Strategies and Challenges for Creating an Inclusive Study Abroad Program

In 2013, 14,304,467 U.S. students participated in a study abroad program related to their academic course work, marking an average increase of 5.2% to the previous year among the reporting institutions. Students with disabilities continue to be significantly underrepresented in such programs. Given the consistent popularity of studying abroad, its documented benefits to students, and the documented desire for inclusion of students with disabilities, it is imperative for study abroad directors and staff to improve opportunities for this underserved population. The current practice brief addresses specific experiences with the planning and on-the-ground operations of a study abroad program to the Netherlands and Germany that included a student with a physical disability, and provides recommendations for future inclusive programs.