The following email was sent on November 1, 2021 to students considering studying abroad in spring 2022.
Dear Students and Families,
Lehigh’s International Travel Advisory Committee has met over the course of the semester and conducted a detailed individual review of each spring program partner and each host country based on current information. If you are receiving this email, it means that you may move forward with making your spring travel plans, at the instruction of your program provider.
In the coming weeks, Study Abroad will hold pre-departure meetings with all fall study abroad students. Students have received an addendum to the student understanding and agreement signed during the application process, which outlines risks specific to travel during a global pandemic and must be signed electronically through their application prior to departure.
A COVID vaccine is required for all Lehigh students and study abroad participants. Exemptions will not be granted for study abroad students for the spring semester.
Lehigh continually monitors conditions in host countries, and approval may need to be revoked should conditions change significantly. Students should carefully review airfare cancellation policies and are strongly considered to purchase cancellation insurance for all in-country costs.
While Lehigh carefully reviews the locations and academics of our approved study abroad programs, the university cannot guarantee the safety of our students while they are abroad. Travel of any kind during the unpredictable circumstances of COVID-19 carries additional risks.
In addition to following Lehigh’s guidance, students and families must determine their own comfort level regarding international travel. This informational page includes a section on “Considerations for abroad programming during the COVID-19 pandemic” highlighting some of the unique risks involved with travel during a global pandemic. Three main resources available to students and families include the Lehigh Study Abroad Office; International SOS - Lehigh’s medical and security assistance provider; and the Lehigh’s Study Abroad program partner whose program you are attending. These groups are available for individual consultation and to help answer questions.
We will remain in touch with updates, and we are available to meet with you to discuss any questions or concerns.
Regards,
Katie Radande
Director, LU Study Abroad