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Seton Hall University

Study Abroad Support

Study Abroad is a wonderful opportunity for all students. For students with disabilities, advance planning and consideration is essential to a successful experience.

These general steps will help you to prepare:

  1. Plan Ahead
    Planning for a study abroad trip requires time. We recommend you begin the process for a specific trip at least six months before departure. If you are studying abroad with a Seton Hall faculty member, you should reach out to DSS to discuss this request further to coordinate with your faculty member. If you are studying abroad at a different college, we recommend reaching out to that university’s disability services office to see what the registration process is to receive services. Approved accommodations you have through Seton Hall may not apply to a study abroad trip depending upon the nature of and the location of the program. 

  2. Research Study Abroad Programs
    Review the Study Abroad website to learn about different programs available to you.
    Attend a Study Abroad advising session or schedule an individual appointment ([email protected]) to ask more questions.

  3. Disclose Need for Accommodations
    As always, disclosure of disability status is a personal choice. If you are planning to study abroad, you are encouraged to disclose your disability status to the Study Aboard Office and to your specific program so that you can get a sense of what disability accommodations will be available to you and how those accommodations will be implemented. DSS can be a part of this conversation if you'd like our help.

    Study abroad programs are not obligated to meet requests for accommodations without advance notification of need. Countries outside the United States have their own rules and regulations concerning academic accommodations and do not necessarily comply with Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments (ADAA) regulations.

  4. Use Resources as Part of Planning
    Mobility International – a non-profit organization that promotes study and travel abroad for individuals with disabilities. This is a comprehensive website with information and advice for students with disabilities planning a study abroad trip.

    Going Abroad Tip Sheets – detailed information and advice related to specific disabilities.

    US Department of State: Traveling with Disabilities

  5. Suggested Questions to Ask

  • General Program and Country Considerations
    • What is the country’s general attitude toward disability and accessibility?
    • Are there any laws protecting disability rights in the host country?
    • How inclusive is the local culture regarding visible and invisible disabilities?
  • Academic Accommodations
    • Does the host institution provide academic accommodations similar to those in the U.S.?
    • Is there a disability services office at the host institution? Are they responsive and supportive?
    • Will you have access to assistive technology and reliable internet?
    • Is this a faculty led trip and is a Seton Hall University faculty member teaching the course?
  • Physical Accessibility
    • Does the program require regular walking or other physical components?
    • Are the host city and campus wheelchair-accessible (buildings, housing, transportation)?
    • What is the condition and availability of accessible public transportation?
    • Are accessible restrooms, elevators, and ramps available where you will live, study, and travel?
  • Medical and Health Support
    • Will you have access to necessary medical care, including mental health services?
    • Are your medications legal and available in the host country?
    • What does your health insurance look like in an education abroad setting?
  • Housing and Daily Living
    • Does the program offer accessible housing or allow alternate arrangements?
    • Can you get help with daily living tasks if needed?
    • Are service animals allowed, and what are the regulations for bringing one?
  • Financial Considerations
    • Will there be extra costs associated with accessibility needs?
    • Can financial aid or disability-related funding help cover accommodation expenses?
  • Personal Considerations
    • Am I prepared to adapt if certain supports or routines are not available?
    • Can I identify creative workarounds for unexpected challenges (ex. lack of elevators, limited tech)?
    • What support do I truly need, and what can I handle on my own in a pinch?
    • What am I hoping to get out of this experience? Are those goals still valid even if accommodations are different or fewer?
    • Can I accept that some challenges are likely, and that growth might come through them?
    • Am I going abroad with the mindset that perfection isn’t required for a meaningful experience?