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A student injured or ill abroad

Reviewed by the AirAmbulance.org editorial team · Updated 20 October 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.

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When is the flight needed?
Patient's general condition
Type of transport

Questions

Do study abroad programmes include evacuation cover?

Many do, through university insurance or assistance programmes; check the limits and conditions.

Can parents fly out to help?

Some policies pay for a family member's travel when a student is hospitalised; check the cover.

What if the student's cover isn't enough?

Compare escort and air ambulance quotes, and ask the insurer what they'll pay.

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