Texas Tech University

Accessibility



A myth about study abroad is that students who experience disability cannot participate. We are here to bust that myth! Texas Tech students with different abilities and needs study abroad every single year.

 

The Study Abroad team encourages all students to consider building study abroad into their degree plan at Texas Tech. We welcome students of all abilities who meet Texas Tech Study Abroad eligibility requirements to participate in our programs. Many students mistakenly believe that study abroad is not possible because of a medical condition or disability. The key is to plan early and, as you plan, consider how you will balance your goals for studying abroad with your abilities.

While we cannot guarantee that all of our program sites can accommodate your unique needs or interests, we will do our best to inform you of your options. If you would like to discuss any aspect of the study abroad experience, whether it relates to your abilities or otherwise, please contact Texas Tech Study Abroad.

Things to Consider

Meet with your Academic Advisor to discuss the best time for you to study abroad.

Include your family in the planning process so they understand how study abroad can benefit your goals and interests. Encourage your family to review the Parents, Guardians & Mentors section of the TTU Study Abroad website for more information.

Talk to your TTU Study Abroad Counselor about which program(s) would best meet your needs. 

Learn about your financing options and how to utilize financial aid and scholarships for study abroad.

Consider ways to make your international experience even more impactful. Think about incorporating an international internship, research project or service-learning into your international program. These unique opportunities will help you develop important contacts and skills for your future career.

Take ownership of the process! We understand the study abroad planning process will include many steps. Set yourself up for success by planning ahead. Be sure to keep track of application deadlines, funding opportunities, and program requirements.

TTU Campus Resources

How TTU Study Abroad Can Assist

To assist with what may be a challenging transition from your life in the U.S., our staff is committed to do the following:

  • Share resources and information about accessibility issues abroad.
  • Include discussion in advising appointments and pre-departure orientation about accessibility issues abroad, and differences in host country attitudes for students with emotional, mental, learning, and/or physical disabilities. 
  • Assist you in finding an appropriate study abroad program in conjunction with the National Clearinghouse on Disability and Exchange and Mobility International U.S..
  • Provide resources about managing different abilities, health, and wellness outside of the U.S. such as the Abroad with Disabilities Facebook page started by Juanita Lillie, a student from Grand Valley State University who studied abroad in Costa Rica. The page posts and compiles many great resources, and seeks to be a space where students can openly ask questions to others and also share their experiences abroad and make suggestions for future students.
  • Communicate with the our international partners to make clear the accommodations you may need.

Speak with a Study Abroad Counselor

Do you or your family have any concerns related to study abroad? Your Study Abroad Counselor can assist with your questions, like:

  • What opportunities and challenges have other students with disabilities faced as they prepare to travel abroad?
  • Can I be connected with students and alumni with similar identities as me?
  • What on-campus support and resources will I have access to overseas?
  • How will study abroad help me reach my academic, personal and professional goals?
  • Will my TTU financial aid and scholarships count towards my study abroad program?
  • What advice do you have for students with disabilities who are thinking about study abroad?
  • What impact can going abroad have on my future career path?

Schedule an appointment with a Study Abroad Counselor.