Studying abroad opens doors for cultural and academic growth—but also introduces heightened risks. Female students may be up to five times more likely to be sexually assaulted while studying abroad compared to when they are on campus. For Title IX teams, we must ask ourselves how we can extend a safety net overseas.

In 2022–2023, over 280,000 U.S. students studied abroad for academic credit—an enriching but complex experience. Students abroad face unfamiliar cultural norms, reduced social support, and looser alcohol laws that can increase vulnerability. When harm occurs, they’re often unsure where to turn for help.

Jurisdiction & Title IX Limitations

One of the most common misconceptions is that Title IX “travels” with students. In reality, Title IX applies only to education programs or activities within the United States. When misconduct occurs during a study abroad program, institutions are not required to address it under Title IX. However, many campuses choose to respond through their own student conduct or sexual misconduct policies.

Meanwhile, international partner institutions are not subject to Title IX and often lack comprehensive sexual misconduct policies or reporting protocols. This gap can leave students unsure of where to turn—and institutions vulnerable if an incident is mishandled. Establishing clear expectations with international partners and proactively filling in policy gaps is essential to protecting students and minimizing institutional risk.

How to Reduce Risk: Prevention & Preparedness

Preventive steps taken before departure can reduce risk and confusion. Here’s how Title IX and study abroad offices can collaborate to support students:

1. Pre-Departure Training

Offer specialized training for students and faculty members going abroad to educate them about prohibited conduct, clarify your school’s response to sexual harassment, and explain that certain supportive measures are still available abroad. Make it clear that while Title IX does not apply to incidents abroad, your school can still support them.

2. Clear Reporting Protocols

Define and document reporting procedures. Make sure reporting information as well as campus and local points of contact are easily accessible for students and faculty members (they may not always have access to the internet). Work with the study abroad office to identify a 24/7 reporting hotline.

3. Partner Policy Alignment

Before students go abroad, review international partner schools’ sexual misconduct policies. If needed, formalize expectations and information sharing protocols in a memorandum of understanding (MOU).

4. Train Faculty & Staff Abroad

Prepare faculty and trip leaders to serve as responsible employees. All-Employee Title IX training will equip them with a foundational understanding of sexual harassment. Training on the impact of trauma would also be beneficial.

5. Map Local Resources

Provide students with a list of local hospitals, hotlines, counseling centers, and U.S. embassies in their destination country. Doing so increases their likelihood of seeking help promptly.

When an Incident Happens Abroad

If an incident occurs, a coordinated, student-centered response should follow.

1. Ensure Safety & Support

Help the student get medical care and safe accommodations. This may require you to work directly with the international partner institution or study abroad organization. Offer emotional support, including remote counseling from home campus services.

2. Notify Title IX Staff Promptly

Respect confidentiality protocols, but keep your Title IX team in the loop, if appropriate. Many institutions address international incidents under their student conduct codes, even without Title IX jurisdiction.

3. Support Students’ Decision to Report to Local Authorities

If the student wishes to involve law enforcement, support them through it as much as you can from campus. Communicate with local partners to understand local laws and legal procedures.

4. Support the Return Process

Upon a student or faculty member’s return to campus, meet with them to discuss supportive measures and explain reporting options, if any.

5. Review What Worked—and What Didn’t

After any incident, debrief with involved staff and, when appropriate, the student. Use that feedback to refine future trainings and protocols.

How Title IX Solutions Can Help

Our team helps institutions navigate the legal and logistical complexities of sexual misconduct response abroad. We offer:

→  Policy Audits & Development
We review and strengthen partner institutions’ policies to ensure coverage and clarity.

→  Faculty & Staff Training  
We prepare program directors, faculty, and staff abroad to respond with care and competence.

→  External Investigations
Whether you need remote consultation or an experienced investigator deployed, we can help your institution respond effectively.

Keep Students Safe—Wherever They Learn

Studying abroad should be transformative, not traumatic. By preparing students, supporting staff, and aligning policies across borders, Title IX teams can help ensure students stay safe and supported—no matter where they are in the world.

Want help strengthening your study abroad safety protocols?

→  Book a free consultation today

Adrienne Mathis is a nationally recognized Title IX expert and the Executive Director of Title IX Solutions. She has trained and advised hundreds of campus leaders, investigators, and coordinators across the country—and brings deep experience supporting study abroad programs, faculty training, and Title IX study abroad policies. Adrienne has led on-the-ground responses to complex cases abroad and regularly partners with institutions to strengthen prevention and response efforts both domestically and internationally. If your team is looking to improve study abroad safety or align international protocols, you can book a time to talk with Adrienne here.

Please Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice. We recommend seeking independent legal advice concerning the issues presented in evaluating a particular incident.