“In a beautiful way, I received about ten fold more in return -- fortitude, strength in uncertainty, patience, independence, decisiveness, and heat-tolerance. I left with the knowledge that the world I was accustomed to -- one that seemed all-encompassing, wildly large, and equally relevant -- was just a small sliver of a much, much larger diversified landscape."
"Go out and see the world! Enjoy your time abroad; it’s truly life changing. When abroad, make sure to continue collaborating with onsite advisors and onsite doctors, (basically, whoever you may need to collaborate with). As students with disabilities, we CAN study abroad and have a great time, just don’t forget to plan ahead. Have a wonderful time, and take lots of photos!"
"My time abroad was one the best experiences of my life because of what I was able to do outside of my internship. Exploring Greece was breathtaking because of its endless beauties. I learned to scuba dive, and it was one of the most magical, life changing experiences. I will pursue this newfound passion of mine for the rest of my life!"
“Being abroad certainly put me outside of my physical comfort zone, but not once did my disability prevent me from learning more about myself and my environment, which I felt was the true essence of a study abroad experience.”
As you consider and prepare for an international experience, use the information on this page to explore the considerations, opportunities, questions, and challenges of traveling abroad with a disability.
Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list and you may relate to multiple identities. You are encouraged to discuss these topics in-person with an education abroad advisor in your school or college. The Services for Students with Disabilities office (SSD) and the Counseling and Psychological Services office (CAPS) can also provide guidance and resources as you prepare for your experience.
RESOURCE
View our Disabilities Abroad Info Sheet for additional questions and considerations for traveling abroad. Bring this resource with you when meeting with an academic advisor, education abroad advisor, or other U-M office.
Explore these helpful resources regarding traveling with a disability:
Your accommodations may vary because many parts of the world have different standards of accessibility and perceptions of disability. In the U.S., laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) require organizations to ensure accessible accommodations, but your host destination may have different laws, cultural perceptions, and typical approaches to access. Planning early and considering flexible alternatives can help if accommodations look different than what you’re used to.
You are encouraged to utilize resources such as Mobility International USA to learn more about cultural perceptions and attitudes in your host destination and to prepare for self-advocacy in a new context.
U-M Travel Abroad Health Insurance may help cover reasonable expenses for physician office visits, hospital visits, mental health services, telehealth services, and prescribed medications overseas. Before you depart, review your plan benefits and requirements, including how to access care abroad, what to do in an emergency, and any steps needed for reimbursement or pre-authorization. Keep your insurance ID and support contact information available during travel so you can get help quickly if you need care.
