Student Travel

Western Michigan University students may travel off campus for approved academic, co-curricular, and other University-related activities, including conferences, performances, competitions, internships, and class trips. Travel does not have to be part of a course to qualify as University-related travel.

Travel Approval and Department Responsibilities

The sponsoring department is responsible for approving student travel, confirming that funding is available for allowable expenses, and completing required travel procedures.

A Travel Authorization must be completed for all University-related student travel, following WMU's standard travel authorization process. Faculty or staff accompaniment is not required unless specified by the sponsoring department or program.

Clery Act Information and Student Travel Reporting

The federal Clery Act requires colleges and universities participating in federal financial aid programs to collect and disclose information about certain crimes occurring on and near campus, including at qualifying locations associated with University-sponsored student travel.

For all University-sponsored student trips to off-campus locations, the sponsoring department must complete the WMU Student Trips to Off-Campus Locations Form within 30 days of travel. This reporting requirement is separate from the Travel Authorization process; both must be completed when applicable.

Student Travel Insurance

Students are not covered by the University's Travel Accident Insurance Program, except when participating in an approved study abroad or University Athletics trip for which applicable coverage has been arranged.

International Student Travel

All students traveling internationally for University-related activities, including travel with a WMU-approved registered student organization (RSO), must register with the Haenicke Institute for Global Education (HIGE) before departure. This requirement applies even when travel is not part of a formal study abroad program.

HIGE provides international travel guidance, health and safety resources, and information about available student travel insurance and related requirements. Students are responsible for completing registration and reviewing applicable guidance before departure.