Studying abroad is a memorable experience that many college students enjoy. New changes in Saint Louis University’s study abroad office will work to ensure that students are adequately prepared both for the experience and possible emergencies.

“Every student going abroad, regardless of final destination, must complete a pre-approval process,” said Maria Bravo, study abroad coordinator at SLU.

This pre-approval process involves different departments around campus, including academic departments, the office of Financial Aid and the study abroad office. There is a form that requires students to gather information from the different departments.

The deadline to complete the pre-approval process for students going abroad in the spring is Dec. 1.

The second major change involves insurance. Before the change, students were only required to have insurance in the country of destination. The new insurance plan requirements affect students studying abroad and faculty and staff who are traveling on University business.

The plan requires insurance coverage in four categories:

• The trip to and from the United States
• Visits to local doctors
• Accidents and emergencies
• Medical evacuation and repatriation of remains

There are two ways to get the required coverage. First, check with your current insurance company to see if all four areas are covered. There is also a minimum amount that needs to be met through the individual’s insurance plan. Second, if the individual is not adequately covered through their insurance then there is the option of buying the University plan. This plan varies depending on length of stay and can be purchased for $1.49 per day.

“Most U.S. policies cover accidents, emergencies and repatriation of remains, but not every plan has this,” Bravo said. “Most have smaller, limited coverage than what is required by the University.”

Maureen Walsh is going to Madrid for the spring semester. She decided to purchase the insurance plan through SLU.

“I am going to use the University insurance package while in Spain, both the one Madrid recommends, Sanitas, and the AIG option, which is the insurance required by home SLU to cover me while traveling,” Walsh said.

SLU has also developed a form for students, faculty and staff traveling abroad. It requires individuals to provide their itinerary, contact information abroad and emergency contact information in the U.S. and can be found at www.slu.edu/newlinks/stident_travel.html.

Bravo said that many of these changes have been implemented due to the events of Sept. 11 and the increased risk for Americans traveling abroad. In attending conferences, Bravo has found that other universities have similar requirements for traveling abroad.

Informational sessions for those planning to study abroad are held several times each month. Students are encouraged to attend a session to learn more about the requirements and procedures for studying abroad. Refreshments are served, and past participants of study abroad programs will share their experiences and answer questions. Sessions are scheduled from 4 to 5 p.m. in Davis Shaughnessy 274 on the following days: Oct. 31, Nov. 6, Nov. 12, Nov. 19 (Fitzgerald Hall 222), Nov. 21 and Nov. 25.