Go Abroad China have detailed policies and procedures to manage the things you need to do so before you come. Our pre-departure guide has everything you need to know and do, from advice on medical aids and travel insurance to information about China, the weather, emergency contact details, and health and safety information for your stay. We’ll have a pre-departure Skype chat with you and your parents to review this information, set expectations, and answer any questions you may have. There are a few important things to know and do before your trip to China to help make this a safe and fun experience.

Insurance

All our participants are required to have health and emergency medical insurance, and this cover needs to be purchased before you come. Although most of our programs include medical and emergency insurance, the basic packages don’t. You need to make sure you know which package you are on and what complimentary insurances you need. If you are taking out your own health insurance, make sure you are covered for accidents and illness, as well as emergency evacuation should you need to be flown home for emergency medical treatment. Our team is here to help you prepare and can offer advice on reliable medical insurance for your time abroad. You need to be adequately covered for your time here; our program coordinators are here to help. If you’re coming to study at a Chinese university, you’ll need to purchase their student insurance once you’re in China; the cost is no more than US$100 per academic year. We require that you send us proof of your insurance coverage in the form of either a letter from your provider or a copy of your insurance statement/card. We encourage you to take out standard travel insurance to cover you for lost or stolen property, travel documents and such.

Medical Exam and Health Management

We encourage you to have a medical and dental examination before you come to confirm that you are in good health. For students enrolled in long-term programs, six-months or more, you’ll need to get a complete physical medical examination completed as we require a medical certificate signed by your doctor. So we can make sure we can take care of you all and support you while you’re here, we need you to disclose any relevant medical information. If you have medication, bring enough supply for your entire stay. You should also bring copies of all your prescriptions, including glasses, and your medical record. Bring a letter from your doctor showing any regular medical treatments you need while you are abroad. Medication for common illnesses or ailments is widely available in Chinese pharmacies.

Travel Vaccinations

Travel vaccinations aren’t usually required for traveling within China. However, if you come from a region prone to yellow fever or cholera, you may need vaccinations. You can look at the Center for Disease Control and Protection for immunization guidelines and travel advice for China. You can also get more information from:

• Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Tel: 800 311 3435
• S. State Department Overseas Citizens Emergency Center: Tel: 202 647 5225
• Mobility International (for those with disabilities): Tel: 503 343 1284

We recognize how important your health and safety is while you’re in China, and we take it very seriously. We want to have the safest Study and Internship Abroad Programs available. To do this, we have rigorous health and safety practices, procedures, and policies. We want you to relax while you’re here, knowing you are in safe hands. Our policies and procedures are standardized across all our programs and locations, and they undergo regular review. We keep our staff trained and up to date, so that, on the rare occasion that something should go wrong, you can be confident we are ready and prepared to help. Our goal is to ensure you return home safely, having had a wonderful time with us.