The health and safety of IES Abroad students is our highest priority. Based on current global conflicts, IES Abroad hereby prohibits independent student travel to the following locations and their surrounding areas: Ukraine, Russia, Israel, Gaza, the Persian Gulf, and the Middle East. This prohibition applies to all IES Abroad participants, including IES Internships and Customized & Faculty-Led Programs. Additionally, travel to countries bordering Russia and Ukraine must be approved by an IES Abroad Student Life representative in advance of departure.
Be advised of the following:
- This travel restriction may be revised as circumstances require.
- All students are expected to monitor communications from IES Abroad for safety alerts and updates to this policy.
- This policy is in addition to any home school restrictions that may apply. Students whose home institutions prohibit travel outside of the host country remain restricted from independent travel to non-program locations, except to return home to the U.S.
This is a matter of the utmost importance. Students who violate this directive by travelling to Russia, Ukraine, the Persian Gulf, or the Middle East may be dismissed from their IES Abroad program. Questions about this policy can be directed to the Student Life, Health, and Safety Office in Chicago.
Updated March 5, 2026