Campus News

UB suspends all spring study abroad programs due to COVID-19 concerns

By DAVID J. HILL

In accordance with guidance provided by SUNY, UB announced today that all remaining campus-administered study abroad programs in progress are suspended, and planned programs for the remainder of the 2020 spring semester are canceled or will be postponed.

SUNY announced its action today as well. The precautionary measure is designed to protect SUNY and UB students currently studying in countries not yet designated as at-risk locations for novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Approximately 65 UB students currently are studying abroad will be recalled.

UB, again following SUNY’s guidance, previously recalled students back from Italy and South Korea. Students were instructed to undergo a precautionary 14-day quarantine upon returning to the U.S.

UB is working to understand the financial implications for all students who have incurred non-refundable costs associated with current or upcoming study abroad or experiential learning programs, and will communicate directly with students through the program coordinator.

The university will take all steps necessary to ensure that its students have the opportunity to complete their studies, in accordance with the CDC’s guidelines.

UB is communicating daily with students, faculty, staff and visitors regarding university preparations and response to the evolving COVID-19 situation via the university’s COVID-19 information website, which also provides updates from authoritative sources, such as the CDC and the Erie County and New York State health departments.

At this time, the Erie County Department of Health reports there are no confirmed cases of novel coronavirus in Erie County, where UB’s campuses are located.