Students with Disabilities Study Abroad

There are two federal laws in place to protect the educational rights of students with disabilities. The first is Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This law prohibits discrimination on the sole basis of disability in any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. According to the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1987, if your college or university accepts just one US dollar of federal funding, through any part of the institution, then this law applies.

The second is Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This law applies to all government and commercial entities, including study abroad. It prohibits discrimination against individuals with qualified disabilities in all services, programs, and activities, regardless of whether they are public or private.

In light of these laws and our inability to control situations and circumstances in foreign countries, most colleges and universities strive to provide reasonable accommodation, unless it would fundamentally alter the study abroad program. It is however the responsibility of the student to disclose his/her disability to the appropriate campus official, early on in the process, and be straightforward about the type of assistance that is needed. Since overseas sites have different types of accessibility, try to identify several programs that meet your academic interests and needs.

Mobility International USA (MIUSA), serves as the National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange (NCDE). This fine organization works to increase study abroad opportunities for people with disabilities and provide student assistance that helps ensure successful international experiences. Their website is full of helpful information, as well as publications, videos, and programs. Consider one of their books in particular, Survival Strategies for Going Abroad: Strategies for People with Disabilities.

Another good source of information for students and advisors is Access Abroad, maintained by the University of Minnesota. This website was created through national FIPSE funding. It was a collaborative venture among many universities, and is considered a national resource in the field of international education. Check out their sampling of programs around the world that accommodate students with disabilities, and the section highlighting student experiences.

While there may not be countless options for students with physical disabilities, more universities around the world are becoming accessible. Whatever your wants and needs may be, it is important to be proactive and transparent. Being open and honest with your study abroad advisor and your disability services coordinator, about the kind of accommodations you need, is critical to your finding the right program. Don’t be bashful; your advisors are more than willing and able to help.

Inclusion International – A global federation of family-based organizations advocating for the human rights of people with intellectual disabilities worldwide.

Disability Information for Students and Professionals – A website for students who are studying in the field of disability, as well as professionals working within it.

Making it Happen – A documentary highlighting the accommodations and opportunities abroad for students with both apparent and non-apparent disabilities.

This is a partial excerpt from the latest updated edition of Study Abroad 101 by Wendy Williamson