Dear Students,

We write to you with an update on the COVID-19 outbreak, specifically in regard to the escalated warnings and global health advisories from the US Department of State and the CDC. Columbia students currently in Europe received a note last night from us, asking them to act swiftly to change their flights back to their permanent residence, and we are now in touch with all Columbia students and all students from other schools participating in a Columbia-Led program with instructions to initiate the safe and orderly return of all our students from abroad.

We understand this will cause disruption and concern and our goal is to provide clear directions that will allow you to act quickly, to first and foremost, secure your trip back to your permanent residence. The rapidly changing nature of the COVID-19 outbreak demonstrates that conditions throughout the world are becoming unpredictable in nature. Many areas throughout the world are now experiencing COVID-19 outbreaks and taking action that may limit traveler mobility, including quarantines and border restrictions. Even countries, jurisdictions, or areas where cases have not been reported may restrict travel without notice. Therefore, we urge all students to comply immediately with the below.

Contact your airline immediately to book a flight to your permanent residence (whether in the US or elsewhere). Any individuals impacted by the Proclamation issued by the White House should book flights to the US for departure before 11:59pm, on Friday March 13, 2020. Current travel restrictions do not prevent US citizens from entering the country now or after March 13; however, travel restrictions could change and there is an increased demand on travel to the US. Please note that students returning to the U.S. from Europe may be subject to self-isolation and other measures. Other restrictions may be in place for those returning to other locations, please check exit/entry requirements for your destination.

If you experience challenges in coordinating your travel or have questions about returning to your permanent residence, contact us immediately so we may assist.

Once your flight is confirmed, please reply to this message or contact us so we may also track your flight information. You should also update ISOS MyTrips account here. Please also inform your program of your departure.

Non-Columbia students may act upon direction from their home institution but if assistance from Columbia is needed, please reach out to us for help.

We are asking you to work quickly in a short period of time and understand you may have many other questions, about finance, academics and more. We can advise on other concerns you may have shortly. Please continue to work with your UGE case manager regarding these questions and concerns.

Thank you for your cooperation. This truly is an unprecedented situation and we appreciate your help in supporting our efforts to secure your health, safety and safe passage home.

Sincerely,

Shannon Marquez
Dean of Undergraduate Global Engagement