Boston College students can once again pack their bags and book their flights because study abroad programs are set to resume for the fall semester, the Office of International Programs (OIP) announced in June.
Before coming to the decision, OIP reviewed travel advice from the State Department and the CDC, reviewed how host countries are responding to the pandemic, and reviewed what BC’s peer institutions’ plans are regarding study abroad, according to the statement.
“As the summer progresses, we will continue to take a nuanced approach to monitoring all available resources,” OIP wrote.
Living conditions abroad might be different from those at BC—hybrid classes, limited classroom space, and social distancing and mask mandates may still be in place in certain universities and host countries, OIP said.
“Other locations may still require students to quarantine upon arrival, or produce a negative Covid test, even if you have been vaccinated,” the statement reads.
Before going abroad in the fall, BC students will be required to complete two new forms: the OIP Travel Form and the Covid-19 Addendum. Additionally, BC is now partnering with Cultural Insurance Services International to provide insurance for BC students studying abroad.
“Effective this year, Boston College partners with Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) to provide health and emergency services to BC students while traveling and living outside the United States,” the statement reads.
While abroad, OIP recommends that students do not, or at least significantly limit, travel outside of their planned host country.
“Some destinations may still have restrictions on traveling to other countries or regions,” the statement reads. “Leaving your host country may jeopardize your ability to return to your host program. If you do decide to travel and are subject to quarantines, additional Covid testing, etc., students are responsible for any costs incurred, as well as any missed academic assignments.”
OIP is also recommending that all students who are studying abroad purchase Cancel for Any Reason or Interrupt for Any Reason insurance. The office also addressed the spring 2022 waitlist in the letter.
“At this time, we will not be removing any students from the waitlist,” the statement reads. “The next time we review the waitlist, will be during the fall 2021 semester. The odds are still quite low that we will be able to accommodate more students for the spring 2022 semester.”
Featured Graphic by Olivia Charbonneau / Heights Editor
