While we can’t tell precisely what the future holds, we can promise that Arcadia Abroad is committed to providing compelling, globally-focused study abroad opportunities that will have you exploring and engaging with the diverse communities of your new host country.
We’ve collected a series of frequently asked questions here; however, you should always feel free to reach out to your program advisor with any additional questions or to discuss your program. We’re here to help.
Please see our refund and withdrawal policy.
If your program is canceled by Arcadia Abroad on or before your program start date, you get your deposit back.
Please see our refund and withdrawal policy.
If you choose to withdraw from your program, or your home institution suspends support for student participation, any deposits or program payments made by, or on behalf of, any student toward participation in a program for the Summer, Fall or Academic Year 2021 terms is fully refundable as outlined below.
If you have already paid your deposit and choose to defer your application to a future term, your deposit will be applied to that term.
Arcadia is committed to maintaining our regular scholarship program, including Arcadia Abroad scholarships, for individual students and institutional programs. Awards will apply regardless of whether we deliver our programs completely in-country, completely on-line, or through a combination of both modes. Arcadia Abroad scholarships are no longer applicable and will not be awarded for partner programs that Arcadia has suspended.
Our Health and Safety team in the U.S., along with our resident directors and on-site staff, are closely monitoring the conditions in each of our host countries as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves. Arcadia will only run on-site programs when it is reasonable to do so and we are confident the program can be completed abroad as planned.
At the country level, we consider the following in our assessment:
We are waiting to learn more about the variant and the potential impact(s) it may have. The two primary impacts to look for are both the current efficacy of vaccines as well as restrictions countries implement and how it affects entry and movement. At this time we remain confident our spring programs will be delivered with minimal impact but the coming days and weeks will bring more information, as we’ve experienced throughout the pandemic.
Arcadia is watching conditions closely and considering multiple factors in the assessment of upcoming programs. At this time we do not have information that indicates programs cannot operate to our standards abroad. Adaptability has been part of our planning from the start so even in the face of evolving conditions, our goal is to provide programs however possible
Once students are on-site, Arcadia Abroad does not anticipate suspending programs, as we know now that a large influx of travelers can contribute to spreading the virus at home. As part of our pre-departure assessment, we take into account the likelihood of borders closing or healthcare capacity becoming overwhelmed, and only operate in locations where we are reasonably confident it will not.
The entry requirements vary by country but at this time, many countries do require you to show proof that you tested negative for COVID-19 within the three days prior to departure. For more information, visit your destination country’s official COVID-19 webpage, listed here.
Everyone will need a COVID-19 test taken at the end of your term in order to re-enter the United States.
Our teams are engaged in an extensive planning process to ensure we, and our partner employers, are prepared to offer students the most effective support possible in the new normal of living with COVID-19.
Our ability to promote student well-being relies as much on your actions as it does on our preparedness. Your ability and willingness to be flexible and act as a responsible, socially-conscious global citizen is required for a successful experience more than ever.
You will be expected to:
Arcadia Abroad requires proof of full vaccination by December 1, 2021 for all spring semester program participants. Proof of vaccination from any vaccine that has full or emergency approval from the FDA is acceptable. For individuals receiving vaccinations other than those available in the United States, we will accept COVID vaccines that are approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) or any governing regulatory body. For more detail, please refer to our Vaccination Policy.
It is unlikely you will be able to receive the vaccine while abroad. Most countries are still vaccinating
vulnerable populations, much like the US. If circumstances change, we will update students.
Academic delivery methods may vary. You can, and should, expect an invigorating and rewarding academic experience. Our overseas partner institutions are prepared to adapt to an ever-changing reality by mixing in-person, and online learning approaches depending on the circumstances.
Yes, our partner universities abroad are as eager to host clubs and activities as you are to join them. Social distancing is enforced and the ability to gather and attend events is dependent on the current local restrictions.
There are a broad variety of placements, from social media assignments for businesses and web content creation, to providing research to support business development projects or developing communication plans and content for non-profit organizations, and many more. You can expect to have a blend of time spent working online at the same time as the 'home office' and time spent independently working on projects for your placement. Check out this video about Virtual London Internships with Arcadia. Guest lectures from industry professionals and a digital resume workshop is also included.
Arcadia is committed to All Modes education through Canvas, Zoom and other online platforms. Our goal is to ensure that student learning is seamless, whether in-person, online, or somewhere in the middle. Support for students is available both on-site at the London Center and from Arcadia’s U.S. campus. Students are expected to utilize their own devices to participate in our virtual learning opportunities.
You’ll enjoy many fun and rewarding online activities and events hosted by Arcadia, bringing our virtual community of students together with program faculty, staff and guest presenters. Check out our virtual Activities and Events for Virtual Global Internships for some examples of the virtual activities on offer. You can also check out our student and center blogs.
Additionally, we've outlined expectations for students traveling abroad.
Our program advisors and Health and Safety Team are available to provide additional support if you or members of your family have questions. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with your concerns.