Study Abroad preparing to allow international travel this spring

Central Michigan University's Study Abroad program has received university approval allowing students to once again participate in study abroad programs beginning in the Spring 2022 semester. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the program has been limited to virtual internship opportunities since the spring of 2020.

The program will follow what is being called a "controlled restart." In years past, approximately 750 students participated in Study Abroad each year, taking advantage of opportunities for over 150 programs in more than 50 countries. Additionally, COVID-19 vaccinations will be required for all Study Abroad students who travel internationally.

"We've been waiting a year and a half to do this and are so excited for our students," said Dianne De Salvo, CMU's director of Study Abroad. "We're carefully monitoring conditions abroad and are working with students on contingency plans should we need to change course before next spring."

Virtual internships will continue to be offered for students who are unable to travel internationally.

The Study Abroad program will continue to share updates regarding the restart on the Office of Global Engagement's website.

Apply for a free passport to study abroad

Students interested in studying abroad during their degree program can apply for a free passport thanks to a grant from the Institute of International Education.

The grant is intended to reach students who are traditionally underrepresented on their campuses while contributing to the university's mission and strategic efforts to expand diversity, equity, access, and inclusion to study abroad. Eligibility is limited to first-year students who are eligible for Pell Grants to ensure that students have ample time remaining in their college career to map out a study abroad plan. Participants also must be full-time, degree-seeking students.

Complete details on the passport grant, eligibility requirements, and application process can be found on the Office of Global Engagement's website.