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Study Abroad

Can SAS students study abroad?

Yes! There are many benefits to studying abroad, and while SAS students may need to make some additional arrangements, having a disability should not be a reason to miss out on this opportunity. Students should consult with the Office of Global Education Education Abroad office at least one semester before they plan to study abroad to understand all requirements and relevant processes.  

Can I use my academic accommodations when I study abroad?

The process for using accommodations abroad varies depending on location. 

  • Kent State Florence and Kent State Paris: Students attending Kent State Florence and Kent State Paris can continue to use Access KSU to send course accommodation letters and utilize accommodations in the same way. Students should discuss testing locations and other accommodations with their instructors when they arrive in country. 
  • Other institutions: Students attending a different university will need to contact that institution to ensure that their accommodations are available to them.  Education Abroad Advisors can assist students in identifying that office. Request a copy of disability documentation by emailing sas@kent.edu directly from your Kent State email address. Students can download a PDF of their approved accommodations and relevant descriptions in Access KSU under My Eligibility.  

Can I use my housing accommodations when I study abroad?

The availability of housing accommodations abroad depends on your location and request. You should let the Office of Global Education Education Abroad office know about your need for an accommodation as soon as possible. SAS can confirm approved accommodations, and the OGE staff will do their best to accommodate disability-related needs. 

  • Kent State Florence: Housing for students studying in Florence is arranged through OGE. All housing accommodations should be indicated on your study abroad application. 
  • Other institutions: Housing at other institutions varies. Education Abroad Advisors can provide additional information about housing arrangements, though not all housing accommodations can be implemented at every location.  

Can I take my service animal abroad with me?

Under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) a service animal means a dog, regardless of breed or type, that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. 

Animal species other than dogs, emotional support animals, comfort animals, companionship animals, and service animals in training are not service animals. 

Taking this into account, airlines are required to accept service animals, but they are not required to accept emotional support animals. For more information on traveling with service animals and ESA’s (which would have to follow the same regulations as all pets), you can access the page, and the website.

How can SAS help me when I study abroad?

Whether your disability is visible or invisible, SAS and Education Abroad are committed to making educational experiences abroad possible for you. Early disclosure of personal needs and an open mind to different programs, locations, and services can help you identify the best opportunities abroad. 

Things to consider when choosing your program abroad: 

  • What types of physical, academic, and mental health resources and accommodations are available in my host country? 
  • Are my medications controlled or banned abroad? 
  • Are there regulations on traveling with my medications, service animal, etc.? 
  • How does my host country view my disability? 
  • Are there prescriptions that I need to fill before I leave? What medications are available abroad? 

Resources for you to explore: