The safety and security of students on study away programs is the first priority for Duke University, Duke Office of Global Health and Safety (OGHS), and the Duke Global Education Office (GEO). We are constantly monitoring and assessing the security conditions in and around our program sites using information and analysis from sources including the U.S. Department of State and other government agencies, Duke’s international security assistance partner International SOS, our on-site program contacts, and various U.S.-based and international news agencies.

General Safety

OGHS registers GEO program participants with the U.S. Department of State via its Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This allows students on these programs to stay informed of the latest travel advisories and alerts. 

OGHS also recommends that students sign up for alerts from International SOS, monitor local and international news, and stay in frequent contact with their host program directors and administrators. Non-U.S. citizens should explore whether their home country has something similar to STEP. Generally, we recommend that students:

  • Avoid large crowds (including protests and rallies)
  • Avoid moving around in large conspicuous groups of Americans
  • Minimize time in areas where Americans tend to congregate
  • Practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of illness
  • Share their travel itineraries with their program administrators and homestay families (when applicable)
  • Review Duke’s Restricted Regions List for travel restrictions

Where can I get more information about world events that may directly affect study away through Duke?

Besides major media outlets, GEO recommends that families and study away participants acquaint themselves with the following resources:

Additional Personal Safety Information: