course, one of your most important questions is probably, where will I live? After you pick the program, you will receive all of the details in regards to your living situation. No matter what, you will be in either a dorm, flat, apartment, or a host family. WVU will handle the majority of this aspect!

I'm sure you're wondering if there is information (culture, legalities, health, etc.) provided before the trip or if you will need to do all the research on your own. Thankfully, the office of Education Abroad will provide all students with a departure orientation with most of the information needed. But, as always, it is always best to research on your own as well. It can also be helpful to reach out to those that have previously studied abroad for their personal opinion on things.

My parents are really worried about me leaving the country. What kind of information can I give them to ease their worries? Parents can visit the Information for Parents for any questions or concerns.

My trip got canceled - what do I do? You’re still seeking the abroad experience, so what’s your next step?

WVU is now offering Virtual Programs, which are global opportunities that do not require travel.

These opportunities vary greatly and can include:

Courses are taken online through an exchange partner,
A group program hosted on Zoom by an affiliated provider, or
A work-from-home internship with an international company.

Course credit may be provided by a transcript from the host institution or WVU credit if organized by a WVU faculty member. Students must reach out to and schedule appointments with our Ed Abroad Coordinators to discuss these options! Reach out to Education Abroad Coordinators for more information!

We hope we’ve given you lots of resources to refer to with any questions or concerns you may have! If you have any further questions that we have not mentioned, reach out to educationabroad@mail.wvu.edu.