Question 1

1. Passports & Visas

Accepted Answer

Beginning in 2027, all US passport holders will be required to apply for a new travel authorization for all European programs. The ETIAS travel authorization is an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals traveling to 30 European countries. It is linked to a traveler's passport. It is valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. If you get a new passport, you need to get a new ETIAS travel authorization. You can fill out the application form using either the official ETIAS website or the ETIAS mobile application. Applying for the ETIAS travel authorization costs 7 Euros.With a valid ETIAS travel authorization, you can enter the territory of these European countries as often as you want for short-term stays - normally for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. However, it does not guarantee entry. When you arrive, a border guard will ask to see your passport and other documents and verify that you meet the entry conditions. Your ETIAS travel authorization is valid for three years or until the travel document you used in your application expires - whichever comes first. For more information about the ETIAS travel authorization, please review the ETIAS website.
As of August 2026, the EU has not released an official start date for the new EITAS requirement. LeadAbroad will continue to monitor the requirements and provide general instructions on obtaining the documents if needed. However, it is ultimately the student's responsibility to research specific requirements for his/her destination. As a general guideline, a student should consider renewing his/her passport if it expires within the year they are traveling. Non-U.S. citizens are also responsible for following the requirements for obtaining the appropriate visa. Students who fail to comply with international immigration requirements may be dismissed from their program without a refund due to the inability to enter the program country.

Question 2

2. Communication Abroad

Accepted Answer

LeadAbroad requires students to have cell phones while abroad for risk management purposes. Students can:Bring an unlocked phone and buy a local SIM cardAdd an international package to current phone planIf a phone is lost or stolen, the expectation is that a replacement phone will be securedWith Wi-Fi readily available in most program locations, you are encouraged to utilize internet texting apps (iMessage, GroupMe, WhatsApp, etc.) to communicate with program staff and family and friends at home.In addition, we integrate technology into our communications and risk management strategy to keep students safe. Therefore, we require students to download the following applications on their phone prior to departure:GroupMeLife 360Smart TravelerTrip Plans (for itinerary details)

Question 3

3. Arrival Guidelines

Accepted Answer

Students traveling on the recommended arrival and/or departure flight itineraries will have transportation provided by LeadAbroad between the airport and their accommodation.If you choose to travel on a different flight itinerary, LeadAbroad will provide instructions on how to arrange transportation between the airport and your accommodation. Note: any transportation arranged outside of the group transfer will be an additional cost.

Question 4

4. Return Transportation

Accepted Answer

LeadAbroad will provide a transfer to the airport on departure day. The transfer time corresponds with the recommended flight departure. Generally, we have students arrive at the airport 3 hours prior to takeoff.

If any emergency, weather delay or other unavoidable situation leads to a delay in a student’s departure, the student is responsible for all living costs for the additional time spent abroad and for penalties or costs related to changed airline tickets.

Question 5

5. Late Arrival/Early Departure

Accepted Answer

Students are required to be present for the entire program. If there is a very special circumstance, a student can submit a written request for a late arrival or early departure no later than 60 days prior to departure. Only the Chief Programming Officer, in conjunction with academic faculty, can authorize late arrival or early departure from the program. Even if a late arrival/early departure is approved, the student's participation grade could be impacted depending on their course's attendance policy. Students are responsible for reviewing the attendance policies of their courses prior to departure and with their instructor. If you need to request a late arrival/early departure, contact us at info@LeadAbroad.com.

Question 6

6. Family/Friends Visit Policy

Accepted Answer

Parents or friends who are in town visiting during a program are welcomed to meet up with students during the student’s free time. Only program participants can join program activities, meals and class. Overnights: Students are expected to reside at the student residence during the program, with the exception of optional weekend travel on our GO programs and overnight trips on LEAD. During the week, students should be at the housing provided by LeadAbroad (even if your parents/close family friends are in town).  Hanging out with family/friends when there is a buddy system (Cape Town/Costa Rica): On a program where a buddy system is required (Cape Town or Costa Rica), the note from parents must recognize that LeadAbroad requires students to always be with other program participants. A parent's decision to forgo this rule removes LeadAbroad's responsibility for the student while they are signed out.If a student is with another program participant and would like to meet up with friends or family, prior approval and letter from parents is not required.Requests can be sent to info@LeadAbroad.com.On GO programs, students can meet up with friends and family at their will. If students are staying off campus with friends or family overnight during the week, parents must submit a note in advance informing the program director that they are aware that their child is staying off campus and with whom.

Question 7

7. Orientation

Accepted Answer

Onsite orientation is mandatory for all program participants. Failure to attend onsite orientation may lead to disciplinary action. Prior to onsite orientation, students are required to watch the online orientation videos and review all orientation materials.

Question 8

8. Medical Insurance

Accepted Answer

LeadAbroad supplies international medical insurance for all students at no additional cost. The details of this policy will be provided during the student’s orientation program. Participants should review the policy to be fully aware of the details. If a student is injured or ill while abroad and needs medical attention, he/she will pay for the treatment upfront, and, if covered, the insurance company will reimburse the student after submitting a claim through the insurance provider portal. LeadAbroad’s international medical insurance is a beneficial and mandatory inclusion, we also recommend that all program participants maintain comprehensive health insurance while abroad and review our policy to ensure it meets their unique needs.

You can review the health insurance details here.

Additionally, it is important to note there is a difference between medical and travel insurance. LeadAbroad does not include travel insurance.  If you would like to explore our trip cancellation plans you will find more information by clicking here.

Question 9

9. Injury Abroad

Accepted Answer

If a student sustains an injury abroad that makes it impossible for them to carry on with the program and/or the staff feel that they cannot provide the appropriate support to the student, the program director could dismiss the student from the program. In these cases, LeadAbroad will work with the student and faculty member to identify how to best proceed with the course or if a W (withdrawal) is more appropriate. If the student remains on the program with an injury, any additional expenses for special accommodations will be the sole responsibility of the student including, but not limited to, special transportation, different accommodations and additional guide support.

If a student becomes ill abroad, LeadAbroad staff will support them to ensure they receive appropriate medical care. If the student is diagnosed with a condition that is highly contagious, LeadAbroad will provide guidance on how to move into private accommodations in order to keep them comfortable and the other program participants safe. In these cases, any additional fees incurred for being in quarantine will be the responsibility of the student if the cost is not covered by the LeadAbroad medical insurance.

If a student is not cleared to return home due to their illness, LeadAbroad will work with the student’s emergency contact to identify the best way to keep them safe and comfortable while they heal or in rare cases request the emergency contact to come to the program city to assist the student. On programs that travel to multiple cities, students and parents need to be aware that LeadAbroad program staff are required to continue on with the program group and are unable to stay behind with the sick student. Our team is committed to creating a plan to help support the family in these rare circumstances.

Question 10

10. Immunizations & Vaccinations

Accepted Answer

Though our program locations currently do not require specific immunizations to enter the country, consistent with the requirements of the Georgia Board of Regents, the following vaccinations are required for all students enrolled in LeadAbroad.
Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) 2 doses
Tetanus or Diphtheria (Tdap or Td) must be up to date
Hepatitis B series
Varicella (Chicken Pox) 2 doses or date of disease

Students who have not received the vaccines above will not be allowed to stay at the LeadAbroad accommodations or participate in program activities if an outbreak of any preventable disease occurs on or near our international campus/program accommodations. No academic or financial accommodations will be made in this situation.

LeadAbroad strongly recommends all students receive the COVID-19 vaccine; however, we do not require the vaccine.

Question 11

11. Excursions & Activities

Accepted Answer

LeadAbroad organizes excursions and activities outside of the classroom for all programs with some included in the program fee and others requiring additional payment. Students must always follow all program rules and attendance policies  regardless if they are on a LeadAbroad sponsored activity or on a tour/weekend trip on their own. LeadAbroad will provide additional information about all program activities and if any require an additional fee. Most fees are paid directly to the vendor of the tour. On GO programs, some fees for optional tours are deducted from your student housing and activities deposit. All payments related to activities and excursions are non-refundable.

In the event you become detached from the group due to your failure to meet the group at a designated time, whether such time is set forth in the itinerary or as modified by LeadAbroad staff, you will bear all responsibility and costs associated with reuniting with the group at its next available destination.

Question 12

12. Housing Preferences

Accepted Answer

LeadAbroad cannot guarantee placement into any particular room type or location with a requested roommate; however, roommate requests will be honored if possible. Roommate requests may only be submitted on pre-departure forms due at least 60 days prior to departure and will not be honored if communicated verbally, via text, email or any other means of communication. Requests submitted after pre-departure forms are due will not be honored. Students are not permitted to change rooms or roommates at any time during the program.

In accordance with Oglethorpe University’s student housing policy, any student of a non-traditional age (over 23 years of age) may be subject to special approval by the Dean of Students and LeadAbroad. In addition, they may be subject to a supplemental housing fee.

Question 13

13. Housing Damages

Accepted Answer

Students are responsible to the hotel or dorm, in each host city, for any damages to the property. Students will not be permitted to check out of the hotel or dorm until all damages are paid. If it is not possible for the hotel to complete room checks prior to departure, fees must be submitted within 14 days of notification. Failure to submit payment could result in withholding the student’s transcript or involving a collection agency.

Question 14

14. Housing and Activity Accountability Deposit & Class Fees

Accepted Answer

GO programs (GO Barcelona, GO Lisbon, GO Rome ) require a $250 deposit for housing, activity accountability and class fees. These funds will be returned in full at the conclusion of the program less the following:

1) If a student causes damage or has an outstanding balance on their housing account prior to departure; 
2) If a student reserves a spot on an optional tour but does not attend, owes a vendor an outstanding balance prior to departure, incurs a program-related fine, etc. 
3) Class fees for tours and activities specific to the course the student is enrolled in.

Refundable balances will be returned within 45 days of the program completion.

Question 15

15. Program Rules

Accepted Answer

LeadAbroad has created rules that are designed to help minimize risks and keep students safe. Participants are responsible for being familiar with the rules and host country’s laws.In keeping with the core values of Oglethorpe University and LeadAbroad, participants are required to:Obey the local laws of the host country and LeadAbroad's Code of ConductActively participate in the program, which includes, but is not limited to attending required program activities and following your class attendance policy (see below for more on class attendance)Abstain from the usage, distribution or possession of drugs, including but not limited to, marijuana, cocaine and ecstasyAbstain from the abuse of prescription medication, which includes, but is not limited to:consuming a prescription medication not prescribed to youmixing your prescription medications with alcoholconsuming more than your prescribed amountRespect the well-being, rights and property of others. Disrespectful behaviors include but are not limited toverbal disrespect or disrespect behaviors towards staff, faculty, vendors, locals or other program participantsharassment or threats of any kind – physical, emotional, sexual or verbalracist or hate speechtheft or destruction of others’ propertyAbstain from excessive drinking, which is defined as an alcohol consumption level that results in:loud, disruptive, or offensive behavior, according to U.S. or local normsdestruction of property or abusive behaviorendangerment of self or of othersincarcerationmissing class or being unable to participate fully in the programany other behavior that is misaligned with the core values of LeadAbroad, Oglethorpe University or the host countryAbstain from drinking alcohol on program busesAbstain from the possession or use of firearms, weapons (including pocket knives), ammunition, explosives or fireworksPay in full for any charges accrued during the program for services or damages prior to checkoutFollow the sign in/out rules of their program cityObey the rules of the program’s accommodationsAbstain from having overnight guests at the student accommodationsAbstain from renting motorized road vehicles (including, but not limited to cars, scooters, vespas, etc.) Abstain from having any non-essential medical procedure while on the program (LeadAbroad has sole discretion to define what is a non-essential medical procedure)Abstain from the usage of tobacco, e-cigarettes or vaping during program activities, class, on program transportation and/or in the accommodations. If a student is found using tobacco, e-cigarettes, etc. in one of these environments, their cigarettes, e-cigarettes and/or similar product will be confiscated and held until the end of the program.Class AttendanceLeadAbroad is committed to the academic integrity of our programs. All students participating in a for-credit program (LEAD and GO) will be subject to academic and programmatic consequences for missing class. Excused absences are approved only if the student has a doctor's note that includes the diagnosis and confirmation that the student needed to be seen immediately or a note from the program staff verifying a medical or personal emergency with the student.Unexcused absences will impact a student's final grade in the course. Refer to your course syllabi for specifics regarding how absences will impact your participation and final grade.Programmatically, if a student misses 15% of their class a notification will be sent to them and their emergency contact letting them know that they are on probation. An additional unexcused absence could lead to potential dismissal from the program and an automatic failing grade.Personal travel is not an excused absence. Students should review their course syllabi and reach out to LeadAbroad to confirm their class schedule before booking any personal travel.Location Specific RulesIn addition to the program rules, students must also abide by the location specific rules and those of their accommodation. This information will be available during the pre-departure orientation and upon arrival.Alcohol at accommodationsGenerally, alcohol is not allowed in any dorm or student residence (GO programs). Responsible drinking is permitted at hotels and apartments (LEAD/DIRECT/PRO programs).KeysDorms and student residences reserve the right to charge a fine for lost keys/student IDs.Quiet hoursStudents should be respectful of others on the property and the staff. Noise violations will fall under the program accommodation’s rules.Roommate changesStudents are not allowed to change roommates once assigned. If there is a situation that cannot be resolved independently, students should inform the program director who will facilitate mediation. In the rare situation that mediation is considered unsuccessful, a student can choose to move out of their room by purchasing a new room in the same facility if one is available. The additional costs of the room will be the responsibility of the student and paid directly to the vendor or hotel. Students will not be refunded for their accommodation cost paid to LeadAbroad.Respect to localsStudents need to be aware that the etiquette in another country might differ from their norm; however, it is very important that they remember that we are guests. Any form of disrespect to locals or program vendors will not be tolerated and are subject to discipline at LeadAbroad’s discretion.ConsequencesViolation of program rules could result in dismissal from the program.The program director is responsible for evaluating all alleged incidents. If the program director witnesses or hears of a student breaking a rule, they will investigate the situation by talking to the student directly about the alleged misconduct and interview others involved, if necessary. If the student did break a rule, it will be up to the discretion of the program director, with the support of LeadAbroad’s Risk Management Team, to determine the consequences for the misconduct.Consequences may include any of the following:Verbal warningFormal written warning emailed to studentA fine for damages caused to property and/or another individualEducation and/or written assignment Required counseling and/or mental health assignmentsParental and/or home university notificationProgram probationDismissal from programIf at any time, the program director feels that they can no longer keep the student safe because of their disregard of program rules, the program director can dismiss the student from the program at their sole discretion.If a student is dismissed from the program, they will receive a written notice outlining the violation(s) and be asked to vacate the property within 24 hours. In addition, students who are dismissed from the program may receive a “WF” (withdrawal fail) for the course(s), if applicable. As stated in Section 2.3 of the Participant Agreement, “if Participant is dismissed from the Program, Participant agrees to be sent home with no refund of fees and agrees to be solely responsible for all costs and expenses associated with Participant’s return home.”Student Disciplinary Actions Upon ReturnIt is important for students to know that some conduct violations, such as cheating, drug use and harassment of others could also be reported back to a student’s home university if Oglethorpe’s Chief Conduct Officer and/or LeadAbroad find it appropriate.

Question 16

16. Health & Safety Code of Conduct

Accepted Answer

As we plan for summer programs to serve the LeadAbroad purpose, to transform the trajectory of individuals’ lives, impact communities and create a better world, we ask all students and staff to be fully aware of our shared responsibilities to create a safe and healthy environment.  We expect students and staff to abide by any updates that LeadAbroad communicates to students or staff.

This code of conduct falls under the LeadAbroad program rules which all students and staff agree to in the program waiver. Failure to abide by this code of conduct will result in disciplinary action up to dismissal from the program at the student’s expense.
Please review the following code of conduct carefully.

Before I go, I will:
Attend or watch all required pre-departure orientations or training sessions
Complete my health form and any necessary follow up actions required by LeadAbroad
Review US State Department international travel information about your program destination and become familiar with local laws 
Consult medical and mental health professionals, as needed 
Complete all requirements as outlined by my home university
Bring a cell phone with the ability to receive international data via international data plan or local SIM card
Pack essential health supplies as instructed by LeadAbroad

On the ground, I will:
Attend all required training sessions
Abide by all LeadAbroad rules, country laws and local customs
Share my location with LeadAbroad to ensure they are able to assist me in an emergency
Take a proactive role in my safety by staying in small groups, being aware of my surroundings, avoid excessive drinking and securing my belongings at all times
Take care of my health and body by eating and sleeping well, drinking water and avoiding excessive drinking
Communicate with program staff if I need emotional support, medical assistance or have a problem that requires their attention

Please remember that this code of conduct falls under the LeadAbroad program rules which all students and staff agree to in the program waiver. Failure to abide by this code of conduct will result in disciplinary action up to dismissal from the program at the student’s expense.

Question 17

17. Health & Safety

Accepted Answer

Student safety is our number priority at all times. The LeadAbroad team takes a proactive approach to safety. Our thorough procedures focus on assessment, education, security, ongoing monitoring, emergency response and communication.Assessment: Our team researches locations, interviews partners and decides on the best and safest itinerary.Education: LeadAbroad staff makes it a priority to be informed and educated about safety and each program staff member (excluding faculty members) is CPR and First Aid certified. We also educate our students to ensure they are prepared for travel abroad through online orientation prior to departure and a detailed safety orientation on day one of the program.Security Measures: Our students are required to follow certain security precautions designed to minimize potentially dangerous situations. Every individual should register with the U.S. State Department Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). We recommend that students explore the city in groups for added safety. Students must provide details of their travels outside the program city, whether that be a day trip or overnight. Ongoing Monitoring: Our domestic and international teams are constantly monitoring current events and the U.S. State Department's travel advisory. LeadAbroad is accessible 24 hours a day via our emergency phone line (404.720.5657).Emergency Response Protocol: We are prepared in the case of an emergency with a detailed action plan. We understand whom to contact in any situation and each student will receive an emergency information card to keep with them at all times. Should parents need to contact LeadAbroad in case of an emergency in the U.S. or abroad, please call 404.720.5657 and dial extension 710 for the emergency hotline.Follow-up Communication: Clear, open communication is a key component of our philosophy. We will also be appropriately transparent and forthcoming regarding any issue, whether we are communicating with students, parents, faculty or insurance providers.

Policies, Terms & Conditions

A. Application Policies B. Payment Policies C. International Program Policies D. Academic Policies E. Disabilities, Diversity & Special Accommodations F. Social Media & Online Community Guidelines G. Privacy Policy

A. Application and Eligibility

1. Required Application Materials

2. Application Deadline

3. Late Applicants

4. Incomplete Applications

5. Eligibility

6. Pre-Departure Requirements

7. Acceptance Definition & Timeline

8. Acceptance Waitlist

9. Acceptance Deferral

B. Payment Policies

1. Program Fees & Tuition

2. Payment Schedule

3. Program Inclusions

4. Students Using Financial Aid

5. Payment Plans

6. Voluntary Withdrawals

7. Refund Policies (Program Fees & Tuition Payments)

8. Program Cancellation

9. LeadAbroad Trip Protection

10. Change in Program Structure

11. Payment Methods

12. Financial Aid & Scholarships

13. Outstanding Balances & Late Fees

C. International Program Policies

1. Passports & Visas

2. Communication Abroad

3. Arrival Guidelines

4. Return Transportation

5. Late Arrival/Early Departure

6. Family/Friends Visit Policy

7. Orientation

8. Medical Insurance

9. Injury Abroad

10. Immunizations & Vaccinations

11. Excursions & Activities

12. Housing Preferences

13. Housing Damages

14. Housing and Activity Accountability Deposit & Class Fees

15. Program Rules

16. Health & Safety Code of Conduct

17. Health & Safety

D. Academic Policies

1. Equal Opportunity Policy & Special Accommodations

2. Oglethorpe University Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment & Retaliation

3. Intellectual Property Rights

4. Academic Honor Code

5. Course Preferences & Placement

6. Prerequisites

7. Withdrawal Policy

8. Dismissal Policy

9. Attendance

10. Transcripts & Credit Transfer

11. Audit Policy

12. Academic Appeal

E. Disabilities, Diversity & Special Acc

1. Accommodation Overview and Initiation

2. Approval Process and Implementation

3. Documentation Guidelines

4. Limitations

5. Grievances

F. Social Media & Online Community

1. Social Media & Online Community Guidelines

G. Privacy Policy

1. Information Collection, Use and Sharing

2. Text Messaging

3. Access to and Control over Information

4. Security

5. Updates

Policies, Terms
& Conditions

A. Application Policies
B. Payment Policies
C. International Program Policies
D. Academic Policies
E. Disabilities, Diversity & Special Accommodations
F. Social Media & Online Community Guidelines
G. Privacy Policy