This policy is subject to change. For questions or the latest updates, contact the IOCP Office at iocp@owu.edu.
All participants on institutionally-sponsored international trips must:
Registration: Register all travel with the IOCP Office.
Approvals: Obtain permission from a divisional Vice President, Provost, or their designee.
Travel Services: Use university-approved travel service providers (mandatory for TLC/TPG funded travel).
Documentation: Complete all required waivers and forms via the IOCP Office.
Training: All students must complete the online Pre-Departure Essentials and Cross-Cultural Essentials programs and embedded assessments. Facutly are recommended to review the information, but not required to complete the embedded assessments.
Health & Safety: Follow all CDC and local destination health guidelines. U.S. citizens must enroll in the Department of State's STEP Program.
The university monitors U.S. Department of State Travel Advisories. Status determines eligibility:
| Advisory Level | Policy |
| Level 1 & 2 | Permitted with IOCP registration. |
| Level 3 | Restricted. Requires a formal petition approved by administration. |
| Level 4 | Prohibited. Exceptions may be considered only for citizens/residents of that country. |
Note: The University reserves the right to suspend activities or recall travelers at any time if advisory levels change. No credit or funding will be issued for travel to unapproved locations.
Level 3 Petitions: Submit the [Petition Form] at least 6 weeks prior to travel. Review typically takes 4 weeks.
Unapproved External Orgs: To work with non-partner NGOs or charities, students must submit two letters of reference from U.S. colleges that have previously worked with that organization to iocp@owu.edu before submitting a grant proposal.
High-Risk Activities: Activities like motor sports, scuba diving, zip-lining, spelunking, and organized contact sports are prohibited by our insurer. Contact IOCP for the full list.
Vehicle Rentals: Sponsored student travelers are strictly prohibited from renting motor vehicles of any type abroad.
Insurance Coverage: All travelers are automatically enrolled in international travel insurance which covers accidents, illnesses, travel disruption, evacuation, and repatriation. Review our
Pre-Travel Consultation:
Students are strongly encouraged to visit the OWU Student Health Center at least one month before departure to discuss vaccinations and health risks.