AIFS Abroad takes your safety and well-being very seriously. That’s why we have a number of policies and procedures in place to minimize risk to our students. Information and resources are shared with you before and during the program and highlight that safety is a shared responsibility between AIFS and students. So whether you’re considering a study abroad program with AIFS or are already enrolled, rest assured that your safety is always our top priority.
Here are four of the many ways AIFS prioritizes student health and safety abroad:
1. On-site staff
All AIFS programs have professional, full-time Resident Directors and Location Staff on-site to help with any questions or advice you may need throughout your time abroad. Our teams have strong relationships with local authorities, U.S. Consulate and Embassy personnel, and other important resources.
Most of our Resident Directors and Location Staff have been with AIFS Abroad for over 10 years and have experience handling a wide range of on-site issues. Our Resident Directors and Location Staff are intimately familiar with AIFS study abroad locations, and all are local to the area. This means they can provide you with the highest level of care if something unexpected happens while you are abroad and answer questions about safely exploring your host city.
You’ll get to know your Resident Director and Location Staff well throughout your program through orientations, social events, excursions and more.
“The best decision I made was choosing AIFS for study abroad. AIFS makes sure you feel comfortable and safe wherever you go. The Directors are always there for any questions you have and want to make your experience unforgettable.” – Maiah L., AIFS Abroad alum.
2. Comprehensive insurance package
All AIFS Abroad participants receive a comprehensive travel and medical insurance package from Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI), a leading insurance provider in the international education field. This insurance is included with all AIFS Abroad programs – there’s no extra cost for this coverage. Coverage includes 24/7 emergency support, travel interruption insurance, medical and personal property loss insurance.
If you need medical treatment while abroad, your Resident Director and our Location Staff can also help you navigate the local healthcare system and ensure you are getting the support you need.
“The staff (international and domestic), host mom, and professors were all extraordinary. While academics were important to them, the most crucial thing was that we were always safe. It felt as if we were a part of a family and knew we had someone we could always talk to if we needed to, no matter the circumstance.” – Trevor T., AIFS Abroad alum.
3. 24-hour emergency assistance
In addition to comprehensive travel and medical insurance, AIFS works with a dedicated team of professionals who work around the clock to provide assistance if any issues should arise. Resident Directors and Location Staff are the first point of contact should questions or issues arise as they are best suited to assist and will also know what services are available.
“I’m so glad I chose to go abroad with a company like AIFS who provided me with constant guidance before, during, and after my time abroad. Thanks to their comprehensive team, I always felt taken care of and safe.” – Sara W., AIFS Abroad alum.
4. Country risk assessment
The AIFS Abroad team receives daily briefings from a range of sources, including U.S. State Department officials, global risk assessment organizations, in-country U.S. embassies, local host universities and other experts in the field to ensure we have up-to-the-moment information on each country’s risk profile.
“AIFS really enhanced my study abroad experience with all their weekend activities, and consistent travel trips and support throughout the week. I learned more about Spain, with their cooking classes, tours, and dance classes than I would have on my own. A lot of their email tips and debriefs helped me navigate the city, for a safe and enjoyable experience.” – Gretchen K., AIFS Abroad alum.
AIFS is recognized as a leading provider of study abroad programs.
Did you know over 1.5 million students have chosen to go abroad with AIFS since 1964? With nearly 60 years of experience, we have the resources to give you what you want and need in a study abroad program – while also keeping you safe around the globe.