Before you go abroad, it's important to understand the policies and expectations that come with participating in an education abroad program. These guidelines are designed to support your health, safety, academic success, and overall experience while abroad. As part of the application process, you'll review information about topics such as academics, conduct, travel, finances, and health and safety. Taking time to read and understand these policies will help you know what to expect, make informed decisions, and prepare for a successful experience as a Spartan Abroad.
Before you submit your application, you'll be asked to read and sign the Statement of Responsibility. Think of it as your guide to what it means to participate in an education abroad program. It covers important topics like academics, health and safety, travel, finances, and student conduct, and explains what you can expect from MSU and what is expected of you. As a participant, you're responsible for following program policies, attending required activities, meeting deadlines, maintaining appropriate conduct, and staying informed throughout the education abroad process. Taking a few minutes to review it carefully will help you avoid surprises and feel more prepared for your experience abroad.
EDUCATION ABROAD STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY
Effective September 8, 2025
I am applying to an MSU Education Abroad (EA) program and, if accepted, I agree to the following.
1. STUDENT CONDUCT
A. University Policies, EA Website, and Program-Specific Expectations. I am responsible for knowing and abiding by the rules, policies, regulations, and expectations outlined in this agreement and outlined below. I understand that as a participant in an Education Abroad program, I am considered a student and the Education Abroad and MSU policies outlined in this agreement and below are applicable.
I understand that the Office for Education Abroad may review the conduct history of applicants, and that being on academic and/or behavioral probation or recessed from Michigan State University constitutes grounds for denial of my application. If I am put on academic and/or behavioral probation or recessed from Michigan State University after acceptance of my application, I understand that I am no longer eligible to participate and responsible for withdrawing from the education abroad program.
B. Local Laws and Customs. I will abide by the laws of my host country/countries. I will be sensitive to local cultures and customs. I will treat my hosts and local communities with respect and dignity.
C. Alcohol and Drugs. I must abide by host country laws and local institutional regulations with respect to alcohol and other drugs. Unless permitted by host country law and local institutional regulations, I will not possess, consume, furnish, or distribute any alcoholic beverages. Furthermore, I understand that Michigan State University has a zero-tolerance policy with respect to the possession, use, manufacture, production, sale, exchange, or distribution of illegal drugs. Whether a drug is illegal is governed by U.S. federal drug laws, the laws of the State of Michigan, and host country laws. I am responsible for knowing and obeying the laws of the host country, as well as all local institutional regulations, regarding alcohol and other drugs. I will adhere at all times to the Office for Education Abroad’s Alcohol Misuse and Drug Use policy. I understand that violations of law or policy may result in disciplinary action upon my return to campus and may result in (i) probationary requirements for the remainder of the program abroad; (ii) removal from the program (grade determination will be made by the Sponsoring College’s Associate/Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Education in consultation with the instructor); and/or (iii) academic withdrawal from MSU for the semester in progress and/or suspension or expulsion from MSU.
D. Disciplinary Action. I understand that violations of this Statement of Responsibility, MSU policies, or policies, regulations, and expectations outlined by my program director(s), host institution, and/or on-site provider(s) may result in disciplinary action on-site and/or upon return to campus, academic consequences, removal from the program, and/or suspension or expulsion from Michigan State University. A description of disciplinary procedures is available online on the Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security’s Student Conduct While Abroad webpage.
E. Program Removal. If it is determined that my continued presence is likely to impede the achievement of program objectives or to disrupt program activity, or that I pose a danger to the health or safety of myself or others, I may face summary removal from the program. A decision to remove me from an MSU-sponsored education abroad program is the responsibility of the Executive Director of the Office for Education Abroad. If my program includes an internship placement, takes place at a host institution, is offered by an EA program provider, and/or is a medical rotation/clerkship, and if I am removed from such a placement by decision of the institution/organization offering the experience, I may also face summary removal from the associated education abroad program. Any decision to remove me from a program would be final with no refund and take effect immediately. Housing and transportation back to the United States would be my responsibility and at my own expense. Removal from an education abroad program may invalidate my international insurance coverage and access to support from the Office for Global, Health, Safety and Security.
2. ACADEMIC AND FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Payments. Upon submitting my application, I will be responsible for the non-refundable application deposit. Upon confirming my acceptance into the program, I will be responsible for the non-refundable commitment deposit. I also understand that the balance of my program fee will be billed to my MSU student account. I understand that if I withdraw from my program after confirming my acceptance to the program, I may still be responsible for some or all of the costs associated with program participation according to the policy described below.
B. Withdrawal. If I wish to withdraw from the program after confirming my participation, I understand that it is my responsibility to withdraw my application in Via Global. I understand that notification to my program director and/or Office of Admissions is not sufficient[ii]. I understand that the consequences of my withdrawal will be based on the date and time my application is withdrawn in Via Global. I understand that failure to withdraw my application in Via Global may have serious financial consequences. Since the Office for Education Abroad is unable to withdraw me from the program without my written confirmation, I will continue to be a participant in the program and will continue to accrue financial penalties per the refund schedule below.
I understand that the withdrawal penalty will be based on the type of program I am withdrawing from. If I do not know my program type, I understand that I should contact the Education Abroad Program Coordinator to determine program type.
For all program types, I understand that I will be financially responsible for the application and commitment deposits once I have confirmed my acceptance to the program. For all internships, exchange, direct-enroll, independent study, Affiliated, summer faculty-directed programs in London, and Study Away at Home program types, I understand that I will be financially responsible for the application deposit and the commitment deposit once I have confirmed my acceptance to the program. I will be held to the refund policy of the host institution or provider organization. Should my withdrawal result in additional charges to MSU from the host institution or provider organization, these charges may be passed on to me and placed on my MSU student account.
For faculty-directed programs, including First-Year Seminar Abroad/Away (excluding summer faculty-directed programs in London), I understand that I will be financially responsible for the $100 application deposit and the $750 commitment deposit (effective as of spring break 2026) once I have confirmed my acceptance to the program. I will be held to the refund policy detailed below.
If the start date of the program is 75 days or LESS, the following refund schedule will apply:
I understand that it is my responsibility to know the financial implications of withdrawal and to ask for clarification from the Office for Education Abroad if I do not.
If I withdraw from a program, it is my responsibility to withdraw, if applicable, from any Michigan State University education abroad courses. Any tuition refund[iii] will be dependent on university policy.
Disciplinary Probation: I understand that the Office for Education Abroad may review the MSU conduct history of applicants. Being put on disciplinary probation, before or after acceptance into a program, constitutes grounds for denial of my application or revocation of my acceptance.
Academic Probation: A student who has been placed on academic probation must consult with their academic adviser to ensure that they are eligible to earn academic credit on an EA program. Being eligible to earn academic credit is a pre-requisite for participation in an EA program. Minimum GPA requirements vary from program to program. Recessed students are not eligible to participate in any MSU Education Abroad program. I understand that I will be held to the same withdrawal policies, procedures and penalties if I must withdraw from an education abroad program because I lack a passport and/or visa, am on State or Federal Probation and am not allowed to leave the U.S., or for any other legal reasons.
Refunds for air transportation are subject to the rules and regulations of the appropriate airline or travel agency, over which the Office for Education Abroad has no jurisdiction or control.
My withdrawal from an education abroad program may invalidate my international insurance coverage and access to support from the Office for Health, Safety and Security.
C. Credit. I will comply with the MSU Office for Education Abroad program course credit requirements and with MSU's academic policies and procedures. I will maintain enrollment for the duration of the program in the specified courses for at least 12 credits (MSU credits or equivalent MSU credits) for a semester program (unless the particular program requires more) or the minimum number of credits specified for my short-term program. If I enroll in more than the minimum number of MSU credits, I will be financially responsible for additional tuition charges. If I fail to enroll (or fail to remain enrolled) in the minimum number of credits, I may be removed from the program and/or I will be billed and responsible for paying an additional program fee equivalent to the tuition amount. Even if I pay this additional fee after completion of the program, I cannot be retroactively (re-) enrolled in my desired courses.
If I miss a substantial portion of the program, for whatever reason, the number of credits awarded and any point or grade deductions will be determined at the program director’s ’s discretion. If I withdraw, depart or am removed from a program before its formal completion, I may be ineligible for academic credit. Should I receive permission to return home early, I may be eligible to receive a grade of “W” on my academic transcript. Any refund of tuition and fees would be according to the policy stated on the MSU Office of the Registrar website. [iv]
I understand that if I participate in an exchange program, I will be enrolled by the Office for Education Abroad in the minimum number of credits. I will be financially responsible for paying tuition for the minimum number of credits, and I will not receive a refund if I enroll in fewer credits.
If I am a non-MSU student and participate in a faculty-directed program, I understand MSU will issue the transcript. If I am a non-MSU student and participate in a co-sponsored program, I understand that MSU will not issue a transcript. I am responsible for ascertaining whether and how my home institution will accept such credit from the institution abroad.
3. PROGRAM LOGISTICS AND ON-SITE RESPONSIBILITIES
A. Travel Arrangements. MSU may make changes to the program itinerary, including cancellation, at any time upon EA’s determination that such is necessary. I will be responsible for any costs paid to outside agencies (such as airlines or travel agencies) due to such cancellation or change. MSU is not responsible for penalties assessed by air carriers or any other associated costs based on operational and/or itinerary changes. If I travel independently and arrive after the start of the program, I will notify my program director or the Office for Education Abroad personnel and am responsible for all academic consequences such as lost class time and missed assignments. I must confirm departure and arrival times and locations with my program director. My property is transported at my risk. MSU is not responsible for travel delays. I will notify my program director or on-site personnel of my itinerary whenever I leave the site for longer than one day. MSU is not responsible for any injury or loss I may suffer when I am traveling independently or am otherwise separated from any University-sponsored activities. If I become separated from the program group, for any reason, I will rejoin, at my own expense, the group at the first opportunity. MSU may substitute hotel accommodations or housing at any time. Specific room and housing assignments are within MSU’s sole discretion. [v]
B. Countries with High-Risk Designation. I understand that MSU has specific waiver requirements associated with student travel to countries that have been designated high-risk and that this may impact my program. Furthermore, I understand that I am not permitted to travel independently to a country that is designated high-risk unless participating in an education abroad program for which a waiver to the policy has been granted.
C. Accompanying Family Members. MSU is not responsible for providing support for accompanying non-participants, e.g., spouses/partners, parents, and children. I am advised to obtain international health insurance for any accompanying family members. Such persons cannot attend classes or other activities formally associated with the program. If such a person disrupts the program, it may be grounds for my removal from the program. [vi]
D. Health. I will be responsible for my own health maintenance. In the event of illness, accident, or emergency, I will inform an appropriate program official so that assistance may be secured and so that my designated emergency contact may be notified. If I am applying more than one year before the beginning program date, I agree to update my Student Health/Emergency Treatment Authorization within two months of my scheduled program departure.
For Study Away at Home programs, I understand that I am responsible for purchasing my own health insurance and personal accident insurance to cover the period of the program. I will be responsible for any costs incurred should I use any health care services.
E. Housing Infractions. In the event of infractions of housing regulations and/or behavior that negatively impacts the housing situation, the Student Conduct while Abroad procedures will apply. If I am removed from housing, I may be removed from the Education Abroad program. If I am removed from housing but remain in the program, I will be responsible for locating and paying for alternative housing. No refund of the program housing will be granted. If alternative housing cannot be found, I will be removed from the program and forfeit academic credit and any financial refund. If the Office for Education Abroad becomes aware of or is invoiced for damage to on-site housing, the responsible student(s) will be held financially accountable, and the costs will be passed on to the student(s) as a charge to their MSU Student Account.
F. Unauthorized Absences. Attendance and engagement are indispensable parts of the education abroad experience. Failure to attend required program activities may result in disciplinary action by MSU, my host institution, and/or program provider. Academic consequences as outlined in the course syllabus also will apply. Unauthorized absences may be considered an emergency situation and the emergency contacts listed on my application may be contacted. Failure to attend any required program activities (including field trips, classes, guest lectures, etc.), will not be considered an official withdrawal from the program and I will be held to the regular Education Abroad refund policies.
G. Demonstrations and Protests. As a condition of participation in the Education Abroad program, I agree to not participate in and to avoid any demonstrations and protests. Even those with peaceful intentions may become unsafe and/or involve negative confrontations with local law enforcement. If I am accidentally caught up in a demonstration, I agree to leave the area as soon as it is safe to do so. If I have any questions or concerns about civil unrest before my program or while abroad, I know that I should contact the Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security. If I participate in a local demonstration or protest I understand that I am subject to local laws and may be subject to disciplinary action by MSU, my host institution, and/or program provider.
4. ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF RISK AND RELEASE OF CLAIMS
A. Acknowledgment of Risk. I understand that international travel has varying degrees of risk that are dependent on location and unpredictable events such as natural disasters as, well as my own conduct. I am aware that I may contact the Office for Global Health, Safety, and Security for assistance with travel planning and emergency preparedness. Recognizing the risk of loss and serious injury that could occur, I affirm that the decision to travel internationally is my own choice.
B. Release of Claims and Indemnity. For myself and all those who may claim through me, I release MSU (and its employees and representatives) from liability for all injuries, illnesses, and losses, including death, I may sustain to my person and/or property, which are in any way connected to my program participation, except as regards any claim of “gross negligence” that is actionable under Michigan’s Governmental Tort Liability Act. I further agree to defend and hold MSU harmless with respect to any loss, claim, or expense it may sustain by reason of my behavior.
C. Governing Law. Any dispute arising from this Statement will be determined according to Michigan law.
In submitting my program application, I acknowledge that I have had an opportunity to ask any questions I have about this Statement of Responsibility, that I have read and understand it, that I accept its terms, and that I have signed it knowingly and voluntarily.
The Office for Education Abroad oversees all Domestic Study Away programs and some policies listed above may or may not be applicable to domestic travel. Financial obligations will vary by program for domestic study away. Students are responsible for any financial commitments, including but not limited to deposits and program fees. For further information, please contact your program coordinator.
[i] Responsibilities may vary by program type. MSU-Sponsored Programs refer to faculty-directed, direct-enroll, exchange, provider, and First-Year Seminar Abroad programs arranged by MSU, including the Japan Center for Michigan Universities (JCMU). Non-MSU-Sponsored Programs are credit-bearing programs offered through unaffiliated third parties and external institutions and organizations. In some cases, this will include certain independent internships and COM/CHM rotations. MSU and the Office for Education Abroad assume no responsibility or liability for programs not sponsored by Michigan State University. Nevertheless, students participating in non-MSU-Sponsored programs are expected to adhere to the responsibilities outlined below unless otherwise specified.
[ii] If you are participating in a First-Year Seminar Abroad program, deciding not to attend Michigan State University does not automatically withdraw you from the First-Year Seminar Abroad program. Official notice must be sent to the Office for Education Abroad.
[iii] Participants in exchange or direct-enroll programs will be withdrawn from the carrier credits (CSX or CSP) associated with the program by the Office for Education Abroad. First-Year Seminar Abroad (FSA) participants, will be withdrawn from the FSA course(s) by the Office for Education Abroad
[iv] Only applicable to MSU-Sponsored Education Abroad programs.
[v] Only applicable to MSU-Sponsored Programs. Students participating in a Non-MSU Sponsored Program are responsible for familiarizing themselves with the program’s stated travel policies. I understand that if I am a participant on a First-Year Seminar Abroad program that I am responsible for any costs associated with travel to campus for orientation. I must obtain written permission from a parent or guardian if I plan to travel independently from the group, otherwise I must stay with the group at all times and will notify my program director if I am accidentally separated from the group.
[vi] I understand that FSA programs do not allow accompanying family members or guests. If I have family or guests in the area with whom I would like to spend time, I must have written permission from my parents or guardians submitted to my faculty leader and the Office for Education Abroad.
The Office for Education Abroad is committed to fostering equitable, inclusive, and safe housing assignments that support students of all gender identities and sexual orientations. The goal of the Education Abroad Housing Policy and its related procedures is to align with the values of the MSU Gender-Inclusive Housing Policy while recognizing that housing practices, accommodations, and local regulations vary across countries, institutions, and program providers. While gender-inclusive housing cannot be guaranteed on every program, the Office for Education Abroad works with housing partners to explore options and make accommodations whenever possible.
Housing Assignments
For most MSU-sponsored faculty-directed programs, the Office for Education Abroad, program leaders, and housing partners work together to determine housing and roommate assignments. In many cases, students sharing accommodations will be assigned roommates based on the gender listed in their MSU student record.
Because every student's needs and circumstances are unique, students may request alternative housing arrangements if they feel a different option would better support their experience abroad.
Gender-Inclusive Housing
Gender-inclusive housing refers to the practice of considering a student’s gender identity and/or sexual orientation when determining a housing arrangement on an MSU-sponsored faculty-directed program. Students participating in an MSU-sponsored faculty-directed program who would like to explore a gender-inclusive housing arrangement can indicate this preference during the application process. Additional information will be collected through a Housing Request Form in Via Global so staff can discuss available options and work with housing partners to identify an appropriate accommodation when possible.
While the Office for Education Abroad makes every effort to support students' housing needs, gender-inclusive housing cannot be guaranteed on every program due to local housing availability, cultural considerations, and provider policies. If a gender-inclusive option is not available, standard housing assignments will be used.
Students should also be aware that housing providers may not be able to confirm gender-inclusive housing arrangements until approximately six weeks before a program begins. Students with concerns about housing assignments are encouraged to contact their program coordinator as early as possible.
Programs Managed by Host Universities or Providers
Housing policies and roommate assignments for exchange, direct enroll, and affiliated programs are determined by the host university or provider organization. Because these accommodations are managed by partner institutions, the Office for Education Abroad cannot control housing assignments or guarantee specific arrangements. Students should review housing information carefully and communicate directly with their host institution regarding available options.
If You Have Housing Concerns:
If you encounter a housing issue while abroad, notify your program director, on-site staff, or the Office for Education Abroad as soon as possible. Many concerns can be resolved through communication and support from program staff.
Before making any changes to your housing assignment, you must consult with program staff and receive approval. Students should not independently relocate or arrange new housing without following program procedures.
If a housing change is approved:
For students in homestays, moving to a different host family without approval is not permitted.
Your Responsibilities:
As a participant, you are expected to:
Violations of Housing Policies:
Students are expected to follow both program and housing regulations throughout their experience abroad. Serious or repeated violations may result in disciplinary action, including removal from housing or dismissal from the education abroad program.
If a student is removed from housing but remains in the program, they may be responsible for locating and paying for alternative accommodations. If suitable housing cannot be found, the student may be required to return home and could lose academic credit or financial refunds associated with the program.
Students are also financially responsible for damages, unpaid bills, and other housing-related costs. Any outstanding charges may be placed on the student's MSU account.
Plans can change, and it's important to understand the financial implications of withdrawing from an education abroad program. Refunds and charges depend on when you withdraw, your program type, provider policies, and whether you've committed to participating. Reviewing these policies before you apply can help you make informed decisions and avoid unexpected costs.
Important: It is your responsibility to understand the financial implications of withdrawing, so please ask for clarification from the Office for Education Abroad if needed.
Before You Commit
You may withdraw from a program at any time before committing with no financial penalty. Your $100 application deposit will be refunded to your MSU student account. If you are not accepted into a program, the application deposit will also be refunded.
After You Commit
Once you commit to a program, you become responsible for the $100 application deposit and commitment deposit, along with any additional cancellation charges that may apply.
Faculty-Directed Programs
For most faculty-directed programs, including First-Year Seminars Abroad and Away:
Refund Schedule:
Note: This does not apply to summer faculty-directed program in London as they have a specific refund policy set by the provider organization.
Exchange, Direct Enroll, Affiliated, Internship, and Other Programs
For exchange, direct enroll, affiliated, internship, independent study, and certain provider-operated programs, refund policies are determined by the host institution or provider organization. Students remain responsible for the application and commitment deposits and should carefully review provider-specific cancellation policies before committing.
Contact the relevant Global Learning Coordinator with questions.
After Your Program Begins
If you choose to withdraw after your program has started, you are generally responsible for the entire program fee. Students should first discuss their situation with on-site program staff before making a final decision to leave the program.
Students who withdraw after scholarship funds have been disbursed may be required to repay those awards, and withdrawals may affect financial aid eligibility.
Passports, Visas, and Travel Documents
Students who must withdraw because they did not obtain a passport or visa in time, are unable to travel due to legal restrictions, or experience other personal circumstances are still subject to the same withdrawal deadlines and financial responsibilities as all other participants.
Airfare
Refunds for air transportation are subject to the rules and regulations of the appropriate airline or travel agency, over which the Office for Education Abroad has no jurisdiction or control.
If MSU cancels a program for health, safety or security reasons
Student safety is a top priority. If MSU suspends or cancels a program for health, safety, or security reasons:
Before Departure
Students will receive a full refund of program fees paid directly to MSU.
After Departure
The Office for Education Abroad will help arrange students' return travel or relocation, and covered transportation change fees may be paid by MSU. Program fee refunds may be prorated depending on expenses already incurred and contractual obligations.
Tuition refunds depend on the amount of academic credit that can still be earned through alternative arrangements. This is a Michigan State University policy, not education abroad.
Student Conduct and Program Removal
While abroad, students are expected to follow the policies outlined in the Statement of Responsibility, program rules, host institution policies, local laws, and relevant MSU policies. Serious violations may result in dismissal from the program.
Students who are removed from a program after arrival remain subject to the same financial obligations and refund policies that apply to voluntary withdrawals.
Housing-Related Withdrawals and Charges
Students who are removed from program housing due to conduct or housing policy violations may be responsible for securing and paying for alternative accommodations. Housing refunds are generally not provided, and students may be financially responsible for damages, unpaid bills, or other housing-related charges. These costs may be charged to the student's MSU account.
Key Things to Remember:
Understanding these policies before you apply and commit can help you plan with confidence and make informed decisions throughout the education abroad process.
Students are expected to make responsible decisions regarding alcohol use while participating in an education abroad program. Even in countries where alcohol laws, drinking ages, or cultural norms differ from those in the United States, students are still responsible for complying with local laws, program policies, and MSU expectations. Alcohol misuse, including excessive drinking, behavior that endangers yourself or others, property damage, harassment, disruption of program activities, or failure to meet academic responsibilities due to alcohol use, may result in disciplinary action. Serious incidents can lead to conduct referrals, removal from housing, dismissal from the program, loss of academic credit, and financial responsibility for any costs associated with the incident, including emergency services, damage, relocation, or early return travel. Students removed from a program due to alcohol-related misconduct remain subject to the program's withdrawal and refund policies and may forfeit refunds and scholarship funding. Making safe and responsible choices helps protect your well-being and supports a positive experience for everyone in the program.
If you'll be within 30 credits of graduation when your education abroad program begins, it's important to understand MSU's 10-of-30 credit rule, which states that no more than 10 of your final 30 credits toward a degree may be transfer credits without special approval. If you plan to earn 10 or more credits abroad during your final 30 credits, you must indicate this on your Course Approval Form (CAF) so your request can be reviewed for a possible exception. To avoid delays in graduation, be sure to discuss your plans with your academic advisor early in the process.
Transfer students can participate in education abroad programs, but they should consider how additional credits will apply toward their MSU degree. Students transferring from a 2-year institution often bring the maximum 60 transfer credits, making faculty-directed programs and internships strong options because they award MSU credit rather than transfer credit. Exchange, direct enroll, and affiliated programs typically award transfer credit and may be better suited for students who have transferred fewer credits. Students transferring from a 4-year institution may bring up to 150 transfer credits, but must still complete at least 30 credits at MSU to earn a degree. All transfer students should also keep MSU's 10-of-30 credit rule in mind and work with their academic advisor to ensure education abroad coursework supports their degree progress and graduation plans.