Disabilities Abroad
The University Office of Global Programs is committed to offering education abroad experiences to all Penn State undergraduates. Students should be prepared for the fact that "disability" may be culturally defined. Attitudes toward disability and levels of accessibility can vary greatly from country to country. Before you go, find out as much as you can about your host culture and how local people view disability by reading, talking to other students, and attending pre-departure orientation sessions. The more you know, the better prepared you will be for the interaction between your disability and the new environment. While education abroad can be challenging, an overseas experience can help you learn more about yourself and your capabilities. The Student Disability Resources is an excellent resource both on the Penn State campus and while preparing to study abroad.
Special Accommodations Request
Before traveling abroad, you should complete the "Special Accommodations" questionnaire located within your online Penn State Education Abroad application (after acceptance). On this questionnaire you can list any documented disabilities and any health-related accommodations you will need while abroad (wheelchair access, additional exam time, etc.). In the case of a documented disability, Education Abroad will work with the Student Disability Resources and the on-site coordinator to ensure that every effort is made to accommodate your need.
Plan Ahead
Disclose your physical and/or learning disability needs to your faculty leader or Education Abroad Adviser and/or your program provider staff so that they can support you in seeking accommodations abroad, if necessary.
Consider The Following Questions:
- What types of accommodations are usually available in my host country?
- Will my host country be more or less accessible than the U.S.?
- Will I need to speak about my disability in a foreign language?
- How might my disability intersect with my host culture?
