Disabilities & Neurodiversity

CU Boulder encourages all students to consider studying abroad. Whether you have a physical, learning, sensory, mental health, or chronic health condition, we believe in your right to explore the world - with the support and preparation you need to succeed.

The Disability Services Office at CU is your first stop. They’ll collaborate with you and Education Abroad to determine what accommodations are possible based on your program and destination. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit the Disability Services website. 

 

Planning Ahead:

The earlier you begin planning, the better. Together, we can help ensure a smooth, informed, and empowering experience abroad:

  • Talk with your Program Manager and Disability Services about your needs
  • Share any accommodation requests as soon as possible, ideally right after program acceptance
  • Explore how disability access looks in your host country - services and norms may differ
  • Be flexible, open to alternatives, and ask questions early and often
  • Prepare to get enough medications you may be taking well ahead of time and have enough for the entirety of your time abroad.
  • Learn key phrases about your condition in the host country’s language, especially if you might need medical or emotional support.

Useful Resources to Begin Your Exploration

"Admittedly, I did not know if it would be possible to go abroad as someone with a disability at first, but I advocated for myself and asked questions despite the beliefs of others thinking that I could not go abroad I participated in excursions that I never thought of doing before and saw the power of language and culture”

— Juanita Lillie, ISA Costa Rica

Scholarships & Fellowships


Student Stories and Advice

Acknowledgments

We gratefully acknowledge Diversity Abroad and MIUSA, whose materials we refer to on this site.

  New Zealand by Alida Kress

Disclaimer: This page is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement by the University of Colorado Boulder or Education Abroad. CU Boulder Education Abroad is not an agent for these organizations.