Study Abroad

Studying Abroad as a Student With a Disability

Studying abroad enhances students’ futures personally and professionally, allow them to discover more about themselves through cultural immersion. This is an exciting opportunity for all students. Planning is key to ensuring the program will be rewarding and accessible. It is important to remember that laws and views on disability vary in other countries.

Plan Ahead Assisting Students

Plan Ahead

  • Students should self-disclose their disability by filling out the accommodation form through the study abroad process to ensure the accommodation process starts early.
  • Each country and region may provide disability access differently. Research the country early to learn about their laws and policies around disability. It is common to need to be flexible on the accommodations provided.
  • Find out as much as possible about the host culture as early as possible. The more the student knows about the culture, the better they can prepare.
  • Review key vocabulary words ahead of time to be prepared to answer questions about the student’s disability.

    • How the Disability Center Assists Students

    The Disability Center:

  • Provides a staff member who reviews accommodation requests in a timely manner.
  • Discusses with students the need for accommodations related to a specific program.
  • Works closely with the International Health, Safety and Security office regarding accommodations.
  • Discusses with University of Missouri faculty and universities abroad about reasonable accommodations, if concerns arise.

    • Resources

    Contact

    Students who have completed the Accommodation Request for Students with Disabilities through the myStudyAbroad application will receive an email from the Disability Center on eligible accommodations and/or the need for additional information. If the student is not registered with the Disability Center, they should fill out the New Student Application Form to start the process.

    Questions on accommodations and accessibility? Contact Kristin Mossman via email (kristinmossman@missouri.edu) or by phone (573-882-4696).

    Questions on study abroad programs? Contact a Mizzou Study Abroad advisor.