Guidelines and best practices
The Office of International Affairs serves as a university-wide resource for the access, administration, development and risk oversight of university education abroad programming. For those Ohio State units and/or student organizations that are planning international travel opportunities for Ohio State students that are not coordinated through the Office of International Affairs, the following guidelines will help familiarize you with university policies and procedures. Examples of these opportunities include Office of Student Life programs such as Buck-I-SERV Alternative Break or Recreational Sports Adventure Trips, and student organization travel to international locations for service and/or volunteering.
If you are planning a trip or program that is not coordinated through the Office of International Affairs, you are encouraged to adhere to the following guidelines and best practices and you are required to communicate your travel plans to the Office of International Affairs. Please contact irm@osu.edu to set up a group travel application.
Work with a program provider
The Office of International Affairs strongly recommends that you work with a reputable program provider to help with the logistics of travel, arrival, transportation, excursions, in-country room and board and safety and security for your program. There are a range of providers who can provide customized support for your group, as can several education abroad program providers. As planners and sponsors for the program, you are responsible for due diligence in your choice of provider.
Be aware of university policy and choice of international location
Ohio State student travel to risk-designated countries must be reviewed by the International Travel Policy Committee and receive authorization by the provost. For more information contact Emma Cook, global health and safety specialist.
Contact global health and safety
Contact irm@osu.edu early in the planning stages for your trip or program. The international risk manager can provide guidance and other forms of support related to risk assessment, international supplemental insurance and university policies.
Complete the Group International Travel Application
Complete the completed group international travel application process and submit all supporting documentation at least 90 days before intended travel.
Require students to attend a Pre-Departure Orientation
All student travelers should receive a pre-departure health and safety orientation prior to travel. Orientations can be virtual or in-person. Orientation meetings should be planned and scheduled at the point of submitting the Group International Travel Form.
Attend Health and Safety Workshops for faculty and staff leaders
The Office of International Affairs offers several health and safety workshops each semester for faculty and staff who are leading students to international locations.
Enrollment in international supplemental insurance
Students who are traveling on programs or trips sponsored, administered, funded or otherwise supported by the university are enrolled in the international supplemental insurance available through the Office of International Affairs.