Wake Forest: Fall 21 Study Abroad Important Updates and Reminders (Affiliate programs)

by Betsy Chapman, Ph.D. ('92, MA '94)

This message was sent to students on Affiliate (non-WFU) study abroad programs in Fall ’21. 

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Dear Fall 21 study abroad students on Affiliate (non-WFU) programs,

With the semester coming to a close, we are writing with several important updates and reminders. Please read the following items carefully:

Omicron Variant
Over the last several days, you have certainly read reports about the recently identified Omicron variant of the coronavirus. Like Wake Forest, we know your various programs are closely monitoring the situation. If there are any changes to program activities that result from emerging information, then your Affiliate programs will communicate information directly to you.

Cross-Border Travel
Wake Forest continues to recommend that students not travel outside of their host country as we know that border controls and travel restrictions can change quickly. It is likely that your Affiliate programs have offered similar recommendations. It is a good idea to use any free time in the coming weeks to explore your host city or country.

U.S./Home Country Entry Requirements
For those students returning home to the U.S. after the study abroad semester, remember that the CDC requires all incoming travelers to the United States to provide proof of a negative Covid-19 viral test taken no more than 3 days before the flight’s departure. You should be mindful of any non-direct or connecting flights to the US and make sure that you aren’t testing too early.  You must show proof of your negative test before you board your flight. With this in mind, please start to make your preparations now for obtaining your test. In the weeks prior to your departure, you should limit travel and take all regular measures to mitigate potential exposure to Covid. Consult with the on-site staff of your Affiliate provider if you have any questions. For students returning to countries other than the US, you should check with that country’s consulate for any testing requirements and necessary timelines.

Flu Vaccination Requirement
Before the start of the spring 2022 semester on the Reynolda Campus, all students are required to submit proof of a flu vaccination (or request a religious or medical exemption). As a study abroad student, if you have had your flu shot abroad, then upload your proof in the Student Health Portal by December 15. If you are going to wait until you return home to get your flu shot, then you have until January 7 to upload proof of your flu vaccination. Any documentation not on file by this latter date will result in an inability to access WFU housing and being dropped from WFU spring courses.

Thank you for making it through this message. If you have any questions that aren’t addressed in this message, then please feel free to contact us at studyabroad@wfu.edu or reach out to your on-site staff at your Affiliate program.  Also, please continue to check your email regularly until the completion of your program, and on occasion check during the winter break in case there are general WFU updates that pertain to the spring semester.

Good luck with your upcoming exams and all the best for the remainder of your time abroad!

Sincerely,

David F. Taylor
Assistant Dean for Global Study Away

Contact

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