Study Abroad

Disability

While abroad in another country, it is common to travel and explore new surroundings. Physical ability may play a part in how much exploration can be done. Certain countries may have accessibility laws that are different from those in the United States. It is important to keep this in mind when selecting a program. We strongly recommend any disability requiring accommodations be disclosed early in the preparation process so that the Office of International Education can best assist you.

General: Things to Consider

  • Are there laws protecting rights of people with disabilities in my country of interest?
  • What types of accommodations are in my country of interest?
  • Does the country have the same resources available to me in the United States?
  • Are there discriminatory factors in the country based on disabilities?
  • Does the program I want to attend require original documentation of disability or will they accept a letter from URI DSS?

Physical: Things to Consider

  • How much travel and physical activity will I do while abroad?
  • How accessible are buildings, rooms, services, etc. where I intend to study?
  • Are the sidewalks accessible? Are the streets made of cobblestones in the country of my program?
  • If I require a wheelchair, how can it be repaired abroad if it malfunctions?
  • Will I need a personal assistant on my program?  Do they have the correct documentation to attend the program with me?

Visual: Things to Consider

  • What is the school’s policy for visual accommodations?  Are there other ways for class material to be presented to me? (i.e. braille, audio tapes, etc.)
  • Will I need a service animal for my program? What are the host country’s laws regarding service animals
  • Will my service animal need special housing accommodations during my program?
  • Does the country I want to visit have touch tours for different excursions?

Deaf or Hard of Hearing: Things to Consider

  • What is the school’s policy regarding hearing accommodations?  Are there other ways for class material to be presented to me? (i.e. written slide presentations, note takers, etc.)
  • Will I need real time translation (via in person or electronically) or an interpreter?  Will this be available in the country I am visiting and how will these services be funded?
  • Does the interpreter know American Sign Language? (American Sign Language is not a universal sign language in other countries).

Learning Disabilities: Things to Consider

  • Will I need extra time on assignments or tests?  What is the policy of the school or program I will be attending?
  • Will I need a note taker or recording device for classes?
  • Do I need any assistive technology and will it be available where I attend?
  • Are there free or low-cost tutoring services available abroad?
  • Have I spoken to URI Disability Services for Students regarding using my accommodations abroad?

Resources

URI Disability Services for Students
U.S Department of State, Information for travelers with disabilities

Mobility International USA
Tips for Where to Go
Funding Resources

Inclusion and Accessibility

Contact Information

Office of International Education and National Student Exchange
Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 4:30pm EST
37 Lower College Road, Kingston, RI, 02881

Phone: 401.874.2395
Email: oie@uri.edu

Advising Appointments
To schedule an appointment, log into Starfish, search for International Education and National Student Exchange and select the advisor based on your college.