We aspire to preeminence as a comprehensive 

Global research university

—GW President Thomas J. LeBlanc

Global Engagement

Columbian College encourages international and cross-cultural perspectives among our extensive community of distinguished scholars and diverse undergraduate and graduate students. A broad liberal arts education guides our students to use their knowledge to examine the critical issues that impact our region, nation and the world beyond. In addition, we are engaged in collaborative international research partnerships that are advancing a wide range of artistic, social and scientific imperatives.

Message from the Dean Regarding Student Visa Policy

Dear International Students:

This week, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced new guidelines for nonimmigrant students taking online courses during fall 2020 semester.

In the wake of these modifications, I write to assure you that the entire Columbian College community—our academic chairs and program directors, our faculty members and administrative staff—stand by our international students. You are a valued and important part of our community, and we welcome the diversity of experiences and depth of scholarship you bring to our campus. During the days and weeks ahead, we are committed to working with you and with the American Council on Education to find a way forward in the face of this modified policy.

The pursuit of new knowledge knows no borders. We are a global research university with a core mission to advance excellence and opportunity. We encourage international and cross-cultural perspectives because we understand how vital it is to the learning experience. Let me assure you that we are more steadfast than ever to removing obstacles to learning and helping each of you achieve your academic goals.

Sincerely,

Dean Paul Wahlbeck

CCAS Interim International Travel Policy  

What Qualifies as Essential Travel?

• International travel may be considered essential if avoiding or delaying would cause harm to university operations, would result in loss of existing grant funding, or would result in failure to meet contractual obligations that cannot be renegotiated or postponed. 
• For faculty, staff, and graduate students, essential travel for research is defined as travel that cannot be postponed or whose purpose cannot be fulfilled by alternative methods and is required to preserve the results of an ongoing research activity.  
• All travel by and with undergraduate students is considered nonessential.

Important Things to Consider and Review Before Applying for Essential Travel

• Any international travel by faculty and staff undertaken in connection with their GW responsibilities fall within the scope of this policy, regardless of funding source.
• No costs incurred for international travel will be reimbursed without prior approval of the proposed travel. Prior purchase of any airfare or other expenditures associated with travel prior to approval is at the travelers own risk.
• Additional costs that may occur as a result of preventative quarantines, travel restrictions and the like are the responsibility of the traveler. Please familiarize yourself with the Acknowledgement of Travel Responsibilities and Limitations of Support.
• University assistance in the form of health, security, and legal support is not extended for unapproved trips by GW faculty, staff, or students.
• For GW travelers returning to their “home” country or country of citizenship, please be aware that travel is not prohibited, but the traveler may not have access to GeoBlue or U.S. Department of State services.
• Any program approvals would be contingent on updates to the interim policy and changing conditions worldwide. The Office for Study Abroad, the Office of International Programs, and the Office of CCAS Global will remain in communication with any travel organizers regarding updates to GW policy and next steps for proposed travel.

What is the Process for requesting Essential Travel Approval?

All proposals are reviewed by the Office of CCAS Global in the following process. Only after receiving the notification of Dean's Office's approval may the Requestor begin travel plans. 

Step 1: Complete the Essential International Travel - Approval Request Form.

CCAS will first determine if the travel request meets the essential travel guidelines. Please also be sure you have reviewed the Acknowledgement of Travel Responsibilities and Limitations of Support. Once the travel request is deemed as essential, the Requestor will be notified to proceed to Step 2.

Step 2: Complete the Essential Travel Risk Awareness and Mitigation Questionnaire.

The Requestor will receive a link to complete the Essential Travel Risk Awareness and Mitigation Questionnaire. In this phase, the Requestor will provide information regarding Risk Awareness and Mitigation Plans to demonstrate the viability of this travel plan. If the risk mitigation plan is satisfactory, the Requestor will proceed to Step 3.

Step 3: Register Travel in GW Passport.

CCAS Global will only approve the travel request if it is deemed both essential and viable. We will communicate any approval decisions made by the CCAS with the Office of International Programs (OIP). OIP will reach out to the Requestor directly to register their travel in the GW Passport system. Travel may NOT occur until the travel registration in the GW Passport system is complete.

Resources required to complete Request Forms can be found on GW Global.

International Visiting Scholars Program

What We Do

The Columbian College of Arts & Sciences Global Initiatives Office's mission is to advance the College's international priorities through world-class education, education diplomacy, and engagement with the world. 

Global Engagement Highlights