USM Faculty-Led Programs: Updated August 2023

The University has the right, in its sole discretion, to cancel the Program or any aspect thereof prior to departure; and, in the University's sole discretion to cancel the Program or any aspect thereof after departure, requiring that all participants return to the United States if the University determines or believes that any person is or will be in danger if the Program or any aspect thereof is continued. If the Program is changed or canceled, the only responsibility of the University is to refund all uncommitted monies and deposits students have paid to the program. If changes in the Program are minor, the University does not have to refund any amount. 
In addition to refunding all uncommitted monies, the Office of Study Abroad will attempt to recover any committed costs possible, and those recoverable costs will be refunded to students. In most circumstances though, committed costs for housing, excursions, and onsite transportation are not recoverable. In situations where a program is suspended after the start date, our first priority is to help students, faculty, and staff return home safely and transition modes of learning when possible. 

If USM determines that a program must be canceled prior to departure, program deposits will be refunded. In addition, a refund will be issued for program fees or tuition that have already been paid. Most programs include a group flight option. If students choose to purchase an individual flight, the Office of Study Abroad encourages them to add on flight insurance and be sure there is flexibility for any date changes that arise. USM will issue no refunds for individual flights purchased. Once group flights are ticketed (usually about five weeks prior to departure), if the program is canceled, students will be charged for the flight on SOAR and will be provided a flight voucher or credit based on airline regulations.  

If USM determines that a program must be suspended after the program start date, all uncommitted and recoverable funds will be refunded to the student. Every effort will be made to modify the mode of instruction for courses underway so that students may complete the academic coursework and receive credit. No tuition reimbursements will be provided.


Exchange, Affiliate, and Non-affiliate programs: 
If students choose to participate in an exchange program, affiliate, or non-affiliate program, refunds are at the discretion of the host institution or third-party provider.  

 

Upon acceptance, the $300 program deposit is non-refundable except in cases of course cancellation or *special circumstances. In the event you have to withdraw from your program or become ineligible, you will be held to the outlined withdrawal penalties. Penalties are charged based on unrecoverable costs the Office of Study Abroad has spent on your behalf as a part of your acceptance to the program. Withdrawal penalties will be charged to your SOAR account. Additionally, any study abroad specific scholarships will be rescinded. 
*If your withdrawal is due to circumstances beyond your control, you can submit an appeal for a partial refund of the program deposit. 

Withdrawal Penalties

- From acceptance into the program to 90 days prior-to-departure, the withdrawal penalty is a minimum of $300 and up to 30% of the program fees.

- Withdrawal from the program at 60 days prior-to-departure, the withdrawal penalty is a minimum of $400 and up to 50% of the program fees + any group flight cancellation costs.  

- Withdrawal from the program at 30 days prior-to-departure, the withdrawal penalty is a minimum of $500 and up to 100% of the program fees + any group flight cancellation costs. 

Note: In order to withdraw from the program, you must submit a written notice to the Office of Study Abroad. Notice can be sent to studyabroad@usm.edu or emailed to the program manager.