Before departing for your program, you are expected to take an active role in preparing for both your health and safety.
Health
Research your destination to learn about required or recommended immunizations and health considerations specific to your host country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides country-specific health guidance and vaccination recommendations.
Before Abroad
The Student Health and Wellness (SHAW) Center offers comprehensive international travel services to help you prepare to go abroad with UWM. This includes personalized travel consultations, itinerary reviews, required immunizations and travel-related prescriptions. To book a travel clinic appointment with SHAW, call 414-229-7429.
While Abroad
While abroad, you are responsible for understanding how to access medical care in your host country, including mental health services. Before departure, you should:
- Review how your insurance works overseas.
- Identify nearby clinics or hospitals in your host city.
- Research any medications you take to confirm they are legal and available in your host country and bring documentation. Some medications allowed in the U.S. are restricted abroad.
- Bring necessary prescriptions and documentation.
- Talk to a counselor if you have ongoing mental health needs.
- Understand what mental health resources are available in your host country.
SHAW staff and the Center for International Education (CIE) can help you think through these steps so you are not figuring it out for the first time in another country. On-site staff and program leaders are available to assist students in accessing health services once you are in country.
International Insurance
CIE enrolls all students in Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) health insurance (PDF) prior to departure.
This insurance includes:
- Coverage for medical care abroad
- Medical evacuation and repatriation
- 24/7 support services
- Support for identifying local physical & mental healthcare providers
Many programs also include access to a national health system in the host country.
Safety & Regulations
You are responsible for understanding your host country’s safety environment and local laws. These may differ significantly from those in the United States.
The U.S. Department of State provides travel advisories, country information, and entry requirements. You are strongly encouraged to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive updates and alerts while abroad.
Tips for Staying Safe
While risks vary by location, these practices can help you reduce unnecessary risk:
- Be mindful with alcohol. Laws and norms vary by country, and alcohol can increase vulnerability.
- Do not use or travel with illegal drugs. Penalties can be severe.
- Keep valuables to a minimum to avoid drawing attention.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and follow local news.
- Download and activate the AlertTraveler app for real-time alerts.
- Register with STEP (U.S. citizens) or connect with your home country embassy if you are not a U.S. citizen.
- If something feels off, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation.
Emergency Support While Abroad
After Seeking Local Help, Contact UWM
- CIE Study Abroad:
- overseas@uwm.edu
- +1 414-229-4846 (available Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. CT)
- UWM Police: +1 414-229-4627 (24/7)
Your specific program will also provide location-based emergency procedures. CIE staff are available to support you and help coordinate next steps.