Announcements : Spring Study Abroad Program Cancellation

Dear Students,
 
In light of the United States Department of State issuing a Global Level 3 Travel Advisory and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issuing a Level 3 Travel Health Notice for most of Europe, UM requests that you return to the United States as soon as possible.  We realize that many of you feel very safe in your host country, but the constantly evolving COVID-19 situation forces us to make this request.  This is not a decision that was made lightly or without discussion with our administration.  Please see below with information that will be helpful to you as you make arrangements to depart.
 
Academic Credit
Our office has been working on academic contingencies for the spring semester.  Many programs have already moved courses online so that you will still earn credit for the semester.  We will work with overseas programs in hopes that you will be able to earn full credit this semester, but credit will be determined on a case-by-case basis and unfortunately cannot be guaranteed.
 
Financial Aid
Every student’s financial aid package is different.  We have been in touch with the Financial Aid Office and will evaluate the best course of action for your particular aid package once we know the academic contingency plan for your program.  What we can confirm is that if you do not earn any credit for the semester, any scholarships you have this semester will be available in future semesters.
 
Transportation, Expenses, etc.
We understand that the cancellation of a program is not only disappointing to students but may cause unexpected expenses.  A committee will review refund requests on a case-by-case basis.  You should make arrangements to depart as cost-effectively as possible.  Please keep all receipts for airfare change fees and/or other unexpected costs associated with your early departure so that a refund committee can review them after return to your home country.  Program fee refunds will also depend on the program provider’s refund policy due to COVID-19.  If you wish to seek any reimbursement from the committee, please submit your receipts to abroad@olemiss.edu.
 
Requirements Upon Return to the United States
As you make preparations to return the U.S. we ask that you do the following: 

• Contact your family and make them aware of your updated travel plans.  Please communicate with your parents!
• Contact your program (host university, program provider, etc.) and follow any instructions that they give to you.
• Complete the return information form here: https://go.rebelsabroad.com/return-info.
• Complete the UM Travel Self-Reporting Form.

Also, UM guidelines state that any student, faculty or staff member returning to campus from international travel is required to self-quarantine and self-monitor at their home, complete the online Travel Self-Reporting Form, and follow the CDC recommendations for what to do for a minimum of 14 days.

• Students who traveled internationally should contact Student Health at 662-915-7274.

You can stay up to date on the university’s guidance on COVID-19 here: https://provost.olemiss.edu/covid-19update/.

Again, this decision was an incredibly difficult one. We hope that you understand that your health and well-being is our first priority. Please let us know if you have questions. We wish you safe travels.
 
Study Abroad Office