Health and Safety Abroad

Health and Safety Abroad

The CHS International Programs Office encourages you to play an active role in staying safe and healthy abroad. Prior to departure, you should review information at the following websites that is specific to your chosen destination(s):

U.S. Department of State Country Information

U.S. Department of State Students Abroad

Centers for Disease Control

Your ISUAbroad application includes a series of videos to help you understand more about staying safe abroad, we also recommend you:

Insurance

As a study abroad program participant, you will automatically be covered by the university’s international insurance. This insurance will become your primary health insurance abroad, and it also provides coverage for evacuations in medical, natural disaster, and security situations as well as for repatriation. You will pay for the insurance through your Iowa State U-bill.

STEP

If you are participating in a program coordinated by the CHS International Programs Office, you will be automatically registered for the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). The STEP registration notifies the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate at your destination abroad of your program dates so you can receive helpful information about safety conditions.

Your registration will also aid the closest U.S. Embassy or Consulate in contacting you if there is an emergency at your destination. This registration is available to U.S. citizens only, and if you are an international student studying abroad, you are encouraged to check with your home country to see if a similar registration system is available.