Argentina
Buenos Aires
Córdoba
Brazil
Belo
Horizonte
Florianópolis
Niterói
Cameroon
Yaoundé
Chile
Concepción
La Serena
Santiago
Temuco
Valdivia
Valparaíso
China
Beijing
Hangzhou
Kunming
France
Bordeaux
Paris
Poitiers
Germany
Berlin
Mainz
India
Delhi
Israel
Beer
Sheva
Italy
Ferrara
Florence
Rome
Jordan
Amman
Japan
Tokyo
Morocco
Rabat
Russia
Irkutsk
Moscow
Yaroslavl
Spain
Córdoba
Getafe
Logroño
Madrid
United
Kingdon
Oxford
Uruguay
Montevideo
2016 – 2017
General Handbook
International Programs
Sunderland Language Center
Middlebury College
Middlebury, VT 05753
tel. 802.443.5745
fax. 802.443.3157
mailto: internationalprograms@middlebury.edu
www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad
Please note that information in this Handbook is subject to change.
Copyright 2016 by Middlebury. All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by
any means, electronic, mechanical, photographic or otherwise, without the prior written permission of
Middlebury.
Table of Contents
The Purpose of this Handbook .................................................................................................................. 1
Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad Mission Statement ......................................................................... 1
Learning Goals for the Schools Abroad...................................................................................................... 1
Nondiscrimination Statement/Title IX Coordinator................................................................................... 2
FINANCIAL INFORMATION.................................................................................................................... 5
Program Fees ............................................................................................................................................. 5
Billing......................................................................................................................................................... 5
Cancellation Fees ....................................................................................................................................... 6
Withdrawals ............................................................................................................................................... 6
Tuition Refund Insurance......................................................................................................................... 11
Financial Aid ............................................................................................................................................ 11
Students from other Colleges and Universities ............................................................................... 12
PREDEPARTURE INFORMATION ........................................................................................................ 12
Passports .................................................................................................................................................. 12
Visas ........................................................................................................................................................ 13
Registering at the Embassy ....................................................................................................................... 13
Birth Certificates/U.S. Driver’s License .................................................................................................... 13
Calling Cards and Skype ........................................................................................................................... 13
International Driving Permit (IDP) .......................................................................................................... 13
Travel Insurance....................................................................................................................................... 14
Absentee Voting....................................................................................................................................... 14
Expenses .................................................................................................................................................. 14
Accessing Money ..................................................................................................................................... 14
Exchange Rates ........................................................................................................................................ 15
Emergency Cash ...................................................................................................................................... 15
Working Abroad ...................................................................................................................................... 15
Travel Arrangements ................................................................................................................................ 15
Sustainable Study Abroad ......................................................................................................................... 16
ACADEMIC & ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS ...................................................................................... 16
Program Testing....................................................................................................................................... 16
Academic Program ................................................................................................................................... 16
Middlebury Students ......................................................................................................................... 17
Students from other Colleges and Universities ............................................................................... 17
Language Pledge....................................................................................................................................... 17
Studying Another Language in the Target Language ................................................................................. 17
Work Patterns .......................................................................................................................................... 17
Libraries ................................................................................................................................................... 18
Host University Relationship .................................................................................................................... 18
Host University Strikes ............................................................................................................................. 18
Student Conduct ...................................................................................................................................... 18
Training and Education ............................................................................................................................ 26
Academic Honesty/Honor Code.............................................................................................................. 26
Plagiarism................................................................................................................................................. 26
Cheating ................................................................................................................................................... 26
Duplicate Use of Written Work ................................................................................................................ 26
Disciplinary Action................................................................................................................................... 27
Class Attendance ...................................................................................................................................... 27
Exams ...................................................................................................................................................... 28
Auditing ................................................................................................................................................... 28
Independent Study (supervised on-site) ......................................................................................................... 28
Classes in the Arts (Studio Art, Dance, Music) ......................................................................................... 28
Independent Project ................................................................................................................................. 29
Add/Drop ............................................................................................................................................... 29
Incompletes ............................................................................................................................................. 29
Grades, Transcripts, and Transfer of Credit.............................................................................................. 29
Middlebury Students ......................................................................................................................... 30
Students From Other Colleges and Universities ............................................................................. 30
Graduate-Level Coursework..................................................................................................................... 30
Appealing Grades ..................................................................................................................................... 30
Student Records ....................................................................................................................................... 30
Change of Status ...................................................................................................................................... 31
Middlebury College Email Policy .............................................................................................................. 32
Learning Outside the Classroom .............................................................................................................. 32
Internships ........................................................................................................................................... 32
Volunteer Work ................................................................................................................................... 32
Cultural Activities ................................................................................................................................. 33
In-Country Travel ................................................................................................................................ 33
Sports................................................................................................................................................... 33
Research Abroad .................................................................................................................................. 33
LIVING ABROAD ..................................................................................................................................... 33
Cultural Differences ................................................................................................................................. 33
Being a Foreigner Abroad ........................................................................................................................ 34
Anti-Americanism .................................................................................................................................... 34
Culture Shock........................................................................................................................................... 35
Adjustment Process.................................................................................................................................. 35
Being a Minority Student Abroad ............................................................................................................. 35
Being a Woman Abroad ........................................................................................................................... 36
Being Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, or Transgendered Abroad .......................................................................... 36
Being an International Student in the U.S. and then Going Abroad .......................................................... 36
Students with Disabilities ......................................................................................................................... 36
Traveling .................................................................................................................................................. 37
Cell Phones .............................................................................................................................................. 37
Visits from Family and Friends................................................................................................................. 37
MEDICAL ISSUES, HEALTH & SAFETY................................................................................................ 37
Medical Care Abroad................................................................................................................................ 37
Health & Security Insurance ..................................................................................................................... 38
Medical Precautions and Prescription Medication ..................................................................................... 40
Immunizations ......................................................................................................................................... 41
Dental Care .............................................................................................................................................. 41
Eye Care .................................................................................................................................................. 41
SAFETY ...................................................................................................................................................... 41
Terrorism ................................................................................................................................................. 43
Relationships ............................................................................................................................................ 44
Avoiding Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assaults ..................................................................................... 44
Emergencies ............................................................................................................................................. 45
RETURNING TO THE U.S. ...................................................................................................................... 45
U.S. Duty Free Regulations ...................................................................................................................... 45
Middlebury Students: Returning to Middlebury ................................................................................. 45
Course Registration .............................................................................................................................. 45
Housing ............................................................................................................................................... 46
Residential Life Positions ..................................................................................................................... 46
Wellness House .................................................................................................................................... 46
SuperBlocks ......................................................................................................................................... 46
Academic and Special Interest Houses ................................................................................................. 46
Off Campus Housing ........................................................................................................................... 46
Social Houses ....................................................................................................................................... 46
Campus Jobs ........................................................................................................................................ 47
Students from other Colleges and Universities: Returning Home ................................................ 47
Evaluations .............................................................................................................................................. 47
Requesting a Transcript ............................................................................................................................ 47
Reverse Culture Shock ............................................................................................................................. 47
Conclusion ............................................................................................................................................... 48
The Purpose of this Handbook
This Handbook has been compiled in an effort to prepare you for your program of studies abroad with
Middlebury College (“Middlebury”) during the 2016-17 academic year. Please read everything carefully and
be sure to follow instructions.
If you read all of this material carefully you will find the answers to many commonly asked and basic
questions. However, our office always welcomes your e-mails, phone calls, and inquiries and hopes that you
will continue to seek guidance and support as you prepare for your study abroad experience. Likewise, our
staff is always available to talk to your parents, family, and friends and answer any questions they may have
regarding your time abroad.
Middlebury endeavors to present an accurate overview of the programs, facilities, and fees of the Schools
Abroad in this publication. However, Middlebury reserves the right to alter any program, facilities, fees,
policies and/or procedures described in this publication without notice or obligation. This Handbook is
published on the Middlebury Schools Abroad web site; any changes after initial publication will be made on
the web; and such changes shall supersede all prior versions of this Handbook.
Middlebury reserves the right to alter any program, facilities, fees, policies or procedures described in this
publication without notice or obligation.
We strongly recommend that parents or guardians become familiar with the contents of this Handbook. We
hope this information will be helpful and we wish you a productive and enjoyable semester or year abroad.
Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad Mission Statement
The Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad offer overseas academic programs for undergraduates from many
institutions, as well as graduate-level programs for students from the Middlebury Language Schools and the
Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey
All students at the Schools Abroad are expected to demonstrate a high level of language proficiency and a
commitment to language and cultural immersion. The Schools Abroad engage students in a challenging and
dynamic learning environment and facilitate an integrated experience abroad, offering rigorous academic
opportunities in many disciplines. They also make use of the academic and extra-curricular offerings at our
partner institutions abroad and take advantage of established resources in the host locales. Through guided
independence, our students engage with their host society on a number of different levels, advance their
academic and personal interests, and attain enhanced language proficiency, a solid grasp of the cultural, social,
political and historical conditions of their host country, and a deeper understanding of themselves and the
world.
Learning Goals for the Schools Abroad
While each student comes to the Middlebury Schools Abroad with her or his own set of academic and/or
personal goals for their term abroad, the Schools Abroad has adopted the three goals below as core to their
mission.
1. Students, through active engagement in courses and with the local environment, demonstrate
measurable improvement in their communication skills: the ability to speak, understand, read, and
write effectively in the host country’s language.
2. Students acquire the intercultural competence that enables them to recognize and respect cultural
differences and value systems allowing them to engage in and analyze interactions with people from
the host culture.
3. Interpret and understand the commonalities and differences between the educational systems of the
US and the country in which they are studying, including the expectations placed on students.
Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad
Page 1
Nondiscrimination Statement/Title IX Coordinator
Middlebury complies with all applicable provisions of state and federal laws which prohibit discrimination in
employment, or in admission or access to its educational or extracurricular programs, activities, or facilities,
on the basis of race, creed, color, place of birth, ancestry, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, sexual
orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, service in the armed forces of the United States,
positive HIV-related blood test results, genetic information, or against qualified individuals with disabilities
on the basis of disability and/or any other status or characteristic as defined and to the extent protected by
applicable law.
Middlebury designates the Compliance Officer/Title IX Coordinator to coordinate its efforts to comply with
any and all applicable federal and state laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of one or more of the
characteristics listed above. The Compliance Officer/Title IX Coordinator is also Middlebury’s Title IX
coordinator and is responsible for coordinating Middlebury’s efforts to comply with and carry out its
responsibilities under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 as amended (“Title IX”). In general,
Title IX prohibits discrimination in educational programs on the basis of sex. Prohibited sex discrimination
includes sexual harassment and sexual misconduct (including sexual assault) as defined by Middlebury’s
policies (see policy information below). The full text of Middlebury’s Nondiscrimination Statement is
available at http://www.middlebury.edu/about/handbook/general/nondiscrimination. Printed copies are
available from the Schools Abroad program director or the International Programs Office.
The Title IX coordinator’s responsibilities include overseeing all Title IX complaints and identifying and
addressing any patterns or systemic problems that arise during the review of such complaints.
Middlebury's Judicial Affairs Officers serve as the Title IX coordinator’s designees for the purposes of
overseeing sexual misconduct and related retaliation complaints under Policy Against Sexual Misconduct,
Domestic and Dating Violence and Misconduct, and Stalking.
Middlebury's Human Relations Officers serve as the Title IX coordinator’s designees for the purposes of
coordinating sexual harassment training and education, and overseeing investigations and adjudicating sexual
harassment, sexual misconduct, and related retaliation complaints under Middlebury's AntiHarassment/Discrimination Policy and Policy Against Sexual Misconduct, Domestic and Dating Violence
and Misconduct, and Stalking, respectively. Middlebury's Alternate Human Relations Officers serve in a
similar capacity as the Title IX coordinator’s designee(s) when the Human Relations Officer is unavailable or
has a conflict of interest.
Inquiries concerning the application of Title IX may be referred to Middlebury’s Compliance Officer/Title
IX Coordinator or to the United States Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.
Student Accessibility Services/Section 504 Coordinator
Middlebury complies with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act,
as amended (“ADA”), and applicable state laws, which prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals
with disabilities, on the basis of disability. Middlebury designates the Compliance Officer/Title IX
Coordinator to coordinate its efforts to comply with and carry out its responsibilities under Section 504.
Individuals with concerns regarding Middlebury’s compliance with such laws may contact the Compliance
Officer/Title IX Coordinator.
Middlebury is committed to making reasonable accommodations for qualified students with disabilities as
required by law. Students with disabilities are supported by Middlebury’s Student Accessibility Services
Office. While federal and state disability laws do not apply overseas, the ADA Coordinator, Jodi Litchfield, is
available to assist students with disabilities in determining what level of accessibility and accommodations are
available at the various locations of the Middlebury Schools Abroad. Further information is available at:
http://www.middlebury.edu/studentlife/doc/ada/about.
Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad
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Accreditation
Middlebury College is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, which accredits
schools and colleges in the six New England states. Membership in one of the six regional accrediting
associations in the United States indicates that the school or college has been carefully evaluated and found to
meet standards agreed upon by qualified educators.
Congratulations!
You have been chosen to participate in one of the Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad. Your success as a
study abroad student will depend upon how well you have prepared yourself for the experience. This booklet
covers a wide range of information necessary for this purpose. Please take the time to read this handbook
carefully prior to departure, and know how to access it in your host country as well.
Middlebury sponsors programs abroad in Amman, Beer Sheva, Beijing, Belo Horizonte, Berlin, Bordeaux,
Buenos Aires, Concepción, Córdoba (Argentina), Córdoba (Spain), Delhi, Ferrara, Florence, Florianópolis,
Getafe, Hangzhou, Irkutsk, Kunming, La Serena, Logroño, Madrid, Mainz, Montevideo, Moscow, Niterói,
Oxford, Paris, Poitiers, Rabat, Rome, Santiago, Temuco, Tokyo, Valdivia, Valparaíso, Yaoundé, and Yaroslavl.
Over the years, thousands of students from the U.S. have benefited from the experience of living and
studying in these cities, improving their language skills, and learning first-hand about foreign cultures and
civilizations.
Middlebury has designed programs in which immersion in the host culture is a primary goal. We believe that
study abroad can form an important complement to study in the United States. Indeed, it often provides the
occasion for students to profit from a richness of experience and to achieve a level of maturity not easily
available in the familiar surroundings of home. The Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad offer a variety of
intellectual challenges, but, equally important, they offer a cultural experience that can give special meaning
and depth to the more academic understanding of the language and civilization of the host country.
In deciding to study abroad, students should be aware and be prepared to accept that educational
philosophies overseas differ substantially from those dominant at U.S. colleges and universities. While the
higher educational system in the U.S. is based on contract-like relations between faculty and students and
continuous assessment, foreign educational cultures place primary responsibility for learning on the individual
student. This is generally also true even of overseas programs that are administered by a U.S.
college/university, such as the Middlebury Schools Abroad, since in most cases their instructors are drawn
from local institutions. While abroad, the principal vehicle of instruction tends to be the lecture, and class
participation and discussion usually play a minor role. At the same time, students have greater freedom to
pursue what interests them within the general framework of a given course than is often the case at home.
Students will also generally have less interaction with professors, though most professors are pleased to
interact with students who seek them out. In short, the experience of studying abroad is likely to be very
different from what students in the U.S. are accustomed to and study abroad participants should not expect
to find a U.S.-style campus at most study abroad sites. Students should embrace this challenge as a unique
educational and cultural opportunity. Living and studying abroad is a cumulative experience. The advantages
of an academic year represent far more than the sum of two semesters, linguistically, culturally, and
intellectually. Therefore, we strongly urge students to enroll for the full year whenever possible.
In addition to the linguistic, academic, and cultural differences you will encounter as you adjust to life in
another country, there are other important aspects of your experience that may offer special challenges. For
example, the typical U.S. academic program is structured to achieve its goals as efficiently as possible. You
will almost certainly find less structure and less emphasis on efficiency abroad; on the other hand, you will
have more time to delve into topics according to your own particular inclination and sense of intellectual
responsibility. Things may not be as easily accessible as you are accustomed to in the U.S. (e.g. libraries and
computers), and you may find yourself dealing with more bureaucracy. Finally, if you come from a town,
suburb, or a secluded campus, you may find that living in a city requires as many adjustments as living in a
new culture.
Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad
Page 3
Our host countries are rich in cultural opportunities, and you are strongly encouraged to take full advantage
of museums, galleries, theater, music, lectures, and the many exhibitions that are offered in each city, as well
as special activities and opportunities sponsored by your School Abroad. Don’t get stuck in the rut of going
to discos and bars, or sitting in front of a computer Skyping with loved ones back home. It is important for
students to broaden their horizons and to learn the language in as many different environments as possible.
The Schools Abroad seek to offer students a combination of structure and independence. The primary role of
the on-site staff is to oversee the academic components of the program. In addition, the staff oversees an
effective immersion process that ensures that students get settled into appropriate living situations and
provides the support they need to engage in a wide range of co-curricular activities and self-directed travel.
The staff is also always available in the case of medical or other emergencies. Students themselves, however,
retain ultimate responsibility for many aspects of the study abroad experience including their finances, the
fulfillment of academic requirements, and, depending on the site, their living and travel arrangements. One
of the goals of the program is to produce students capable of autonomous living in the host country after the
period of study abroad.
Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad
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FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Program Fees
Charges and expenses vary by location. The tuition and estimated out-of-pocket expenses for the
Middlebury Schools Abroad can be found on the respective websites listed below.
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Argentina - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/argentina/fees
Brazil - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/brazil/fees
Cameroon - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/cameroon/fees
Chile - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/chile/fees
China - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/china/fees
France - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/france/fees
Germany - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/germany/fees
India - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/india/fees
Israel - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/israel/fees
Italy - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/italy/fees
Japan - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/japan/fees
Jordan - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/jordan/fees
Morocco - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/morocco/fees
Russia - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/russia/fees
Spain - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/spain/fees
United Kingdom - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/medievalrenaissance-studies/program-fees
Uruguay - http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/uruguay/fees
Middlebury students will also be assessed an additional $1,500 non-refundable study abroad
administrative fee per semester.
Estimated Out-of-Pocket Expenses
Estimates of out-of-pocket expenses are in addition to the tuition and study abroad
administrative fee charged by Middlebury. They are estimates as of January 2016. Figures may
vary depending on individual lifestyles and situations as well as variation in exchange rates. For
financial aid budgeting purposes, the exchange rates used for the year are posted on the above web
pages, and cannot be adjusted to account for fluctuating exchange rates.
Please note that the “Personal” figure covers some basic necessities (e.g. local transportation, cell
phone, bank fees, some cultural activities, etc.) and does not, and is not intended to include students’
discretionary spending (e.g., entertainment, fitness, and travel).
Billing
Middlebury participates in an e-billing system. Notification that fall bills are ready will be sent to
students’ @middlebury.edu email address on or about June 15th; payment in full is due by August
15th. Spring bill notification will be sent on or about November 15th; payment in full is due by
December 15th. Students who are enrolled after these billing dates will be billed upon enrollment and
payment is due upon receipt. Bills may be viewed on-line at http://go.middlebury.edu/bannerweb
in the Student Financial Services tab. From here, students may set up others as “authorized payers.”
Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad
Page 5
Bills may be paid online, but for those who require a physical address, payment may be made in U.S.
dollars to Middlebury and sent to:
Middlebury College
Cashier’s Office
84 South Service Rd.
Middlebury, VT 05753
Cancellation Fees
The cancellation policy applies to any student who commits to the program abroad, but decides not
to attend prior to the start of the program. All programs are considered to start on the first day of
orientation for fall or spring-only students, and again on the first day of spring classes for academic
year students. If a student chooses, for any reason, to cancel his/her commitment in the program
prior to the published arrival date, Middlebury reserves the right to charge the student according to
the Cancellation Fee Schedule below. In addition, at the time of cancellation, Middlebury will
calculate the total amount of non-recoverable costs incurred on the student’s behalf. If the total
amount of these non-recoverable costs is greater than the appropriate cancellation fee noted in the
Cancellation Fee Schedule, Middlebury will charge the student the total amount of non-recoverable
costs.
CANCELLATION FEE SCHEDULE
ALL
STUDENTS:
Cancellation
before
committing to the program
STUDENTS FROM OTHER COLLEGES
AND UNIVERSITIES: Once committed, after
March 15 (fall programs) or October 1 (spring
programs), and at least 30 days before the
program begins
MIDDLEBURY
STUDENTS:
Once
committed, after June 1 (fall programs) or
November 15 (spring programs), and at least 30
days before the program begins
ALL STUDENTS: Once committed, less than
30 days before the program begins
No fee
$500 cancellation fee; plus any non-recoverable
expenses, if applicable
$500 cancellation fee; plus any non-recoverable
expenses, if applicable
$1,000
cancellation
fee; plus any nonrecoverable expenses, if applicable
Academic year students who withdraw for the spring semester prior to the start of the second
semester will forfeit any non-recoverable costs for the spring semester, but will not incur a separate
cancellation fee. These non-recoverable costs cannot be calculated until receipt of written
notification.
Withdrawals
This withdrawal policy applies to any student who decides not to participate in the program abroad
or who is dismissed from the program abroad on or after the start of the program abroad. All
programs are considered to start on the first day of orientation for fall or spring-only students, and
again on the first day of spring classes for academic year students.
Students who withdraw from or who are dismissed from the program abroad before the end of the
on-site registration period will not have any courses or grades appear on their transcript, but are subMiddlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad
Page 6
ject to the conditions of the Non-Medical/Voluntary Withdrawal Fee Schedule or to the Medical
Withdrawal Refund Schedule, as appropriate.
Students who withdraw from any program of study, at home or abroad, are normally not eligible to
participate in study abroad the following semester.
Middlebury students who wish to withdraw from or who are dismissed from the program after
arrival abroad will not be permitted to enroll on the Middlebury campus that semester. Year abroad
students who wish to cancel their second semester abroad and return to the Middlebury campus
must notify their Schools Abroad director no later than June 1 for the fall semester and November
15 for the spring semester.
1. Non-Medical/Voluntary Withdrawal or Dismissal
Students who are dismissed or who withdraw voluntarily from a School Abroad after the start of the
program shall forfeit all fees. A student who withdraws after the start of the program must submit a
Withdrawal Form. Forms are available from the director of the relevant School Abroad.
NON-MEDICAL/VOLUNTARY
WITHDRAWAL/DISMISSAL
FEE SCHEDULE
On or after the first day of orientation
No refund—entire tuition and fees charge due
Students who are dismissed or who voluntarily withdraw after the on-site registration period and
before the last week of classes will receive a grade of “WD” in all of their courses; there will be no
refund in such cases, as per the Non-Medical/Voluntary Withdrawal Fee Schedule. Students who are
dismissed or who voluntarily withdraw during the last week of classes or after will receive a grade of
“F” in all of their courses.
2. Medical Withdrawal
Students withdrawing during the semester must complete a Withdrawal Form provided by the
director of the School Abroad.
Students who withdraw for medical reasons (see below) after the on-site registration period will
receive grades of “WD”; refunds apply as per the Medical Withdrawal Refund Schedule. The grades
“WDP” and “WDF” as indicated on the back of the Middlebury College transcript apply only to
Language Schools and not to Schools Abroad.
Students who withdraw after the start of the program for medical reasons (certified by a physician or
mental health professional) may receive refunds for any amounts paid according to the table below,
provided written notification of withdrawal is received by Middlebury within the indicated
timeframe. All programs are considered to start on the first day of orientation for fall or spring-only
students, and again on the first day of spring classes for academic year students.
MEDICAL
WITHDRAWAL
REFUND
SCHEDULE
STUDENTS FROM OTHER COLLEGES 60% refund of amounts due and paid
AND UNIVERSITIES: Before end of second
week of program
Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad
Page 7
MIDDLEBURY STUDENTS: Before end of Forfeit study abroad administrative fee;
second week of program
60% refund of additional amounts due and paid
STUDENTS FROM OTHER COLLEGES
AND UNIVERSITIES: Before end of fourth
week of program
MIDDLEBURY STUDENTS: Before end of
fourth week of program
ALL STUDENTS:
After end of fourth week of program
20% refund of amounts due and paid
Forfeit study abroad administrative fee;
20% refund of additional amounts due and paid
No refund
Students who are eligible for a refund will have the College charges and the financial aid (for
Middlebury students) pro-rated based on the amount of time you were enrolled according to both
Middlebury and federal formulas.
To the extent granted, refunds will be remitted by check from the Controller to the person or
institution who paid the charges to which the refund is applicable. If any authorized refund
represents in whole or in part the proceeds of a student loan, remittance will be made by the College
first to the lender or holder of the loan for all or any portion of the refund. In this event, the student
will be given written notice of such disbursement made on his/her behalf out of the proceeds of the
refund.
i). Student Requests for Medical Withdrawal
Voluntary medical withdrawals are appropriate when a student’s medical, psychological, or
substance-related condition prevents the student from effectively and/or safely participating in the
Schools Abroad’s academic and/or residential life programs. Students who wish to withdraw from
their Schools Abroad program for medical reasons must notify their Schools Abroad director.
ii). Medical Withdrawal Initiated by Middlebury
Middlebury may require withdrawal of a student for medical reasons when:
(a) There is a reasonable basis to believe, based on a case-by-case, objective assessment of the
student’s behavior and other relevant information, that the student’s medical, psychological, or
substance-related condition prevents him/her from safely or effectively participating in the Schools
Abroad’s academic or residential life programs, such that the student is not otherwise qualified to
attend the School Abroad; or
(b) There is a reasonable basis to believe, based on a case-by-case, objective assessment of the
student’s behavior and other relevant information, that as a result of the student’s medical,
psychological, or substance-related condition, the student has threatened, or poses a significant risk
of threatening, the health or safety of others; or causes or threatens to cause property damage; or
engages in behavior that is unduly disruptive of others in the Schools Abroad community. (Behavior
that is “unduly disruptive” includes but is not limited to conduct that interferes with, or poses a
significant risk of interference with, the emotional or physical well-being of others and/or the
academic, extracurricular, or social activities of others.)
Prior to the withdrawal, the student may be required to sign a release authorizing disclosure of the
student’s medical or other information by and between the student’s physician(s), psychologist(s), or
Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad
Page 8
licensed counselor(s), or others who are asked to provide information regarding the student and the
appropriate program official(s). A medical evaluation by a competent specialist may also be required.
The outcome of the medical evaluation will be shared with the Schools Abroad director or designee
(hereinafter referred to as the “Schools Abroad director”).
Student(s) will be given notice and an opportunity to speak with the Schools Abroad director prior
to or within five business days of the withdrawal. The Schools Abroad director may also consult
with others as appropriate (e.g., medical professionals, members of Middlebury’s Threat Assessment
and Management Team (“TAM team”), law enforcement, and/or the student’s family members).
The Schools Abroad director may also consider other information such as the recommendation, if
any, made by the TAM team; or whether there are reasonable accommodations that would
effectively mitigate the risk of harm to others or property and would allow the student to safely and
effectively participate in the School’s academic and/or residential life programs, as applicable.
The student will be notified of the withdrawal decision in writing. The decision may be appealed,
following the procedures set forth in Section iii, below.
Students withdrawn under this section may also be subject to the normal disciplinary processes set
forth in this Handbook if their conduct has violated Middlebury’s or the host institution’s policy or
policies. If disciplinary action is appropriate, the matter must be resolved either before or
immediately upon the student’s return to the Schools Abroad program or any other Middlebury
program (if applicable).
iii. Appeals
An appeal under Section 2 (ii) above, may be made in writing to the Vice President for Academic
Affairs and Dean of the Schools. The appeal must include the grounds for the appeal and an outline
of any supporting evidence. Appeals transmitted via e-mail will be considered to be “in writing.”
Absent extenuating circumstances, the student will be notified of the appeal decision within ten
business days of receipt of the appeal.
2. Request for Readmission to Schools Abroad Program
(i) Medical Withdrawal
Students who are withdrawn from a Schools Abroad program for medical reasons and who wish to
be readmitted in a subsequent semester must submit a written request for readmission to their
Schools Abroad director and provide the following:
(1) a recommendation for readmission and supporting documentation from the student’s treating
physician(s), psychiatrist(s) and/or licensed counselors (as applicable) that the student is able to
participate fully and effectively in the intensive Schools Abroad program (including but not limited
to the academic and residential life of the Schools Abroad program), with or without reasonable
accommodation;
(2) information regarding the need, if any, for continuing treatment and follow-up care;
(3) evidence that the student has complied with the treatment recommendations that were made at
the time of, and during, the medical leave;
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(4) the student’s agreement to engage in continuing treatment and follow-up care, if applicable; and
(5) authorization for disclosure by and between any person providing documentation in support of
the request and the Schools Abroad director. Students may also submit other information in support
of their request. Middlebury may also require that the student submit to an independent medical
evaluation performed by a health care provider selected by Middlebury (at Middlebury’s expense)
and/or that the student provide additional information necessary to determine whether the student
should be readmitted at that time.
In addition to the information required above, students who are withdrawn for the reasons set forth
in Section 2 (ii) above, usually must submit to the Schools Abroad director the following
information in their request for readmission:
(1) a description of the student's understanding of the problem that led to the involuntary
withdrawal;
(2) sufficient evidence of the student’s attempts to resolve the issue(s) that led to the involuntary
withdrawal;
(3) information about what steps the student will take to prevent the problem(s) from recurring; and
(4) if applicable, sufficient evidence to demonstrate that the threat or conduct of concern has been
eliminated and that the student is ready to return to Middlebury and adhere to all Middlebury and/or
host institution policies.
Decisions on readmission requests are made on a case-by-case basis, so Middlebury may require
more, less or different information than that described above as deemed appropriate and necessary
in a particular case.
The Schools Abroad director will consider the student’s request for readmission after receiving the
supporting information described generally above or requested specifically in a given case, as well as
any other information that the student wishes to submit. In considering the request, the director, in
consultation with other officials, as appropriate, will determine whether there is a sufficient basis to
establish the following (as applicable):
(1) the medical condition that led to the student’s withdrawal has been adequately addressed and/or
managed such that the student is otherwise qualified to safely and/or effectively participate in the
academic and/or residential life of the Schools Abroad program (with or without reasonable
accommodation); and/or
(2) the student no longer poses a threat to the health or safety of others or to property, or no longer
poses a threat of undue disruption to members of the Schools Abroad community.
Students who wish to be readmitted to a Schools Abroad program in a subsequent semester after a
medical withdrawal must ordinarily submit their request and supporting documentation to their
Schools Abroad director by June 1 for the fall semester and November 15 for the spring semester.
3. Request for Readmission to Middlebury Undergraduate Program
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Middlebury College undergraduate students who wish to be readmitted to Middlebury after a
medical withdrawal from a Schools Abroad program must follow the procedures set forth in
Middlebury’s Student Status policy and submit their request for readmission to their Commons dean
no later than June 1 for the fall semester and November 15 for the spring semester.
4. Notice to the Student’s Home Institution
Middlebury reserves the right to notify all institutions or programs in which the student is (or will be)
enrolled of any medical or non-medical withdrawal of the student from a Middlebury Schools
Abroad Program.
Tuition Refund Insurance
For your protection, Dewar Insurance provides students and their parents the option of purchasing
tuition insurance which would refund the tuition if a student were forced to withdraw from one of
the Schools Abroad due to illness or injury. When you receive the bill, you will also receive this
information from Dewar Insurance. If you are interested, you may contact them directly for more
information at 617.774.1555 or http://www.tuitionrefundplan.com.
Financial Aid
Middlebury students
If you receive financial aid, your award will be applied first to
your Middlebury tuition bill. If your award covers more than the
tuition, the excess will be available to you after the semester
begins. Students receive this refund in two equal disbursements—one each semester. However, to avoid delays we
strongly recommend you arrange through Student Financial
Services before leaving campus to have any refund deposited
directly into your National Bank of Middlebury account or forwarded to someone in the U.S. who
can deposit the check in a U.S. bank account from which you can draw with your ATM card.
Cashing a check abroad that is drawn on a U.S. account will take several months to clear and is not
advisable.
Working out the financial aid arrangements for studying abroad requires more time, paperwork, and
follow-up than staying at Middlebury. You need to be especially diligent in seeing that things are
done in a timely manner. You must sign and return loan promissory notes immediately upon receipt
to ensure that loan funds arrive on time. Perkins Loan funds will not be disbursed to your account
until your signed promissory note has been received by Student Financial Services. Direct Loan
funds (student or parent) will not be disbursed until your Direct Loan Master Promissory Note has
been received by Student Financial Services.
Given that financial aid funds will not be made available to you until you have already been required
to fulfill some financial obligations (plane ticket, rent, damage deposit, visa fee, and miscellaneous
personal expenses), we strongly recommend that you take enough funds with you to cover a
month or two of living expenses, regardless of how much aid you may be due to receive. If you
are eligible for a refund, there may be unavoidable delays in getting aid monies credited and
refunded to you. Federal regulations require that enrollment verification must happen before any funds can be
refunded to you. Furthermore, your aid check, once received, can take many weeks to clear if you open
a local bank account. Throughout the year, try to follow a budget that will allow you to reach the
end of your stay without running short of money.
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Some students give power of attorney to a parent or guardian to deal with any
financial matters that may arise during your time abroad.
Student Financial Services is open and its phone lines are staffed Monday-Friday 8:15–5:00 P.M.
Please feel free to call 802.443.5158 with questions or to make an appointment. You may also use
their fax number: 802.443.2065; or email: studentfinancialservices@middlebury.edu. Alternately, you
may write to:
Student Financial Services
Service Building
Middlebury College
Middlebury, VT 05753–6003.
Students from other Colleges and Universities
Students from other institutions are generally able to transfer federal aid and should contact their
home financial aid and/or study abroad office to ascertain whether they are eligible to receive state
or institutional aid. International Programs is able to complete consortium agreements on behalf of
these students.
PREDEPARTURE INFORMATION
If you already have a passport, make sure that it is valid for at least six months
beyond the end of your program. If it is not, you need to renew it immediately.
Passports
If you don’t currently have a passport that is valid at least six months after your program
abroad ends, you must apply for or renew your passport immediately. It can take from four to
six weeks or more, and student visas cannot be issued without a valid passport. Some countries [e.g.:
China, Latin America, and Russia] even insist on valid passport copies for mandatory invitation
letters prior to submitting a visa application. It can take several weeks to obtain an invitation letter
which must then be submitted with the visa application, which can take several more weeks. A U.S.
passport is obtainable through the nearest Federal or State District Court or at a Municipal Passport
Agency. In Middlebury, both the Superior Court office at the Court House and the Post Office have
applications and instructions. The National Passport Information Center can be reached at
1.877.487.2778 or online at http://travel.state.gov/passport.
To apply for a passport, you will need:
1. Evidence of U.S. citizenship, e.g., a certified birth certificate or previous passport. Note that
the birth certificate must show that it was filed shortly after birth and must bear the seal of
the registrar at birth.
2. Identification with a signature, e.g., a driver’s license.
3. Two recent passport photos (special format – see website for details).
4. Fee of $110.00 for renewals, and $135.00 for first-time passport applications.*
*The processing agent may also charge a fee in addition to the application/renewal fee.
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Visas
A student visa is required of all U.S. citizens studying in Brazil, Cameroon,
Chile, China, France, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Portugal, Russia, and
Spain, and for some non-U.S. citizens studying elsewhere. Citizens of EU
countries studying in EU member states do not require a visa. U.S. students studying in Jordan will
enter the country on a tourist visa and obtain a student visa during or after the orientation period.
Middlebury applies for visas for students studying in Italy. All other students must apply for a visa
on their own. The application process varies depending on your destination and Consulate’s
requirements, but can include:




photos
medical exam
proof of insurance
statement of financial responsibility


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
FBI or local police background check
bank statements
tax forms
vaccinations
You will be given specific instructions on applying for your visa at a later date, though you may wish
to start researching the requirements sooner. Please be aware that it is critical that you already
have a valid passport that extends at least six months beyond the projected end of the stay
abroad and that you apply for your visa in a timely fashion, normally three months prior to
the start of the program.
Registering at the Embassy
In addition to securing a visa, all students who are U.S. citizens are required to register themselves
with the U.S. Embassy in their host country before departure from the U.S. In the event of
international, political, or family emergencies, or in the event that a passport is lost or stolen, the U.S.
Embassy will be much better able to assist registered students. Please visit the Department of State’s
website and follow the links to register: http://travelregistration.state.gov. Registration is fast and
costs nothing. Please print the confirmation page after you have registered and keep it for your
records. Students of other nationalities should check with their own embassies to see if it is possible
to register prior to departure.
Birth Certificates/U.S. Driver’s License
You should either have a certified copy (not photocopy) of your birth certificate or a U.S. Driver’s
license in case your passport is lost or stolen. This will simplify replacing it.
Calling Cards and Skype
Calling direct from abroad to the U.S. can be very expensive. A less expensive way to make these
calls is to have a long distance international calling card. Most long distance carriers (e.g., AT&T,
Sprint, Verizon) offer cards and special plans for international calls. Contact the carrier directly for
detailed information. In addition, services such as Skype can be used to call home where a reliable
internet connection is available. Visit http://www.skype.com for more information.
International Driving Permit (IDP)
Although many countries do not recognize U.S. Driver’s licenses, most countries
accept an International Driving Permit (IDP). An IDP can be obtained in the U.S.
at any branch of the American Automobile Association (AAA), upon presentation
of a valid U.S. license, two passport-size photos, and fee:
https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/go/safety/driving.html
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Should you rent a car while abroad, be sure to check with the rental agency regarding regulations
governing crossing international borders in a rented car. Some rental car agencies also require the
driver to be 25 years old.
Travel Insurance
You may wish to consider purchasing supplemental travel insurance to cover trip cancellation,
baggage, or loss of personal possessions while abroad through an agency such as
http://www.travelinsured.com. We recommend you purchase the “cancel for any reason” option
for the date of departure. Middlebury does not reimburse for tickets or other expenses in the event
that a program is cancelled due to security issues, natural disasters, etc. Some travel insurance is
included under the HTH Worldwide policy (see Health Insurance). Furthermore, it is possible that
you may be covered under a policy held by your parents, so investigate this prior to departure.
Absentee Voting
If there will be U.S. elections in which you wish to participate while abroad, you should make
arrangements for an absentee ballot before leaving the country, since that will prove easier than
doing so through the embassy in your host country. Contact the County Board of Elections or the
Secretary of State’s office where you are registered to vote.
Expenses
In general, you should plan to spend at least as much in a given month abroad as you would at home.
Keep in mind that the amount of money you spend ultimately depends on the lifestyle you choose.
One staff member noted: “I would even make a direct relationship here: the less money you spend,
the better the experience. The more money you spend, the more you alienate yourself from the host
country experience and miss a main point of the program.” Local university students, on average,
spend far less money than visiting students, don’t travel out of the country as much, and are not
often found in local discos and bars on weekday evenings.
Accessing Money
Students need to rely on several sources of money (ATM/debit card, credit card,
cash) to cover expenses while abroad. This will ensure that if one of your means
for accessing money fails, you will not be stranded without money. Also, the
amount of money you can access through any one source may at times be subject
to limitations, so you will want to have a second source should you need a large amount of money
immediately (e.g., rent).
Depending on the country, ATMs are common in cities and at most major airports, where you can
use a credit or debit card (be sure you have an internationally valid PIN), less so elsewhere. But they
are also subject to breakdowns, fraud, and other scams. Travelers are finding that the magnetic strip
on the reverse of most U.S. credit cards is not enough, as an embedded chip is required to make
purchases at some self-serve locations (like bus ticket kiosks). The chip technology is becoming
mainstream in the U.S., and you should inquire with your credit card company to acquire one prior
to departure. Another alternative is purchasing a prepaid microchip smart card (through companies
like Travelex).
Converting dollars is possible at banks, exchange houses, and/or hotels. Be sure to have newer bills
in excellent condition. Traveler’s checks can be inconvenient, since many establishments do not
accept them, fees are assessed for converting them, and you are often limited to cashing them during
banking hours only. Depending on your location, you may be able to open a local bank account.
Meanwhile, you may wish to exchange some money (~$200) prior to your departure from the U.S.
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so that you don’t have to concern yourself with these matters immediately upon arrival. You will
receive further information on accessing money specific to your host country in your countryspecific handbook.
Exchange Rates
Fluctuating exchange rates make advanced planning of costs challenging. We advise that you
overestimate your costs to accommodate these fluctuations. A good online currency converter can
be found at http://www.xe.com/ucc/.
Emergency Cash
BEFORE you leave, you should discuss with your family a plan for getting more
money during the program. Check Western Union details and service fees, credit
card services, and ATM availability.
Working Abroad
It is usually very difficult for students to find any type of job abroad, primarily because of the
relatively high local unemployment rates. Furthermore, a foreigner may not work abroad without a
work permit, and ordinarily a work permit is not issued by the government in any instance when a
foreigner is seeking to fill a position for which local citizens are qualified and available. Therefore,
students are urged not to go abroad with the hope of supporting themselves by finding work.
If you are planning to work/research remotely for a department or faculty member while you are
abroad, you must receive permission to do so from the Global Operations Committee
(global@middlebury.edu). There are a number of issues that need to be addressed (immigration, tax,
wage and hour laws, risk management, etc.). In most cases you will not be allowed to remain on U.S.
payroll.
In addition, some employment situations are discouraged by immersion
programs. Please contact global@middlebury.edu for assistance.
Travel Arrangements
Students are responsible for their own travel arrangements and expenses. Please consult the online
calendar for your School Abroad before making airline reservations or purchasing tickets. It is
recommended that you do not arrive late at night. In order to adjust to the time difference, as well as
to the new environment, it is advised that you plan your arrival for at least a few days before
orientation begins (except in Russia, where you should plan to arrive on the first day of orientation).
Please note that the School Abroad office does not normally open until the first day of
orientation.
While students often wish to travel before the start of their program, be advised that visa procedures
for a given country will determine how early one may leave the U.S. or enter the country abroad. It
is especially important that you not plan your return to the United States nor travel to another
destination before the date of the last final exam. Exam dates will not be changed to
accommodate students’ travel plans. No exceptions will be made, so please don’t ask.
The Schools Abroad will ensure that Middlebury students returning to campus for
spring semester will be able to finish the course requirements by the Thursday
preceding the Monday start date of spring semester.
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Some travel possibilities to investigate, among others, are:
1. STA Travel: http://b2b.statravel.com/middleburyabroad.html
2. StudentUniverse: http://www.studentuniverse.com
3. Travel CUTS: http://www.travelcuts.com
Students should make photocopies of their visa paperwork, passport, credit cards, plane tickets,
and/or itinerary. It can be very difficult to replace these items should one or more of them be lost or
stolen. The best approach is to make two copies of everything, leave one at home and take the other
with you, packed separately from the original documents. If your ticket is lost or stolen contact the
airline concerned to file a lost/stolen ticket report. Never throw away any part of your airline ticket
until you have completed your entire journey.
The safest method is to travel on an electronic ticket where one is available. Inquire through your
travel agent or directly with the airline.
Sustainable Study Abroad
Middlebury has made a commitment to becoming carbon neutral to help address
global warming. There are a variety of ways you can work to “green” your study
abroad experience, including purchasing carbon offsets, participating in the Green
Passport Program, and receiving a grant for research projects or participation in
events or projects related to sustainability issues. For further information, contact Stacey Thebodo
(sthebodo@middlebury.edu) and visit: http://middlebury.edu/international/sa/sustainable.
ACADEMIC & ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
Program Testing
Students at the Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad will be tested on their language competence
(where applicable) both upon arrival and prior to departure (year-long students will be tested at the
mid-point as well). Students will also be tested on their intercultural competence by completing the
Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) twice during the program. This project examines the
effect of Middlebury’s Study Abroad programs on students’ intercultural competence--the ability to
think and act in interculturally appropriate ways. As one’s experience of cultural differences
becomes more complex, one’s potential competence in intercultural relations increases. The results
will be used to develop programming to further support the development of intercultural
competence.
Academic Program
All Students
A student’s workload must be approved by the director of the School Abroad. The director can
deny a student’s enrollment in particular courses based on the student’s language ability and
academic background. All students are expected to take a “normal full load” of courses and are
encouraged to take all of their courses in one “faculty” (i.e., academic department). No students are
permitted to take lighter loads; single-semester students may not take heavier loads. Students in
their second semester abroad in the same country may petition the Director of the School Abroad if
they wish to take one additional course. The petition should address how the student plans to
balance the heavier load with the cultural opportunities available on-site. The request for a heavier
load must also be approved by the student’s academic advisor (Middlebury students) or by the study
abroad advisor (students from other colleges and universities). Any student who enrolls in an extra
course without adhering to these guidelines will have the course treated as an unofficial audit and
neither the title nor the grade will appear on the student’s Middlebury transcript. Students should
Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad
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consult their advisor or department chair if they wish to count courses toward major, minor,
distribution, or other requirements.
Middlebury Students
The number of courses a student enrolls in varies by School Abroad. Middlebury students carrying a
“normal full load,” as defined by their School Abroad, receive nine units of credit for the academic
year, four units of credit for fall or spring semesters, and five units of credit for the fall/winter or
winter/spring semesters. Middlebury students who are enrolled in a fall/winter program whose fall
semester exams all fall in December according to the official university exam period will receive four
units of credit and will be permitted to return to Middlebury for J-term. Where J-term equivalency
credit is awarded, reduced course loads result in the loss of this credit as well. If a student
participates in two different programs during one academic year and neither covers J-term, provided
the student carries a “normal full load” during each semester, he/she will receive a J-term
equivalency credit.
Students from other Colleges and Universities
Middlebury considers a semester/academic year abroad equivalent to a semester/academic year in
the U.S. The academic year at the Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad is divided into two
semesters. Start and end dates vary significantly but are usually tied to the academic calendar of the
local universities where students take their mainstream courses.
Language Pledge
To take full advantage of their time abroad, students are expected to maintain
the spirit of the Middlebury Language Pledge to speak only the language they
are studying. With the exception of our programs in Delhi and Oxford, we
expect no English to be used in the Schools Abroad offices, except in
emergency consultations with the director and his or her staff. Students
should recognize that this pledge plays a major role in the success of their study abroad experience,
both as a symbol of commitment and as an essential part of the language learning process, as proven
by the success of our summer Language Schools. Speaking the foreign language to each other as well
as to locals will help you to focus your energies on the acquisition of the language and to internalize
the patterns of communication and the cultural perspective associated with the target language.
Upholding the Language Pledge pays enormous dividends for students, both linguistically and
culturally. Students need to respect the fact that most students are strongly committed to the
Language Pledge, and violating it undermines the goals of other students. Students should be aware
that if they repeatedly disregard the Language Pledge, they will be subject to the penalties outlined in
the student conduct section.
Studying Another Language in the Target Language
Students are not permitted to start a new language while enrolled at a School Abroad. When
academically justified, and when clearly related to a student’s academic plans and interests, or if the
language is related to the target language, a single course in another language may be taken for credit
per semester. Students should be prepared to be evaluated upon their return to their home
institution to determine if they are eligible to advance to the next level. In cases with no
academic rationale, credit will not be granted. In these cases, students may make private
arrangements to continue the language at their own expense.
Work Patterns
As a general rule, work patterns in courses at the university level outside of the U.S. are different
from those in the U.S., which, from a non-U.S. perspective, are reminiscent of high school. It is
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assumed that by the time students enter university, they are capable of taking considerable
responsibility for their own intellectual development and that they have both the intellectual
curiosity and discipline to pursue, on their own, aspects of a course or of a topic that strike them as
important and rewarding. As a result, you may at first think that very little is expected of you; it may
be unsettling to find that many of your instructors do not distribute the kind of syllabus you are used
to, or, in some cases, any syllabus at all. They also may not propose specific assignments or required
reading lists.
Because no U.S.-style syllabus may be given, important announcements regarding deadlines, papers
(and topics), and exams will often be made in class. Needless to say, absence on those days may well
lead to academic problems or even failure in a course, and your absence on the crucial day will not
constitute a valid excuse for not doing the work expected. There are likely to be relatively few graded
assignments and those may be scheduled late in the term or year. Over the course of the semester or
year abroad, you will hopefully come to appreciate the very different academic system and style of
learning present in your host country. Indeed, one of the most important aspects of study abroad is
adapting to this different academic system with all its attendant challenges and payoffs.
Libraries
You should be aware that, unlike what you are accustomed to on your home
campus, libraries abroad will probably only be open during regular business hours
during the work week. There may also be different facilities throughout the city
for various academic disciplines. You may not be permitted to check books out or
even look at them without asking a librarian. Acquiring a library card may take a
couple of weeks. Thus, you may need to adjust your study habits to accommodate
this difference.
Host University Relationship
The relationship that Middlebury has with its host universities abroad is critical to the success of the
program. Many of the policies in place are based on our agreements with these institutions. One
such policy prohibits students from extending their stay at the host university without being there
under the auspices of Middlebury. Students are expected to conform to such rules to ensure
Middlebury’s continued good relationship with our host universities.
Host University Strikes
Since most of our partners abroad are public institutions, they may be involved in labor or other
disputes and strikes. These strikes can be faculty, staff, or student strikes or a combination thereof.
As disruptive and unpredictable as strikes can be, Middlebury will do its best to protect, whenever
possible, the student’s academic credit. This may require students to do alternative work, such as
attending classes outside the university facilities, working with private tutors or teachers, or moving
to another local private or public university. In the event of a university strike, it is the student’s
responsibility to keep up with readings and assignments, as if s/he were still going to class.
Student Conduct
Overview
Consistent with the cultivation of an awareness of responsibility and accountability, students found
in violation of Middlebury’s policies as stated herein or the host university’s policies and/or who
participate in prohibited acts as defined herein will be held responsible and will be subject to
discipline up to and including dismissal from their Schools Abroad program. In addition, students
may be subject to discipline by their home institution. See also Scope of Oversight, below.
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Emergency Withdrawal, Suspension or Dismissal
In addition to fostering the growth of its individual students, Middlebury recognizes its obligation to
promote the welfare of its community as a whole and to take appropriate action when that welfare is
jeopardized. To that end, Middlebury reserves the right, notwithstanding and apart from the
disciplinary procedures described herein, on an emergency basis, to suspend, dismiss, or require to
withdraw any student whose presence at any of its Schools Abroad programs is determined by the
appropriate authorities (e.g., Schools Abroad director, Vice President for Academic Affairs and
Dean of the Schools, host institution official, and/or the Provost) to pose a danger to the
Middlebury Schools Abroad or host university community or its members or to be unduly disruptive
of the living and/or learning environment of others, or who appears to be unwilling or incapable of
effectively and/or safely participating in the Schools Abroad’s academic and/or residential life
program(s). In cases of emergency suspension or required withdrawal, the conditions and
procedures for readmission, if applicable, will be determined and communicated in writing to the
student at the time of the student’s departure or shortly thereafter.
Scope of Oversight
Students will be held accountable for Middlebury policy violations as defined herein, as well as
violations of the host university’s policies and rules (as applicable) that take place between the first
day of orientation for their Schools Abroad program and the completion of the program. Conduct
that occurs at or in connection with a Schools Abroad-related event; or occurs off-site but violates
the law or may represent a threat to the safety of the Schools Abroad community or its members,
the pursuit of the program’s objectives, and/or the educational environment of others, may be
subject to the disciplinary process outlined below (see “Disciplinary Action”).
In cases where a student is found responsible for a policy violation while participating in any
Middlebury Schools Abroad program, the finding of responsibility may also be referred to the
appropriate authority overseeing the student’s home institution or any additional Middlebury or
non-Middlebury program in which the student is or will be enrolled for other action as deemed
appropriate. This may include but is not limited to: further investigation; additional adjudication
under existing policies (using only information gathered in the first disciplinary process, or using
subsequently gathered information, or both, as deemed appropriate by the overseeing authority);
disciplinary action; or other remedies or processes deemed appropriate by the authority overseeing
the home institution or additional program.
Middlebury retains sole discretion to determine whether to initiate disciplinary or other action under
its policies against a student who is or will be enrolled in another Middlebury program (including the
undergraduate program) regardless of the outcome of any disciplinary proceeding conducted by a
non-Middlebury institution or program and/or the outcome of any law enforcement investigation or
court proceeding.
Pending Discipline
A student will not ordinarily be permitted to withdraw from a Schools Abroad program with a
disciplinary matter pending. If a student nevertheless withdraws with a disciplinary matter pending,
the withdrawal will be considered a resignation from Middlebury, and the student will have given up
the opportunity to return to any Middlebury program. Notation thereof will be made in the student's
file. In extraordinary circumstances, however, the Schools Abroad director or the Vice President for
Academic Affairs and Dean of the Schools and/or the Provost, after appropriate consultation, a
review of the case, and consideration of Middlebury’s best interests, may grant permission for a
student to withdraw from the Schools Abroad program when a disciplinary matter is pending.
Should the student be readmitted to any Middlebury program, the disciplinary matter must be
resolved either before the student's return, or immediately upon the student's return. Middlebury
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may also notify all institutions or programs in which the student is (or will be) enrolled of any
pending or unresolved disciplinary matter pertaining to that student.
Prohibited Conduct
The following conduct is prohibited and may result in discipline up to and including dismissal from
the Middlebury Schools Abroad program or any other Middlebury program:
*Flagrant disrespect for persons, flouting of common standards of decency, behavior unbecoming
of a Middlebury Schools Abroad student, or continued behavior that demonstrates contempt for the
generally accepted values of the intellectual community.
*Any disruption of the educational function of the Middlebury Schools Abroad program.
*Disrespect for the dignity, freedom, and rights of others.
*Violation of Middlebury’s Hazing policy.
* Violation of Middlebury’s Policy Against Sexual Misconduct, Domestic and Dating Violence and
Misconduct, and Stalking.
*Violation of Middlebury’s Anti-Harassment/Discrimination policy.
*Violation of Middlebury’s Alcohol and Other Drugs policy.
*Violation of Middlebury’s Academic Honesty/Honor Code policy.
*Violation of the Language Pledge.
*Violation of the laws of the host country.
*Violation of the rules or policies of the host university.
*Violation of program rules or policies regarding housing.
*Violence in word or deed against another; incitement or provocation to violence; negligent or
reckless use of physical force; conduct that may reasonably be expected to exploit or coerce another;
prevention of another's free expression of ideas by intimidation, abuse, or physical force; defamation;
violation of another's privacy; unauthorized entry and, specifically, uninvited hostile presence in
another's room or office.
*Theft of, vandalism or other damage to the property of any Schools Abroad site or the property of
others, unauthorized access or entry to Schools Abroad property or that of others, undermining
authorized access to Schools Abroad property (this includes but is not limited to unauthorized use
of services, and disposition of Schools Abroad property to another under the pretense that it is one's
own).
*Failure to maintain and/or return on time instructional and/or other Middlebury Schools Abroad
equipment.
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*Disrespect for the authority of Middlebury Schools Abroad and/or host university official
(including all faculty and staff) or law enforcement personnel.
*Providing information to any member of the Middlebury Schools Abroad and/or host university
official (including all faculty and staff) that an individual knows or reasonably should know is false,
inaccurate or misleading.
*Retaliating directly or indirectly against a person who has in good faith supported or participated in
an investigation of a policy violation of any type. Retaliation includes but is not limited to ostracizing
the person, pressuring the person to drop or not support a complaint or to provide false or
misleading information, or otherwise engaging in conduct that may reasonably be perceived to affect
adversely that person's educational, living, or work environment.
Other Policies
Alcohol and Other Drugs
Middlebury is committed to promoting individual and community health, safety, and
responsibility. We expect all students to observe all applicable laws governing the possession, use,
and furnishing of alcoholic beverages and controlled substances, also referred to as illegal drugs. We
have also committed to ensuring that, in accordance with the Drug Free Schools and Community
Act of 1989, our policies concerning alcohol and drugs are clear, readily understood, and applied
consistently and equally to all students. When alcohol violations occur, students may face
disciplinary action. Serious incidents that put a student or others at risk of harm, as well as repeated
offenses, require a more vigorous response, including referral to counseling or a treatment facility,
and/or disciplinary outcomes as appropriate.
All Schools Abroad students, faculty, staff, and visitors are subject to the local laws of the host
country as well as Middlebury’s and the host university’s drug and alcohol policies, as applicable.
Middlebury does not protect students from prosecution for drug or alcohol offenses under
applicable laws and does not interfere with legitimate law enforcement activities. Law enforcement
officers may have a legal right to search individuals, and with consent or proper documentation may
search property—including residences —without prior notice. Middlebury also reserves the right to
furnish law enforcement officials with information regarding alleged illegal activities.
Overseas authorities consider illegal drug use to be an extremely serious matter. Local laws often
impose severe penalties, including jail time, for conviction of drug possession, no matter what the
quantity. Moreover, it is not uncommon for the accused to be considered guilty until proven
innocent and be held in jail. Middlebury College and U.S. officials will be powerless to help students
found to be engaging in unlawful drug use or the selling or transporting of drugs.
The following actions are prohibited:
1. Alcohol
a. Underage drinking. Only persons of legal age (21 or older in the United States or as defined by
the laws of the foreign host country) may possess or consume alcoholic beverages. Legal proof of
age, such as a valid driver's license, state issued liquor identification card, or a passport, may be
required.
b. Purchasing, serving, or furnishing alcohol for or to a minor.
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c. Selling, manufacturing, or distributing alcohol illegally.
d. Possession, production, or provision of false identification.
e. Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Driving under the
influence of drugs or alcohol is prohibited. Students who are charged by law enforcement officers
with Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and are awaiting the outcome of legal proceedings shall
have their driving privileges on any Middlebury campus (if applicable) suspended pending
disposition of the matter. In those incidents where the DUI involves an accident with injuries to
others, or other exceptional factors, immediate disciplinary action may take place.
f. Violating local laws or regulations regarding the possession or use of alcohol.
g. Engaging in drinking games and other behaviors designed for the purpose of becoming
intoxicated through the abusive use of alcohol (e.g., funnels, keg stands, “around-the-world” parties,
and other alcohol consumption based on speed and/or volume, etc.).
h. Administering alcohol to individuals against their will and/or without their knowledge.
2. Drugs
a. Using, or possessing illegal drugs.
b. Using, possessing, selling, distributing or manufacturing prescription medication without a
properly issued prescription.
c. Distributing, selling, or possessing with the intent to distribute illegal drugs or controlled
substances.
d. Growing and/or manufacturing any illegal substance.
e. Possession of drug paraphernalia that has been used.
f. Administering drugs to individuals against their will and/or without their knowledge.
Health and Community Responsibility
Middlebury believes that alcohol and other drug-related problems affect our entire community and
that each of us has a responsibility to help safeguard the community health by respecting
Middlebury’s policy and intervening in situations of abuse. Any member of the Schools Abroad
community having knowledge of an individual participating in a Schools Abroad program who is
abusing alcohol or in possession of or using illegal drugs is urged to encourage the individual to seek
counseling and/or medical assistance. All members of the community are also expected to help
protect the community health by informing appropriate Schools Abroad directors or staff members
of instances of drug distribution and/or sales.
Involvement with or dependency upon drugs or excessive or illegal use of alcohol is viewed by
Middlebury as a health concern, as well as a disciplinary matter. Any time a Schools Abroad
Director has reasonable concerns that a student's health is being compromised by alcohol or other
drug use (even in cases where no concrete evidence or direct witness is involved), a drug and/or
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Page 22
alcohol consultation or assessment, may be required. In addition, the Director may notify the
student's parents or guardian of concerns about the student's drug or alcohol use.
Good Samaritan Policy
Middlebury’s Good Samaritan Policy is intended to encourage students to seek swift medical
assistance for themselves and others without fear of penalty under Middlebury’s disciplinary
processes. Our primary concern is the health and safety of our students. We urge students not only
to take care of their own wellbeing, but to behave in an equally responsible way with their peers.
There may be times when safety concerns arise from a student’s excessive drinking or drug use, and
in these situations, students should not hesitate to seek help from the Schools Abroad staff or
medical or counseling professionals out of fear of disciplinary action by Middlebury. Under this
Good Samaritan policy, neither the student in distress nor the student or organization seeking
assistance will ordinarily be subject to disciplinary action by Middlebury for the possession,
provision, or consumption of drugs or alcohol.
This policy refers to isolated incidents only, and does not excuse or protect those who flagrantly or
repeatedly violate the Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy, nor does it preclude disciplinary action
arising from violations of other Middlebury policy. However, in cases involving additional policy
violations, Middlebury will consider the positive impact of reporting an incident as well as the health
and safety needs of the involved student(s) when determining the appropriate course of action.
This policy cannot protect students from action by law enforcement personnel, including those in
another country.
Laws, Resources, and Additional Information
For information specific to state and federal laws governing the use, possession, and distribution of
drugs and alcohol, as well as additional resources, see Drugs and Alcohol: Policies, Laws, and
Resources.
Policy Against Sexual Misconduct Domestic and Dating Violence and Misconduc,t and Stalking
Middlebury is committed to providing a campus and workplace environment that is safe and secure
for all students, staff, faculty and others who participate in Middlebury’s programs. Sexual
misconduct, domestic and dating violence, domestic and dating misconduct, , stalking, and related
retaliation, as defined by this policy, are strictly prohibited. Middlebury will take reasonable, prompt
and appropriate action to respond to sexual misconduct, domestic and dating violence, domestic and
dating misconduct, stalking and related retaliation where such conduct impacts or has the potential
to impact the Middlebury program-based educational, residential, or employment environment of
any member of the Middlebury community. Such action could include discipline such as , written
reprimands, salary freezes or termination of employment (employees); or written reprimands,
probationary status, official college discipline, suspension or expulsion from any or all programs in
which the student is enrolled or participating (students). It could also entail non-disciplinary
measures such as No Contact Orders and/or No Trespass Orders, training, and providing safety
and support services, as appropriate. Information about on-campus and off-campus support services
(i.e., counseling, health, victim advocacy, legal assistance and other related services) is available from
the Schools Abroad Director.
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Except as otherwise specified in the policy or herein, Middlebury’s Policy Against Sexual
Misconduct, Domestic and Dating Violence and Misconduct, and Stalking (“SMDVS” policy)
applies to faculty and staff employed by Middlebury, students, as well as others who participate in
Middlebury’s Schools Abroad programs and activities (see Covered Third Parties, defined in Section
2 of the policy).
Complaints of sexual misconduct (including sexual assault and sexual exploitation), domestic and
dating violence, domestic and dating misconduct, stalking and related retaliation should be made to
the director of the School Abroad and/or a Judicial Affairs Officer or Human Relations Officer (see
contact information below). The procedures for addressing complaints or reports of sexual
misconduct, domestic and dating violence, domestic and dating misconduct, stalking and related
retaliation are set forth in the full policy. However, where applicable law or the host university where
the program takes place mandate different procedures or policies, those procedures or policies will
apply.
NOTE: In certain circumstances involving alleged policy violations (e.g., involved individuals are
enrolled in or employed by a foreign university or a non-Middlebury program) the host university’s
disciplinary procedures or the local court system may supersede Middlebury’s procedures in that
location. In these situations, the Schools Abroad director, and/or other Middlebury official(s) will
work closely with the local staff or faculty at the host university (or local law enforcement, if
applicable) to ensure that the matter is appropriately addressed. Middlebury will, nonetheless, take
steps within the scope of its authority designed to prevent the recurrence of harassment, sexual
misconduct, domestic or dating violence or misconduct, or stalking, and remedy the effects of such
behavior. In addition, Middlebury retains sole discretion to determine whether to initiate its own
investigation and adjudication under its SMDVS policy regardless of the outcome of any disciplinary
proceeding conducted by a non-Middlebury institution or program and/or the outcome of any law
enforcement investigation or court proceeding.
The full text of Middlebury’s Policy Against Sexual Misconduct, Domestic and Dating Violence and
Misconduct, and Stalking is available at:
http://www.middlebury.edu/about/handbook/misc/sexual_misconduct_dv_stalking
Anti-Harassment/Discrimination Policy
Middlebury is committed to maintaining a diverse and inclusive campus environment where bigotry
and intolerance are unacceptable. Discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment, and
related retaliation, as defined by applicable law and the corresponding terms of this policy, are
antithetical to Middlebury’s mission. Middlebury strictly prohibits conduct that constitutes unlawful
discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment, as well as related retaliation, as defined
under Middlebury’s Anti-Harassment/Discrimination policy. Middlebury will take reasonable and
appropriate remedial action to prevent unlawful discrimination, harassment, and related retaliation,
eliminate any hostile environment, prevent its recurrence, and correct its discriminatory effects on
the complainant and others, if applicable.
Except as otherwise specified herein, this Anti-Harassment/Discrimination policy applies to faculty
and staff employed by Middlebury, students, as well as to others who participate in Middlebury’s
Schools Abroad programs and activities.
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Complaints of harassment, discrimination and related retaliation should be made to the director of
the Schools Abroad program and/or the Human Relations Officer. Procedures for filing and
resolving complaints of unlawful discrimination and harassment, including sexual harassment and
related retaliation in such programs are set forth in Section B of the policy; however, where
applicable law or the host university where the program takes place mandate different procedures or
policies, those procedures or policies will apply.
NOTE: In certain circumstances involving alleged policy violations (e.g., involved individuals are
enrolled in or employed by a foreign university or a non-Middlebury program) the host university’s
disciplinary procedures or the local court system may supersede Middlebury’s procedures. In these
situations, the Schools Abroad director, and/or other Middlebury official(s) will work closely with
the local staff or faculty at the host university (or local law enforcement, if applicable) to ensure that
the matter is appropriately addressed. Middlebury will, nonetheless, take steps within the scope of
its authority designed to prevent the recurrence of harassment, discrimination and related retaliation,
and remedy the effects of such
Because Middlebury is committed to cultivating a safe, healthy and inclusive community where all
individuals treat each other with respect, we ask all students to complete an on-line training course
called “Think About It” as part of the pre-departure process.
Contact Information for Reporting Under Middlebury’s Policy Against Sexual Misconduct
Domestic and Dating Violence and Misconduct, and Stalking and Anti-Harassment/Discrimination
Policy
Title IX Coordinator
Susan P. Ritter, J.D.
Middlebury College
Service Building 213
Middlebury, VT 05753
802.443.3289
sritter@middlebury.edu
Judicial Affairs Officers/Title IX Coordinator Designees
Karen S. Guttentag
Associate Dean for Judicial Affairs and Student Life
Middlebury College
McCullough 138
802.443.2024
kguttent@middlebury.edu
AJ Place
Associate Dean for Judicial Affairs and Student Life
Middlebury College
Service Building 217
802.443.5385
ajplace@middlebury.edu
Human Relations Officers/Title IX Coordinator Designees
Steven C. Collier, J.D.
Service Building, 213
Middlebury C.V. Starr Schools Abroad
Page 25
Middlebury College
802.443.3474
scollier@middlebury.edu
Earl Fechter, J.D.
Middlebury College
Service Building, 216
802.443.3426
efecther@middlebury.edu
Training and Education
All Schools Abroad students will be expected to complete live and/or online training programs
regarding sexual violence primary prevention and response, including bystander intervention and
risk reduction, information about Middlebury’s policies and procedures, definitions of prohibited
behaviors, reporting, confidentiality, Middlebury’s Title IX Coordinator and designees, resources,
prevalence, and other related information.
Academic Honesty/Honor Code
Middlebury requires complete intellectual honesty of every student in the preparation of all assigned
academic work. Work submitted must be your own. For written work you may consult friends or
native speakers about a very limited number of grammatical problems, but your work may not in any
way be corrected or rewritten by others. Exceptions to this rule must be made explicitly by the
instructor and/or director and must apply to all students. Students who violate the honor code may
be dismissed from the program. You are strongly encouraged to ascertain the format in which
faculty expect quotations from secondary sources.
Plagiarism
Plagiarism is a violation of intellectual honesty. Plagiarism is passing off another person's work as
one's own. It is taking and presenting as one's own the ideas, research, writings, creations, or
inventions of another. It makes no difference whether the source is a student or a professional in
some field. For example, in written work, whenever as much as a sentence or key phrase is taken
from the work of another without specific citation of the source, the issue of plagiarism arises.
Paraphrasing is the close restatement of another's idea using approximately the language of the
original. Paraphrasing without acknowledgment of authorship is also plagiarism and is as serious a
violation as an unacknowledged quotation. The individual student is responsible for ensuring that
his or her work does not involve plagiarism. Ignorance of the nature of plagiarism or of College
rules may not be offered as mitigating circumstances. Students with uncertainties and questions on
matters relating to footnoting and citation of sources should consult with the course instructor for
whom they are preparing work.
Cheating
Cheating is defined as giving or attempting to give or receive during an examination any aid
unauthorized by the instructor. An examination is any quiz, preannounced test, hourly examination,
or final examination. Take-homes will ordinarily be considered as examinations.
Duplicate Use of Written Work
A paper submitted to meet the requirements of a particular course is assumed to be work completed
for that course; the same paper, or substantially similar papers, may not be used to meet the
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requirements of two different courses, in the same or different terms, without the prior consent of
each faculty member involved. Students incorporating similar material in more than one paper are
required to confirm each professor’s expectations in advance.
If the director suspects a student of plagiarism, cheating, or duplicate use of written work, s/he will
gather the evidence, including a meeting with the student, and determine with the instructor whether
or not a case should proceed. If it is decided that there is a case, the evidence will be forwarded to
the appropriate administrators/faculty on the Vermont campus.
Disciplinary Action
This section describes the disciplinary process that is normally followed when a student participating
in a Middlebury Schools Abroad program allegedly engages in conduct that violates a Middlebury
policy or policies. Where other Middlebury policies specify separate processes, those processes will
apply. (See, e.g., Middlebury’s Policy Against Sexual Misconduct, Domestic and Dating Violence
and Misconduct,, and Stalking and Middlebury’s Anti-Harassment/Discrimination policy).
Moreover, where applicable law or the local university where the program takes place mandate
different procedures or policies, those procedures or policies will apply.
The director of your School Abroad is ordinarily responsible for disciplinary action. The director will
review information pertinent to the situation and may choose to consult with the other members of
the administration or faculty in reaching a determination regarding disciplinary action or sanctions.
If the director judges that the circumstances do not warrant immediate dismissal, s/he may issue any
of the following sanctions: oral or written warning(s) reprimand, short-term probationary status,
official college discipline, or suspension. Dismissal or other discipline is accompanied by notification
of the student’s home institution (or any other program in which the student is involved) and of the
parents of dependent students.
Except in cases of emergency suspension, withdrawal or dismissal as described above, or in cases
where the host university exercises its independent right to suspend, dismiss or otherwise discipline
a student in accordance with its own procedures, the following disciplinary process will apply: In the
event that a complaint or report of a policy violation is made against a student attending a
Middlebury Schools Abroad program, the accused student will be given notice of the alleged
violation and an opportunity to respond to the allegations prior to any determination or disciplinary
action by the Schools Abroad program. The notice may be given orally or in writing. The
“opportunity to respond” means that the student will be given an opportunity to
meet/communicate with the appropriate official prior to the decision. The Schools Abroad director
or other designated official shall then make a determination, based on a preponderance of the
evidence, as to whether the student violated the policy at issue. During this process, the rules of
evidence applicable to civil or criminal cases in the U.S. shall not apply. If a student is found
responsible for a policy violation, the Schools Abroad director shall determine what, if any,
disciplinary action should be taken. The Schools Abroad director has authority to take disciplinary
action up to and including dismissal from the program. The Schools Abroad director also has the
authority to refer to the matter to the appropriate authority overseeing any other Middlebury or
non-Middlebury program in which the student is or will also be enrolled for further disciplinary or
other action as deemed appropriate.
Class Attendance
In order to benefit fully from your experience abroad as well as for reasons of courtesy towards
instructors it is imperative that your arrival to class be punctual, your presence continuous, and your
participation active. Attendance is therefore expected throughout your courses, with travel or other
absences reserved for weekends and official holidays. Regular or repeated absences without a
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medical excuse or similar extenuating circumstances may result in course warnings and will ultimately affect the final grade. When disruptive to the program, this can result in the student’s
dismissal.
Students are not permitted to make private arrangements for submission of required work or
completion of exams with individual instructors. Students engaging in such activities will have their
final grades reduced.
Early submission of coursework is not an excuse to leave early, nor should work be submitted after
the deadline established by the instructor. In case of illness, students are advised to seek medical
advice promptly, so as to avoid complications. It is the student’s responsibility to keep the School
informed of his/her progress by personally telephoning the office staff, to present a medical
certificate, and to make up work missed after consulting with the instructor. Failure to adhere to
these regulations may result in a lower grade or failure in the course.
Visits by parents, relatives, or friends do not constitute a valid excuse for not attending
classes or completing assignments on time.
Exams
Students are required to take all exams when and where they are designated even if students on
other study abroad/exchange programs are allowed to opt out or rearrange exam schedules.
Students do not have the option to take exams a second time; nor will
they be allowed to have them proctored in the U.S.
This means you are required to sit for exams at the same time and place as students in the host
country. In many of our host countries, local students have multiple opportunities to take a final
exam. Students enrolled in a School Abroad are not permitted to avail themselves of this option.
Auditing
While auditing is permitted for enrolled students at our Schools Abroad, it is not recorded on the
Middlebury College transcript. The “audit” notation on the transcript is only allowed during the
academic year on the Vermont campus.
Independent Study (supervised on-site)
Undergraduates with advanced preparation and a superior record in their field may be able to enroll
in an Independent Study under the supervision of a faculty member on-site. To do so, they should
submit a letter of support from their academic adviser to International Programs at Middlebury
when preliminary course selections are made (i.e., not upon arrival at the School Abroad). Every
effort will be made to find an appropriate on-site adviser for the student, but it is not always possible.
Fees incurred will normally be covered up to the number of hours required for one unit of credit.
The program does not cover the cost of work that is not pre-approved for credit by the student’s
adviser or department chair.
Classes in the Arts (Studio Art, Dance, Music)
Students wishing to enroll in course work toward their major or minor in studio art, dance, or music
must submit a letter from their academic adviser to International Programs the semester prior to
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going abroad confirming they have reached a level of performance sufficient to make semiindependent work in the foreign context both feasible and profitable and indicating the number of
contact hours required to obtain one unit of credit (three semester hours). Every effort will be made
to find an appropriate course for the student but it is not always possible. Fees incurred will normally be covered up to the number of hours required for one unit of credit. The program does not
cover the cost of lessons or work that is not pre-approved for credit by the student’s adviser or
department chair.
Independent Project
Undergraduates with advanced preparation and a superior record in their field may
register for an independent project (“2500”) abroad. To do so, they should submit a
letter from their major department to International Programs at Middlebury when
preliminary course selections are made (i.e., not upon arrival at the School Abroad).
The letter should indicate the adviser’s (or department’s) readiness to supervise the
project and then grade it upon the student’s return to the U.S. Please note: An
incomplete (INC) will appear on the student’s record until Middlebury receives a
grade from the adviser at the home institution. The grade must be submitted by the
beginning of the next semester.
Add/Drop
Students should refer to the academic calendar for specific add/drop dates. Permission of the
director of your School Abroad is required in all cases.
Incompletes
A grade of “Incomplete” must be approved by the director of your School Abroad and will only be
granted in cases of extreme necessity (i.e., documented medical or personal emergencies). There
must be a clear understanding between the faculty member and the student as to the conditions
under which the “Incomplete” is to be removed. Students who wish to petition for an “Incomplete”
in a non-emergency situation are required to complete a special form available from the School
Abroad office at least three weeks prior to their departure. All “Incompletes” must be made up one
month prior to the end of the following semester, according to the School Abroad’s calendar. Be
sure to allow sufficient time for the material to be received and graded by the appropriate professor
before these dates. Students are responsible for ensuring that the professor receives the
material in a timely fashion. Students should be sure to keep a copy for themselves.
“Incompletes” not removed by the deadline mentioned above automatically become “F’s” on the
student’s transcript. It is the responsibility of the student to make sure that this deadline is
respected—no warnings are sent by Middlebury to the student.
Grades, Transcripts, and Transfer of Credit
The following grades are used: A, A-, B+, B, B-, C+, C, C-, D, F. Since our host
universities do not use the same system of credits and grades as U.S. institutions,
students receive U.S. equivalent credits and grades as established by the
appropriate School Abroad director. Your country-specific handbook includes
the relevant conversion chart for your School Abroad.
Students from other institutions should be aware that while your home college or university may not
indicate your grades earned abroad on your institution’s transcript, you will have a permanent
academic record at Middlebury, and applications to graduate and professional schools require the
submission of original transcripts from all institutions of higher education attended in the U.S. or
abroad.
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When final grades become available, students will be able to access them online via BannerWeb.
Students must use their Middlebury student ID number to access their grades online. Grades are
never released over the phone.
Middlebury Students
Grades are automatically transferred to the student’s Middlebury College transcript. You will be able
to access your grades via BannerWeb as soon as you complete the study abroad evaluation.
Students From Other Colleges and Universities
When you applied to the program, your study abroad advisor indicated to which address at your
home institution your Middlebury transcript should be sent. Middlebury will send one copy of your
transcript from your semester(s) abroad to this address for the purpose of credit transfer,
Additional copies may be requested in writing and for a fee from the Middlebury Registrar’s Office:
http://middlebury.edu/offices/academic/records/transcripts.
Graduate-Level Coursework
Middlebury College students who plan to use graduate-level coursework taken at a School Abroad
towards their undergraduate degree must let the Middlebury College Registrar’s Office know before
the end of their semester/year abroad. A qualified student may accumulate a maximum of three
graduate units toward a Middlebury M.A. degree before receipt of the B.A. degree, or equivalent.
Students from other colleges or universities should contact the Registrar’s Office at their home
college or university before taking any graduate-level courses abroad.
Appealing Grades
Occasionally students wish to appeal grades that they receive during their study abroad. Middlebury
periodically conducts longitudinal studies of GPAs earned while abroad and how these compare
with GPAs earned during study in the US. We have found that in the vast majority of cases, the
GPA earned abroad closely resembles the GPA of students prior to their study abroad. In addition,
grade conversion scales are reassessed periodically, and will be recalibrated if determined to be askew.
Students who wish to appeal a course grade, however, should do so through the relevant director of
the School Abroad, stating the reasons and submitting copies of all relevant supporting materials.
Subsequent appeals may be made to the Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of the
Schools, whose decision is final. Appeals must be made during the six months after the grade has
been posted.
Students should be aware that appealing a course grade will cause a thorough review of the grade,
and that it is possible that the grade may actually be revised downward. Once a grade appeal has
been requested, any subsequent evaluation by the director of the School or the Vice President for
Academic Affairs and Dean of the Schools will not be subject to further review.
If a professor changes a grade as a result of direct intervention by the student, it will not be
recognized by Middlebury. The only grade changes that are acceptable are those that result from
going through the aforementioned process.
Student Records
In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (“FERPA”), also known
as the “Buckley Amendment,” students or former students of Middlebury College have the right to
inspect all educational records placed in their files after January 1975. For more information, see
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http://middlebury.edu/about/handbook/academics/student_records_FERPA. The
Schools and Schools Abroad maintain several different types of students’ records:
Language
ACADEMIC RECORDS - A transcript for each student is kept in the Middlebury College
Registrar’s office.
SCHOOL RECORDS - The individual School offices in Middlebury and abroad keep applications,
correspondence, brief memoranda of conferences with students, and evaluations of students’ work
by instructors, when they judge that such information may be useful or necessary in giving
continuing counsel. Letters of recommendation written in support of a student’s application may not
be used for any other purpose, including a Career Services Office file.
Students may inspect and review their education records upon request to the appropriate record
custodian (Registrar’s Office Forest Hall) within 45 days from the receipt of the request. Middlebury
reserves the right to refuse to permit a student to inspect those records excluded from the FERPA
definition of education record.
Students may challenge the contents of their educational records. If School officials receiving the
challenge issue a response that is unsatisfactory to the student, a formal hearing may be held.
Requests for changes in a student’s educational record should be made in writing to the Registrar’s
Office, Forest Hall.
Students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning
alleged failure by Middlebury to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of
the office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue SW
Washington, DC 20202-5920
For purposes of legitimate interviews and recommendations, students may authorize the use of
educational academic records (information on transcript), the Schools’ non-academic records, and
the disciplinary records, if any. If students authorize the use of academic records for legitimate
inquiries (i.e., security clearances or job references), the relevant School Abroad may also indicate to
inquirers the names of administrators and instructors who might act as further references. Other
inquiries will not be answered without specific written permission in each case from the student.
Students should consider very carefully the consequences of any decision to withhold directory
information. Should you decide to inform the College not to release directory information, any
future requests for such information from persons or organizations outside Middlebury will be
refused. Regardless of the effect upon the student, the College assumes no liability for honoring
instructions that such information be withheld.
Requests for non-disclosure must be submitted in writing to the Registrar’s Office, Forest Hall,
where applicable forms are available. A new request form for non-disclosure must be filed at the
beginning of each academic year.
Change of Status
All requests by Middlebury undergraduates for changes in their enrollment status in a School
Abroad must be submitted no later than November 15 on a Change of Status Form, signed by the
director of your School Abroad, to International Programs, who will then advise the Registrar and
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any other office. This includes both requests from students enrolled in a School Abroad for the full
year who wish to return to Middlebury for the spring semester, and requests from students enrolled
in a School Abroad for the fall semester who wish to extend their stay to the full academic year or to
transfer to another Middlebury School Abroad. A student enrolled for the full year who wishes to
return to Middlebury after the fall semester is admitted for Winter term or Spring semester
(whichever will be his first semester on campus after the end of his academic program abroad) if he
advises IPOCS by the November 15 deadline. After the November 15 deadline, IPOCS staff will
email Karin Hall-Kolts to put the student on a waiting list for either a Winter term or a Spring
semester return to Middlebury.
The College and the Schools Abroad may not be able to accommodate requests for changes in status
submitted after the November 15 deadline, in which case a student who wishes not to remain
abroad would be required to withdraw from the College for the remainder of the year.
Middlebury College Email Policy
Email is considered an official method for communicating with students at
Middlebury. Official email communications are intended to meet the academic and
administrative needs of the campus community. The College expects that such
communications, many of which are time-critical, will be received and read in a
timely fashion. To enable this process, the College ensures that all students are issued a standardized
college email account during their enrollment at Middlebury. Students who choose to forward email
from their College email accounts are responsible for ensuring that all information, including
attachments, is transmitted in its entirety to the preferred account.
Learning Outside the Classroom
Middlebury encourages students to take full advantage of their experience abroad by participating in
learning experiences outside the classroom. Internships, volunteer work, and cultural activities
provide students with opportunities to deepen their social immersion in the host culture, enhance
their language skills, and gain a better understanding of their host country.
Internships
Middlebury students may earn up to one course unit depending on the school. This credit will be
assessed as a letter grade, except in Hangzhou (P/F). Students from other institutions are eligible to
take credit-bearing internships if their home school’s policies allow, or if they do not need that credit
to transfer. Volunteer opportunities are available for students who do not wish to pursue creditbearing internships, but who do wish to gain work experience abroad.
Internships are not guaranteed for any participant. They are granted on a competitive basis and
subject to the agreement of the School Abroad and the prospective employer. Placements are
dependent on availability and the previous experience, qualifications, and language ability of each
student. Interns need to dress appropriately for their work environment, thus those working in
offices will need to pack dress clothes.
Students who pursue internships are expected to follow through with
their commitment until the end of the semester. Students who
withdraw from the internship after the on-site registration period
will earn an “F” and will be ineligible to enroll in another course.
Volunteer Work
Students wishing to contribute their time and service to the
community may choose to work as volunteers with organizations
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in the non-profit sector. The School Abroad office in-country will advise students on volunteer
opportunities.
Cultural Activities
Other options that facilitate student immersion include sporting, cultural, and outdoor activities. The
staff abroad is available to advise students on the wide range of possibilities your host city has to
offer.
In-Country Travel
In addition to limited, program-sponsored excursions, students are encouraged to take advantage of
vacation periods to explore their host country.
Sports
Students may be able to join organized sports teams through the university and/or city. The on-site
staff can advise you as to the possibilities.
Research Abroad
Students should consider taking advantage of the academic and other educational resources abroad
to incorporate into a senior thesis or research project when they return to their home campus. Study
abroad is an excellent opportunity to do first-hand fieldwork in a wide variety of disciplines.
Students should consult with their academic adviser in advance of study abroad, or while abroad, to
generate ideas for research projects and research methods. Depending on the type of research
project, students may also need to clear the projects with Middlebury’s Institutional Review Board.
See http://middlebury.edu/offices/academic/irb for more details.
LIVING ABROAD
Cultural Differences
The language barrier and living as a foreigner in a strange city will present challenges. You may find
it difficult to make friends at first. Speaking English with Americans or other foreigners will alienate
local people and make finding friends from the host culture even more difficult. Venture out on
your own. Sit across the room from an American friend if you enroll in the same class. Find clubs
based on activities you are interested in, or participate in at home. Play soccer or some other sport,
audition for a part in a theater production, join a choir, learn to knit, volunteer. There is no limit to
the extracurricular activities in which you can participate. Find them, or start them yourself. Be sure
to discuss your interests with the staff in the School Abroad office when you first arrive on site.
Keep in mind how you as a student from a U.S. college appear to local citizens. Notice differences
in the behavior of students of your gender and age. Our students do not go abroad deliberately
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indifferent to local sensibilities. However, some customs and attitudes differ from ours, and it is
possible to offend someone unintentionally.
On the other hand, you could sometimes be offended by the behavior and comments made by those
around you just as well. Be aware that prejudices which exist in U.S. culture (against African-Americans;
against gays, lesbians, and bisexuals; against Asians; against Jews, etc.) may be found in your host culture as
well.
Being a Foreigner Abroad
Your foreign language skills, but also your clothes and your body language,
and the volume of your speech will make you recognizable as a foreigner.
Once you are settled, your time might be well spent observing the locals and
identifying various ways in which their appearance and demeanor are different
from what you are used to. Both from a cultural as well as a safety perspective,
you are advised as a general rule to keep a low profile: speak the target
language in public, do not speak loudly; do not wear typically American
clothes even if you see the locals wearing them; do not hang out in American-style haunts.
Remember that American body language and public behavior in general often seem to your host
culture to be lacking in discretion or subtlety and that what we take to be natural may seem childish
or immature to them. Unfortunately, the same behavior in women may be taken as a sign of sexual
promiscuity. Learning to blend in can be an important part of the adaptation process we all have to
go through in new surroundings as well as of the educational process that will be taking place
throughout the year.
Anti-Americanism
As anywhere, you will occasionally run into unfriendliness, and, as anywhere, such unfriendliness
may be based on misunderstanding, resentment, or prejudices that have nothing to do with you
individually. Anti-American sentiment can manifest itself in one of two forms: political, which sees
the U.S. as oppressive, racist, and imperialistic not only abroad but also at home; and cultural, which
considers the U.S. to be the source of many of the ills of modern life, such as fast food, low-quality
TV shows, mindless efficiency, materialism, and wastefulness. One’s first encounter with antiAmerican attitudes can be very unpleasant, but remember that you may harbor some stereotypes of
your own that are going to be challenged during your stay and that one of your major goals in
studying abroad should be to see yourself as others see you. Bear in mind as well that there are
people who see the U.S. as a land of openness, opportunity, and generosity. On the whole, you
might say that most people are quite receptive to foreigners and are happy to lend a hand. Your
efforts to speak the language of your host culture will be appreciated.
Students are encouraged to prepare themselves
for conversations about U.S. foreign policies
and the reasons behind them by brushing up on
U.S. political and cultural history. It is also
critical to understand the current U.S. foreign
policy towards the country you will be studying
in, as well as that country’s current political
climate. A well-informed student will be better
able to engage himself/herself thoughtfully in
conversations with host country nationals
rather than taking criticism of U.S. policy as a
personal attack or insult.
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Culture Shock
Whatever your encounters, you may well experience some form of home-sickness or culture shock.
Generally speaking, culture shock comes in four stages: after the initial euphoria of just being where
you have wanted to be for so long, you may find yourself increasingly irritated by many aspects of
the host culture. An adjustment should follow, and finally—if you are lucky—an adaptation to both
your native and your adopted culture. Probably the best defense against culture shock is realizing
that it occurs to virtually everyone in some form or another.
The dislocation, homesickness, and discomfort you may experience after the initial excitement and
euphoria have worn off is all part of culture shock; it may help to know that everyone suffers from it
to a greater or lesser degree, whatever they say! A sense of humor and knowing what symptoms to
expect will help you get through all but the worst case. One of the first signs will be increasing
irritation and frustration with the difficulty attached to performing the simplest tasks (such as
mailing a package, buying shampoo, making a phone call). Many of the things we take for granted
are suddenly not there for us, and many of our unconscious reflexes are inappropriate or ineffective.
This feeling can lead to homesickness, depression, loneliness, and intolerance of everything that is
different about the foreign country. It helps to stay busy, especially if you can do something you do
well or something you’ve always wanted to try: find a piano to practice on, swim, sign up for a
photography course, join a soccer team. Everywhere you will see bulletin boards with invitations to
join clubs, sign up for group ski excursions or kayaking expeditions, participate in volunteer groups,
etc. You have nothing to lose and much to gain from overcoming your shyness and jumping in. Be
sure to discuss your interests early in the semester with a staff member. Some students experience a
feeling of depression halfway through a yearlong sojourn abroad in January, particularly if they have
returned to the U.S. You should realize that it is normal and will pass. (Our best advice, by the way, is to
plan to spend vacations exploring your host country rather than returning to the U.S. Visits from friends and relatives
can also be difficult.)
Gradually you will regain your self-confidence; without knowing when or how it happened you will
realize that you have begun to feel comfortable in your new environment—you will not, in fact, be
able to remember clearly what it was that struck you as being so very annoying. Students who spend
the whole year abroad generally adjust better than students only away for the semester.
When the time comes to go home, you may find that some of the things that irritated you most have
come to seem more natural than their U.S. equivalents. If you feel that your problems of adaptation
are not decreasing, or are having a negative impact on your mental or physical health, or are
interfering with your studies, do talk to your friends or to a staff member. They may be able to help
with advice, or in some cases recommend a professional counselor who is used to helping students
just like you deal with depression or homesickness.
Adjustment Process
Study abroad requires maturity and emotional stability. The adjustment pressures and relative
independence that accompany residence in another country are likely to exacerbate rather than
alleviate emotional problems. The study abroad experience should not be thought of as therapy for
those who have suffered emotional difficulties within their native environment. Limited counseling
services may be available in your host city but are not provided for by the School Abroad.
Being a Minority Student Abroad
Students belonging to a minority group should be conscious that additional efforts may be needed to
adjust to the host culture. Be aware, too, that what may appear to be discriminatory or racist
statements, questions, or manifestations may be based on insufficient knowledge or simple curiosity
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due to lack of exposure to other ethnic minorities. Personnel from the School Abroad office are
available to help students identify, understand, and respond to doubts, questions, or specific
incidents.
Being a Woman Abroad
A woman traveling on her own may encounter more difficulties than a man by himself. Some of the
best ways to avoid problems are to try to fit in, spend time with other women from the host country,
and understand the roles of the sexes in the culture in which you are living. Observe how the host
country’s women dress and behave and follow their example. What may be appropriate or friendly
behavior in the U.S. may bring you unwanted, even dangerous, attention in another culture. Try not
to take offense at whistles and other similar gestures, regardless of whether they are compliments,
invitations, or insults. Realize that, in many countries, these gestures are as much a part of the
culture as is the food, history, and language. You should, however, report to the School Abroad
Director any conduct or statements by program-affiliated individuals that you believe may violate
the program’s policy against harassment and discrimination.
Gender is a socially defined characteristic that can affect your experience abroad. Women are often particularly
aware of gender-based treatment in a foreign culture. It's good to talk with someone who has spent time in your
host country about these differences before you go. For women, as well as men who would like to inform
themselves about sexual harassment, safety, or social expectations, there are a number of books devoted to these
issues.
Gutsy Women: More Travel Tips and Wisdom from the Road (Marybeth Bond, 2001)
A Journey of One's Own: Uncommon Advice for the Independent Woman Traveler (Thalia Zepatos, 1996)
The Macho Paradox: Why Some Men Hurt Women, and How All Men Can Help (Jackson Katz, 2006)
Safety and Security for Women Who Travel (Travelers' Tales Guides; Sheila Swan and Peter Laufer, 1998)
Being Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, or Transgendered Abroad
Depending on your sexual orientation you may be granted different privileges or encounter different
challenges abroad than at home. Since many ideas we have about sexual orientation and sexuality are
culturally-based, students need to be aware of how this will affect their relationships with host
nationals, cultural adjustment and reentry, and the overall study abroad experience. These tips from
an LGBT student who studied abroad are very useful: http://www.gooverseas.com/blog/what-ilearned-lgbt-studying-abroad.
Being an International Student in the U.S. and then Going Abroad
Studying abroad affords you advantages over your U.S. counterparts. Having left your home country
to study abroad in the U.S. you’ve already learned how to adjust to a new culture, educational system,
and language. Your skills and experience may help you to enjoy a relatively smooth transition into
your new host culture and university setting. However, please keep in mind that you may still
experience culture shock, feelings of isolation, or adjustment difficulties. The staff of the Schools
Abroad does not overlook your unique situation and is ready to assist you. Just ask! Be sure to
discuss your U.S. immigration with the Office of International Student and Scholar Services prior to
leaving the country.
Students with Disabilities
Students who have disabilities affecting their mobility should be aware that many overseas public
services and institutions are generally not accessible. Mobility International USA (541.343.1284;
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http://www.miusa.org) is an excellent resource on travel for people with physical disabilities. Costs
for adaptive equipment and personal assistants are the student’s responsibility. Please also feel free
to contact Student Accessibility Services at 802.443.5936 if you have concerns about these issues.
Traveling
If you plan to travel to other countries, be advised that regulations vary and
may change with very little notice. Visas may be required. Consult a travel agent
for current procedures. Hitchhiking is strongly discouraged as a matter of
College policy. The practice is regarded by local security officials to be
extremely unsafe and is often illegal. Buses and trains provide a low-cost, safe
alternative. Rail passes in Europe offer an affordable and flexible way to travel;
however they often must be purchased in the US before you leave. For information on these passes,
contact STA Travel at 1.800.781.4040 or http://www.statravel.com. Another inexpensive way to
ride the rails is to purchase a discount card for youth. Please visit the website of your host country’s
railway for more details.
Budget airlines such as Ryanair: http://www.ryanair.com/en and EasyJet: http://www.easyjet.com/
offer inexpensive and fast alternatives if you only have a short vacation planned.
When leaving your host city overnight or longer, students must leave an itinerary, and/or
addresses and phone numbers where they can be reached with the School Abroad office.
This information will be kept confidential and used only in cases of emergency or urgent messages
from parents.
Cell Phones
Purchasing a cell phone abroad is the most convenient way to keep in touch with
friends and family. Most foreign providers offer phones at reasonable prices with
varying plans and packages. Buying one that takes a rechargeable minutes card will
help keep your expenses down. Incoming calls are usually free.
Visits from Family and Friends
Please note that visits by parents, relatives, or friends do not constitute a valid excuse for not
attending classes or completing assignments on time. Family members are also discouraged from
accompanying you to the host country at the start of the program. The most appropriate time for a
visit is after the program ends.
MEDICAL ISSUES, HEALTH & SAFETY
Medical Care Abroad
Travel and study in a foreign country can be very strenuous. It is important that
you take action immediately when an illness or injury occurs.
In the event of an illness, use your common sense about whether or not to seek
outside help. Degrees of helpfulness vary as greatly from institution to institution as they do from
individual to individual. You should speak with one of the School Abroad staff members in all cases
of serious illness and before agreeing to hospitalization.
Although medical care is readily available, the standard treatment for many types of illness often
includes hospitalization for approximately one week. If the condition is such that it can be
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controlled with proper medication brought from home, it may be possible to avoid such
hospitalization.
If any medical problems occur, please contact the director of your School Abroad. The office in
Vermont does not have a list of doctors abroad. An updated list of doctors, counselors, and private
clinics is available at the School Abroad office in your host country or on the HTH Worldwide
website: http://www.hthstudents.com/. There you will find information on medical services whose
staff includes bilingual doctors. From this website, students may also download the mPassport ®
mobile app to find local doctors or determine a medication’s availability in-country.
The treatment of students by any medical service suggested by our staff abroad does not imply
responsibility on Middlebury’s part for how treatment is rendered.
Health & Security Insurance
Students studying at a Middlebury School Abroad are automatically enrolled in a
study abroad health insurance plan through HTH Worldwide for the duration of
the program. This coverage is mandatory and cannot be waived. The insurance
provider will issue insurance cards and proof of insurance letters (required to
process student visas for some countries).
This insurance plan provides up to $200,000 medical coverage (accident/sickness) with zero
deductible. There is also medical evacuation and repatriation coverage. Each student will be given a
full explanation of benefits and an insurance card from HTH Worldwide prior to departure.
In addition to the benefits listed above, these insurance plans provide emergency service with 24hour, worldwide, telephone assistance. This service can aid students in a variety of emergency
situations, such as providing help in obtaining physician and hospital referrals. Coverage will begin
on the first day of your program abroad and will end on the last, with the option to purchase
additional months of coverage by contacting the insurance provider directly.
Each student will be provided an explanation of benefits prior to departure. Please check the
coverage provided through this policy carefully. If you judge it to be insufficient you may wish to
purchase supplementary insurance through a different provider. A list of additional options can be
found at http://www.studyabroad.com/marketplace/insurance.html. This insurance plan will not
cover you while you are in the US, so you may not use it while you are on vacation from the
program in the US or after the program finishes and you have returned to the US.
You may elect to purchase additional months of coverage if you plan to travel early to your site or to
remain after the program ends. For Extended Coverage: http://www.hthstudents.com and enter the
following code EWG-9608 on the home page under “Have a Group Access Code?”
• You should click “new” (not “renew”) because you are not renewing the plan Middlebury
purchased for you—you are buying the same plan with your own money, so this is how it
has to work.
• Student ID should be your 9-digit certificate number.
• “Valid from” should be the day after your current plan ends (or 30 days before your
current coverage begins).
• “Valid to” should be in 30 day increments from the “valid from” date (or through the day
before your current coverage begins).
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
If you are trying to extend coverage from a spring term program past June 30 of that
year, you will have to wait until after Middlebury has contracted insurance for the
following academic year, which we do in April (the rate will be slightly different, and
HTH will not let you extend coverage into a year for which we have not yet contracted).
Middlebury students who enroll in Gallagher Student Health Insurance during the academic year at
Middlebury may find themselves with a period of time during which they are not covered in any
insurance. If this is the case, either to cover a month or two prior to study abroad or a month or
two after, students may contact Gallagher directly to purchase one or two months of insurance:
http://www.middlebury.edu/offices/administration/vpfin/finance-office/bsnsvcs/student_insurance
Middlebury College has an agreement with Global Rescue for medical and security advisory and
evacuation services for Middlebury and MIIS students on college-sponsored activities abroad,
students from other colleges and universities studying at our Schools Abroad, as well as faculty and
staff traveling on college business. http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad
In the event of a program evacuation, Middlebury College has contracted for evacuation services to
extract students as safely and efficiently as we can. All students are expected to participate in the
group evacuation. Our in-country staff and resources will not be available to any student who elects
to remain behind. Any accommodations made for students after an evacuation (financial,
educational, etc.) will only be available to students who participate in the evacuation.
Global Rescue is available to assist travelers affected by medical and security emergencies while
studying, working, or traveling abroad. They are available to consult and ensure appropriate medical
treatment or safety measures are being taken. In addition, Global Rescue will arrange for the
provision of health information services through their operations team and Johns Hopkins Medicine
to include medical advice, case monitoring, hospital and clinic referrals, and evacuation
services. This consultation service comes at no cost to the traveler; any costs associated with
treatment, transportation, or evacuation will be the traveler’s responsibility.
Travelers in need of either of these services can contact Global Rescue at +1.617.459.4200 and
identify themselves as a Middlebury/MIIS traveler.
Our partnership with Global Rescue also provides travelers with access to an intelligence platform
(GRID) that ensures that you are well informed and prepared before and during your travels. This
arrangement allows you access to Destination Reports which outline medical and security risks in
your host country and other countries you may visit. Through GRID, you are also able to view alert
notifications for events that are happening around the world. In addition, while abroad, you will
automatically receive health, safety, and security reports based on your destination, along with expert
analysis and advice.
By now you should have received user log-in information and instructions directly from Global
Rescue in order to access this resource. This email is not junk; please save it. If you have access to a
smartphone/mobile device while abroad, we strongly recommend that you also download the
Global Rescue GRID application which is available at the Apple Store (iOS 5 and above), Google
Play (Android 4.4 and above), and BlackBerry App World (10.2 and above). Through this
application, you will be able to reach out directly to Global Rescue in an emergency situation via its
in-app emergency call button as well as run Destination Reports, view event alerts, and "Check-In"
if there is a crisis (or even a sketchy situation) in your host country, and you want to notify key staff
members of your whereabouts. This "check-in" feature should not be used if you are in a real
emergency situation, and need immediate assistance, unless you're asked to do this by your resident
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staff. In cases of emergency, please contact your resident staff or contacts that they will give you
during orientation, and if that fails, then Global Rescue.
Medical Precautions and Prescription Medication
To prepare for your health and well-being abroad, we recommend that you do the following before
leaving:
1. Contact your health care provider(s) to obtain a copy of your medical records to carry abroad with
you, including the following:
 Personal health history
 Updated problem list
 Medication list
 Recent physical
 Immunization record
 Hospitalizations—including the history and physical and the discharge summary.
2. If you currently receive treatment for an on-going medical concern, you should consider
scheduling an appointment with a health care provider at your site (where available) before going in
order to avoid a lapse in care as you wait for appointment availability. You may contact the
coordinator of your School Abroad to begin this process.
3. If you are currently taking any prescription medication, you should talk to your health care
provider and/or insurance company about the following:
 Prescribing enough to last you for the duration of your stay abroad (not all will do this,
especially for controlled substances)
 Getting your insurance to cover the entire amount (some may only cover one month at a
time, but you may be able to talk to them about reimbursements each month)
 The feasibility of taking your prescription medication into your host country (different
countries have different classifications for drugs and what may be perfectly legal with a
prescription in the US may present problems if you try to take it into a foreign country).
In other countries, many drugs are available over the counter, without prescriptions, that are not
generally available in the U.S. Make sure that you are aware of the ingredients of any medications
you purchase and be aware of any complications or drug interactions that might occur if you take
them.
Drug and Alcohol Abuse
Involvement with or dependency upon drugs or excessive or illegal use of alcohol is viewed by
Middlebury as a health concern, as well as a disciplinary matter. Any time a Schools Abroad official
has reasonable concerns that a student's health is being compromised by alcohol or other drug use
(even in cases where no concrete evidence or direct witness is involved), a drug and/or alcohol
consultation or assessment may be required. In addition, the Schools Abroad official may notify the
student's parents or guardian and/or the student’s home institution regarding concerns about the
student's drug or alcohol use. Many of the safety incidents that our students have experienced have
occurred when the students were intoxicated.
Please bear in mind the following so that you do not compromise yourself:
 Avoid consuming large amounts of alcohol.
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


Be aware of where and with whom you are drinking. Remember that your host country has
different social norms than those with which you are familiar in the U.S.
Remember that consuming alcohol may impair your ability to make sound judgments, and
you may put yourself in danger.
While in the U.S., emphasis is often placed on having a designated driver; people with access
to public transportation tend to dismiss the importance of having at least one member of the
group sober for the duration of the evening, and charged with seeing everyone home
safely. The Schools Abroad do not condone underage drinking nor drinking to excess in any
context, but in those instances when alcohol is involved in students' plans, it is imperative
that students make a plan to ensure their safety above all else.
Immunizations
Prior to studying abroad, all students should be sure that their immunizations are up to date. At
present, inoculations (Yellow Fever) are required only for students traveling to our program in
Cameroon, although your doctor may recommend certain ones. If you do receive inoculations
before going abroad, it would be useful to get an International Certificate of Vaccination at your
doctor’s office. Keep this document with your passport at all times. You may check the most recent
Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations at http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel.
Dental Care
We advise that students have a dental checkup prior to departure. It is wise to complete all dental
work before leaving. The study abroad insurance Middlebury purchases for you does not cover
routine dental examinations.
Eye Care
If you wear glasses or contact lenses, take an extra pair with you as well as a copy of
your prescription. Take a second pair of contacts. Contact lens solution is generally
available overseas. The study abroad insurance Middlebury purchases for you does not
cover routine eye examinations.
SAFETY
As in any city, students will need to exercise good judgment, and always remember that local laws
and regulations apply to them just as they do to the citizens of that country. In most of our sites, a
number of international visitors are victims of pickpockets operating on public transportation or on
the street. North Americans are very easily recognizable by their type of dress and mannerisms and
more often than not simplify the thieves’ task unwittingly. In social interactions in any culture, it will
take you a while to figure out who is who. At home you can usually tell quickly if a new acquaintance
is someone you want to get to know better or can trust, or if this new acquaintance spells trouble.
While abroad, you will lack the cultural background needed to make these determinations and may
miss some signals, especially at the beginning of your stay.
By adhering strictly to a few simple pieces of advice, students can minimize their exposure to unsafe
situations:
1. You should have valid identification (e.g., an international student ID card, a photocopy of your
passport, or a drivers’ license) with you at all times. Do not carry your passport with you unless
you will use it that day.
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2. Do not carry anything of value in a backpack. Backpacks are a prime target. Zippers can be
opened or material cut with a knife and wallets lifted without anyone seeing or realizing it.
Backpacks are also easy to set down, making it easy for anyone to pick them up and walk away.
Thieves have a great many tricks that require you to let go of your bag: a person may ask you for
directions, obliging you to set down your bag to look at a map, and an accomplice picks up the
bag and walks off with it; someone “accidentally” spills something on
your coat and bag then courteously insists on helping to clean it off and
takes off with the bag or an accomplice comes along and carries it off.
3. Instead of a backpack, buy a small flexible bag that you can hang around
your neck and/or a money belt to hide inside clothing to store your
passport and money. This is absolutely necessary when you change or
withdraw money. Thieves watch these places and trail their victims after seeing that they have
received a lot of money. Should you carry a handbag, wear it across your body rather than under
your arm, and with the clasp against your body. Do not carry money or valuable papers in your
hip pocket.
4. If you must exchange money, do it at a time when you can go directly home afterwards instead
of between classes, or before going out at night. In general, try never to have a large amount of
cash on you.
5. Do not carry house keys and your address, or credit/debit cards and personal identification
number (PIN), in the same place.
6. North Americans are notorious for talking to strangers and lending a helping hand. When a
stranger requests the time, a light, or directions, either ignore the request or oblige from a safe
distance, paying close attention to your belongings. Do not give anyone you do not know well
your phone number.
7. Be wary of motorcycles. While walking along the street, carry your purse on the inside next to a
building. Motorcyclists can grab your purse or cut it away in a matter of seconds.
8. Don’t wear ostentatious jewelry. It is best not even to take it abroad.
9. Before leaving the U.S., make photocopies of all your personal documents (passport, credit cards,
etc.) and leave copies at home.
10. Try to avoid large crowds, and take care if you find yourself in an inexplicable crush of people (if,
for instance, your end of the metro or bus suddenly seems to be the only section that’s really
crowded). We strongly recommend that students stay clear of any political demonstrations.
11. Avoid metro or train stations late at night or any other time when they might be deserted.
12. Go places with friends rather than alone, and do not go to someone else’s home alone or invite
anyone to yours. Cultural differences and language difficulties can lead to “misunderstandings.”
Women, particularly, should avoid behavior that might be perceived as overly friendly and
should discourage any such advances by others.
13. Traveling with host country friends, as opposed to American friends, will provide you with an
extra degree of safety.
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14. Keep emergency phone numbers with you or memorize them.
15. Students should avoid jogging alone, especially in areas or at times when there are few people
around (very early in the morning, for instance).
16. Students should not have a false sense of confidence that can come from being an outsider in a
stranger environment.
17. If you are robbed, report it immediately to the director or another staff member; you will be
advised how to report it to the police. Report any stolen credit cards immediately. If you are registered with the consulate, they can help by issuing a new passport at once and in some cases can
offer emergency funds and cancellation of credit cards.
18. If, during your stay abroad, there should occur some serious event involving
casualties, whether or not it has put you personally at risk, that is likely to get
international media exposure, we urge you to get in touch with your family
to reassure them that you are okay. Remember that what may seem like a
relatively minor local event to you could cause undue alarm back home.
19. Be alert to the people with whom you have contact. Be wary of people who
might be overly friendly or overly interested in you. Be cautious when you meet new people and
do not give out your address or phone number. Be careful sharing information about other
students or group events. Be alert to anyone who might be following you or to any unusual
activity around your place of residence or classroom. Report any unusual people or activities to
on-site staff or authorities immediately.
20. Be careful observing traffic lights. Stay on the sidewalks away from the curb and walk facing
oncoming traffic whenever possible. Drivers in large cities can be aggressive, and often erratic.
Never assume a car will stop or steer out of your way.
21. It is especially important not to call attention to yourself by being part of groups of Americans
speaking in English.
22. When traveling, avoid arriving in unfamiliar places at night and have a plan for where to go and
how to get there.
23. Remember that the host country laws and regulations apply to you just as much as they do to the
locals.
24. Be aware that cell phones are a particularly easy target for thieves, who are very good at picking
them up off tables in public places, lifting them out of pockets or backpacks, or even right out
of your hand as you use it on the street.
25. Be careful with whom you ride in a car. Some countries are less adamant about drinking and
driving and therefore driving under the influence of alcohol is more common.
Terrorism
Following any terrorist activity or potential terrorist incidents, students should keep the following in
mind in order to keep a low profile:
 Avoid traveling in groups of Americans.
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Do not speak English in public.
Avoid dressing in an overtly American fashion.
Do not spend time in areas with U.S. interests, including the U.S. Embassy, American
Express Office, McDonalds, Hard Rock Café, and other known American hangouts.
The FBI warns U.S. students studying abroad of the possibility that they will be targeted by foreign
governments to serve as spies against the United States. If anyone approaches you and offers you
cash for seemingly no reason, or asks you to apply for a job with the CIA, avoid all future contact
and report the incident to your local U.S. embassy. If you work with these foreign individuals you do
risk serving time in U.S. federal prison.
Relationships
Entering into a relationship should be approached with the same precautions as at home. It can be
very tempting to be charmed by the idea of a once-in-a-lifetime foreign romance, but you should
consider all relationships carefully, particularly when you are overseas. There are cultural values and
rules regarding dating and relationships, and the relationship norms to which you have become
accustomed may no longer be the norm. Differences in solicitation, dating, and what exactly
constitutes a relationship will not be as apparent as they are in your home culture. While cultural
sensitivity is a necessary part of adapting to your host culture, if you ever feel that your personal
safety is threatened, it is okay to put aside your cultural sensitivity long enough to remove yourself
from any uncomfortable situation in which you might find yourself. In a cross-cultural relationship,
it is also okay to share your own standards of safe sex and discretion with your partner. Proceed
cautiously, realizing that you are in the country for only a short period of time.
Avoiding Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assaults
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Be aware of how you carry yourself and dress. Even things as seemingly insignificant as
smiling and your stride will mark you as a foreigner. Avoid looking like the stereotypical
American; dressing fairly conservatively will help deflect at least some of the potential
harassers (e.g., avoid wearing short skirts on the street even if you see local women wearing
them).
An effective way to avoid stares while on the street or the buses or trains is to read.
Usually the best response to unwanted stares, comments, or touches is to ignore the harasser
and to remove yourself from the situation quickly and calmly. Although verbal responses
often work, cursing your harasser in the local language or English may result in being
assaulted. Avoidance is the safest tactic.
If you continue to be followed, spoken to, or touched after repeated attempts to get away,
try to remove yourself to a very public place. Tell your harasser firmly and calmly to leave
you alone. Sometimes threatening to get the police is effective, but sometimes the police are
less than supportive.
For additional resources and information, please visit “Resources in the Event of Sexual
Harassment, Sexual Assault and/or Interpersonal Violence” at:
http://www.middlebury.edu/study-abroad/health/assault
Staying in control of yourself can save your life. Being awake and aware allows you to pick up on
warning signs that alert you that something is wrong. In the book The Gift of Fear Gavin
deBecker describes the "gut feeling," the intuitive sense, that something is not right—that some
danger may be present—as the gift of fear. Fear alerts us if we are awake and aware and
respectful of the feelings we get. We must not override our sense of fear by saying to ourselves,
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"I don’t know what I’m worried about, I’m sure nothing’s wrong here," instead of paying
attention to that little voice in our gut that says, "I don’t know what’s going on here, but
something’s up." It is really, really important to pay attention to our intuition, that little sense of
knowing that something is amiss here, and not to dismiss it or deny it.
Nancy Newport, RN, LPC
SAFETI on-line newsletter Vol. 1, No. 2, 2000
Emergencies
The safety and security of all Schools Abroad participants is a primary concern for Middlebury
College. We have well-developed contingency plans in place for all kinds of local, national, and international emergencies. This information will be communicated to students during orientation. Phone
trees and assembly points will be established in preparation for responding to any emergency
situations that may arise. Appropriate measures are also in place in the unlikely event that the U.S.
government requires an evacuation of all U.S. citizens. In case of an emergency, our Schools Abroad
offices are staffed and ready to respond to parents’, students’, and administrators’ concerns. Our
office on the Middlebury campus communicates on a regular basis by e-mail, Skype, and/or phone
with our staff overseas.
In case of an emergency requiring your family to contact you on short notice, there are a couple of
options: (1) They can try to contact you directly by phone or Skype; (2) They may contact
International Programs (Monday through Friday, 8:30–5:00 EST), tel.: 802.443.5745, fax:
802.443.3157, schoolsabroad@middlebury.edu, and our staff will phone or send an e-mail message
to the School Abroad.
During non-business hours in the U.S. or abroad, emergency contact information
is available on the voicemail at International Programs in Middlebury. Please
remember that you should contact the director of your School Abroad in the
event of a problem or emergency. Our offices are equipped to deal with
problems and prefer to do so immediately, before they become crises.
RETURNING TO THE U.S.
U.S. Duty Free Regulations
Returning U.S. citizens may bring back $800 worth of foreign goods for personal use or gifts. If you
do have more than $800 worth of goods, we suggest you stop by the U.S. Consulate to obtain more
information on duties, etc.
Middlebury Students: Returning to Middlebury
Course Registration
Middlebury undergraduates returning to the College according to their original plan will be able to
register via BannerWeb for the following term’s courses in November (for students returning to the
Vermont campus for winter and/or spring term) and in April (for students returning to the
Vermont campus for fall term). Current BannerWeb registration information can be found here:
http://middlebury.edu/offices/academic/records/bannerweb.
It is your responsibility to check course availability and any special course requirements (e.g.,
approval-required courses, prerequisites, etc.) and to write to the appropriate department chairs well
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ahead of time for any special authorization you may need. Even senior majors may be excluded from
courses if they have neglected to do so. If you are considering writing a thesis or senior essay, you
would be particularly well-advised to communicate with your academic adviser or your department
chairperson early in the term to find out when proposals are due and what source materials you
might be gathering while you are still abroad.
Students with unpaid balances will not be able to register for courses.
Housing
Students who are participating in partial year study abroad programs must
depart from/arrive on campus at the approved dates. Failure to do so will
result in sanctions and fines so please take notice of emails from the housing
office and plan accordingly based on the college’s official, posted dates.
Fall term housing procedures begin as early as January and continue until the junior/senior on-line
draws take place in April. Students should pay attention to their Middlebury email account for
related messages and also refer to the go/roomdraw webpage for details.
Make sure your finances are settled prior to room draw as unpaid fees prevent you from
participating in the on-line draws. Questions about your financial status must be directed to the
Student Financial Services office; please contact them in a timely manner if you have concerns.
Residential Life Positions
The application process for FYC, RA or CA positions takes place during January and February. Stay
informed by referring to the webpage and reaching out to your Commons Coordinator.
Wellness House
Students who wish to reside in a quiet community which focuses on a healthy life-style can apply for
a bed in the Wellness House by visiting the webpage, go/wellnesshouse.
SuperBlocks
For details about the SuperBlock program and how to be part of an application visit the
go/superblocks webpage. This selection process begins in January and is completed in February.
Academic and Special Interest Houses
If you are interested in living or applying for a Program Assistant position in one of the academic or
special interest houses please contact the appropriate academic department by mid-January. Links to
those webpages can be found at go/interesthouses.
Off Campus Housing
Students with three or fewer terms left until graduation who wish to apply to live off campus, should
refer to the go/offcampushousing webpage for details about the process well in advance of the
lottery. The Off-campus lottery takes place in February. Students do not need to be present to
participate in the lottery.
Social Houses
If you are a social house member and would like to live in your house, please contact the leadership
of your House in January. Fall term social house rosters are due at the start of March.
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After having reviewed the Undergraduate Housing webpage (go/housing) should you have
unanswered questions about housing upon your return contact Karin Hall-Kolts.
Campus Jobs
Jobs are posted on the Student Employment website and are updated regularly:
http://middlebury.edu/offices/business/seo. Usually the majority of campus jobs are filled by the
third week after fall classes have begun. If you are planning to be abroad, it is always helpful to let
your present employer on campus know when you will be returning and ask to be re-hired when you
return. Keep in mind it is very difficult to find work at Middlebury while you are abroad, particularly
for the summer. Students interested in Resident Assistant positions upon return should contact their
Commons Office by the beginning of January for an application and/or further instructions.
Students from other Colleges and Universities: Returning Home
Please remember that deadlines for course registration and room draw vary greatly. Please maintain
contact with your academic departments, registrars, and housing offices, as appropriate, to ensure
that you are not placed at a disadvantage when returning home.
Evaluations
Evaluating your period of study abroad is one of the most valuable services you
can render Middlebury and future students wishing to study abroad, and it is one
of the most important ways you can help us maintain the highest possible
standards. All Middlebury students studying abroad are required to complete a post-program evaluation before an official transcript from Middlebury will be released. An online evaluation form will be
sent to you after your program ends.
Requesting a Transcript
Once the program has concluded and grades have been posted, Middlebury will automatically send
one official transcript to your home institution at the address you indicated when you applied to the
program. Additional transcripts must be requested by the individual in writing from the Registrar’s
Office, Forest Hall, Middlebury College, Middlebury, Vermont 05753, fax: 802–443–2063.
Transcript request forms are available for download online at
http://middlebury.edu/offices/academic/records/transcripts. A fee of $5.00 is charged for each
transcript requested. No transcripts are issued to students who are financially indebted to the
College until satisfactory arrangements have been made with the Controller. Middlebury does not
calculate class rank.
Reverse Culture Shock
It will be exciting to come home and see your family and friends and to return to your home
institution. Be prepared, though, to find that the more “familiar” the surrounding and situation you
return to, the more you may suffer from a new and quite unexpected form of culture shock! Having
adapted to a different way of doing and seeing things, you will find many aspects of American life
irritating, constraining, or unenlightened. Your friends and family will not have changed as you have;
not having shared your experiences, they will seem not to appreciate the importance of your
experience.
For some students, the difficulties of readjusting to the home culture are even greater than the first
weeks in the host country. To help you get through this unsettling experience, we suggest that you
spend time with other students who have just returned from abroad and try to build on your shared
experiences: organizing a photo exhibit, helping to prepare others for their study abroad experience,
or writing about your stay are some ways of getting over reverse culture shock—or coming to terms
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with the idea that you can now make some claim to two cultures. Students are always welcome to
come to International Programs to discuss their experiences.
Conclusion
Study abroad is a very special time of learning and personal development. What you yourself bring
to it will make the difference: in your approach to your studies and in your willingness to explore
and to understand other ways. Remember, though, that the fact that you are an American or even a
foreigner does not make you perforce of interest to the locals (as most foreign students at U.S. universities
find out). If your language skills are not up to par it will be that much harder to integrate yourself into
the host culture. Getting to know the locals can be difficult, but once you get to know them you
may also find their notion of friendship more lasting than that encountered in the U.S. In pursuing
interests outside of academics, such as internships or volunteer work, choral or instrumental music,
sports, crafts, dance, politics, archaeology, theater, and fine arts, you may meet and get to know local
students and residents better.
Above all, don’t forget that you are going abroad to be in a foreign country… and that you haven’t
really been away until you come home.
Middlebury students will not be able to access nor receive an official transcript until they
have submitted a post-study abroad evaluation upon their return to campus.
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