Welcome to the LEAD Barcelona Accepted Student Information page!  Navigate the tabs below for everything you need to know before your epic adventure!

To navigate back to your portal for payments, forms and due dates, click the My Account button above.

Stay Informed

Click here for the pre-departure master checklist!

Stay on track for your summer adventure with the pre-departure checklist.  Print it out, share with your parents and cross off items as you complete them.  Please note some items may only apply to specific locations, and this is noted where applicable.

Flights

Are flights included in the program fee?

International airfare is not included in your program fee.  You have several options when booking flights:

  • Book your own ticket that is on the same itinerary as the recommended group flight
  • Book your own flights on any itinerary that is most convenient for you (be sure to note your arrival/departure dates and times as this may affect your airport transfer)

All flight details can be found in the flights section below!

Will LeadAbroad staff be on my flight?

Since our staff will already be abroad preparing for your arrival, we will not have any staff at the departure airport or on flights to Barcelona.  However, a student will be taking attendance at the gate and helping students connect with each other before the flight.  Should you have questions or problems with your flight, we strongly recommend you speak with an airline representative at the airport as they will be able to assist.  Our on-call, U.S. based staff is available for any itinerary changes that will impact your arrival.

I am not arriving on the group flight. Will someone meet me at the airport in Barcleona?

If you arrive on the official start date and within the group’s landing time (usually about one hour BEFORE the group flight lands), we will meet you at the airport and provide transportation to the hotel.  If your scheduled arrival is anytime AFTER the group is scheduled you land, you must book and pay for your own transportation to the hotel.  We will reach out if this applies to you and assist in arranging this transportation.

What happens if I miss my flight or it is canceled/delayed?

  • Step 1: Do not stress. These things happen!
  • Step 2: Work with an airline rep at the airport to be rebooked.
  • Step 3: As soon as you have a new itinerary, complete the new flight plan form linked in your pre-departure newsletter.  We will be in touch to confirm any details.

Packing

Where can I find a packing list?

Click here to jump down to the packing section of this page for all the details!

Do I have to bring my laptop?

Yes.  You will submit some assignments electronically, so it’s important you have a laptop to complete your work.

Should I pack sheets/linens/towels/hangers?

No, our accommodations provides all of the above.  However, it’s always a good idea to pack an extra beach towel or quick-drying travel towel.

Academics

How will my class transfer back to my home university?

Every school has different procedures and requirements for transfer credits.  The first step in the process is often meeting with your academic advisor with the course syllabi.  Be sure to do this as soon as possible.  More details can be found in the transfer credits section below!

When will I know my final grade?

Final grades will be submitted to Oglethorpe University in mid to late August.  For any questions related to the academic component of the program, please reach out directly to your professor.

When will I receive a transcript for my classes this summer? Do I have to send it to my school?

Transcripts are issued by Oglethorpe University in late August.  OU will send your transcript automatically to the institution on your record.  If you’ve transferred to a new school for the fall semester, please notify us by emailing info@LeadAbroad.com.

Budgeting & Finances

Are meals included?

Your program fee includes a welcome dinner and a final dinner.  All other meals are your responsibility.

How much spending money should I budget for the trip?

Click here for a budgeting worksheet.  You should have a realistic conversation with your parents in the application process to discuss spending habits and budgeting while you are abroad.  While spending can vary widely, LeadAbroad recommends $40/day as a baseline budget for meals and incidentals.

Should I bring U.S. cash? Debit cards? Credit cards?

LeadAbroad strongly recommends you bring two ways to access money: a debit card for ATM withdrawals and a credit card as a backup.  We do not recommend exchanging U.S. dollars for local currency as it is very difficult to find a place to exchange and the exchange rate is typically better when you withdraw from an ATM.  You should plan on getting cash out an ATM once you arrive.

Health & Safety

Is travel insurance included? What about health insurance?

LeadAbroad does not offer a travel insurance plan.  All students will be covered under LeadAbroad’s health insurance for the duration of the program.  Details can be found in the Health & Insurance section below.

Do I need shots before visiting Spain?

Review CDC guidelines for travelers to Spain here: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/spain

No specific shots are required; however, LeadAbroad recommends visiting your family doctor before departure to ensure you are up to date on routine vaccines including Hepatitis A and MMR.

Can I bring my prescription medication to Spain?

If you pack prescription medication, be sure it is in the original prescription bottle. We also recommend researching the medication to better understand any restrictions in Spain. Your doctor will be a great resource in finding this information.

Pharmacies in Spain will not accept foreign prescriptions. If you anticipate needing a prescription refill while abroad, speak with your doctor about getting enough medication for the duration of your trip. Alternatively, our staff can assist with a local doctor’s visit to receive a local prescription.

Other FAQs

Do I need a visa to enter Spain?

U.S. citizens are not required to obtain a visa to visit Spain if you stay for 90 days or less.  When entering Spain, you will be considered a tourist and not a student since you are not enrolling in a foreign university.

If you are NOT a U.S. citizen, be sure to research entry requirements based on the country that issued your passport.  You may be required to obtain a visa.

For more information on visa and passport requirements, review the passports section below!

Can I use my cell phone abroad?

Yes!  We strongly recommend you contact your carrier to understand how international data works on your plan.  These plans tend to be expensive.  As an alternative, many students choose to buy a local SIM card upon arrival.  Your phone must be unlocked to use an international SIM card.  Contact your carrier to determine if your phone is unlocked.

When will I know my roommate assignment? Can I request a roommate change?

We can change roommates up to 30 days before departure.  Roommate requests are entered on the roommate form linked in your portal.  If you’ve already completed this form and would like to change your request, please email info@LeadAbroad.com.

Final roommates will be released 30 days before departure.  No changes can be made after this time.

Can I receive packages/mail while abroad?

General mail can be received at the dorm while you’re abroad; however, we strongly discourage the mailing of valuable packages (cameras, cell phones, medication, etc) to students while abroad. You will have to pay taxes on the item in order for it to clear customs, and it often takes many days for the process to be completed which delays delivery. Depending on what is being sent, the taxes may be very high (sometimes more than the value of the item itself).

What is the best way for friends/family to contact me while abroad?

Check out the Communication Abroad section below for details.  WiFi is also accessible in our dorms.

If there is an emergency in the U.S. and your family needs to contact LeadAbroad, please have them call our emergency response line at 404.720.5657 and dial extension 710.

This tab features a running series of announcements from the LeadAbroad team as you prepare for an incredible summer!  You can expect an update about once a month.  As we get closer to departure, updates will become more frequent.

 

November Newsletter – November 13, 2019


December Newsletter – December 17, 2019


January Newsletter – January 16, 2020


February Newsletter – February 20, 2020


March Newsletter –


April Newsletter – 


60 Days to Departure Newsletter – 


45 Days to Departure Newsletter – 


30 Days to Departure Newsletter – 


10 Days to Departure Newsletter –


1 Day to Departure Newsletter – 

 

Connect with fellow students online!

Get Ready to Take Off

To make a payment online, log in to your customer portal.

The LEAD Barcelona program fee is $4,100. Tuition for the three credits from Oglethorpe University is $1,700.  Please refer to your customer portal for your custom due dates based on when you were accepted to the program.  Further information on all payment policies can be found on our policy page.

Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard and Discover) are accepted for payment online; however, we do not accept American Express. Please remember that a 4% processing fee will be added to all credit card payments. Payment by eCheck is also accepted. eCheck payments do not have a processing fee. Paper checks will not be accepted.

The LeadAbroad team will support you every step of the way when planning your flights!  Please review the sections below as well as the flights FAQ section above for information on the official group flight and tips for booking flights independently.

Important dates for LEAD Barcelona:

  • Sunday, May 10: All students depart the U.S. for Barcelona (BCN)
  • Monday, May 11: All students arrive into Barcelona
  • Sunday, May 31: All students depart Barcelona (BCN) for the U.S.

Recommended Itinerary

LeadAbroad recommends booking the following itinerary.  If you arrive into Barcelona on the flight below, your transportation to the accommodations will be included!

Depart: May 10, 2020 (Arrives in Barcelona on May 11)

  • Depart JFK at 5:15pm on American Airlines #66 / Arrive in BCN at 6:45am (May 11)

Return: May 31, 2020

  • Depart BCN at 11:15am on American Airlines #67 / Arrive in JFK at 2:00pm

Click here to book JFK>Barcelona roundtrip with American Airlines!

Recommended itinerary booking steps:

  • Purchase a ticket for the recommended flight on the link above.
  • Book a roundtrip ticket between JFK airport in New York City and your hometown.
    • We strongly recommend you book this ticket with American. This will allow you check-in for your first flight at your hometown airport and check your bags all the way to Barcelona.  If you do not book with American, you must pick up your bags in JFK, check in with American and re-check your bags to Barcelona.
    • Recommended arrival time into JFK before the group flight: 1:15pm on May 10
    • Recommended departure time leaving JFK after the group flight: 5:00pm on May 31
    • If you live nearby or will already be in New York on departure day and plan to drive to the airport, we strongly recommend arriving no later than 2:15pm.  Three hours before departure will give you plenty of time to check-in, go through security and get settled at the gate.
  • Submit your flights on the Flight Form in the LeadAbroad portal

Airport greeting & shuttle times

Greeting students on arrival:

  • All students arriving on May 11th will be greeted at the airport.  For accommodations transfer information, please see below.

Group shuttle to the accommodations after arrival:

  • All students arriving on the recommended flight or on flights arriving between 6:00-6:45am will be on the group shuttle.
  • If you are scheduled to arrive on May 11th before 6:00am, you can wait at the airport for the group shuttle or pay for your own transfer to the accommodations.  LeadAbroad will assist you in arranging this transportation.

Group shuttle to the airport for departure back to U.S.:

  • All students departing at 10:45am or later will be on the shuttle to the airport
  • If your flight departs before 10:45am, you pay for your own transportation since the group shuttle will not arrive in time for your flight.  LeadAbroad will assist you in booking this transfer!

In order to arrive in country rested and ready to go, consider the following tips to make your flight experience as enjoyable as possible:

  • Print ALL of your flight itineraries for the trip and have them easily accessible.
  • Do not start your trip stressed. GET TO THE AIRPORT EARLY. For most international flights, we recommend that you arrive at the airport at least three hours prior to departure.
  • Weigh your bags before you leave home. Check baggage size and weight restrictions for ALL AIRLINES you might be flying during the program.  Smaller budget airlines abroad usually have stricter baggage policies than the larger U.S.-based carriers.
  • Pack the following items in your carry-on.  If your checked baggage takes an adventure of its own, having these items with you will create less stress and allow for a more comfortable plane ride:
    • Two days worth of clothes
    • Medications/contacts
    • Laptop, cell phone, chargers, other electronics
    • Water bottle/Nalgene
    • Headphones/earbuds
    • Blindfold and ear plugs if you are sensitive to light/sound when trying to sleep on planes
    • Journal/books/Kindle/magazines
    • Program director’s phone number
    • Dorm address
  • Be comfortable on the plane. Dress in layers so that you can easily adapt to the temperature.
  • Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluid while in the air. It is easy to become dehydrated when flying.
  • Know where your passport is at all times. When checking in at the airport, you will have to get your passport in and out of your bag several times; at each stop, be sure to take a moment for a passport check.
  • Reset your watch. As soon as you board the plane, reset your watch to the local time and try to get on a sleeping pattern that is consistent with your destination. Most students traveling will be on an overnight flight and you will be very grateful if you sleep. Also, remember that if you have to take medications at a certain time during the day or at the same time everyday you might need to adapt this prior to departure.
  • Make special meal requests if necessary. If you have any special requests, be sure to contact the airline at least 72 hours prior to departure.
  • Make sure you have a pen for any immigration forms.  Flight attendants usually distribute arrival forms shortly after take-off.  On these forms, note that you are a tourist, not a student.

To apply for a U.S. passport, click here.  If you are not a U.S. citizen, be sure to thoroughly research passport and visa requirements for citizens of your home country.

If you already have a U.S. passport, check to confirm the following:

  • the expiration date is 2021 or beyond
  • the passport has at least two blank pages
  • Your name is spelled correctly

If your passport does not have all requirements above, you must renew your passport before traveling abroad.

All students are required to submit passport information via the passport form in the LeadAbroad portal 60 days before departure.  Please do not submit a passport that is expired or in the process of being renewed.  When your new passport arrives, you can then submit your form.

For more information on documents for travel, visit the Department of State passport website or their Students Abroad section.

Pre-Departure Orientation: All Programs (coming soon)

  • Due date: 60 days before departure
  • Form to submit in your portal by due date: Pre-Departure Form
  • Links will be posted here!

Pre-Departure Orientation: LEAD Barcelona Specific (coming soon)

  • Due date: 30 days before departure
  • Form to submit in your portal by due date: Orientation: Program-Specific Form
  • Links will be posted here!

To ensure we have the tools to support you before and during the program, we have several short forms that must be completed 60 days before departure.  Please access your customer portal for all required forms and due dates.

Click here to view the Barcelona packing list!

The most important thing to remember when packing for Barcelona is that summers get VERY warm.  Pack light, comfortable clothing and durable walking shoes.

Do not overpack.  As a general rule, do not bring more bags than you can carry yourself.  Most students can pack all their things in a larger checked bag, one carry-on and small backpack/daypack. CHECK YOUR AIRLINE’S BAGGAGE POLICIES.  Some airlines have carry-on restrictions and charge fees for extra checked bags and overweight luggage.

Applications will be posted in your portal under Optional Forms in April 2020

What are program leaders?
On the LeadAbroad team, the program staff are the coaches and program leaders are the team captains – they set the tone and encourage other students by creating a strong sense of community through service projects, social outings, group chats and creative stories. They are the peer leaders who step up when needed and make other students feel included. Whether you’re joining us on GO, LEAD, DIRECT or PRO, our program leaders will help make your experience abroad impactful and lasting.

Why should I apply?
The more you put in, the more you get out. That’s why we have 3 awesome leadership opportunities on your program abroad. Whether you are your squad’s go to party planner, you’re passionate about giving back or you’re a wizard with video editing, we’d love to invest in you and your talents!

We have three types of program leaders on LEAD, so there are multiple ways to plug in on the ground.

Community Leader (apply online through your portal): Are you a leader on campus or interested in becoming one in the future? Do you feel like you’re the “ringleader” of your crew & want to take your skills abroad? Our Community Leader (CL) program is an awesome way to make the most of your summer experience with leadership 101 training, resume boosts and serving as a peer leader on the program. CLs will experience an extra level of investment from our staff (and fun invites), opportunities for social media highlights and a connection with other like-minded students on the program.

Service Leader (apply online through your portal)Do you have experience as a camp counselor or are majoring in education? Are you involved in service organizations on your campus? Apply to be a Service Leader on your program & you can help with the planning, preparation and execution of our service projects on the ground! Not only will you get more investment from the staff & get more out of our time serving, but it looks great on your resume.

Media Leader (apply online through your portal)“If its not on camera, it didn’t happen” is your mantra. Are you someone who makes videos for every trip you go on? Do you have a “fancy” camera for special events or have an interest in photography? Are you already planning out your end-of-program video or following local photographers on Instagram? Sign up to be a media leader & put your skills to use!

Ready to dive into this leadership role?  Apply in your portal before the deadline!

Get Ready for Class

Advanced Special Topics: Leadership Global Theory and Practice
Choose one of the following listings:
Urban Leadership Program: ULP 401
History: HIS 490
Sociology: SOC 490
Politics: POL 490

Students are required to order a program workbook (Big Blue Book) and complete several assignments prior to departure.

To order your Blue Book, please click here. (Link will be posted in April 2020)

We recommend placing your order as soon as possible to allow yourself time for shipping and to complete all assignments. It is required that all students bring the program workbook abroad this summer for use on the program.

Students have two options for ordering the program workbook:

  1. Order online and pay with Paypal
  2. Order over the phone with a credit card.

It is important that you select the correct item “LeadAbroad–LEAD Cape Town (5 week program)” and indicate your shipping address. If you need expedited shipping (2-3 business days or less), call BelJean directly rather than placing your order online. Students who prefer picking their program workbook at BelJean do so during normal store hours at the following address:

163 E Broad St
Athens, GA  30601

Students accepted into a LeadAbroad program are also simultaneously accepted into Oglethorpe University as transient students. Students are required to participate in all program and curriculum activities during the program unless they are granted an exemption by staff due to a physical or emotional reason.  Oglethorpe University students follow the same process as transient students when participating on a LeadAbroad program.

Many universities across the country accept Oglethorpe University transfer credit; however, it is ultimately the student’s responsibility to find out how the course credit transfers to your home institution. Every university has a unique process for accepting transient credit. Please schedule a meeting with your academic advisor and the study abroad office as soon as possible to understand your school’s requirements. These steps MUST be completed prior to departure. LeadAbroad does not guarantee credit transfer to any particular university or major.

If you plan to use any scholarships or financial aid, please submit this information on the Financial Aid & Scholarships form in your online portal under optional forms.

The HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships may be available for students who are permanent Georgia residents, attend a university in Georgia and meet eligibility requirements.  You should meet with your financial aid office in order to determine if this scholarship will apply to a LeadAbroad summer study abroad program.

For students who qualify, the HOPE Scholarship amount is $1,014 and the Zell Miller Scholarship is $1,120. You should confirm these amounts and your eligibility with your home institution’s financial aid office.

We understand that studying abroad is a family decision with significant costs. We recommend that you explore a variety of options to finance your study abroad experience. You can find scholarships by reaching out to the financial aid office at your home university, non-profits and writing letters to companies in their hometowns.

LeadAbroad offers a number of scholarships. Please review these scholarships to check your eligibility here.

All LeadAbroad programs are inclusive and respectful of the needs, backgrounds and experiences of all its participants. Our policies can be found here.  If you have an accommodations request, please complete the Disability Accommodations Request form in your customer portal.

In-Country Details

Coming soon

Program staff will be announced soon!

Coming soon

Coming soon

Click here for a budget planning worksheet.

This worksheet will allow you to understand costs outside of the program fees and airfare.  Review this section in detail and email us at info@LeadAbroad.com with any further budgeting questions.

Before you leave, notify your bank of your international travel plans.  Most banks allow you to post a travel notice through your account online, or you can give them a call.  Be sure to include your entire itinerary with layovers or other known weekend destinations. Debit and credit cards can be blocked after transactions abroad because your bank may assume it is a fraudulent transaction.

Debit cards are the best way to access cash overseas.  ATMs are widely available everywhere we travel.  Debit cards with Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus or Plus signs are the most widely accepted.  There may be a transaction fee for using ATMs abroad; therefore, it’s important to understand the fees associated with using your cards overseas.  Keep records of your debit/credit numbers and PINs with someone at home.

Credit cards can be used similarly to debit cards at restaurants and shops abroad.  Most major credit cards are honored abroad (i.e. MasterCard and Visa). Similarly to debit cards, credit card companies use the current exchange rate for your transaction. Call your credit card company to understand the fees charged per transaction.

We do not recommend bringing large sums of U.S. dollars abroad.  It is not convenient to exchange cash, and students typically get a better exchange rate by using ATMs for cash or debit/credit cards.

The program fees cover many of the costs of being in country, but you will need to provide additional funds for:

  • Meals: We will host a welcome and final dinner. All other meals are the responsibility of the student.
  • Incidentals: Internet, phone calls, transportation to non-program events
  • Free time: Independent evenings and additional outings
  • Weekend travel: All GO Barcelona students will travel to Costa Brava for the first weekend. All other weekend trips are up to the student.
  • Gifts and souvenirs

Meals: One of the best aspects of Barcelona is the incredible restaurant scene. From casual neighborhood spots to some of the best restaurants in the world, Barcelona has a wide range of dining options. At mid-range restaurants, dinners range from $20-$30. Since our dorm rooms come with a mini-kitchen, we recommend that students shop at restaurants and markets so they can prepare breakfast and lunch and then eat out for dinner.

Internet/Cell Phone: Since we have Wi-Fi at our dorm and university, internet charges should be minimal. Cell phone charges vary greatly.  International plans tend to be $50 per 100MB of data.  Costs for a local cell phone will be around 70-100 euros plus prepaid minutes.  Contact your cell phone carrier to understand your specific options.

Transportation: We recommend that students purchase the T-10 metro card. The metro is a fast and reliable way to get around Barcelona. While the metro is extensive, we recommend that students stay in groups at night. Some destinations will require a taxi. Barcelona taxis are comparable to those in in major cities in the U.S. like New York and Chicago.

Laundry: We will have self-service washing machines and dryers in our dorm accommodation. For a few Euros, you can wash, dry and clean your clothes.

Other Activities: There are a variety of activities to enjoy around Barcelona. Here are a few ideas. Our team can help you plan any additional activities that you would like to enjoy.

  • Daytrip to Montserrat (60-80€)
  • Wine tasting in Penedes (100€)
  • Visit to Fundcio Joan Miro (11€)
  • Day at Barceloneta Beach (Free)
  • Guided tour of Sagrada Familia (20€)
  • Tour of Casa Battlo and Gaudi architecture (30-40€)
  • Visit to Camp Nou soccer stadium (25-40€)
  • Tapas tour of Barcleona (70-90€)

There are many ways to stay in touch while traveling abroad. Wireless internet is available throughout our hotels.  Please note that internet speeds can fluctuate depending on traffic. Internet can be slow and unpredictable, especially when all students are trying to upload pictures or watch videos at the same time. We ask all students and parents to be patient with the internet. Students will have more success using the internet if they use it at off-peak times.

LeadAbroad requires students to have cell phones while abroad for risk management purposes. Students can:

  • Bring an unlocked phone and buy a local SIM card upon arrival
  • Add an international package to current phone plan
  • Rent/buy a local cell phone

With Wi-Fi readily available in most locations, you are encouraged to utilize internet texting apps (iMessage for iPhone to iPhone, Groupme, WhatsApp, Google Hangouts) to communicate with program staff and family and friends at home.

In addition, we integrate technology into our communications and risk management strategy to keep students safe. Therefore, we require students to download the following applications on their phone prior to departure:

  • Groupme
  • Find my Friends
  • State Department
  • Facebook

If there is an emergency at home while you are abroad, our team will support you and your family in every way possible.  Should any friends and/or family need to contact LeadAbroad, please have them call our U.S.-based domestic team at 404.720.5657.  For emergencies, dial extension 710 when prompted.  Our on-call team will assist with the situation and get in touch with your program staff as needed.

To charge your electronics abroad, will need pack (or purchase when you arrive) an outlet adaptor.  A quick search on Amazon will provide several options!  For some items like hair dryers and straighteners, you will also need to purchase a voltage converter since voltage is much higher in Europe than the US.  If you do not use a converter, you could damage your appliance.

We encourage students to be mindful of their electronics while traveling. It is wise to conceal electronic devices when walking around as iPhones and laptops can be attractive for theft.

LeadAbroad strongly encourages students to be mindful of their health prior to departure and while abroad.  Living in a new environment, eating different cuisine and adjusting to a new schedule can impact one’s immune system.  Before you travel overseas, students should examine the factors that contribute to their physical and emotional wellbeing so that they can stay healthy and get the most out of their trip.

    1. Read and understand the CDC recommendations for your upcoming travel. The CDC website includes information on vaccines, medicines, packing lists as well as information to prepare students to stay healthy and safe.
    2. Make an appointment with your university’s travel clinic, dentist and other medical professionals. Students can proactively eliminate many potential health issues by ensuring they are in good health prior to departure. Additionally, during these visits, make sure your health records and prescriptions (including eyeglasses) are up-to-date. If you are taking a prescription medication, please ensure that you have enough for the whole program and that the medication is in the original container. If you self-inject prescribed medication, please carry needles and syringes with you. It’s important to understand that LeadAbroad will not distribute any form of prescription or nonprescription medication to students. We recommend every student travel with a medical kit.
    3. Be honest with yourself regarding your emotional health. Students that are concerned about their emotional stability or use of alcohol/drugs should address it honestly before making plans to travel. Contrary to many people’s expectations, travel does not minimize these problems; in fact, it can often exacerbate them.
    4. Contact us directly at info@LeadAbroad.com with any specific medical issues we should be aware of at least three months prior to departure.  Our team is better equipped to support you abroad if we know your health history and emotional health. Please share this information with us prior to departure.

Click here to view LeadAbroad’s health insurance policy.

Basic medical insurance is included in all students’ program fee. Please review the policy to become knowledgeable regarding the types of medical conditions and situations that are covered while you are participating on a LeadAbroad program.  If you are injured or ill while you are abroad and need medical attention, you will likely need to pay for the treatment upfront, and if covered the money will be reimbursed by LeadAbroad’s insurer after submitting your claims form.  If for any reason you need to seek medical assistance while abroad, a LeadAbroad staff member will accompany you to the doctor. Please contact us first if you have any sort of emergency.

It’s important to note that this medical insurance is not ‘travel insurance’ and therefore does not cover the cost lost or stolen luggage or cancellation of the trip. Students may purchase travel insurance independently through an outside provider. For more information on the different types of travel insurance you can click here.

LeadAbroad’s Emergency Response Protocol provides a system for coordinating the management of emergency services for all participants in our study abroad programs. In-country staff are the first point of contact for students on the program in the event of an emergency and assume leadership of the emergency situation until other resources (e.g., local police, etc) are available. However, in the event that the staff are unavailable, the following guidelines are provided here in case you, as a participant in the program, need to handle an emergency.

  1. Ensure safety: Your first priority is to safeguard the safety and well-being of yourself and other program participants. Do whatever is reasonably necessary to ensure safety.
  2. Seek medical care: Obtain any emergency medical care for affected participants as soon as possible.
  3. Control emotions: Remain as calm as possible. Do your best to diffuse any growing anxieties that may be occurring among participants.
  4. Communicate (as applicable). Depending on the nature of the emergency, it may be necessary to contact medical or emergency services, police or local law enforcement or the US embassy.
  5. Ongoing support: Continue to monitor, aid, and communicate status updates as the situation progresses.
  6. Debrief: Meet with LeadAbroad staff to discuss the situation, how it was handled and steps that were taken to resolve the emergency.

Reducing Risk Abroad

LeadAbroad takes many steps to reduce risk abroad.  You will be registered with the U.S. State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. The benefits of STEP include the following:

  • Receive important information from the Embassy about safety conditions in your destination country, helping you make informed decisions about your travel plans.
  • Help the U.S. Embassy contact you in an emergency, whether natural disaster, civil unrest or family emergency.
  • Help family and friends get in touch with you in an emergency.

You will be given a keychain with emergency contact numbers and the address of our accommodations.

Please review the following resources to ensure that you are informed on how to have a safe and healthy trip abroad:

CDC recommendations on preparing for a healthy trip
State Department travel recommendations for student travelers
State Department recommendations for women travelers

All students are required to be familiar with all program rules.  Please click here to review on our policies page.