Study Abroad Office Policies
Study Abroad Office Travel Policy
This policy supplements the University’s International Travel Policy. The Study Abroad Office reserves the right to amend, suspend or cancel a program or other travel (prior to departure or in progress) if facts and circumstances are such that the Study Abroad Office concludes that the traveler’s health, safety and well-being may be jeopardized or would be inconsistent with applicable U.S. government sanctions or export control laws. Key indicators for evaluation include Department of State Travel Advisory level, CDC guidance, entry or re-entry restrictions, and restrictions on traveler mobility (e.g., quarantine, lockdown, flight restrictions, among others).
Financial loss resulting from such cancellation is primarily the responsibility of the program participants, but the Study Abroad office will make every effort to make decisions about amendment, suspension or cancellation in a time frame that minimizes financial loss for participants.
GPA Requirements
All programs set minimum GPA requirements for program admission; however, no program is allowed to set a minimum GPA requirement of lower than 2.0. In addition, students on academic probation are not allowed to participate on BSU-sponsored study abroad programs. Individual student exceptions to this policy must be approved by the Executive Director of Academic Services.
Participant Withdrawal from Program
Student must provide written notice to the Rinker Center for Global Affairs of intention to withdraw.
Program Withdrawal after payment of deposit but prior to application deadline
Participant will forfeit the $500 non-refundable deposit. Upon request at time of withdrawal from original program, the deposit may be transferred one time only to another authorized program (scheduled within one year of original program start date).
Program withdrawal after Application Deadline
Participant will forfeit the $500 non-refundable deposit and assume responsibility for any non-recoverable expenses incurred or committed by BSU and its affiliates on participant’s behalf at the time of withdrawal, up to the entire program cost.
Course Load
Students on Ball State University sponsored semester programs are required to remain enrolled in a minimum of the equivalent of 12 BSU credits, on site, while participating in their international program. Partner University requirements that require higher course load supersede Ball State requirements. Online courses cannot count towards on-site minimum enrollment requirements.
Passports and Visas
Participants are responsible for ensuring they have the proper passport and visa(s) for their travel. As a service to our students and staff, the Rinker Center is
pleased to offer free passport/visa photo services for international travel. Contact the Rinker Center for more information
and to set an appointment for photos.
Visitors for Students
Visitors are not allowed to stay with the students and must source housing on their own. With permission from Faculty Leader/Program Leader, visitors may participate in program activities; however, visitors must absorb all costs associated with their participation.
Program Assessment
Participants will be provided an opportunity to evaluate their program’s content and provide feedback to the Study Abroad Office for review and follow-up (if requested).
Scholarship Awardee Selection
Scholarship applicants must be degree seeking Ball State University students. Scholarship applications are to be reviewed anonymously by a committee composed of Rinker Center staff and independent faculty to provide independent impartial selection of awardees.
Students on Academic or Disciplinary Probation
A student who is on academic or disciplinary probation* or does not meet academic continuation requirements will not be permitted to study abroad/away during the period the sanction is in effect, regardless of the student's acceptance in a program. Any financial losses are the responsibility of the student
*Disciplinary Probation exceptions may be provided in consultation with Student Rights
Health and Medical Insurance
All participants are required to be covered by BSU approved medical and accident insurance for the duration of the program.
Student Conduct
Students are expected to adhere to Ball State University standards while abroad/away.
Immunizations
It is the participant’s responsibility to receive any required and recommended vaccinations.