Health & Safety While Abroad

The UCLA International Education Office holds the health and safety of its students as its highest priority.

In order to better prepare students traveling abroad on our international programs, the UCLA International Education Office has compiled a list of important resources for students to review before their departure. These resources are meant to be a supplement to the students own health & safety research, as well as the advice of their individual physical and mental health providers and physicians.

*Note: some of the resources mentioned on this page are not UC- sponsored, and we cannot ensure the accuracy of the information.

As part of the Global Internship Program application process, you will agree to stipulations in a comprehensive participation agreement and sign a waiver of liability. Please take some time to read this document.

Prior to departure, students should take the time to learn about the potential health or safety challenges in their study abroad location. Students should also research ways to manage their current health conditions while in a foreign country to better make informed and responsible decisions while abroad. Here are a few websites students should visit to help them learn more about their program location(s) and to prepare for their time abroad:

1) The U.S. Department of State Travelers Checklist provides step-by-step advice for how to prepare for the abroad experience.

  • U.S. Citizens and Nationals should register in the STEP Program before they depart. This allows them to receive important safety information about their program location and helps the State Department contact them in the event of an emergency.
  • Non-U.S. Citizens or Nationals, please check with your local government for similar emergency services available to you while abroad. 

2) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Website  provides pre-departure tips for study abroad students.

3) StudentsAbroad.com Study Abroad Student Handbook provides a wealth of resources and advice in the health and safety section, including questions students should ask themselves to make sure they are prepared.

Health Insurance

Two comprehensive traveler’s health insurance policies are provided for Global Internship Program participants: Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) and CHUBB-AXA policies.  Students will be provided with insurance cards, policy information and coverage limits prior to the start of their program.

*Please note that the Virtual Internship students are not enrolled in health insurance for the program. 

Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI)

  • +1-(743) 244-2474 (outside of the United States).
  • Coverage is for the dates of the program only

CHUBB-AXA

  • +1.630.694.9804 (Outside of the United States)
  • Up to 14 days of accumulated personal deviation coverage

Insurance providers may have in-network facilities and physicians in your location. You can contact CISI or CHUBB-AXA to schedule an appointment 24 hours or more in advance and to verify which facilities provide direct billing for medical care. Please note that even with in-network facilities, direct billing is not guaranteed, and students may need to submit receipts for reimbursement.

Maintaining good health is imperative when traveling and studying overseas. It is important that students actively maintain a healthy lifestyle in order to maximize their experience abroad. Below are some tips on how to remain physically and mentally healthy while traveling. Students should consider all of the following topics: mental health, medical care, prescriptions, special needs and accommodations.

Mental Health-Related Issues

Traveling and studying in another country are demanding activities that often compound or exacerbate both physical and emotional issues. In particular, if students are concerned about their use of alcohol and other controlled drugs or if they have an emotional or physical health concern, they should address it honestly before making plans to travel and study abroad.

Before you go:

  • It is important that you take steps to recognize and understand your own mental health needs and concerns before you depart for your program. The UCLA Counseling & Psychological Services (CAPS) office is an excellent resource for UCLA students to make a plan for coping with potential challenges abroad.
  • You should set up an appointment with UCLA CAPS before you leave for your program to talk about your concerns, to discuss whether or not you are ready for study abroad, and if so, to create a mental health plan for your time abroad.
  • For continuity of care, students may access mental health support through Lyra Health. This resource provides confidential mental health support with a licensed therapist and offers both:
    • Virtual appointments (typically the quickest option)
    • In-person appointments
  • Students may also prearrange psychological counseling sessions in English through their CISI and CHUBB-AXA travelers’ health insurance plans. 
  • The CDC also provides some tips about how to form a mental health plan for your trip abroad on its Mental Health & Travel page.
  • Mobility International provides several excellent resources and tip sheets on how to better prepare yourself so that you can successfully study abroad with a mental health condition.

While you’re abroad:

  • Please be aware that even though you will be miles away from home, that you can still get help. If you feel that you or another student on your program are having a mental health emergency please contact the 24/7 on call staff member from your local internship program provider, go immediately to a local hospital.
    • For continuity of care, students may access mental health support through Lyra Health. This resource provides confidential mental health support with a licensed therapist and offers both:
      • Virtual appointments (typically the quickest option)
      • In-person appointment
    • If you feel that you would benefit from speaking with a mental health professional, support is available through your CHUBB – AXA traveler insurance:
      • Chubb-AXA Assistance: +1-630-694-9804
      • Policy Number: N04223822

      All students have access to crisis mental health support at no cost through this program. When calling, request a “Remote Behavioral Health Crisis Consult” to be connected with a U.S.-based psychologist or psychiatrist. Coverage is also available for in-person mental health care, and Chubb-AXA can assist with arranging appointments if needed.

    • Students may also utilize mental health support through their CISI traveler insurance.
      • CISI: +1 (743) 244-2474 (Phone/WhatsApp)
      • Email: CISIAssist@RobinAssist.com

Medical Services

Before you go: 

While you’re abroad: 

  • Information about local health services will also be provided after arrival at your study site. Please keep UCLA IEO and onsite staff aware of any and all medical issues that arise during your Global Internship Program.
  • All GIP participants will be provided with CISI and Chubb-AXA health insurance policies for the duration of their program abroad. For more information, please view the “Health Insurance” section of the Student Health and Safety Guide.

Prescriptions, Vitamins, and Other Medicines

  • Students who regularly take any medication should take an adequate supply of it to last for the entire period abroad, including some extra in case of unexpected travel delays.
  • If medications are perishable, please contact your GIP adviser before departure to see if preparations can be made in your housing location.
  • Students should label all medications and keep them in their original containers that clearly show the prescription and your name.
  • Consult the embassy or consulate of the country or countries where you will be studying, as well as the International Narcotics Control Board, if you have any doubt about the legality of carrying a certain drug into that country.
  • Some common medications in the U.S., such as Adderall, Concerta & Ritalin, can be illegal in other countries. If you learn your medication is illegal in the country you’ll be interning in, please discuss a plan with your physician/psychiatrist.
  • Bring a letter from your doctor listing your medications, the generic ingredients and an explanation of why you need them.
  • Please review this helpful medication tip sheet from Mobility International for more information about traveling with medications.

Information for Students with Disabilities:

UCLA is committed to ensuring equal access to educational opportunities for students with disabilities. To provide this access, the Center for Accessible Education (CAE) facilitates academic accommodations for regularly enrolled, matriculating students with disabilities.

How is Disability Defined?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a person with a disability as a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. This includes people who have a record of such impairment, even if they do not currently have a disability. It also includes individuals who do not have a disability, but are regarded as having a disability.

I am requesting accommodations abroad. What should I do?

  • If you are a CAE-registered student with a disability and will require accommodations abroad, please notify your UCLA GIP adviser and CAE counselor in order to discuss what accommodations are available in your selected program.
  • If you are not a CAE-registered student, you must request accommodations via CAE in order to determine eligibility.

Please note the following:

  • Institutions and On-Site Partners abroad may not be obligated to implement your accommodations abroad as approved at UCLA. If you have concerns about access to your accommodations abroad, please notify the CAE office and your GIP adviser by the deadline listed in your application form so that we may determine reasonable accommodations given the location of your program.
  • If the accommodation requested is required in order for you to fully participate – and the accommodation is not available – please note that you may be required to select an alternate Global Internship Program destination or study abroad program.

Please remember that any travel carries with it certain inherent risks. In most instances, many of the challenges of travel abroad can be avoided by taking certain precautions. Please read the following safety tips before you depart for your Global Internship Program.

 Stay in Contact

Make arrangements to contact your family periodically. Check in when you arrive to let your family know you have arrived safely. If you leave town to sight-see during free time and weekends, please let the on-site staff  know where you are going. 

Sexual Violence & Harassment

Any student who has been the victim of a sexual assault or harassment while abroad can utilize UCLA campus resources for support and counseling. Sexual violence may also be reported to UCLA IEO (if the student is comfortable doing so) or directly to campus authorities for legal and/or disciplinary investigation and action. Please note that when reporting sexual harassment or violence, UCLA will do everything possible to maintain privacy and will only share information to those on a need to know basis; however, confidentiality cannot be guaranteed.

Where to receive help: Visit the UCLA Sexual Violence Prevention & Response website for guidance on seeking help or filing a Title IX report/complaint.

Support Services

  • CARE: Advocacy Office for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence and Misconduct is part of the Arthur Ashe Student Health and Wellness Center, and can be reached at (310) 206-2465; CAREadvocate@caps.ucla.edu. A confidential advocate is available.
  • Confidential support, guidance, and advocacy for students are available from Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS). Request support by calling the 24-hour hotline at CAPS, (310) 825-0768.
  • The office of Student Legal Services also provides confidential assistance to students; you can find more information on their website or by calling (310) 825-9894.

Options for reporting

Respondent services

  • For students accused of sexual assault or misconduct: The Office of the Dean of Students provides respondent support services, which include providing appropriate referrals, assisting in navigating campus and external processes, and other relevant services as needed.

Safety on the Street

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home. Be especially cautious in crowded subways, train stations, elevators, tourist sites, marketplaces, festivals, and avoid areas known to be risky within cities.

  • Always remain aware of your surroundings.
  • Avoid shortcuts, narrow alleys, or poorly-lit streets.
  • Avoid traveling alone.
  • Avoid public demonstrations and other civil disturbances.
  • Do not discuss travel plans or other personal matters with strangers.
  • Avoid scam artists. Beware of strangers who approach you offering bargains or offering to be your guide.
  • Beware of pickpockets. They often have an accomplice who will:
    • Jostle you
    • Ask you for directions or the time
    • Point to something spilled on your clothing
    • Distract you by creating a disturbance
  • Wear the shoulder strap of your bag across your chest and walk with the bag away from the street to avoid drive-by purse snatchers.
  • Try to seem purposeful when you move about. Even if you are lost, act as if you know where you are going. When possible, ask directions only from individuals in authority.
  • Learn a few phrases in the local language so you can signal your need for help, the police, or a doctor. Make a note of emergency telephone numbers you may need: police, fire, your hotel, your program’s emergency contact/number, and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
  • If you are confronted, do not fight back. Give up your valuables.

Safety on Public Transportation

Taxis/RideShare Companies:

  • Only take taxis/rideshares with clearly identified with official markings. Beware of unmarked cabs.
  • Verify license plates (if applicable) and take a photo to send to a friend/family member. 
  • Make sure the meter is running (if applicable).
  • Share your location with a friend/family member and let them know when you entered the vehicle and arrived at your destination.
  • Keep a list of reputable companies and contact numbers with you.

Buses/Trains: Be vigilant when taking public transit.

  • If you see your way being blocked by a stranger and another person is very close to you from behind, move away. This can happen in the corridor of the train or on the platform or station.
  • Do not accept food or drinks from strangers.
  • For certain locations, it may be encourage to avoid public transit in the night hours and to take a cab or rideshare. Consult with your on-site staff for recommendations.
  • When taking overnight trains, lock your compartment. If it cannot be locked securely, or if you are sharing a compartment with other travelers, tie down your luggage, strap your valuables to you, and sleep on top of them as much as possible.
  • Do not be afraid to alert authorities if you feel threatened in any way.