We obviously don’t like to think about some of the hazards that come along with studying abroad, and while the actual incidents of any of the following emergencies are rare, it is important to be armed with the necessary information to help you make sound decisions during a difficult situation. Please refer to the procedures below to advise you if you find yourself in any one of the following situations:
Different types of emergencies require different procedures.
1. Injury, harm, illness, etc.: If you find yourself with a sprained ankle or have the common cold, you should go to the campus health facilities at your host location. If it’s more of an emergency, you should go the closest hospital emergency room and get there as soon as you can. You will want to keep the number of your insurance card handy at all times. Many insurance companies should be made aware if you need medical assistance while abroad. Keep all receipts for medical services and medication because they may be reimbursable. If you’re traveling, you should familiarize yourself with the city you’re in and locate the nearest hospital. Make sure to inform your host campus coordinator if you find yourself in this situation, as s/he may be able to provide additional support as necessary.
2. Passport Issues: At least one student per semester either loses his/her passport or has it stolen while abroad. You should leave a photocopy of your passport with a family member, give one to the NIEC, and keep one for yourself that is separate from your actual passport. It’s much easier to have another passport issued with a copy of the original. If you need another passport issued, the U.S. embassy or consulate in your host county will be able to help you with that process.
3. Lost or stolen travelers’ checks and other stolen items: If you have anything stolen, you should report it to the local police. If you have travelers’ checks, you should keep a photocopy of the serial numbers separate from the actual checks. The bank where you purchased your traveler’s checks can tell you how to replace them if they are lost or stolen. Also, keep a separate record of all credit card accounts. Cash is never recoverable if it’s lost or stolen. We recommend that you have your personal items insured before you leave in the event of loss or theft. Notify your host school coordinator and NIEC if you think that we may be able to assist you further, or if a theft occurs on campus or in your residence hall.
4. Political Emergency or Natural Disaster: Should a political emergency or natural disaster happen while you are on exchange you should immediately contact the coordinator or on-site staff at your host school and the National & International Exchange Center.
5. Other emergencies: We obviously cannot predict all the possible emergency situations that may happen during study abroad. In the case of any other emergency, please contact the coordinator or on-site staff at your host school and the NIEC at the following numbers:
Regular hours:
Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
National & International Exchange Center phone: 603-358-2348
National & International Exchange Center fax: 603-358-2469
or e-mail anytime
Night/Weekend hours:
In the event that a situation arises during the hours when the NIEC is not open, please call Campus Safety, who will be able to contact the necessary school official. Make sure you clearly explain that you are away on a NIEC program and provide a contact number to reach you.
Study Away Quiz