Health and Safety
The ASU Center for International Studies cares about your health and safety while participating in our study abroad programs. We have put together the steps of preparation that we hope will minimize any threats to the safety of our students. However, it is difficult to account for all health and safety risks, so students must rely on their own experience and judgment while considering circumstances that could not have been anticipated.
- Emergency Contact Phone Numbers
- Insurance
- International Student Identification Card (ISIC)
- Safety Travel Tips from the U.S. State Department
Emergency Contact Phone Numbers
- Center for International Studies – (325) 942-2083
- University Police – (325) 942-2071
- University Clinic – (325) 942-2171
- HTH Worldwide Insurance Services – (within the U.S.) (888) 350-2002 or (outside the U.S.) (610) 254-8771
- U.S. State Department’s Overseas Citizens Service – (202) 501-4444
In case of an emergency, the U.S. State Department's Overseas Citizens Service can also help a friend or family member wire money to you. This service can be accessed by calling (202) 647-5225 (8:15 a.m. – 10 p.m. weekdays, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturdays).
Insurance
All students who participate in ASU-sponsored study abroad programs must purchase the mandatory ASU insurance policy. This insurance coverage includes Emergency Medical Evacuation (EME) and Repatriation of Remains (RR). When health issues arise while studying abroad, our students have the coverage they need.
International Student Identification Card (ISIC)
We encourage students traveling abroad to buy the International Student Identification Card, which provides basic insurance coverage for students along with several other benefits. You can purchase the card through STA Travel.
Please be aware that the ISIC is a basic secondary coverage and that having primary insurance coverage is required.
- ISIC Emergency Help Service – (800) 370-4742
- ISIC Emergency (outside the U.S.) Service – (715) 342-4104 (collect call)
Safety Travel Tips from the U.S. State Department
Traveling abroad is a fun and exciting experience, but it is to your advantage to be knowledgeable about the places you are visiting. The State Department offers this study abroad Web site to help you travel smart.
Become familiar with the basic laws and customs of the country you plan to visit. Remember that reckless behavior while in another country can do more than ruin your vacation – it can land you in a foreign jail or worse. To have a safe trip, avoid risky behavior and plan ahead. For more information, view this International Travel Safety Information for Students.
Country-Specific Information
As part of your research about the country and culture you plan to visit, search through the State Department’s profiles of about 170 countries that are compiled as Background Notes. This brief, factual information tells you about each country’s culture, history, geography, economy, government and current political situation. The country-specific information provides up-to-date travel information that covers such topics as entry regulations, the crime and security situation, drug penalties, road conditions and the location of the U.S. Embassy, consulates and consular agencies.
Assistance from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate
Registering with the nearest U.S. Embassy or consulate through the State Department’s travel registration Web site will make your presence and whereabouts known in case it is necessary to contact you in an emergency. In accordance with the Privacy Act, information on your welfare and whereabouts may not be released without your express authorization. Remember to leave a detailed itinerary and the numbers or copies of your passport or other citizenship documents with a friend or relative in the United States.
If your family needs to reach you because of an emergency, they can pass a message to you through the Office of Overseas Citizens Services at (202) 647-5225. This office will contact the embassy or consulate in the country where you are visiting and give you the message.
Remember that consular officers cannot cash checks, lend money or serve as your attorney. They can, however, help you obtain emergency funds from your family, find an attorney, find medical assistance and replace your lost or stolen passport.
