Advancing disability rights and leadership globally®

Infographic: Get Your Planning Started

Empty wheelchair outside Asian temple

People with disabilities live and travel everywhere these days. By planning creatively, collaborating with others, and being flexible there’s no need to limit yourself to places that are more like home. Your decision may be less about the country where you go, and more about the type or length of program that works for you.

Are you a visual learner? Download the designed PDF of this infographic to fully see these statistics and characteristics. Find it under Documents.

Choose Your Own Adventure Abroad

Want to Dip Your Toes in the Water?

Yes, it’s my first time abroad.

Then try:

  • Western Europe or Australia or Canada
  • Living with Other Americans
  • Program Led by Experienced Staff On-site
  • Short-Term Program (12 weeks or less)

Ready to Splash Through Some Puddles?

Yes, I want challenge by choice.

Then try:

  • Taking Your Pick of Countries
  • Living with Host Families
  • Study, Intern, or Teach Abroad
  • Medium-Term Program    (6-9 months)

Can’t Wait to Feel the Spray of Waterfalls?

Yes, I’m very adaptable and adventurous.

Then try:

  • Non-traditional Country
  • Living Immersed with the Locals
  • Volunteer or Field Research
  • Long-Term Program (1-2 years)

Students with Mobility Disabilities – Get Moving!

More than anyone else, American college students with mobility disabilities are reaching their senior year having NOT studied abroad.

Demographic Hurdles & Resource Solutions

Part-time Status? Ask about reduced course loads abroad, work abroad or short-term programs

Military Veteran? Did you know you can use GI Bill funds toward study abroad?

Parents without College Degree? Is funding an issue? Apply for Pell grant and other scholarships we have listed

Multi-Ethnicity? Need role models? Read success stories on our website and Diversity Abroad’s website

Disability Accommodations? Did you know Vocational Rehabilitation and SSI/SSDI can go abroad? We have other tips too on access strategies!

What will clear away perceived obstacles to study abroad? Share your ideas on social media using hashtags: #ChangeExchange or #GenerationStudyAbroad

Source: The National Survey on Student Engagement 2014. All study abroad data is taken from senior college student responses.

“Whoops!” Moments Abroad

  1. My power wheelchair didn’t charge!
  2. These medications are unavailable overseas!
  3. Our health insurance doesn’t cover me abroad!

How to prepare to avoid these mishaps? Learn more from other travelers and our tipsheets at www.miusa.org/ncde

You Asked, We Answered!

Our one-on-one information and referral services is free! See who has come to us for advice, and contact us at the National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange.

Autistic student on the spectrum
Blind student
Deaf student
Deaf-Blind student
Hard of Hearing student
Wheelchair User
Disability Provider
Diversity Advisor
Exchange staff
Faculty
Parents
Resident Director
Student with:

  • ADHD
  • Anxiety
  • Aspergers
  • Bipolar
  • Brain Injury
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Chronic Health Condition
  • Depression
  • Diabetes
  • HIV/AIDS
  • Intellectual Disability
  • Learning Disability
  • Low Vision
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Short Stature
  • Speech Disability

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