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Companion Travel Guidelines

Considerations for Students Traveling with Companions or Dependents

SIT Graduate Institute recognizes that, on occasion, students may wish to have a “companion” (defined as partners, family members (including chosen or extended family), dependents, or other significant individuals who provide personal support) accompany them during a doctoral residency or global master’s program. While companions can offer meaningful personal support, it is important to understand that SIT’s programs are academically intensive and immersive.   Students are expected to engage in all components including classes, excursions, and evening/weekend commitments which may involve long days and demanding academic assignments.

To preserve the integrity and cohesion of the academic cohort, companions may not participate in program-related activities or seek assistance from program staff.  Students considering bringing a companion should understand that all support services, activities, excursions, and staff access are limited to enrolled students only. Thus, we encourage students to plan in ways that support their academic success while remaining respectful of the learning environment.

• Transportation, Travel, and Visas
  Companions may not join SIT-arranged transportation, including transfers between program locations, group excursions, or local travel organized by the program. For the safety and integrity of the cohort experience, all travel logistics coordinated by SIT are limited to enrolled students only. Companions must arrange their own transportation independently and should not plan to accompany the group during any program-related travel.
  
  Students traveling alone with dependent children are responsible for ensuring they have the appropriate documentation, including notarized permission from the other parent or legal guardian authorizing international travel, as required by many countries. This is essential to avoid delays or complications at borders or during immigration procedures.
  
  Students are responsible for determining the correct visa type for their companions, based on the destination country and length of stay. As visa requirements vary by country, please consult the appropriate Embassy’s website for the most accurate and up-to-date information. 
  
  Be sure to check with your airline, as well as the Entry, Exit, and Visa Requirements for your destination before you travel.

• Housing 
  Students must identify housing applicable to their situation, taking into account the availability and cost of local travel to program activities, as well as the potential impact on their social experience.  Homestays are not an option for students traveling with family members and recommended housing may not be suitable for families. 

• Child Care/Public schools 
  Programs include many field studies and excursions outside of typical classroom hours. When applicable, students traveling with dependents must identify childcare to ensure their ability to fully participate in all aspects of the program. It is the responsibility of the parent(s) to check that their children have a right under the country’s rules to study at a school, find the school, and complete the enrollment process. 

• Insurance/Immunization 
  SIT’s student medical or liability insurance coverage does not extend to family or companion travelers of SIT students. Please check immunization requirements for specific countries. 

We understand that making arrangements involves careful planning, and we’re here to support you in making informed decisions. If you have any questions about what to expect or need help understanding housing options or logistical considerations, please don’t hesitate to reach out to an admissions counselor. We would be happy to share insights from our local program teams to help you prepare for a successful graduate degree experience.