Accessibility Abroad
We encourage students with special needs to explore the option of study abroad! Although the same accommodations may not be available at all overseas locations, CIE will work with you to confirm what accommodations or support will be available at any host programs you are considering.
It is best to begin the process as early as possible by disclosing any accommodations you may need upfront. Although overseas programs and universities are becoming more inclusive of students with special needs, the extent to which accommodations can be provided depends on the nature of the needs in addition to accessibility and available services in the host country.
Your acceptance into a program is in no way influenced by disclosing accommodation needs, and it is to your advantage to confirm that the accommodation you need will be available. We will try to arrange for any disability accommodations at overseas sites before you depart. Receiving accommodations once you are abroad will be more difficult and may not be possible.
Students with learning disabilities are encouraged to discuss your plans to study abroad with the Office of Accessible Education or your academic counselor. Together with CIE, we can coordinate with your host university or program provider to confirm which accommodations can be made for your academic success abroad.
Students with mobility issues should visit Mobility International (linked below) to learn more about accessibility abroad. Together with CIE, we can contact your host university or program provider to confirm what accessibility needs can be met in your host country and on your host campus.
Students with mental health issues are also encouraged to discuss your plans to study abroad with your current counselor as well as your study abroad advisor. Together with CIE, we can contact your host university or program provider to confirm which counseling or other mental health services are available on your host campus.
Again, CIE is here to help address all of your accessibility concerns!
Resources
- Mobility International National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange (NCDE)
- MIUSA Going Abroad Tip Sheets
- Considerations for bringing prescription medications
- Mental Health Success
- Studying abroad with Anxiety
- Tips for studying abroad with physical disabilities
- NPR – Her Story: Studying Abroad with a Mental Illness
Resources for Neurodiverse Students
- Mobility International – Autism Advice
- Mobility International – Resources Library for Autism / Asperger
- Autismspeaks.org – Traveling with Autism
- International travel with ADHD Meds
- The ADD/ADHD Person's Guide to Prepping for Study Abroad
If you find these resources useful, have helpful resources we should consider adding, or have questions or comments about this page, let us know at cie@loyno.edu.
Updated 3/3/21 by Shosh Pojawa (CIE Peer Advisor, AY20-21)