Students are subject to UW-Madison’s “International Travel Policy” (International Travel Resources, Guidelines and Policies).
The policy has been devised to reflect the U.S. Department of State and CDC’s updated travel advisory systems. Under this policy, students are precluded from traveling to any location that remains under a U.S. Department of State Level 3 or Level 4 advisory, a CDC Travel Health Notice Level 3, and/or a CDC COVID-19 Travel Health Notice Level 4 or “unknown” characterization. The policy offers a process by which waivers can be requested if risks can be mitigated effectively.
See the “Policies” tab on this website for more information about the policy and waiver process.
IMPORTANT: The annual renewal of UW-System’s international health and medical insurance policy will take place on 1 July this year (2023). Because of this, travelers will not be able to enroll in CISI for trips departing on or after 1 July 2023 until after the renewal has been completed. Your patience with this inconvenience is appreciated. Once the renewal is completed, information and instructions on enrolling in coverage for trips departing on or after 1 July 2023 will be noted here. Thank you.
All University of UW-Madison students, staff, and faculty travelling abroad under a UW-sponsored program are required the enroll in Cultural Insurance Services International (CISI) insurance coverage.
All UW-Madison affiliated travelers are highly encouraged to enroll in the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP is a free service that allows U.S. citizens and nationals to enroll their international travel with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Have a fun and SAFE summer traveling abroad!
Links, News, and Public Messages
Stratfor - Europe's Scorching Summer and Warm Winter Portend a New Normal
Stratfor analysts discuss how, in Europe, more frequent and severe droughts due to climate change will increasingly impact the continent's drinking water supplies, agriculture, industry, energy generation, and social stability.
U.S. Department of State Worldwide Caution (8/2/2022)
The U.S. Department of State (DOS) updated its Worldwide Caution on August 2, 2022, to replace the previous 2019 version.
What You Should Know About monkeypox (Mpox)
UW-Madison's University Health Services (UHS) provides updated guidance on the risk of monkeypox (Mpox) in Dane County.
War in Ukraine Draws Concern, Action on Campus
Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the campus community is expressing its support for Ukrainian students and all those affected by the conflict. UW–Madison has reached out to its Ukrainian and Russian students on campus to offer support. Currently, no study abroad students are in either country.
International Travel | CDC
Read the CDC's most recently updated guidance on international travel.
UW-Madison International Travel Policy
Familiarize yourself with the UW-Madison International Travel Policy before going abroad.
UW-Madison Requires CISI Enrollment for All University International Travel
Enrollment in UW-System's CISI international health, medical, and evacuation insurance is required for all employee international travel on university business as of January 1, 2022, as an allowable expense. Read the memo from the UW-Madison Provost and the Interim Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration!
U.S. Department of Transportation | Latest News
Check out the latest news from the U.S. Department of Transportation.
Be smart when using dating apps during travel.
Review this short document to learn how travelers can promote a culture of safety when dating or using dating apps abroad.
Don’t be a victim of wire fraud and scams while abroad.
Check out this short brief and read this discussion about wire fraud and scams before you travel. Financial crimes are increasingly common and often target travelers and their families and friends while abroad.
Responding to Recent Reports of Concern Affecting UW–Madison Students
UW–Madison works with local law enforcement agencies to investigate assaults near campus while providing support for concerned student communities. Read the university’s full statement.