Health & Safety

How can I better inform myself about travel recommendations?

We recommend that you regularly monitor the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Travel Recommendations by Destination and the US Department of State's Travel Advisories for your destination throughout the pre-departure and on-site phases of participation.

Travel Insurance

All UCEAP participants are automatically enrolled in the student travel insurance policy, providing medical and non-medical benefits so you can get the medical care you need while abroad. Read more about the coverage on the Travel Insurance webpage.

All students participating in Berkeley Summer Abroad or Berkeley Global Internships programs will be covered under the UC Travel Insurance Policy. Read more about the coverage on the Travel Risk and Insurance webpage by reviewing the STUDENT RESOURCES & CLAIMS links on the right panel.

UC Berkeley requires all students to have major medical insurance and provides the Berkeley Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP) to meet this requirement. Matriculated Berkeley students are automatically enrolled in SHIP at the beginning of each academic year but have the option to waive SHIP coverage with proof of equivalent private insurance. Travel insurance does not satisfy SHIP waiver criteria.

Emergencies

Berkeley Study Abroad monitors information relevant to students' safety and well-being while abroad but it is important to discuss a plan for how students will communicate with loved ones in the event of an emergency.

Berkeley Study Abroad requires that all Berkeley Summer Abroad and Berkeley Global Internships participants enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Who to contact in an emergency

UC Education Abroad Program (UCEAP)

  • If seriously injured or sick, UCEAP students should get medical treatment at the closest medical facility and contact the local UCEAP representative.
  • More information can be found on the UCEAP emergency resources page.

Other Berkeley and Independent programs

  • Contact local emergency services.
  • Contact your student's local abroad program in-country support staff.
  • UC Berkeley Police Department: +1 510-642-3333. UCPD will then notify Berkeley Study Abroad if support from our office is needed.
  • If necessary, locate the nearest U.S. embassy.