Pre-departure check-ups
We recommend but do not yet require that students get complete physical and dental examinations before departure. These checkups will be extremely helpful in obtaining effective care while abroad. The goal of this recommendation is not to limit students from going abroad but to make your Study Abroad experience goes as smoothly as possible.  Individual programs may require students to have medical examinations and/or provide proof of immunization.

Immunizations
It is your responsibility to ensure that your routine immunizations are up-to-date and inquire whether any additional immunizations or medications are recommended and/or required for the countries you will visit (including those that are not part of your program). Do this at least three months before your departure to nations in Africa, Asia, Caribbean, Latin America and the Middle East, and at least two months prior to departure for all other countries. Some immunizations are administered as a series over time, so allow as much time as possible. Worldwide health information and country-specific health requirements are also available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Health insurance
All students should maintain the insurance that meets the standards set forth by UC. Please call your insurance company and find out the extent of coverage that will be offered by your insurance while abroad. Don’t forget to ask if your insurance will cover emergency expenses such as hospitalization, medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, etc. The medical insurance plan that allows you to attend UC may not be valid anywhere else in the world and you may need to purchase supplemental travel insurance to cover you while overseas. Some programs require and/or provide this additional coverage.

Medications
You should make sure that you have sufficient quantity of all the medications you will need while abroad. UC can issue a letter certifying your participation in the study abroad program which you can submit to your insurance company asking for a waiver of the limited supply rule. Make sure to keep your medication in the original containers with the pharmacy label. Don’t forget that drugs of any kind are almost always prohibited in international mail. For information on filling a prescription abroad and other health issues click here.