We Plan for "What If" So You Don't Have to Worry

With more than 70 years of experience, we are proud to set the standard for health and safety in study abroad. Our Chicago-based and on-site staff are all highly trained and experienced in the matters of health, safety, and crisis management. We are here for you from predeparture to your return, and are ready to support you—no matter what time zone you’re in.

Once you've been accepted to a program, more detailed health and safety tips unique to your study abroad location will be made available in your MyIESabroad account.

Vaccine Policy

Effective April 15, 2023, IES Abroad is suspending its vaccine requirement for students. Our Spring 2023 students were required to be vaccinated pre-departure unless they had been granted a medical exemption from IES Abroad or a religious exemption from their home campus. 

As circumstances with COVID have changed, we are adapting our policies accordingly. We are no longer requiring COVID-19 vaccinations starting on April 15th for Customized and Faculty Led Programs, Internship Programs or for our standard semester programs.

If circumstances should change again, then we will not hesitate to adapt our policies accordingly. We will continue to monitor Covid-19, as we have throughout the pandemic, and we will continue to consult the recommendations of the public health sources in the U.S. and abroad. The health and safety of our students is our highest priority.

How We Support Your Health & Safety Abroad

Additional Resources

Refund Policy

A core philosophy of our health & safety procedures is that we plan for the what ifs so that you don't have to worry.

Learn More

“Before even leaving home, I received phone calls from people [in Chicago and Paris] checking up on my mental health needs and medications. It was so thoughtful and personalized.”
Bridget A. • Gettysburg College • Paris

We’re Here for You

Study abroad safety begins with being accurately informed from the moment you're considering study abroad through to the day you return home. Check out our tips and resources for your journey.

Safety Tips & Resources
visa ACCeSS program GEM and students