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Study Abroad

At Johns Hopkins University, we believe that studying abroad is a transformative experience that should be accessible to all students.  SDS and the Global Education Office are committed to supporting students with disabilities as they embark on their international/domestic journey.  Study abroad provides opportunities to broaden your academic and cultural horizons, develop independence and resilience in a global setting, and enhance your career prospects by gaining international experience.

Keep in mind that many laws, services, and accommodations available in the United States may not be the same in other countries. Conducting thorough research and planning ahead will help you understand what to expect and how to prepare for a successful and enjoyable study abroad experience.

If you want to study abroad, but anticipate barriers to participation due to a disability, you should discuss your personal needs and concerns with a JHU Global Education Advisor.  Your Global Education Advisor can:

  • Work closely with you to identify program options that match your interests and are best suited to accommodate your needs.
  • Coordinate with you, SDS, and program staff abroad to arrange reasonable accommodations to meet your personal needs and concerns.
  • Connect you to JHU and external resources for additional information and support.

Affiliation with SDS

If you are already affiliated with SDS to receive disability-related academic accommodations, these accommodations do not automatically transfer from SDS to the JHU Global Education Office.  Please contact SDS, [email protected] and we will then coordinate with the Global Education office.

If you are not affiliated with SDS but may need accommodation or services due to a disability you should begin the Getting Started process as early as possible.

Accessibility Considerations when Studying Abroad

Academic Accommodations

Academic accommodation plays a crucial role in providing students with disabilities equal access to the information taught in class.  Students are encouraged to consult with your Global Education Advisor and/or host university to understand the process for requesting academic accommodations during their time abroad.

When selecting or preparing for a study abroad program, consider these academic-related questions:

  • What is the typical course load for students in this program?
  • What types of materials are commonly used to teach the course(s)?
  • What teaching formats are used in these classes?
  • How are class materials accessed (e.g. printed books, electronic formats)?

Dietary Restrictions

Food can be an exciting and important part of experiencing a new culture.  Here are some areas to consider before studying abroad:

  • Airlines: Will airlines be able to accommodate for dietary restrictions?
  • Housing: Will students have access to a kitchen or food preparation equipment, or will you buy the majority of your meals? Will the host university have menus or have ingredient information posted or available in cafeterias or restaurants?
  • Cultural and/or regional food preparation traditions: does the cuisine in the host country commonly use nuts/shellfish/gluten/diary or other common allergens?
  • Medical Resources: what medical attention will you require if exposed to an allergen? Will you require routine care from a medical professional or allergist while in the host country?

If you have questions about how to manage dietary restrictions while abroad, contact the JHU Global Education Office.

Medication and Medical Supplies

Different countries have different laws and regulations related to medication so it is important to do your research ahead of time so you and your medical/health provider can plan accordingly. Access to medical supplies may be different than in the US so planninng ahead is important so you can bring what you need, including extra supplies, replacement parts or batteries if needed.

Here are some areas to consider before studying abroad:

  • Medication: Are there any restrictions on the medication you can bring into the country?  Are there any requirements regarding amounts or labeling of medication (e.g., must it be in the original bottle/container and should you bring your prescription with you?) Will it be possible for you to get refills or replace the medication if it gets lost?
  • Medical Supplies: Are there any considerations regarding transporting or storing your medical supplies (refrigeration, batteries, etc.)? If your supplies require electricity, ensure the country where you will be traveling will be compatible with electrical outlets or power requirements. If batteries are needed, explore whether you need to bring extra or if those could be purchased in the country.  Learn about what supports will be available if parts break or need replaced.

Mobility Accommodations

If you use a wheelchair or other mobility device or have other mobility concerns, there are a few areas that will be important to consider in advance:

  • Transportation: What will transportation options be to the country? What are the most common types of transportation in the country? Are these common modes of transportation accessible and readily available in the places you will need to travel?
  • Housing: What form of housing is used for participants in the program? Are you allowed/required to provide your own housing for the length of your stay or on school sponsored trips? Will there be additional trips/home stays or changes in location that would require staying in different housing? Will your program require daily commute to and from your housing and academic facilities?
  • Activity Level: Will this program require daily excursions and/or long days of travel without breaks? Will there be hiking or traveling in mountainous or other types of terrain to consider?

Discuss your concerns and questions with the JHU Global Education Office.

Sensory Disabilities

Students who are blind/low vision, deaf/hard of hearing or have other sensory concerns should consider the following in advance of their trip

  • Transportation: What are the common transportation options in the host country? Do public transit options have accessibility features that could make it easier to navigate? Will you need assistance with orientation and mobility? What resources are available to provide those services?
  • Housing: What form of housing is used for participants in the program? Are you allowed/required to provide your own housing for the length of our stay or on school sponsored trips? Will there be additional trips/home stays or changes in location that would require staying in different housing? Will your program require daily commute to and from your housing and academic facilities?
  • Technology: What type of technology do you use on a regular basis? Will this same technology be available in the country or will you be bringing your own technology?
  • Excursions/Activities: Will there be trips to museums, outdoor excursions or other cultural events where you may need accommodation?

Discuss your concerns and questions with your SDS Advisor and the JHU Global Education Office.

Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

Service animals and emotional support animals can play an important role in the lives of students with disabilities.  However, the access for service animals and emotional support animals may be different in the country where you will be traveling.  Bringing service animals or emotional support animals can be a lengthy and complicated process, depending on the laws of the host country.

If you are considering bringing an animal abroad there are several areas of advance consideration:

  • Access: Does the country where you willbe traveling acknowledge the rights of people to be accompanied by a service dog or emotional support animal? Make sure you are familiar with the laws related to service dogs and/or emotional support animals.
  • Transportation: Will there be a quarantine period for your animal in the host country?What records are required about your animal’s health and vaccinations? Will local methods of transportation allow for service animals or emotional support animals to be served?
  • Housing: Will the housing provided allow for service animals/ESAs? Will you stay in other housing such as home stays or hotels that might have different policies than your primary housing?
  • Animal Care: Are there local vets that can provide routine and emergency care for your animal? Will your animal be exposed to feral or wild animals? Will you be able to find and provide consistent food that your animal is accustomed to? Will there be other factors that could endanger your animal’s health?

Discuss your concerns and questions with the JHU Global Education Office.