Non-Credit International Travel

WWU students pursuing any co-curricular or extracurricular international travel experience that is connected to WWU in some way must register their travel with Education Abroad (EdAbroad) by having an active Travel Plan in the EdAbroad Portal. This may include but is not limited to excursions as part of a class, internships, presenting at conferences, an athletic event, a performance, a student club/organization activity, etc., whether with a faculty/staff member or not. Please note, this also includes travel to Canada, including British Columbia. Although we tend to feel very comfortable making short trips into British Columbia because of its proximity, the moment you cross an international border, your rights change, and your U.S.-based health insurance coverage may diminish.

Contact us by email at EdAbroad@wwu.edu if you are a student who is participating in a non-credit international experience or are a faculty member taking students abroad. We will create a Travel Plan on your behalf and support you through this university process. 

University Requirements & Support for Non-Credit Travel

• Enroll in University Approved International Health Insurance: We have had students go abroad and get the common cold, the flu, intestinal illness, sprain an ankle, and even be hospitalized, and while it’s an extra step to get international health insurance, you’ll sure be happy to have it if you need it. Our goal is to ensure you are protected in case any health issues arise abroad. Health insurance policies meant for use in the U.S. have suboptimal coverage for incidents or illnesses that take place abroad. Our university approved international health insurance policy is cost-effective, includes coverage for medical expenses, accidents, medical evacuation, repatriation, disaster and security evacuation, accidental death & dismemberment, and emergency assistance services.
   
• Emergency Communications: In the event of an emergency at home or overseas, having an active Travel Plan through the EdAbroad Office will help the University support you and share urgent health, safety, and security information.
   
• Travel Resources & Pre-Departure Orientation – The EdAbroad office provides key travel resources as you get ready to go abroad. These may include important information on health and safety, how-to guides on logistics, whether or not your host country requires you enter with a visa (i.e., permission for entry and stay) and how to apply for one, and resources highlighting responsible travel. You’re welcome to utilize our Pre-Departure Orientation Course for tips on short-term travel. If your group is traveling outside of Canada and the U.S., a representative from EdAbroad can come to your class and provide a Pre-Departure Orientation Workshop. If you would like to schedule an in-person workshop, contact EdAbroad. 
   
• Health, Safety, and Security - It is important to be aware of important health,  safety, and security issues before you are abroad. Please do your research and remember that if the U.S. State Department issues a Level 3 (Reconsider Travel) or Level 4 (Do Not Travel) Travel Advisory for your destination, you are required to petition for university-related travel. For more information on travel advisories, please see the EdAbroad webpage.