University of Minnesota International Travel Funding

The University of Minnesota Global Programs & Strategy Alliance offers funding opportunities to faculty and staff for international travel to support the internationalization of the University through research, teaching, and outreach including site visits related to study abroad program development.

NOTE: International Travel, Health & Security Insurance

• The University’s approved international travel, health & security insurance is required for awardees
• Insurance is provided after international travel registration is complete

Traveling abroad on University business requires a great deal of planning. Below are some resources to help you. 

Registering International Travel

The University’s Travel Policy requires all faculty and staff traveling abroad for University purposes to register their travel. Information on travel plans will remain confidential and connected only to an individual employee in case of an emergency. When you register, you will be provided with important health, safety, and logistical updates and assistance from the University before, during, and after your international travel.

GPS Alliance Travel Resources

The Global Programs and Strategy Alliance (GPS) is the central international office for the University of Minnesota system. The GPS Alliance is the driving force for the University of Minnesota in globalizing teaching, learning, research, and engagement. They provide travel resources to assist University students, faculty, and staff in their travels abroad.

Policies & Procedures

The University of Minnesota Policy Library provides essential information for employees traveling on University business. 

Faculty-led Study Abroad Program Emergency Response Protocol

If you are leading a study abroad program, you must be prepared to handle any emergency, either perceived or real, before leaving the U.S. As part of this process, the University requires all program leaders to complete the program leader health and safety training within 12 months prior to the program departure date and complete and submit the Emergency Plan Form to our office prior to departure. It is important to also share this information with students. Details about this will be provided to you as you prepare to depart for your program.

Health & Safety

To minimize health and safety risk, the University requires insurance for:

• All University of Minnesota faculty and staff traveling abroad with students (whether education abroad program or otherwise)
• All University of Minnesota faculty and staff traveling to Cuba for University purposes
• All University of Minnesota faculty and staff who are NOT covered by insurance through their UPlan medical plan

Visit Health & Safety for policy information and enrollment materials regarding Student Travel and Education Abroad.

>> Read more at the GPSA webpage about international insurance.