EMERGENCY INFORMATION
Your health and safety is our top priority at IAU. In the event of an emergency, IAU has trained personnel available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to support students. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent medical or police assistance, call the local emergency number: 112. After contacting local emergency services, students should notify IAU as soon as it is safe to do so at the numbers listed below.
For non-emergency questions or concerns, please contact the U.S. Office of Admissions & Alumni Affairs at enroll@iau.edu/+1 800-221-2051
On-Site Emergency Contacts
In the event of an emergency on-site, please contact our team members below corresponding to each IAU center location.
Please note: These numbers should only be used in emergency situations including arrival day updates, student emergencies while abroad or by home institutions. For non-emergency situations please contact the U.S. Office of Admissions & Advancement via email at enroll@iau.edu or via phone at 1-800-221-2051.
Aix-en-Provence
Emergency phone number: +33 (0)6 82 20 28 74
Primary Emergency Contact: Dr. Mary Boyington, Dean of Students
When dialing from:
U.S.: 011.33.6.82.20.28.74
Within France: 06.82.20.28.74
Within Europe but outside of France: 00.33.6.82.20.28.74
Primary Address:
8 Rue de Littera
13100 Aix-en-Provence, France
Barcelona
Emergency phone number: +34 648 77 07 90
Primary Emergency Contact: Dr. Ignasi Pérez, Vice President for Spain & Italy Programs
When dialing from:
U.S.: 011.34.648.77.07.90
Within Spain: 648.77.07.90
Within Europe but outside of Spain: 00.34.648.77.07.90
Primary Address:
Carrer d’Ausiàs Marc, 25
08010 Barcelona, Spain
Madrid
Emergency phone number: +34 60 156 97 84
Primary Emergency Contact: Yolanda Charlán, Madrid Center Director
When dialing from:
U.S.: 011.34.60.156.97.84
Within Spain: 60.156.97.84
Within Europe but outside of Spain: 00.34.60.156.97.84
Primary Address:
Calle Colegiata, 9
28008 Madrid, Spain
Florence
Emergency phone number: +39 339 35 28 390
Primary Emergency Contact: Mattia delle Piane, Florence Center Director
When dialing from:
U.S.: 011.39.339.35.28.390
Within Italy: 339.35.28.390
Within Europe but outside of Italy: 00.39.339.35.28.390
Primary Address:
Piazza della Repubblica, 6, 5th floor
Florence, Italy 50123
HEALTH & WELLNESS SUPPORT
Studying abroad is an exciting and rewarding experience, and thoughtful preparation plays an important role in supporting your health and well-being while overseas. IAU is committed to fostering an environment where students feel supported, informed, and empowered to care for their well-being throughout their time abroad. It is essential that students take proactive steps before departure to understand how their personal health needs may be managed in an international setting.
Prior to travel, students should consult with their current medical or mental health providers to discuss continuity of care, medications, and strategies for maintaining well-being abroad. If you take medication, it is important that you bring enough medication for your entire program and keep it in its original, labeled packaging alongside copies of your prescriptions and any relevant medical documentation. Students are also encouraged to familiarize themselves with general health guidance for their host country and any planned travel destinations through reputable public health resources such as the U.S. Embassy Search for your destination, Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
During the application process, students have the opportunity to share relevant information that may help IAU support their experience abroad, including planning medical care, accommodations, or access to local resources. This information is handled confidentially and allows IAU staff to assist with advance planning when appropriate.
Once on site, students have access to IAU staff who can help connect them with local medical providers, mental health resources, and support services. Students are encouraged to reach out early and communicate openly if they have questions, concerns, or need assistance at any point during their program.
IAU's Commitment to Health & Security
IAU prides itself on having experienced staff who are committed to the safety and security of each and every student. Alongside this solid background of experience, our framework for risk management, emergency preparedness, and student-well being align with best practices established by the NAFSA: Association of International Educator Health and Safety Guidelines for Study Abroad and the Forum on Education Abroad Standards of Good Practice.
IAU’s proactive approach to student safety includes the following measures:
- Secure on-file copies of student passports and visas, accessible to appropriate IAU staff in the U.S. and abroad.
- Health, wellness, and accommodation information collected during the application process, including physician confirmation of good health when required.
- Confidential emergency contact records for parents/guardians and home institution advisors.
- Included international health insurance coverage for all students, including major medical care, repatriation, and medical evacuation.
- Pre-arrival materials provide guidance on personal safety, preventive health practices, and local laws and customs.
- On-site orientation includes:
- List of English-speaking doctors, medical specialists, and mental health providers at each site
- Emergency procedures and how to access medical and police services
- Local safety considerations
- Cultural norms and expectations
- Ongoing reminders and safety updates are shared by Deans, On-Site Directors, and the Office of Student Life.
- Distribution of IAU identification cards listing Institute contact information and local emergency numbers.
Student Commitment to Health & Safety
While IAU provides comprehensive support and resources, a safe and successful study abroad experience is a shared responsibility. Students are expected to take an active role in maintaining their own health, safety, and well-being by adhering to the following responsibilities:
- Comply with all local laws, regulations, and cultural norms.
- Understand and abide by the ACM-IAU Student Handbook, relevant ACM-IAU Housing Agreement, and ACM-IAU Policies.
- Attend mandatory orientations and safety briefings and follow guidance from IAU staff.
- Use good judgment and avoid behaviors or activities that pose unnecessary risk.
- Carry required identification and their IAU ID card at all times.
- Utilize resources provided in pre-departure and on-site orientation regarding accessing recommended medical care abroad.
- Provide accurate health and emergency contact information and notify IAU of any changes.
- Follow IAU travel policies, including completing required independent travel forms.
- Respond promptly to IAU communications, especially during emergencies.
MEDICAL INSURANCE
IAU’s program includes international medical insurance administered through CHUBB. This coverage is designed to meet most student needs while studying abroad and is included in the overall program cost.
Coverage is valid from the IAU program start date through the program end date. Students traveling independently before or after their program dates are encouraged to extend their coverage or obtain independent international medical insurance at their own expense.
A student’s insurance certificate and overview of coverage will be received via email after they are accepted to IAU. Students are encouraged to review their coverage, consult with their personal insurance provider, and discuss any unique needs with their support network.