Student injured or ill abroad: how to get them home

Reviewed by the AirAmbulance.org editorial team · Updated 6 November 2026 · Editorial policy

Study-abroad and exchange students often have evacuation cover through their university or programme. Knowing who to call first saves time when a student is hurt abroad.

Who to call

• The student's university or programme emergency contact.
• The insurer or assistance company named in the student's cover.
• The family's own travel insurer, if separate.

Getting home

• Doctors confirm when travel is safe.
• Options range from a medical escort on a commercial flight to an air ambulance.

Before they go

• Check whether the programme's insurance includes medical evacuation and repatriation, and the limits.
• Keep copies of passports, insurance details and emergency numbers.

General information only, not medical, legal or insurance advice. Rules, coverage and prices change; confirm with your provider and insurer.