International Travel Policy

As a global engaged campus, Swarthmore’s community is actively engaged in activities that require travel outside of the United States.  Global educational experiences and research collaborations are invaluable and central to the College’s mission. However, international travel also entails hazards that require precautionary measures, mitigation strategies, and careful advance planning by individuals. 

The International Travel Policy establishes a set of guidelines and requirements for Swarthmore Global Travel.  This policy does not extend to foreign projects/ activities that are wholly for personal reasons and lacking any financial or administrative support from the college.  Pre-travel requirements as described apply to all audiences. 

International Travel Policy

1.

There are specific parameters that define Swarthmore Global Travel.

See definition here.

2.

All Swarthmore Global Travel by students will be reviewed.

International travel to locations (countries, regions, or cities) designated as low or moderate will typically not require formal pre-authorization by the ITRMC, unless other risk factors that must be considered in relation to the proposed activity and/or travel.   

3.

“Elevated Risk” Swarthmore Global Travel (by anyone) must be approved by ITRMC.
Any proposal for Swarthmore Global Travel by students/faculty/staff that is identified as “Elevated Risk” will be reviewed by the International Travel Risk Management Committee (ITRMC). Elevated risk travel is defined here.  Such requests must be approved to proceed.  Additional information will typically be required to evaluate risk factors.

Risk-related decisions are conditional. Geopolitical situations can pose unpredictable security concerns. Following a determination, ITRMC may be required to revisit an approval should circumstances alter from existing knowledge of conditions. 

4.

Swarthmore  Global Travel must be registered.

All students/faculty/staff traveling overseas on travel that is funded or sponsored by Swarthmore must submit their information to the Travel Registry. This information is used for emergency preparedness and for providing assistance in the event of a health or other emergency while the traveler is abroad.  

5.

Travelers are expected to be informed and mindful.

Students/Faculty/Staff should understand the risks associated with their trip, be informed about local conditions at their destination, carefully plan for contingencies, follow advice provided, and exercise caution once they arrive at their destination. 


Governance of the International Travel Policy

It is the charge of the International Travel Risk Management Committee (ITRMC) to develop policies and procedures concerning international travel by members of the College community and to disseminate appropriate information and resources. This work is supported by additional members of the community as deemed necessary by the Provost. For safety and insurance purposes, all international Swarthmore Global Travel must adhere to the policies of the ITRMC.

ITRMC Members (2024-2025):

  • Tomoko Sakomura, Provost & Dean of the Faculty/ Kathleen Howard, Interim Provost & Dean of the Faculty
  • Sharmaine LaMar, General Counsel (ex officio)
  • Alice Turbiville, Associate Vice President for Finance & Assistant Treasurer
  • Cat Norris, Associate Dean of the Faculty for Academic Programs and Research
  • Eric Jensen, Dean of Academic Success
  • Carina Yervasi, Executive Director, Global Engagement Office
  • Lauren Owens, Director of Operations, Global Engagement Office
  • Jena Fioravanti, Director, Office of Research Integrity and Engagement