Learn International and COVID-19 - Coronavirus Information

The below contains information about Learn International and the COVID-19 pandemic. During this unprecedented time, Learn International is working closely with our university partners, students and providers on how to maneuver to adapt to COVID-19 with all programming.

We have updated our terms and conditions (refund and cancellation policies) for future study abroad travel and will remain as flexible as possible with dates and deadlines. 

As the current crisis plays out it is forcing rapid changes to regulations in many countries in which Learn International provides programming. Please know and trust that we will make every effort to continue to help students study and intern abroad and build the supports for successful experiences now and into the future.

We monitor COVID-19 regularly through the CDC (Center for Disease Control), the EDCD (European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control) , WHO (World Health Organization), HSE and The US Department of State – Travel Advisory, as well as other relevant organisations. 

Note that we assess the information outlined below regularly and will update it accordingly.

Requirements for participation on a programme with Learn International

All participants must follow local laws in related to COVID-19

    • Vaccinations
    • Testing
    • Quarantine
    • Isolation
    • Social distancing
    • Mask wearing
    • Other as required

Students who will be traveling to Ireland for programmes:

  • Rules regarding travel to Ireland update regularly. Please read updates gov.ie about traveling to Ireland and for further updates on this legislation.
  • Students must read the HSE website (Health Service Executive) for updates on quarantine requirements in Ireland. Ireland will be updating their quarantine requirements regularly, so please research and understand what is expected of you prior to arrival.
  • All participants must follow airline guidelines for travel. 
  • Partners and students should reach out to LI Coordinators for any questions they have in relation how the pandemic impacts their programme.

Programmes in other destinations outside Ireland:

Students must follow local guidance for all COVID-19 requirements.

While the LI Coordinators will help guide students as much as possible, ultimately it is the responsibility of the student to know and comply with all regulations prior to departure and upon arrival.

What is Learn International doing to keep me safe?

As with everything in life, study abroad programming/travel comes with inherent risks. Here’s what we’re doing to reduce risk and make your programme as safe as we possibly can.

  • Requiring all students to follow local rules and policy related to COVID-19.
  • Provide pre-departure health and safety information on how to keep safe during your travels and programme.
  • Working with our providers (e.g. accommodation, transport, host companies, etc.) to ensure they are following government advice in relation to mitigating COVID-19 risks. This includes items such as: regular cleaning, best practices for hygiene, social distancing measures, etc. are in place.
  • An on-arrival pack and orientation with necessary relevant safety information, local government advice for best practices in relation to COVID-19.
  • We will help to source suitable quarantine housing if required by host country. *Quarantine is an additional fee.
  • Information and support on how to obtain medical treatment should you become exposed or ill from COVID-19.
  • 24/7 emergency contact number for any concerns related to health and safety.

Cancellation and Refund Policy starting:

We realise making the decision to study abroad is difficult during normal times, but with COVID-19, making the right decision can be even more challenging. Learn International is doing its best to adapt our policies to make your decision easier and to mitigate the financial burdens you might be worried about.

Please note: All students participating on a Learn International programme should obtain international health insurance and travel insurance that covers both programme cancellation and medical treatment required due to COVID-19.

1. If Learn International has to cancel your programme for health and safety concerns or reasons out of its control you have the following options:

  1. Defer your programme for one year and apply all fees toward any Learn International programmes, including virtual options.
  2. Switch your programme to another location offered by Learn International. This option is subject to availability.
  3. Request a refund.

2. If you have to cancel your programme related to COVID-19, you have the following options:

Internships, Semester Abroad, Individual Service Learning Programmes, Research Placements and Summer Abroad Schools
  1. Defer your programme for one year and apply all fees towards any of Learn International programmes, including virtual options.
  2. Switch your programme to another location offered by Learn International. This option is subject to availability.
  3. Request a refund.

Please note: All refund requests require the following documentation:

  • A doctor’s note on letterhead stating your cancellation is related to COVID-19 and how this has impacted your health.
  • Cancellation of programme in writing to Learn International.

All cancellations from 61+ days prior to the start of your programme will be subject to the following refund schedule:

  • Application fee: No refund
  • Programme Participant Fee: 100% refund
  • Housing Deposit*: 100% refund
  • Programme Fees: 100% refund

All cancellations between 31-60 days from the start of your programme will be subject to the following refund schedule:

  • Application fee: No refund
  • Programme Participant Fee: 50% refund
  • Housing Deposit*: No refund
  • Programme Fees: 100% refund less any non-refundable payments Learn International has made on your behalf.

All cancellations after 30 days to the start of your programme will be subject to the following refund schedule:

  • Application fee: No refund
  • Programme Participant Fee: No refund
  • Housing Deposits*: No refund
  • Programme Fees: 100% refund less any non-refundable payments Learn International has made on your behalf.

*Not all programmes have separate housing deposits – these typically apply to Semester Abroad and Summer School programmes.

Customised Programmes, Customised Internship programmes,  Faculty-led programmes and Freshmen Abroad
  • We work closely with your university on each of the above programmes. Please contact your university for refund and cancellation policies.
Virtual Internships
Other things to note
  • All refunds will be issued to the original source of payment.

Please speak with your LI Coordinator should you have any queries about our COVID-19 refund schedule.

How to protect yourself from COVID-19 

  • Keep a safe distance (1 meter, 3 feet) from others who may be sneezing or coughing (WHO )
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Stay home and self isolate if you feel sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Wear a face mask, especially if you are near others who may be ill
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating and after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if your hands are visibly dirty.

If you think you have contracted the virus or have symptoms please do the following: 

Steps as per the HSE and CDC

  • 1: Isolate yourself from other people – this means going into a different, well-ventilated room, with a phone so you can ring a doctor.
  • 2: Phone a General Practitioner/Physician (Primary Care Doctor) or call emergency services – for emergencies in EUROPE – dial 112.
  • 3: In a medical emergency or if you have severe symptoms dial 112 emergency services.
Learn director cara simon poses for a professional headshot wearing a brown jacket.

How To Get In Touch

If you have any questions about CoronaVirus or anything else, please email me and I will respond as soon as I am able.

Cara Simon, Co-founder & COO

Student Stories

Learn.International

Follow us on Instagram!

Contact

Learn International
17 South Main Street,
Naas, Co. Kildare.
Ireland

Learn International

Stay in Touch

We deliver news, student stories and new opportunities!